History That Doesn't Suck
Prof. Greg Jackson
HTDS is a bi-weekly podcast, delivering a legit, seriously researched, hard-hitting survey of American history through entertaining stories. To keep up with History That Doesn’t Suck news, check us out htdspodcast.com or follow on Facebook and Instagram: @Historythatdoesntsuck; on Twitter/X: @HTDSpod. Become a premium member to support our work, receive ad-free episodes and bonus episodes.
173: From Hyde Park to the White House: The Early Life and Election of Franklin Delano Roosevelt
“First of all, let me assert my firm belief that the only thing we have to fear is fear itself-–nameless, unreasoning, unjustified terror which paralyzes needed efforts to convert retreat into advance.”This is the story of Franklin Delano Roosevelt’s journey to the White House.Even as a young boy, Franklin admires his fifth cousin Theodore Roosevelt and wants to follow in his footsteps. He seems to have a knack for it too. He attends the same schools. He serves in many of the same polit
14 (Second Edition): The Newburgh Conspiracy and The Peace of Paris
“I have not only grown gray but almost blind in service to my country.”This is the story (or tale) of two cities. In Paris, Ben Franklin, John Adams, John Jay and (briefly) Henry Laurens are negotiating the terms of American independence. They know what they want, but getting there will require outmaneuvering the greatest powers on earth and defying Congress. Will they do as they’ve been instructed? Or risk it all and swing for the fence? Meanwhile, Continental Army officers in New Windsor, New
13 (Second Edition): The Battle of the Chesapeake & the World Turns Upside Down at Yorktown
"The British officers in general behaved like boys who had been whipped at school.”This is the story of the beginning of the Revolution's end.Following Lord Cornwallis’ vow to take the fight to Virginia, infamous Lieutenant Colonel Tarleton raids Charlottesville, takes a few legislators captive, and forces Governor Thomas Jefferson to flee. Tom only escapes because of the brave ride of the “Paul Revere of the South,” Jack Jouett. Our French friend Lafayette is also on the run, always ju
12 (Second Edition): An American Judas Betrays & Nathanael Greene Saves!
"Arnold has betrayed us! Whom can we trust now?"This isn't a story of betrayal; this is THE story of betrayal. After half a decade of giving his all for the Patriot cause, Benedict Arnold becomes America's Judas Iscariot. He betrays his brothers-in-arms for a commission in the British army and cold hard cash (a lot more than thirty pieces of silver). Meanwhile, after General Horatio Gates’ shameful showing at the Battle of Camden, American forces in the South are scattered and demoraliz
172: Breadlines, Bank Failures, & the Bonus Army: Hoover & the Early Great Depression
"Too much praise cannot be given to the President for the prompt and resolute and skillful way in which he has set about reassuring the country after the financial collapse.” This is the story of Herbert Hoover’s facing the early years of the Great Depression.Just after the stock market crash of 1929, people aren’t expecting the worst. Most, including the experts, believe that this little downturn will blow over with time, just like past economic troubles. Avoiding the word “panic,” Pre
171: Christmas Special VIII: Festivities in the Jazz Age
“There is a million dollars here for the asking!”This is the story of Christmas in the 1920s. Yeah, the whole decade—why not? One hundred years ago, people were just beginning (or reviving) traditions that are entrenched in our holiday celebrations today. Charitable giving at Christmas is ever present, and the winter of 1920 features the Great Humanitarian Herbert Hoover’s efforts to feed children in Europe with his “Invisible Guest” dinners. Another president, “Silent Cal” Coolidge, ho
170: The Crash of 1929 & Meeting President Herbert Hoover
“A wise man never sells out at the first sign of trouble. That’s for the pikers.”This is the story of the 1929 Wall Street Crash. On October 24, or “Black Thursday,” stock prices plunge unexpectedly. Early the next week, whatever was left of the bottom falls out on “Black Tuesday.” The New York Stock Exchange has crashed. The Roaring 20s are over.But what exactly is a stock market? How does the American financial system work in the 1920s? And how did the Crash of 1929 happen? From the o
169: An Epilogue to the 1920s: Youth culture, The Great Gatsby, and more with Professor Sarah Churchwell
Our last few episodes have reveled in stories of the popularization of movies, music and sports during the Roaring 1920s. In this epilogue episode, Professor Jackson steps out of storytelling mode and into classroom mode (that doesn’t suck).
