Greg Jenner is joined by historian Prof Joanne Freeman and comedian Chris Addison in the 18th century to look at the birth of a nation as America takes its first steps after achieving independence from the British. Where did party politics come from? How were Vice Presidents originally selected? Why was Washington DC chosen as the capital? Did George Washington really have a special presidential suit? And just why did Jefferson keep a mammoth cheese in the lobby?

Produced by Cornelius Mendez
Script by Greg Jenner and Emma Nagouse
Research by Tim Galsworthy

A production by The Athletic for BBC Radio 4.