Byte Sized Biographies…
Philip D. Gibbons
Some Very Famous People You've Never Really Heard Of, Byte Sized Biographies of the famous, the infamous and the quirky in less than hour. Think of that doorstop sized bio or history related book that you will never read made accessible in an hour. These are people that you may think you know a lot about but really don't, remarkable human beings you have never heard of and incidents covered in new and different detail, all fascinating.
The Life and Art of Dutch Master Jan Vermeer, Volume Seven, Episode 9 (Part One)
Today, no more than thirty-seven paintings are attributed to Jan Vermeer. Still, he remains one of the greatest artists who ever lived.
The Life And Art of Dutch Master Jan Vermeer, Volume Seven, Episode 9 (Part Two)
Today, no more than thirty-seven paintings are attributed to Jan Vermeer. Still, he remains one of the greatest artists who ever lived.
Espionage Agents Christopher Boyce and Daulton Lee, AKA the Falcon and the Snowman, Volume Seven, Episode 8 (Part One)
Arrested for selling secrets to the Russians, their incarceration and Christopher Boyce’s subsequent escape from a Federal prison was headline news. Ultimately, the Falcon and the Snowman spent decades behind bars.
Espionage Agents Christopher Boyce and Daulton Lee, AKA the Falcon and the Snowman, Volume Seven, Episode 8 (Part Two)
Arrested for selling secrets to the Russians, their incarceration and Christopher Boyce’s subsequent escape from a Federal prison was headline news. Ultimately, the Falcon and the Snowman spent decades behind bars.
Theodore Roosevelt, 26th President of the United States. Volume Seven, Episode Seven (Part One)
Theodore Roosevelt: Nobel Laureate, Medal of Honor Winner, Political Progressive, Executor of the Panama Canal, Best Selling Author, Conservationist and always the Man in the Arena.
Theodore Roosevelt, 26th President of the United States. Volume Seven, Episode Seven (Part Two)
Theodore Roosevelt: Nobel Laureate, Medal of Honor Winner, Political Progressive, Executor of the Panama Canal, Best Selling Author, Conservationist and always the Man in the Arena.
The Brief and Tragic Reign of Maximillian I, Emperor of Mexico. Volume Seven, Episode Six (Part One)
Like something out of a fairy tale, in 1864, a European power installed an Austrian nobleman as Maximillian I, Emperor of Mexico, ultimately resulting in tragedy, madness and execution.
The Brief and Tragic Reign Of Maximillian I, Emperor of Mexico. Volume Seven Episode Six (Part Two)
Like something out of a fairy tale, in 1864, a European power installed an Austrian nobleman as Maximillian I, Emperor of Mexico, ultimately resulting in tragedy, madness and execution.
Frank Morris, John and Clarence Anglin and Their Escape From Alcatraz. Volume Seven, Episode Five. (Part One)
The true story Of Frank Morris, John and Clarence Anglin and their remarkable escape from Alcatraz Federal Penitentiary.
Frank Morris, John and Clarence Anglin and Their Escape From Alcatraz. Volume Seven, Episode Five (Part Two)
The true story Of Frank Morris, John and Clarence Anglin and their remarkable escape from Alcatraz Federal Penitentiary.
James J. Andrews, The Great Locomotive Chase And The First Medal of Honor. Volume Seven, Episode Four (Part One)
One of the most incredible stories of the Civil War
James J. Andrews, The Great Locomotive Chase and The First Medal of Honor. Volume Seven, Episode Four (Part Two)
One of the most incredible stories of the Civil War.
Laurence Olivier and Vivien Leigh. Volume Seven, Episode Three (Part One)
Publicly, perceived as one of the great romances of the 20th century, privately the Oliviers endured infidelity, severe mental illness and ultimately divorce.
Laurence Olivier and Vivien Leigh. Volume Seven, Episode Three (Part Two)
Publicly revered as one of the great romances of the 20th Century, privately it was marred by infidelity, severe mental illness and divorce Olivier in Rebecca with Joan Fontaine The Oliviers in Australia, the smiles would eventually fade Vivien Leigh, 1957 Olivier’s costume in Spartacus Olivier in, “The Entertainer,” with Joan Plowright Olivier and Joan Plowright visiting the Reagan’s in the White House in the 80’s Olivier’s grave in Westminster Abbey
Butch Cassidy and The Sundance Kid. Volume Seven, Episode Two. (Part One)
In 1969, the 20th Century Fox film, “Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid,” established these two outlaws as popular culture icons. But what was the truth about the lives, crimes and deaths of these two American legends?
Butch Cassidy and The Sundance Kid. Volume Seven, Episode Two. (Part Two)
In 1969, the 20th Century Fox film, “Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid,” established these two outlaws as popular culture icons. But what was the truth about the lives, crimes and deaths of these two American legends?
The Heroes of Telemark and the Norwegian Destruction of Hitler’s Nuclear Weapons Program. Volume Seven, Episode One (Part One)
Shortly after the conquest of Norway by Nazi Germany, Allied intelligence determined that an electrical plant at Rjukan, Norway was providing a crucial element in a potential German atomic bomb. As a result, Norwegian commandos embarked on one of the most successful and heroic operations of World War II.
The Heroes of Telemark and the Norwegian Destruction of Hitler’s Atomic Weapons Program. Volume Seven, Episode One. (Part Two)
Shortly after the conquest of Norway by Nazi Germany, Allied intelligence determined that an electrical plant at Rjukan, Norway was providing a crucial element in a potential German atomic bomb. As a result, Norwegian commandos embarked on one of the most successful and heroic operations of World War II.
Isabella Stewart Gardner and the World’s Largest Unsolved Art Robbery. Volume Six, Episode Twelve (Part One)
On March 18, 1990, two thieves stole over a half billion dollars worth of artwork from Boston’s Isabella Stewart Art Museum. Today this remains the world’s largest unsolved art robbery.
Isabella Stewart Gardner and the World’s Largest Unsolved Art Robbery. Volume Six, Episode Twelve (Part Two)
On March 18, 1990, two thieves stole over a half billion dollars worth of artwork from Boston’s Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum. Today this remain’s the world largest unsolved art robbery.
Hiram Bingham, the Real Indiana Jones and the Lost City of Machu Picchu (Volume Six, Episode Eleven) Part One
IN 1911, an American explorer, Hiram Bingham, re-discovered the Incan ruins at Machu Picchu, helping to popularize this site, which today is one of the seven modern wonders of the world.
Hiram Bingham, the Real Indiana Jones and the Lost City of Machu Picchu (Volume Six, Episode Eleven) Part Two
IN 1911, an American explorer, Hiram Bingham, re-discovered the Incan ruins at Machu Picchu, helping to popularize this site, which today is one of the seven modern wonders of the world.
Charles Lindbergh (Volume Six, Episode Ten) Part One
The triumph, tragedy and bizarre secrets of one of the 20th century’s most prominent figures.
