The History Of Saying 'I'm Sorry' In The U.S.

09:29

December 08, 2017

Rep. Wilbur D. Mills (D-Ark.), stands with exotic dancer Fanne Foxe, also known as "The Washington Tidal Basin Bombshell," after one of her late-night performances in Boston on Dec. 2, 1974. (AP Photo)

As more men stand accused of sexual misconduct, many are watching for two words: "I'm sorry." But, according to historians Joanne Freeman (@jbf1755) and Brian Balogh (@historyfellow), the public apology is not America's strong suit.

From Secretary of State Alexander Hamilton to President Grover Cleveland to Justice Clarence Thomas, Here & Now's Jeremy Hobson explores that history with Balogh and Freeman, co-hosts of the podcast BackStory, which is produced at the Virginia Foundation for the Humanities.

This segment aired on December 8, 2017.

The History Of Saying 'I'm Sorry' In The U.S.

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