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The Rise of American Consumerism: Department Stores, Victorian Ideals, and Communism

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It is no secret that Americans love to shop! Whether in department stores, small boutiques, or online - America is a powerhouse of consumerism. But it was not always this way. Professor Josh McMullen, interim dean of the College of Arts and Sciences at Regent University in Virginia Beach, VA explains the rise of consumer culture in America. McMullen delves into the striking similarities between advertising then and now, the influence of transportation and department stores on consumerism, and the importance of consumption in the battle against communism in the mid-1900s.

Also on today's show:

  • We read your letters to the editor. You can leave us a message at 202-608-6205 or write to us at letters@dailysignal.com.
  • And we share a good news story about the “Mountain Man Santa” in Kentucky that delivers gifts to the poor.

The Daily Signal podcast is available on Ricochet, Apple Podcasts, Google Play, or your favorite podcast app. All of our podcasts can be found at dailysignal.com/podcasts.

Enjoy the show!

Hosts:
Daniel DavisKatrina TrinkoRachel del GuidiceRob BlueyVirginia Allen