Charles Lindbergh (Volume Six, Episode Ten) Part Two
The triumph, tragedy and bizarre secrets of one of the 20th century’s most prominent figures.
Bruce Reynolds, Gordon Goody and the Great British Train Robbery of 1963 (Volume Six, Episode Nine) Part One
In 1963, two British criminals masterminded the robbery of 2.6 million pounds in cash from a Royal Mail Train, an amount worth 45 million pounds today. The robbery and its aftermath caused a nationwide sensation.
Bruce Reynolds, Gordon Goody and the Great British Train Robbery of 1963 (Volume 6, Episode 9) Part Two
In 1963, two British criminals masterminded the robbery of 2.6 million pounds in cash from a Royal Mail Train, an amount worth 45 million pounds today. The robbery and its aftermath caused a nationwide sensation.
Charles Dickens (Volume Six, Episode Eight) Part One
Acclaimed in his lifetime for his remarkable literary career, Charles Dickens’ private life was wracked by dysfunction, scandal and the cruelty he inflicted on his wife and his children.
Charles Dickens (Volume Six, Episode Eight) Part Two
Acclaimed in his lifetime for his remarkable literary career, Charles Dickens’ private life was wracked by dysfunction, scandal and the cruelty he inflicted on his wife and his children.
William Bradford and the Voyage of the Mayflower (Volume Six, Episode Seven) Part One
The remarkable story of the courage and suffering of the passengers aboard the Mayflower and the establishment of the Plymouth Colony.
William Bradford and the Voyage of the Mayflower (Volume Six, Episode Seven) Part Two
The remarkable story of the courage and suffering of the passengers aboard the Mayflower and the establishment of the Plymouth Colony.
Nathan Leopold, Richard Loeb, Clarence Darrow and the Crime of the Century (Volume Six, Episode Six) Part One
Long before Claus Von Bulow or OJ Simpson, in 1924, two Chicago teenagers committed what was called at the time, “The Crime of the Century,” only to be spared by the efforts of the greatest defense attorney in American history.
Nathan Leopold, Richard Loeb, Clarence Darrow and the Crime of the Century (Volume Six, Episode Six) Part Two
Long before Claus Von Bulow or OJ Simpson, in 1924, two Chicago teenagers committed what was called at the time, “The Crime of the Century,” only to be spared by the efforts of the greatest defense attorney in American history. Clarence Darrow would not begin his summation until the afternoon of August 23rd, so anticipated throughout the city of Chicago that a mob descended on the courthouse hoping to push into the courtroom. This throng congregated … Continue reading Nathan Leopold, Richard Lo
Johnny Carson, The King of Comedy (Volume Six, Episode Five) Part One
The dark reality behind the persona of one of America’s most beloved public figures.
Johnny Carson, The King Of Comedy (Volume Six, Episode Five) Part Two
The dark reality behind the persona of one of America’s most beloved public figures.
Bernard Madoff and the Largest Fraud in Financial History (Volume Six, Episode Three) Part One
The shocking story behind the biggest swindle in the history of Wall Street.
Bernard Madoff and the Largest Fraud in Financial History (Volume Six, Episode Four) Part Two
The shocking story behind the biggest swindle in the history of Wall Street.
The Duke and Duchess of Windsor (Volume Six, Episode Three) Part One
Long before Harry and Meghan, a much more serious crisis and scandal enveloped the British monarchy and the House of Windsor, the abdication of Edward VIII
The Duke And Duchess of Windsor (Volume Six, Episode Six) Part Two
Long before Harry and Meghan, a much more serious crisis and scandal enveloped the British monarchy and the House of Windsor, the abdication of Edward VIII
Ray Kroc, McDonald’s Mastermind (Volume Six, Episode Two) Part One
In July of 1954, an obscure milk shake mixer salesman walked into a fast food restaurant in San Bernardino, CA. The restaurant was operated by two brothers named McDonald, the result of this interaction profoundly changed American culture, business and nutrition forever.
Ray Kroc, McDonald’s Mastermind (Volume Six, Episode Two) Part Two
In July of 1954, an obscure milk shake mixer salesman walked into a fast food restaurant in San Bernardino, CA. The restaurant was operated by two brothers named McDonald, the result of this interaction profoundly changed American culture, business and nutrition forever.
Marie Antoinette (Volume Six, Episode One) Part One
In 1770, the French people greeted Austrian Marie Antoinette as the beautiful and future French queen. Twenty-three years later they guillotined her as the most reviled woman in France.
Marie Antoinette (Volume Six, Episode One) Part Two
In 1770, the French people greeted Austrian Marie Antoinette as the beautiful and future French queen. Twenty-three years later they guillotined her as the most reviled woman in France.
Crockett, Bowie and Travis, Defenders of the Alamo (Volume 5, Episode 12) Part One
An enduring American legend, hear what actually happened at the Battle of the Alamo
Crockett, Bowie and Travis, Defenders of the Alamo (Volume 5, Episode 12) Part Two
An enduring American legend, hear what actually happened at the Battle of the Alamo.
Elvis Presley’s Manager: Colonel Tom Parker (Volume 5, Episode 11) Part One
The true story about the man who contributed mightily to the destruction of one of America’s greatest 20th century icons. According to Colonel Tom Parker personally, he was born in early 1900, in Huntington, West Virginia and began working in touring carnivals at a very young age. He served in the military, eventually developed and promoted his own carnival acts and graduated to first promoting and then managing country musicians until obtaining the exclusive management … Continue reading Elvis
Elvis Presley’s Manager: Colonel Tom Parker (Volume 5, Episode11) Part Two
The true story about the man who contributed mightily to the destruction of one of America’s greatest 20th century icons.
The Untold Story of Crime Boss and Sixteen-Year Federal Fugitive, James (Whitey) Bulger (Volume 5, Episode 10) Part One
For twenty years, Whitey Bulger terrorized Boston with the full collusion of the FBI. On the run for sixteen years, he was eventually arrested on June 22, 2011.
The Untold Story of Crime Boss and Sixteen-Year Federal Fugitive, James (Whitey) Bulger (Volume 5, Episode 10) Part Two
For twenty years, Whitey Bulger terrorized Boston with the full collusion of the FBI. On the run for sixteen years, he was eventually arrested on June 22, 2011.
The Untold Story of Crime Boss and Sixteen-Year Federal Fugitive, James (Whitey) Bulger (Volume 5, Episode 10) Part Three
For twenty years, Whitey Bulger terrorized Boston with the full collusion of the FBI. On the run for sixteen years, he was eventually arrested on June 22, 2011.
