Joe Kennedy, Cold War Critic Joe Kennedy, Cold War Critic
The father of Jack and Bobby and Ted saw the world differently from his sons.
Feb 5, 2013 / Jon Wiener
‘The Americans’: Soviet Spies on Cable TV ‘The Americans’: Soviet Spies on Cable TV
“Implausible” is too generous a word for this show.
Jan 31, 2013 / Jon Wiener
When Universities Sell Art: The Case of Columbia’s Rembrandt When Universities Sell Art: The Case of Columbia’s Rembrandt
Columbia’s Rembrandt, sold in 1975 for $1 million, is back on the market—for $47 million.
Jan 22, 2013 / Jon Wiener
Eight Things I Miss About the Cold War Eight Things I Miss About the Cold War
Fifty years ago, college was cheap, unions were strong and there was no terrorism-industrial complex.
Jan 15, 2013 / Jon Wiener
Largest Mass Execution in US History: 150 Years Ago Today Largest Mass Execution in US History: 150 Years Ago Today
Lincoln ordered the execution of thirty-eight Dakota Indians for rebellion—but never ordered the execution of Confederate officials or generals.
Dec 26, 2012 / Jon Wiener
‘Django Unchained’: Quentin Tarantino’s Answer to Spielberg’s ‘Lincoln’ ‘Django Unchained’: Quentin Tarantino’s Answer to Spielberg’s ‘Lincoln’
In one film, grateful black people; in the other, the vengeful ones.
Dec 25, 2012 / Books & the Arts / Jon Wiener
Rhyme Is All I’ve Got: A Q&A With Calvin Trillin Rhyme Is All I’ve Got: A Q&A With Calvin Trillin
How do you rhyme “Obama” with “Yokahama”?
Dec 17, 2012 / Books & the Arts / Jon Wiener
The Trouble With Steven Spielberg’s ‘Lincoln’ The Trouble With Steven Spielberg’s ‘Lincoln’
Lincoln didn’t free the slaves. They did a lot to free themselves.
Nov 27, 2012 / Jon Wiener
Oliver Stone’s ‘Untold History’ Oliver Stone’s ‘Untold History’
Missed opportunities, roads not taken—these are the central themes of Stone's new documentary.
Nov 14, 2012 / Books & the Arts / Jon Wiener
An Appeal to the GOP: Stick to Your Principles! Don’t Listen to Pundits! An Appeal to the GOP: Stick to Your Principles! Don’t Listen to Pundits!
We need a choice, not an echo—especially on “legitimate rape.”
Nov 10, 2012 / Jon Wiener