What's a snollygoster? A short lesson in political speak | Mark Forsyth

Published: Nov. 3, 2020, 11 a.m.

Most politicians choose their words carefully, to shape the reality they hope to create. But does it work? Etymologist Mark Forsyth shares a few entertaining word-origin stories from British and American history (for instance, did you ever wonder how George Washington became "president"?) and draws a surprising conclusion.