Harry Houdini (Volume 5, Episode 9) Part One
Few personalities have achieved the worldwide fame and popularity of Harry Houdini. Successful in several different media ranging from vaudeville to motion pictures, this performer was also an astute businessman who incorporated both groundbreaking copyright implementation and sensational publicity to establish himself as the first 20th century entertainment superstar. To garner publicity, Houdini now started to promote himself by slipping handcuffs in police stations after a meticulous search
Harry Houdini (Volume 5, Episode 9) Part Two
Few personalities have achieved the worldwide fame and popularity of Harry Houdini. Successful in several different media ranging from vaudeville to motion pictures, this performer was also an astute businessman who incorporated both groundbreaking copyright implementation and sensational publicity to establish himself as the first 20th century entertainment superstar. To publicize commercial appearances, the escape artist also began the practice of jumping handcuffed from bridges spanning what
Oscar Wilde (Volume 5, Episode 8) Part One
In March of 1895, Oscar Wilde enjoyed fame and fortune as one of Britain’s foremost literary figures. Only four months later he was inprisoned for the crime of “gross indecency,” convicted of violating Britain’s laws against same sex relationships. Upon his release, he exiled himself to France, his career in ruins and never saw his family again. At Oxford, Wilde continued his immersion in the classics. The school was definitely a step up in class, … Continue reading Oscar Wilde (Volume 5, Epi
Oscar Wilde (Volume 5, Episode 8) Part Two
In March of 1895, Oscar Wilde enjoyed fame and fortune as one of Britain’s foremost literary figures. Only four months later he was inprisoned for the crime of “gross indecency,” convicted of violating Britain’s laws against same sex relationships. Upon his release, he exiled himself to France, his career in ruins and never saw his family again. Unfortunately, their reunion was so successful that both men began contemplating running off to Naples, the consequences be … Continue reading Oscar W
Philippe Petit, The Man On Wire (Volume 5, Episode 7) Part One
On August 7, 1974, a twenty-five year old man named Philippe Petit walked across a 200 foot wire between the twin towers of the World Trade Center, 1,350 feet above the ground, something that even the policeman who arrested him described as a once in a lifetime event. On the night of June 25th and the early morning of June 26th ,1971 Philippe Petit and his associates ascended the towers of Notre Dame Cathedral. Blondeau tossed a … Continue reading Philippe Petit, The Man On Wire (Volume 5, Epis
Philippe Petit, The Man On Wire (Volume 5, Episode 7) Part Two
On August 7, 1974, a twenty-five year old man named Philippe Petit walked across a 200 foot wire between the twin towers of the World Trade Center, 1,350 feet above the ground, something that even the policeman who arrested him described as a once in a lifetime event. After Philip and Jean Francois are booked and fingerprinted, they were handcuffed to chairs while paperwork is composed that specifically defines the charges of Criminal Trespass and … Continue reading Philippe Petit, The Man On Wi
Truman Capote, Dick Hickock, Perry Smith and In Cold Blood (Volume 5, Episode 6) Part One
On November 14, 1959, two petty criminals, Dick Hickock and Perry Smith, crossed Kansas, murdered the Clutter family in the tiny hamlet of Holcomb, Kansas and unwittingly enabled a New York City writer named Truman Capote to achieve immortality for all three of them. When Truman Capote arrived in Kansas, Smith and Hickock were not yet on law enforcement’s radar. Capote’s initial intent was to write about the reaction of the town and its inhabitants … Continue reading Truman Capote, Dick Hickock
Truman Capote, Dick Hickock, Perry Smith and In Cold Blood (Volume 5, Episode 6) Part Two
On November 14, 1959, two petty criminals, Dick Hickock and Perry Smith, crossed Kansas, murdered the Clutter family in the tiny hamlet of Holcomb, Kansas and unwittingly enabled a New York City writer named Truman Capote to achieve immortality for all three of them. This arrest was most likely the result of the efforts of KBI investigator Harold Nye, who, in the interim after the Wells revelation, had traveled to Las Vegas to question individuals … Continue reading Truman Capote, Dick Hickock,
Operation Anthropoid and the Assassination of Reinhard Heydrich (Volume 5, Episode 5) Part One
In 1942, the Czech government in exile decided to parachute two commandos into the former Czechoslovakia to assassinate Reinhard Heydrich, considered the most brutal and sinister Nazi in Occupied Europe. Code named Operation Anthropoid, this suicide mission remains one of the most heroic and remarkable stories of World War II. Nazi lore has it that Heinrich Himmler, appointed in 1929 as the head of the newly formed SS, was intent on developing a unit consigned … Continue reading Operation Anthr
Operation Anthropoid and the Assassination of Reinhard Heydrich (Volume 5, Episode 5) Part Two
In 1942, the Czech government in exile decided to parachute two commandos into the former Czechoslovakia to assassinate Reinhard Heydrich, considered the most brutal and sinister Nazi in Occupied Europe. Code named Operation Anthropoid, this suicide mission remains one of the most heroic and remarkable stories of World War II But Kubas had also approached the car, undetected and he hurled the grenade towards the open interior of the vehicle. He missed badly, the device … Continue reading Oper
Kempton Bunton and the Theft of Goya’s Portrait of the Duke of Wellington (Volume 5, Episode 4) Part One
In 1961, an unemployed cab driver, Kempton Bunton, pulled off one of the most remarkable art thefts of the 20th century. Or did he? Bunton’s mother named him Kempton Cannon Bunton after a British jockey, Kempton Cannon, who won the Epsom Derby only days before her son’s birth, June 14, 1904, a victory she financially backed. When asked about his unusual name, Bunton also always replied, “It’s Kempton as in Kempton Park racecourse,” as if … Continue reading Kempton Bunton and the Theft of Goya’
Kempton Bunton and the Theft of Goya’s Portrait of the Duke of Wellington (Volume 5, Episode 4) Part Two
In 1961, an unemployed cab driver, Kempton Bunton, pulled off one of the most remarkable art thefts of the 20th century. Or did he? Although Bunton was initially only charged with one count of larceny, the prosecution submitted an indictment that was much more severe. He was now charged with two counts of larceny, one for the painting, one for the frame, that was never recovered, and one charge of menacing for submitting letters to … Continue reading Kempton Bunton and the Theft of Goya’s Port
Al Capone (Volume 5, Episode 4) Part One
In 1929, Al Capone was worth an inflation adjusted 1.5 billion dollars. On January 17, 1899, Alphonse Gabriel Capone became the fourth child born into this family, and the second native American. Including the two born in Italy, the Capone family later consisted of nine children, eight surviving into adulthood. Al’s father was a barber by trade, eventually moving the family to a better home that also contained his shop. His father, unlike his mother, … Continue reading Al Capone (Volume 5, Ep
Al Capone (Volume 5, Episode 4) Part Two