To help us better understand the lasting cultural impact of this period, he’s invited Dr. Sarah Churchwell who has written extensively about 1920s American culture, including her acclaimed book Careless People: Murder, Mayhem, and the Invention of the Great
Introducing: The Real History of Dracula from Airship and Wondery
In the recent Halloween episode #168 of History That Doesn’t Suck, we uncovered the undead story of the 1922 classic vampire film Nosferatu. While the movie isn’t a scene-for-scene lift from author Bram Stoker’s 1897 novel, Dracula, it’s close enough that Bram Stoker’s widow, Florence, sued the filmmakers for copyright infringement. In that episode we also explored Dracula. So today, we thought it’d be fun to introduce a new podcast that tells the whole story of the book that launched an entire
168: Halloween Special IV: Nosferatu and Silent Horror
“His Lordship from Transylvania would like to purchase a nice house in our small town . . . it will take a bit of effort . . . a bit of sweat and perhaps . . . a bit of blood . . .”
This is the story of the Great Death in Wisborg in 1838.
Nosferatu is a 1922 classic horror film, one of the first ever made. It sort of recalls Bram Stoker’s Dracula—enough to build a copyright lawsuit—but, fortunately for us, Nosferatu weathered the controversy via unlicensed copies and has survived into the twe
167: The Golden Age of Sports: Horse Racing, Boxing, Basketball, Football, & Jim Thorpe
“We have a basket and a ball, and it seems to me that would be a good name for it.”This is the story of America’s varied athletic endeavors (besides baseball). Though each sport could provide enough material for an entire episode, it would probably run us into overtime, and the 1920s are drawing to a close. As Black Thursday approaches, it’s time for some last-minute fun and games. The 1920s is the Golden Age of Sports—fans can’t get enough of the races, the ring, the court, or the grid
166: A Conversation on Negro Leagues Baseball History with Bob Kendrick
As a follow up to episode 165 America’s Favorite Pastime: Baseball, we’re proud to share an interview with Bob Kendrick, the President of the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum in Kansas City, MO. Founded in 1990, the NLBM is the world’s only museum dedicated to preserving and celebrating the rich history of African-American baseball and its profound impact on the social advancement of America.
It’s the perfect time to share more about the history of the Negro Leagues because, in the spring of 2024,
165: America’s Favorite Pastime: Baseball, the Black Leagues, and the Great Bambino
"As I hit the ball, every muscle in my system, every sense I had, told me that I had never hit a better one . . . I didn't have to look. But I did. That ball . . . hit . . . exactly the spot I had pointed to."This is the story of the most American sport: baseball. Americans have been playing ball for a good long while now—even General Washington enjoyed an occasional game of catch—but baseball as we know it only emerged around the 1850s. That’s also about the time when people started forming lea
164: Harlem Renaissance: The Great Migration, Jazz, and the Flowering of Black Culture
“Harlem is the queen of the black belts, drawing Aframericans together in a vast humming hive . . . from the different states, from the islands of the Caribbean, and from Africa . . . It is the Negro capital of the world.” This is the story of the Harlem Renaissance. In the early twentieth century, many Black families and individuals down South are finding that the only way out is up—to the North. Driven by Jim Crow discrimination and harsh economic realities, hundreds of thousands of African Am
163: The Show (Boat) Must Go On: Broadway and the American Musical
“Miller, Lyles, and I were standing near the exit door . . . Blake stuck out there in front, leading the orchestra—his bald head would get the brunt of the tomatoes and rotten eggs.”This is the story of American musical theater and the dawn of modern Broadway. Popular entertainment is evolving fast in the early twentieth century. Minstrel shows just aren’t drawing the same numbers anymore (for good reason), and burlesque and variety shows abound. The earliest “official” musical, The Black Crook
162: The Birth of the Movies: From Silent Cinema to the Rise of Hollywood & the First “Talkie”
“Wait a minute, wait a minute, you ain’t heard nothing yet!”
This is the story of the silver screen.
In the late nineteenth century, technology is advancing rapidly. Eadweard Muybridge’s trip-wire camera work, made famous by a “motion study” of a galloping horse, is giving way to smoother and longer projections. Some see these short films simply as a curiosity, an “invention without a future” as early filmmaker Louis Lumière famously says, but Thomas Edison knows there is serious money to be
161: An Epilogue Toast to Prohibition’s End with Author Daniel Okrent
Cheers to Professor Jackson’s post Prohibition conversation with distinguished author Daniel Okrent! Dan is the the author of Last Call: The Rise and Fall of Prohibition, winner of the American Historical Association’s prize for the year’s best book of American History when it was published in 2011. Last Call was a go-to book in the HTDS bibliography for episodes 157-160 as we researched and selected the stories to tell in these four podcast episodes we’ve just completed.
