Colonial America - E04: Taxes, Tensions, and the Path to Rebellion
Colonial America Robert Estrada Colonial America Robert Estrada

Colonial America - E04: Taxes, Tensions, and the Path to Rebellion

Today, we’re diving into the restless spirit of the colonies that gave rise to the Marine Corps. Enlightenment ideals clashed with Britain’s post-war taxes, pushing the colonists toward rebellion. Financial strains, imposed regulations, and the growing desire for liberty united thirteen diverse colonies into a common cause.

It’s a story of bold thinkers, mounting debt, and ordinary people demanding…

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Colonial America - E03: Samuel Nicholas, First Marine Commandant
Colonial America Robert Estrada Colonial America Robert Estrada

Colonial America - E03: Samuel Nicholas, First Marine Commandant

Samuel Nicholas was born in February 1744 into a prominent Philadelphia family deeply engaged in the city's social and commercial life. Growing up among merchants, sailors, and influential thinkers, he studied at the Academy of Philadelphia, an institution guided by Benjamin Franklin's progressive educational ideals that would eventually become the University of Pennsylvania. 

This episode will take a look at some of his accomplishments, such as introducing the "leatherneck" uniform, leading…

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Colonial America - E02: The Carpenters and Tun Tavern’s Legacy
Colonial America Robert Estrada Colonial America Robert Estrada

Colonial America - E02: The Carpenters and Tun Tavern’s Legacy

Colonial Philadelphia offered ambitious immigrants, like Samuel and Joshua Carpenter, opportunities in the thriving tavern trade. Quaker roots and friction with William Penn didn’t stop them from shaping the city through wharf construction, tavern ownership, and real estate. Their Tun Tavern gained fame as the birthplace of the Marine Corps, blending faith, commerce, and public life. Women, too, found empowerment as tavern-keepers, influencing Philadelphia’s social and economic growth. This episode delves into how these forces defined the city’s evolution and America’s heritage…

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Colonial America - E01: How Taverns Shaped the Nation
Colonial America Robert Estrada Colonial America Robert Estrada

Colonial America - E01: How Taverns Shaped the Nation

In this episode, we go back to colonial America, where citizens rallied in taverns to protect their rights. We’ll explore Tunn Tavern—the birthplace of the Continental Marines—and see how William Penn’s vision molded Philadelphia into a hub of debate. We’ll also stop at City Tavern, where revolutionary ideas shaped the nation. By comparing taverns to today’s social networks, we’ll see how small gatherings can spark big changes. Join us to uncover American liberty’s roots and the Marine Corps’ steadfast spirit forged in these historic taverns.…

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