In 1929, Al Capone was worth an inflation adjusted 1.5 Billion Dollars. Most speakeasies and night clubs serving illicit alcohol provided entertainment in some form, mostly jazz or a vocalist with a band. One of these entertainers named Joe E. Lewis was a regular performer at the Green Mill, a club that was owned by the Outfit. As compensation, Al Capone gave Jack McGurn a piece of the club’s profits and when McGurn found out … Continue reading Al Capone (Volume 5, Episode 4) Part Two →
Buddy Holly and The Day the Music Died (Volume 5, Episode 3) Part One
On February 3, 1959, Buddy Holly was in the middle of the tour from hell and would do anything to avoid another three hundred mile, overnight bus ride that already had inflicted frostbite on another band member. That determination changed American popular music forever. Charles Hardin Holley was born in Lubbock, Texas on September 7, 1936. The “e” in his surname would be dropped when Decca Records misspelled Holley on one of his first recording … Continue reading Buddy Holly and The Day the Mu
Buddy Holly and The Day the Music Died (Volume 5, Episode 3) Part Two
On February 3, 1959, Buddy Holly was in the middle of the tour from hell and would do anything to avoid another three hundred mile, overnight bus ride that already had inflicted frostbite on another band member. That determination changed American popular music forever. In mid-January, when the three band members got to NY, Allsup and Bunch checked into a hotel, but Waylon Jennings stayed with Buddy and Maria. Time was of the essence and … Continue reading Buddy Holly and The Day the Music Die
Ted Kaczynski AKA The Unabomber (Volume 5, Episode 2) Part One
Possessing a 167 IQ, admitted to Harvard University at age 16, a uniquely talented mathematician, this former Berkeley college professor became the subject of the longest and most expensive investigation in FBI history. As a youngster, Ted did develop a precocious interest in reading, math and science, his mother reading to him articles from Scientific American that he could comprehend by the time he was six. He excelled in grade school but even at this … Continue reading Ted Kaczynski AKA The
Ted Kaczynski AKA The Unabomber (Volume 5, Episode 2) Part Two
Possessing a 167 IQ, admitted to Harvard University at age 16, a uniquely talented mathematician, this former Berkeley college professor became the subject of the longest and most expensive investigation in FBI history. But Kaczynski had another motive for heading to Chicago. Before he left Montana on a Greyhound bus, he constructed the first of his explosive devices. He meant to send it to a professor at RPI, but when he got to Chicago in … Continue reading Ted Kaczynski AKA The Unabomber (Vo
Jesse Owens (Volume 5, Episode 1) Part One
Adolf Hitler intended the 1936 Berlin Olympics as a coming out party for his Aryan Master Race. African-American Jesse Owens crashed the venue by winning four gold medals. At the Penn Relays, he won the long jump and the 100 meter dash. Unfortunately for Eulace Peacock, the sprinter completely tore his hamstring during a preliminary heat, an injury so severe that Peacock was unable to make the 1936 Olympic Games. Owens qualified easily, winning the … Continue reading Jesse Owens (Volume 5, Epi
Jesse Owens (Volume 5, Episode One) Part Two
Adolf Hitler wanted the 1936 Berlin Olympics to be a coming out party for his Aryan Master Race. Jesse Owens crashed the venue by winning four gold medals. Owens then had to hustle to the long jump competition which also began at 10:30 AM. Here he faced an athlete from Germany who was his first formidable foreign competition, a 22 year old German; Carl Ludwig “Luz” Long. Long was the current German and European record … Continue reading Jesse Owens (Volume 5, Episode One) Part Two →
Pancho Villa and the Mexican Revolution (Volume 4, Episode 12) Part One
Of the many political figures involved in Mexico’s 1910 Revolution, Pancho Villa remains the most famous and charismatic. Like the history of Mexico itself, Villa’s early life and biography is obscured or disputed. Much of the information about Pancho Villa came from his own self-serving autobiography or biased journalism and glorifying newsreels from the time period. What is generally accepted is that Villa was born Doroteo Arango to a sharecropper father and domestic mother on … Continue rea
Pancho Villa and the Mexican Revolution (Volume 4, Episode 12) Part Two
Of the many political and military figures involved in Mexico’s 1910 Revolution, Pancho Villa remains the most famous and charismatic. Villa formally requested that Felipe Angeles be permitted to officially join Villa’s military staff. Angeles was a traditional army officer with an expertise in artillery. He served during the Diaz government but was in France when the revolution broke out. Ultimately, he decided that the populist concepts of the revolution were more to his liking … Continue r
Leonard Seppala and the Alaskan hero dogs Balto and Togo (Volume 4, Episode 11) Part One
In 1925, a diphtheria epidemic threatened to wipe out the town of Nome, Alaska. Hear the incredible story of the men and dogs who saved the day.
Leonard Seppala and the Alaskan Hero Dogs Balto and Togo (Volume 4, Episode 11) Part Two
In 1925, a diphtheria epidemic threatened to wipe out the town of Nome, Alaska. Hear the incredible story of the men and dogs who saved the day.
Ambassador Kenneth Taylor and the Canadian caper (Volume 4, Episode 10) Part one
Risking his own freedom, Canadian ambassador Kenneth Taylor upheld diplomatic decorum and the international rule of law in the face of a tyrannical and dangerous regime.
ambassador kenneth taylor and the canadian caper (Volume 4, Episode 10) Part Two
Risking his own freedom, Canadian ambassador Kenneth Taylor upheld diplomatic decorum and the international rule of law in the face of a tyrannical and dangerous regime.
the creators of the wizard of oz (volume 4, episode 9) part one
According to the Library of Congress, The Wizard of Oz is the most viewed film in the history of motion pictures.
the creators of the wizard of oz (Volume 4, episode 9) part two
According to the Library of Congress, The Wizard of Oz is the most viewed film in the history of motion pictures.
julius and ethel rosenberg (volume 4, episode 8) part one
Soviet spies who betrayed the secret of the A-Bomb or innocent victims framed by Cold War hysteria, legal corruption and anti-Semitism? Over seventy years later the debate rages on.
julius and ethel rosenberg (volume 4, episode 8) part two
Soviet spies who betrayed the secret of the A-Bomb or innocent victims framed by Cold War hysteria, legal corruption and anti-Semitism? Over seventy years later the debate rages on.
the three stooges (volume 4, episode 7) part one
A uniquely American institution.
The Three Stooges (Volume 4, Episode 7) Part Two
A uniquely American institution.
howard carter and the treasure of tutankhamun’s tomb (volume 4, episode 6) part one
After searching the Valley of the Kings for decades, for a tomb that every other expert in Egyptology declared nonexistent, Howard Carter eventually discovered the most important archeological find of the 20th century.
Howard Carter and the treasure of tutankhamun’s tomb (Volume 4, episode 6) Part Two
After searching the Valley of the Kings for decades, for a tomb that every other expert in Egyptology declared nonexistent, Howard Carter eventually discovered the most important archeological find of the 20th century.