Dan was also the first
Introducing: American Criminal from Airship
From Airship, the studio behind American Scandal, American History Tellers, and History Daily, comes a new true crime history podcast that takes you inside the minds of some of our most notorious felons and outlaws, exploring the dark side to the American dream.
In this new show, host Jeremy Schwartz will introduce you to the picture-perfect brothers who teamed up to kill their parents; the thief who stole babies and ruined countless lives; the crypto king who siphoned off billions in the name
160: Al Capone & the End of Prohibition
“Only Capone kills like that.”
This is the story of the rise and fall of Al Capone, and the last gasps of Prohibition.
No other gangster compares to Scarface. He’s remained prominent in the American consciousness for 100 years due to his overt violence and lavish lifestyle, funded by *ahem* unsavory business practices. He brazenly orders murders like the St. Valentine’s Day Massacre, but he also doesn’t hesitate to get his own hands dirty when it comes to traitors. Capone seems to have jumped
159: Scofflaws, Moonshiners, Bootleggers, and Crime Lords
“Don’t ask me nothin’! You hear me? Don’t ask! And don’t bring anybody in here for me to identify. I won’t identify them even if I know they did it!”
This is the story of the nation’s up-and-coming criminal underground.
By 1920, with few exceptions, producing, buying, and selling alcohol is outlawed, but that doesn’t stop enterprising Americans. Many feel perfectly comfortable flouting the law and continuing to drink at their leisure, albeit with the added thrill that comes with evading halfh
158: Prohibition - So You Wanna Be a Rum Runner?
“You’re Bill McCoy.” “Never heard of him.”
This is the story of a crazy decade-plus when America outlawed booze…but the liquor kept flowing.
The Prohibition era marks a partial return to the Golden Age of Piracy, with bootleggers frequenting old haunts in the Caribbean, including Nassau, capital of The Bahamas. These sailors are also buying, selling, and drinking copious amounts of—you guessed it—rum. But how does all this booze get from the Bahamas to speakeasies in New York?
William “Bill
157: Temperance, Prohibition, and the Path to the 18th Amendment
Episode Description:
“Farewell, you good-for-nothing, God-forsaken, iniquitous, bleary-eyed, bloated-faced old imp of perdition, farewell!”
This is the story of the path to prohibition.
Early America drinks a lot – I mean, A LOT. Alcohol doesn’t give you dysentery, it’s used as a medicine, and in the first decades of the Republic, whiskey is cheaper than coffee or tea. But some are starting to think that maybe Uncle Sam needs an intervention. First, it's the American Temperance Society, then t
156: The Presidency of “Silent” Cal Coolidge
“I believe I can swing it.”
This is the story of the Coolidge Administration.
Calvin Coolidge isn’t the most talkative guy–he’s painfully shy, to be frank–but “Silent Cal” does care deeply about public service. Over the years, the thrifty, hard-working New Englander moves up the ranks, from municipal offices to state offices, until, as Massachusetts Governor, he’s asked to join Warren G. Harding’s run for the White House. When the scandalous, playboy President meets an untimely end, family man
155: The Life & Times of Warren G. Harding & The Teapot Dome Scandal
“If you knew of a great scandal in our administration, would you for the good of the country and the party expose it publicly or would you bury it?”
This is the story of a brilliant man’s presidency and the greatest presidential scandal to precede Watergate. This is the story of Warren G. Harding and the Teapot Dome Scandal.
Growing up in Ohio, Warren–or little “Winnie,” as his mom calls him–shows his brilliance from day one. The smart, charismatic, and handsome boy grows up to become a newsp
154: An Epilogue Discussion with Ben Sawyer
The Prof. sits down with fellow Prof. Ben Sawyer of the Road to Now Podcast and Middle Tennessee State University to chat through the last volume episodes. Russia, the Red Scare, the second Klan, and more, while Ben gets Greg to share behind-the-scenes details on the writing process. Enjoy!
