Rogue History

The Free Speech Battle They Don't Teach You About

Immigrant and Vermont congressman Matthew Lyon was in jail when he was reelected. Not for the fight he started in the halls of Congress but for his willingness to criticize the relatively new government of the United States. For the first time in American history, freedom of speech was up for debate. And Matthew โ€œSpittinโ€ Lyon was just the guy to fight for it.

More Episodes

Criminal or Hero? Different Rules for Queer Men During the Revolution

Baron Friedrich von Steuben had to hide his sexuality to remain safe in the country he fought for.

Why the Founding Fathers Were Obsessed with This Muslim Ruler

When early America fought the greatest empire on the planet, Tipu Sultan gave them a chance to win.

The Working Class Uprising They Donโ€™t Teach You About

How did a wealthy pacifistโ€™s protest spark a working-class uprising?

Other Shows You May Enjoy