Fletcher Christian, William bligh And the mutiny on the bounty (Volume4, Episode 5) Part One
Fletcher Christian and William Bligh are permanently linked to the Mutiny on the Bounty. Listen to the true story of this infamous incident.
Fletcher Christian, William Bligh and the mutiny on the Bounty (volume 4, episode 5) Part Two
Fletcher Christian And William Bligh are permanently linked to the Mutiny on the Bounty. Here is the true story of this infamous incident.
Alfred Hitchcock (Volume 4, Episode 4) Part One
In his sixty year career, Alfred Hitchcock established himself as one of the most important cultural figures of the 20th century
alfred hitchcock (volume 4, episode 4) Part Two
In his sixty year career, Alfred Hitchcock established himself as one of the most important cultural figures of the 20th century.
Billy the Kid (Volume 4, Episode 3) Part One
Although he never robbed a bank or a train, never fought a traditional duel and didn’t drink, Billy the Kid remains one of America’s most notorious outlaws.
Billy The Kid (Volume 4, Episode 3) Part Two
He never robbed a bank or a train and never fought a traditional duel but Billy the Kid remains one of America’s most notorious outlaws.
Virginia Hall, American espionage agent (Volume 4, Episode 2) Part One
After her rejection by the State Department, Virginia Hall became the most decorated American female civilian during World War II.
virginia hall, american espionage agent (Volume 4, Episode 2) Part Two
After her rejection by the State Department, Virginia Hall became the most decorated American female civilian of World War II
Captain al haynes and United Flight 232 (Volume Four, Episode 1) Part One
On July 19, 1989, United Air Lines pilot Captain Al Haynes was confronted with a mechanical failure that threatened all 296 passengers aboard his flight, United 232. The response of Haynes and his crew and the ensuing landing provided one of the most remarkable stories in the history of commercial aviation.
Captain Al Haynes and United Flight 232 (Volume Four, Episode 1) Part Two
On July 19, 1989, United Air Lines pilot Captain Al Haynes was confronted with a mechanical failure that threatened all 296 passengers aboard his flight, United Flight 232. The response of Haynes and his crew and the ensuing landing provided one of the most remarkable stories in the history of commercial aviation.
Gram Parsons (Volume 3, Episode 12) Part One
Part Hank Williams and part Spinal Tap, Gram Parsons’ influence on popular music can be heard every day.
Gram Parsons (Volume 3, Episode 12) Part Two
Part Hank Williams and part Spinal Tap, fifty years after his death, Gram Parsons’ influence on popular music can be heard every day.
George Orwell (Volume 3, Episode 11) part one
The creator of 1984 and Animal Farm lived a life that was as original and strange as the books themselves.
George Orwell (Volume 3, episode 11) part 2
The creator of Animal Farm and 1984 lived a life as original and strange as the books themselves.
George Dasch and the 1942 nazi u-boat invasion of america (volume 3, Episode 10) Part One
The true story of eight nazi spies who landed on American shores via U-Boat at the height of WWII
George Dasch and the 1942 Nazi U-boat invasion of america (Volume 3, Episode 10) part 2
The true story of eight nazi spies who landed on American shores via U-Boat at the height of WWII.
Joan of Arc (Volume 3, Episode 9) Part One
Martyr and Saint, Savior of France, National Icon, All by the Age of Nineteen
Joan of Arc (Volume 3, Episode 9) Part Two
Martyr and Saint, Savior of France, National Icon, All by the Age of Nineteen
Charles Van Doren, Herbert Stempel and the 50’s Quiz Show Scandal (Volume 3, Episode 8) Part One
The true story of the television scandal that shocked America.
Charles Van Doren, Herbert Stempel And the 50’s Quiz Show Scandal (Volume 3, Episode 8) Part 2
The true story of the television scandal that shocked America.
Bob Marley (Volume 3, Episode 7) Part One
Homeless at age 19, in one of the poorest cities of the Third World, Bob Marley eventually created what Time Magazine called, “The greatest album of the Twentieth Century.
Robert Nesta Marley was born in Nine Mile, Jamaica on February 6, 1945 to Cedella Editha Malcolm and Norval Sinclair Marley. Marley’s mother, a Jamaican of African descent was 18 years old. His father, a Caucasian of British ancestry was 60. Although Norval Marley has been described as a sea captain, British army office
Bob Marley (Volume 3, Episode 7) Part 2
18, unemployed and homeless in one of the poorest cities of the Third World, Bob Marley eventually created what Time Magazine called, “The greatest album of the Twentieth Century.”
Meanwhile, in 1974, he was attempting to reorganize the Wailers and decide on his next musical direction. He needed to replace the two most prominent departed, which he did with a trio of female backing vocalists that included his wife Rita, Marcia Griffiths and Judy Mowatt, dubbed as the I-Three.
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crazy Horse (volume 3, episode 6) part one
In life, a prominent Lakota warrior chieftain, in death, an American legend
Most likely, Crazy Horse was born in the spring of 1840, in the Black Hills of western South Dakota, near Rapid City. His father was a member of the Oglala clan, also named Crazy Horse, and his mother, Rattle Blanket Woman was a Minniconju.
The Lakotas and Cheyenne were generally aware of the federal presence but believed that only a fool would attempt to attack such a large and powerful position. But, at 3 PM
Crazy Horse (Volume Three, Episode six) Part Two
In life a prominent Lakota warrior-chieftain, in death an American legend.
In his final moments of freedom, nervous and bewildered, Crazy Horse accepted the hand of Kennington who began to lead him to Fort Robinson’s jail within the guardhouse. Lee facilitated this process by explaining to Touch the Clouds and the others that they should stay with Crazy Horse overnight and hopefully a meeting with Bradley could happen the next day. Lee did not have the heart or the courage to admit that he
JOHN WILKES BOOTH AND THE LINCOLN CONSPIRACY (VOLUME 3, EPISODE 5) PART ONE
A popular actor, John Wilkes Booth used his professional access to Ford’s Theater to assassinate President Lincoln.
In April of 1865, Booth was an American celebrity. Having earned as much as 20,000 dollars a year, the equivalent of over 600, 000 dollars today, Booth was also described as the handsomest man in America and discretely involved with Lucy Hale, the daughter of a US Senator. But Booth was also a Confederate sympathizer and a virulent racist who was enraged by Lee’s surrender and
john wilkes booth and the lincoln conspiracy (Volume 3, episode 5) part two
A well known actor, John Wilkes Booth used his professional access to enter Ford’s theater and assassinate President Lincoln
In April of 1865, John Wilkes Booth was a very depressed 27-year old. His career in shambles, his fortune gone and involved in a volatile and passionate romantic relationship that was tenuous at best only added to his general agonizing over Confederate collapse. To former colleagues and associates he seemed perpetually intoxicated, unstable, and possibly mentally unhi
charles Bukowski (Volume 3, episode 4) part one
Charles Bukowski: Slacker, Drunkard, Misanthrope, Poet, Artist, Hero.
