Fifty-five years ago this week, Chicago hosted the Democratic National Convention, which resulted in a police riot and split the party between old guard populists and a new, pro-civil rights/anti-war faction that would come to dominate it. On this episode, I talk about memories from that time and how the Vietnam war influenced Joe Strummer’s lyrics and the Clash’s music, from “I’m So Bored With the USA” to “Charlie Don’t Surf” and “Straight to Hell.”

These are great songs that examine colonialism, war, exploitation, and abandonment — basically, everything the Clash fought against. And if you haven’t heard it, check out Lucinda Williams’ excellent cover of “Straight to Hell.”

So, please give this week’s show a listen, share your thoughts in the comments below, and follow the podcast on Twitter at @2Minutes59. And remember, as Joe always said, “Without people, you’re nothing.”