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PBS News Hour

The role of conspiracy theories in the American Revolution

Season 2026 Episode 147 | 4m 29s

Conspiracy theories may seem like a modern phenomenon, but they've been a part of America's story since the nation's founding. On Judy Woodruff's "In Pursuit of Happiness" podcast, she speaks with journalist and author Jesse Walker about the surprising role conspiracy thinking played during the American Revolution.

Major corporate funding for the PBS News Hour is provided by BDO, BNSF, Consumer Cellular, American Cruise Lines, and Raymond James. Funding for the PBS NewsHour Weekend is provided by Consumer Cellular and Cunard Cruise Line. For a complete list of funders for the PBS NewsHour and PBS NewsHour weekend, click here.
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