Heinrich Karl Bukowski was born in Andernach, Germany on August 16, 1920. Andernach is a small German town located on the Rhine River, between Bonn and Koblenz. Bukowski’s father, also named Heinrich Karl Bukowski was a sergeant in the US Army of occupation following World War One. He met and impregnated Bukowski’s mother Katerina Fett in late 1919 and their marriage would not occur until July of 1920, one month before t
Charles Bukowski (Volume 3, Episode 4) part two
Charles Bukowski: slacker, drunkard, misanthrope, poet, artist, hero.
Although he was over sixty, Charles Bukowski was just hitting the stride of his professional life. With money rolling in, he no longer gave public readings and his life settled into a daily, rigid, if undemanding routine. He got up late and then headed out in his newly purchased, expensive, 320i BMW sedan. Opening the sunroof and tuning into a classical music station, Bukowski would head to whatever Southern California
BENEDICT ARNOLD (VOLUME 3, EPISODE 3) PART ONE
The ultimate American traitor, Benedict Arnold’s life was much more complicated
BENEDICT ARNOLD (VOLUME 3, EPISODE 3) PART 2
Benedict Arnold is the ultimate American traitor, his life was actually much more complicated
RONNIE VAN ZANT (VOLUME 3, EPISODE 2) PART ONE
The eternal Free Bird, Ronnie Van Zant Ronald Wayne Van Zant was born on January 15, 1948. His father Lacey, was a long haul trucker and his mother Marion, nicknamed “Sister”, was a part time doughnut shop employee and the fundamental caregiver of the family’s six children. Even as a young person, Ronnie had ambitions to escape the lower middle class enclave he grew up in which was literally known as “Shantytown.” Typically, warmup bands … Continue reading RONNIE VAN ZANT (VOLUME 3, EPISODE 2)
RONNIE VAN ZANT (VOLUME 3, EPISODE 2) PART TWO
Ronnie Van Zant, the eternal Free Bird Heading into the recording studio, Skynyrd added two important elements to the band. Ed King met Skynyrd when they were the warmup band for The Strawberry Alarm Clock. King had written this group’s top ten one hit wonder “Incense and Peppermint,” and jumped at the chance to be the third guitar in Skynyrd’s unique three lead guitar makeup. Ed King would eventually be replaced by the brother of … Continue reading RONNIE VAN ZANT (VOLUME 3, EPISODE 2) PART T
WC FIELDS (VOLUME 3, EPISODE ONE) PART ONE
W. C. Fields, Hollywood Legend W. C. Fields was born William Claude Dukenfield on January 29, 1880 in Darby, Pennsylvania. His parents, James and Kate, were English immigrants of modest means, his mother a homemaker and his father appropriately enough at the time of his son’s birth, an innkeeper and bartender. Fields scraped together some money, relocated and made the rounds of the numerous NY agents and bookers that funneled entertainers to the hundreds of … Continue reading WC FIELDS (VOLUME
WC FIELDS (VOLUME 3, EPISODE ONE) PART TWO
W. C. Fields, Hollywood Legend To much excitement, it was announced that Fields would next team up with Mae West. One of America’s biggest stars in the mid-thirties, West, now aged 43, had also recently been cut loose by Paramount after her popularity waned. Months would pass before a script and director would be selected, the result of Fields’ cantankerous and territorial approach to his participation. Surprisingly, the two actors were able to co-exist and … Continue reading WC FIELDS (VOLUM
The Chicago Black Sox And the 1919 World Series (Volume 2, Episode 12) Part One
The Chicago Black Sox and the Scandal Surrounding the 1919 World Series Almost one hundred years after the Black Sox scandal, the legend of Shoeless Joe Jackson, created by disingenuous journalists and burnished by Hollywood, lives on in the American imagination. An illiterate mill hand, a country boy who escaped small town poverty and obscurity as a baseball savant, Jackson is perceived as tragically victimized by wealthy owners and slickered by hustlers and cheats who … Continue reading The C
The Chicago Black Sox And The 1919 World Series (Volume 2, Episode 12) Part Two
The Chicago Black Sox and the scandal surrounding the 1919 World Series “Regardless of the verdict of juries, no player that throws a ballgame; no player that undertakes or promises to throw a ballgame; no player that sits in a conference with a bunch of crooked players and gamblers where the ways and means of throwing games are planned and discussed and does not promptly tell his club about it, will ever play professional baseball.” Today, … Continue reading The Chicago Black Sox And The 1919 W
DB Cooper (Volume 2, Episode 11) Part One
DB Cooper, the man behind the most notorious airplane hijacking in American history On November 24, 1971, a man walked up to the Northwest Orient ticket counter at the Portland, Oregon International Airport. After waiting on line for a few moments, he paid $20 dollars in cash for a ticket for Flight 305 to Seattle, a scheduled 30 minute trip leaving at 2:50 PM. He gave his name as “Dan Cooper” for the purposes of … Continue reading DB Cooper (Volume 2, Episode 11) Part One →
DB Cooper (Volume 2, Episode 11) Part Two
DB Cooper, the man responsible for the most notorious air hijacking in US history. On Thanksgiving morning, A Portland FBI investigator involved in the case, Ralph Himmelsbach, took it upon himself to use his own single engine plane to fly over the area where it is believed that Cooper might have bailed out. He spends much of Thanksgiving Day flying back and forth over Vector 23, the route that flight 305 took through the area, … Continue reading DB Cooper (Volume 2, Episode 11) Part Two →
Robert E. Lee (Volume 2, Episode 10, Part 1)
Robert E. Lee, Valiant Hero or Misguided Traitor? Robert E. Lee was born on January 19, 1807. He was the son of Henry Lee III and Anne Carter, Henry and Ann’s fifth child. Lee was initially assigned to assist in the construction of a fort on the Savannah River, 12 miles from the city of Savannah, Georgia itself. But construction was unsuccessful and it would be sixteen years before Fort Pulaski was completed. Long before … Continue reading Robert E. Lee (Volume 2, Episode 10, Part 1) →
Robert E. Lee (Volume 2, Episode 10, Part 2)
Robert E. Lee: Valiant Hero or Misguided Traitor? George Parke Custis was kicked out of Princeton, left St. John’s College of Annapolis after only one semester and made a living renting out all of the various plantation properties that he had inherited. By comparison to the industrious and spartan Robert E. Lee, Custis was an indolent patrician who lived on the wealth of his ancestors. Eventually, understanding that his daughter was enthusiastic about marrying Lee, Mary … Continue reading Rober
Herman Melville (Volume 2, Episode 9, Part 1)
Herman Melville: From obscurity to immortality When he died at age 72, on September 28, 1891, Herman Melville was so obscure that those who even remembered his literary output presumed that he had passed away many decades earlier. Melville’s works were out of print, his last novel published more than thirty years before his death. The title of his epic work Moby Dick was misspelled in Melville’s New York Times obituary and one of his … Continue reading Herman Melville (Volume 2, Episode 9, Par
Herman Melville (Volume 2, Episode 9, Part 2)
Herman Melville: From Obscurity to Immortality Over forty, Melville need not be concerned with actually having to fight for the Union but in 1863, he and his wife decided to move back to New York City, exchanging Arrowhead, which he was unable to sell, for his brother Allan’s East 26th Street home. Throughout this time period, Melville continued to toil away at his custom’s officer’s job. When he began working at the Customs House in 1866 … Continue reading Herman Melville (Volume 2, Episode 9,
Ted Ngoy, The Donut King Of Southern California, (Volume 2, Episode 8)
Ted Ngoy, the ultimate American Dream, including donuts Eventually, in 1976, one of Ted’s customers showed him an ad in the local newspaper, the Orange County Register, advertising a donut shop for sale. Ngoy had meticulously saved 20,000 dollars, the seller financed the rest of the $45,000 purchase price. By 1985, Ted was a millionaire and a very respected member of the Cambodian community. He and his wife moved into a 7,000 square foot home … Continue reading Ted Ngoy, The Donut King Of Sout
Frida Kahlo (Volume 2, Episode 7) Part 1
Frida Kahlo, Mexican icon Magdalena Carmen Frieda Kahlo Calderon was born on July 6, 1907 in Coyoacan, Mexico. Today, Coyoacan, officially a borough of the Federal District, is part of the urban sprawl of Mexico City. But when Frida was born it consisted of open space, farm and ranch land. Although her birth probably occurred at her grandmother’s house, Frida would spend her childhood and much of her life living in the Casa Azul, the … Continue reading Frida Kahlo (Volume 2, Episode 7) Part 1
Frida Kahlo (Volume 2, Episode 7) Part 2
Frida Kahlo: Mexican Icon Since the death of Lenin in 1924, a power struggle over not only over the Soviet government but also the international Communist movement ensued with the winner Josef Stalin and the loser Leon Trotsky. But Stalin was not content with merely expelling Trotsky from the party and the country. His megalomaniac paranoia would subsequently require the physical extermination of his opponent, including Trotsky’s family. Many of Trotsky’s relatives, including his first … Cont
Ian Fleming, Creator of James Bond (Volume 2, Episode 6, Part 1)
Ian Fleming, who proved that a great deal of fiction is factual. Ian Fleming was born on May 28, 1908, the second son of Valentine and Evelyn Fleming. Both parents came from upper crust British backgrounds, Evelyn, known as Eve, was the descendant of a solicitor paternal grandfather and a maternal grandfather who was the personal physician to Queen Victoria, both of whom would be knighted for their efforts. Valentine, known as Val, was the … Continue reading Ian Fleming, Creator of James Bond (V
Ian Fleming, Creator of James Bond (Volume 2, Episode 6, Part 2)
Ian Fleming proved that a great deal of fiction is factual Acquiring a name for his protagonist was simple enough. When cosmopolitan visitors to Goldeneye found themselves a little bored by the repetitive, tropical languor, Fleming suggested some bird watching accompanied by the book Macmillan’s Field Guide to the West Indies by James Bond, a volume that sat prominently on a shelf near Ian’s desk. Fleming deliberately wanted a simple name for a character that … Continue reading Ian Fleming, Cr
Grigori Rasputin (Volume 2, Episode 5, Part 1)
Rasputin, the wrong man in the right place. Grigori Rasputin was born on January 9, 1869, in the Siberian village of Pokrovskoe, one of nine children of Efim and Anna. Even the number of surviving siblings of Rasputin is a matter of dispute. Possibly all of his nine brothers and sisters died only a few days after they were born and the only sister to perhaps survive was born in 1875 and named Feodosiya. That … Continue reading Grigori Rasputin (Volume 2, Episode 5, Part 1) →
Grigori Rasputin (Volume 2, Episode 5, Part 2)
Rasputin, the wrong man in the right place. Rasputin routinely spent his summers in Pokrovskoe and June, 1914 found him back in his home town. On June 29, Rasputin emerged from his house in order to hand a telegram to his postman. He was greeted by a mysterious female stranger, dressed in black with a white kerchief over her features, only her eyes visible. She silently bowed in front of him and Rasputin paused to … Continue reading Grigori Rasputin (Volume 2, Episode 5, Part 2) →
Georg Elser’s Bomb Plot To Kill Hitler (Volume 2, Number 4) Part One
Georg Elser’s failure is one of the most remarkable stories in European history. The contrast between Adolf Hitler and Georg Elser could not have been more dramatic. Hitler was a fanatically driven over achiever who had overcome his lower middle class background, lack of education and early personal failures to become one of the most charismatic and extroverted political figures of the twentieth century. Elser was a simple woodworker, with an intermittent work history, an … Continue reading Ge
George Elser’s Bomb Plot To Kill Hitler (Volume 2, Number 4) Part 2
Georg Elser’s failure is one of the most remarkable stories in European history. At precisely 9:20, the first of George Elser’s clocks activated perfectly the bomb detonated with a tremendous blast that pulverized the speaker’s platform, shattered the pillar behind it and brought the roof of the building down upon its inhabitants. Dust and debris filled the air, the room now shrouded in darkness with beams falling and screams for help. Seven people were killed … Continue reading George Elser’s
Michelangelo (Volume 2, Number 3) Part 1
Michelangelo, the Eternal Genius Michelangelo Buonarroti-Simoni was born on March 6, 1475 in Caprese, Italy in Tuscany , about sixty miles east of Florence. A month later his father moved the family back to the Tuscan capital. Ludovico Buonarroti’s family were bankers and money lenders and despite the failure of the family bank, Michelangelo’s father managed assets and property that allowed an upper middle class existence. He occasionally served as a bureaucrat and at the … Continue reading M
Michelangelo (Volume 2, Number 3) Part 2
Michelangelo, the Eternal Genius The relationship between Julius II and Michelangelo has been dramatized as a nasty battle of wills between two egocentric men. In actuality, Michelangelo’s issue with the Pope stemmed from the reality that Julius’ main focus was to expand the territory of the Papal States and the ensuing warfare that would be required. Michelangelo’s artistic projects would always be secondary to this fundamental. As soon as the Last Judgment was completed the … Continue readin
Harriet Tubman (Volume 2, Number 2)
Harriet Tubman, righteous heroine Harriet Tubman was born Araminta Ross in the eastern shore region of Maryland in 1822. Her exact date of birth remains unknown. Both of her parents were slaves, Harriet (Rit) Green and Ben Ross. The summer of 1859 also brought a resumption of John Brown’s plan for rebellion. He was already gathering assets in Chambersburg, Pennsylvania in anticipation of his planned attack on the Federal arsenal at Harper’s Ferry, Virginia. His … Continue reading Harriet Tub
Alexander Hamilton, (Volume 2, Episode 1)
Alexander Hamilton, the Zelig of American military and political history. The circumstances surrounding the birth of Alexander Hamilton are complicated and even when he was born is a matter of dispute. His mother, Rachel Faucette, was of British and French descent. His father, James Hamilton was a Scot. They met on the island of St. Kitts in the British West Indies where James Hamilton was unsuccessfully attempting to build a career trading sugar and other … Continue reading Alexander Hamilto
Francis Scott Key and The Star Spangled Banner (Volume 1, Podcast 12)
Francis Scott Key and the National Anthem Key was a prominent lawyer from Frederick, Maryland who, through a sequence of incidents that occurred during the War of 1812, observed one of the most critical episodes in American history. In fact, Ross and Cockburn had decided on a coordinated air and sea attack. Ross would land his troops at North Point, Maryland at the tip of the Patapsco Neck and make the short fifteen-mile march to … Continue reading Francis Scott Key and The Star Spangled Banner
Amelia Earhart (Volume 1, podcast 11)
Amelia Earhart, Lost Heroine Amelia Earhart was born on July 24, 1897 in Atchison, Kansas. Although her mother came from a wealthy family, her father was an attorney but also an alcoholic with an erratic work history that lead to an unstable childhood for both Amelia and her sister, Muriel. Amelia would attend six high schools before graduating from Hyde Park High School in Chicago. Although Amelia dismissed speculation about a global flight, George Putnam … Continue reading Amelia Earhart (Vo
Paul Gauguin (Volume 1, Podcast 10)
Paul Gauguin, the Bitterness and the Beauty From his very first days, Gauguin’s life was filled with a volatile instability that must have affected his development. He was born in Paris on June 7, 1848. His father, Clovis, was a journalist, his mother, Aline, the daughter of Flora Tristan, a seminal feminist writer of the early nineteenth century. Aline’s father had been imprisoned for the attempted murder of Flora, an indication of the chaos surrounding … Continue reading Paul Gauguin (Volum
Jack Johnson, Heavyweight Champion of the World, (Volume 1, Podcast 9)
Jack Johnson, the Real Deal Jack Johnson was born on March 31, 1878 in Galveston. Very little can be verified about his early life. Most historical information about him comes from autobiographies that he published himself. Had he not gone on to achieve boxing notoriety, both he and his family would have been completely forgotten. By the end of the fourteenth round Jeffries could barely see, his nose was broken and face and upper body … Continue reading Jack Johnson, Heavyweight Champion of t
King Ludwig II of Bavaria, (Volume 1, Podcast 8)
King Ludwig II of Bavaria, a Beautiful Madness Wonderful Atlantic Monthly Photo Essay on Ludwig II Ludwig II was born on August 25, 1845. His father, Maximillian, was then the Crown Prince of Bavaria. His grandfather, Ludwig I, was the King of Bavaria and a member of the House of Wittlesbach, the ruling dynasty that had governed the Kingdom of Bavaria, for over six hundred years. Upon Maximilian’s death, Ludwig became Ludwig II at the … Continue reading King Ludwig II of Bavaria, (Volume 1, Po
Billie Holiday (Volume 1, Podcast 7)
Billie Holiday, Lady Day Sometimes the most remarkable artistic genius can emerge from the humblest of beginnings. Sarah Julia Harris was born on August 16, 1895 in Baltimore, MD. Disowned by her father, she was raised by her mother, who ultimately married another man and had two more children. Like her siblings, Sarah, nicknamed “Sadie”, began working at cleaning jobs at an early age, a lack of education rendered her virtually illiterate. She was employed … Continue reading Billie Holiday (
Edgar Allan Poe (Volume 1, Podcast 6)
Edgar Allen Poe: Life Sucks and Then You Die Poe was born Edgar Poe on January 19, 1809, in the city of Boston. His parents, David and Eliza were actors that travelled a circuit along the Eastern seaboard. His mother performed a week before his birth and would return again to the Boston stage a month later, which is indicative of the economic stability of Poe’s family. David Poe had abandoned a career in law … Continue reading Edgar Allan Poe (Volume 1, Podcast 6) →
Ernesto “Che” Guevara (Volume 1, Podcast 5)
Ernesto “Che” Guevara, Revolutionary Poster Boy Ernesto Guevara de la Serna was born in Rosario, Argentina on May 14, 1928. His upper class parents forged his birth certificate to read June 14 to conceal the fact that Ernesto was conceived out of wedlock. Ernesto Guevara Lynch and Celia de la Serna y Llosa both came from socially well-connected families. Despite Ernesto Sr.’s attempts at several money-making ventures, the family lived on Celia’s inheritance. On March … Continue reading Ernes
Friedrich Nietzsche (Volume 1, Podcast 4)
Friedrich Nietzsche: I am not a Man! I am Dynamite! Friedrich Nietzsche was born in Rocken, Germany on October 15, 1844. In July of 1849, Nietzsche’s father, a thirty-five year old minister, died of an indeterminate brain condition, forcing the family to move to the nearby town of Naumburg. Both of these locations are in the Saxony region, former German Democratic Republic, approximately thirty miles southwest of the city of Leipzig. Ree and Salome quickly … Continue reading Friedrich Nietzsch
Mildred Harnack and the Red Orchestra (Volume 1, Podcast 3)
Mildred Fish Harnack, the Only American Female Ever Executed For Espionage by Nazi Germany Mildred Fish Harnack was born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin on September 16, 1902. Her parents, descended from a New England, protestant background, separated when Mildred was a teenager and she was primarily raised by her mother. After her father’s death in 1918, the family relocated to the Washington, DC area but Mildred returned in 1921 to attend the University of Wisconsin. While … Continue reading Mildred
George Smith Anthony and the Voyage of the Catalpa (Volume 1, Podcast 2)
Captain George Smith Anthony and The Voyage of the SS Catalpa In 1874, rebel leader John Devoy received another letter from Fenian prisoner James Wilson that he chose to read aloud at a national meeting of the Clan Na Gael. Part of it read: “Think that we have been nine years in this living tomb since our first arrest and it is impossible for mind and body to withstand the continual strain … Continue reading George Smith Anthony and the Voyage of the Catalpa (Volume 1, Podcas
John Paul Jones-American Admiral, (Volume 1, Podcast 1)
John Paul Jones, Admiral and Patriot Considered a hero of the American Revolution, John Paul Jones was born in Scotland, carried out most of his naval exploits in the British Isles and died in Paris. His most famous encounter, a victory over the British warship, HMS Serapis, took place off of the coast of Yorkshire, England, thousands of miles from the American colonies. It is now a matter of historical debate as to when or … Continue reading John Paul Jones-American Admiral, (Volume 1, Podcast