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153: West Virginia’s Mine Wars: From Trouble in Matewan to the Battle of Blair Mountain
“I want to say make no settlement until they sign up that every bloody murderer of a guard has got to go.”This is the story of the largest uprising in the United States since the Civil War.As unions spread across the Progressive-Era United States, West Virginia mine owners manage to keep them out. They have some good reasons (tough margins) and some less savory ones … like their preference for an oppressive “mine guard system” in “company towns” that effectively removes civil government
152: The Second Ku Klux Klan: Racism, Anti-Semitism, & Anti-Catholicism in the 1920s
“Every official except one elected yesterday at the first municipal election of this borough had been endorsed by the Ku Klux Klan.”
This is the story of the Second Ku Klux Klan.
It’s been nearly half a century since the Third Enforcement Act killed off the Klan in 1871. But amid Jim Crow segregation in 1915, the lynching of a Jewish Georgian Leo Frank, coupled with a new film, The Birth of a Nation, inspires William Simmons to resurrect the Klan.
This new Klan has a longer list of enemies.
151: The First Red Scare - Bombings, The Palmer Raids, Eugene Debs, and J. Edgar Hoover
“Palmer, do not let this country see red.”
This is the story of America’s First Red Scare. On June 2, 1919, Attorney General Mitchell Palmer is just going to bed when the first floor of his home is blown apart. It was a bomb, and part of a larger plot to attack several national leaders. It’s the work of anarchists.
Shaken to the core, Mitch is determined to use his position as AG to rid the nation of such extremist, violent leftists–anarchists, Bolsheviks, and the like. Mitch turns to the Bure
150: The Great War’s Aftermath: Coming Home, The Spanish Flu, & The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier
“I keep wondering if the Unknown Soldier is one of my men.”
This is the story of the United States coping with and facing the aftermath of World War I.
The American Expeditionary Force in France is breaking up but that means a lot of different things as doughboys occupy Germany, go fight in Russia, convalesce, or just head home. If only going home was so easy–for many, it’s a hard transition back to civilian life. One of the few familiar things they find in the States is a deadly strain of inf
11 (Second Edition): Southern (Dis)comfort & Global Conflict in 1779
“I reject your proposals … and shall defend myself to the last extremity.”
This Is the story of the Revolution’s new hot spot: the South.
After failing to crush the rebellion in the northern or middle states, British leaders hope to score some quick victories in the South, which they believe to be more loyal. Drawing support from loyalist and enslaved Americans, this new “Southern Strategy” enjoys a strong start as Savannah falls in late 1778.
Other events around the world are changing the wa
10 (Second Edition): Duels, the Trials of Valley Forge, & the Battle of Monmouth
“Stand fast, my boys, and receive your enemy!”
This is the story of a miserable winter at Valley Forge (1777-78), a possible conspiracy, and George Washington’s last major battle before Yorktown.
Continental Commander George Washington is loved by many in Congress and the Army. But he has his enemies too. Some see a path to pushing George out of leadership–but will this so-called “Conway Cabal,” which happens while Continental soldiers are freezing and starving to death, actually work? Either
9 (Second Edition): 1777—The Battle of Princeton, the Saratoga Campaign, & the Battles of Brandywine & Germantown
“If old England is not by this lesson taught humility, then she is an obstinate old slut, bent upon her ruin.” - Horatio Gates
This is the story of 1777’s Saratoga and Philadelphia campaigns.
Playboy and playwright General "Gentleman Johnny" Burgoyne is leading a Canadian-based invasion of upstate New York–and it's a tale of egos. From Britain’s Gentleman Johnny to America’s Horatio Gates and Benedict Arnold, a lot of Generals are looking out for "number one." But Saratoga is more than that;
149: WWI Epilogue
The Episode to end all … World War I episodes. Professor Jackson sits down with Kelsi Dynes to talk through all the things that didn’t make it into the final Great War episodes and go big picture on the Meuse-Argonne, Armistice, and Treaty of Versailles.
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First Christmas Special (Second Edition)! “George Wishes Some Hessians a Merry F’ing Christmas”
“These are the times that try men’s souls.”
This is the story of a Christmas Miracle at Trenton, New Jersey.
George Washington’s army is exhausted, disheartened, battered, starving, freezing–all but broken. Sir William Howe’s mighty British Army has chased these American soldiers out of New York, New Jersey, and now, across the ice-filled Delaware River into Pennsylvania. Worse still for the Patriots, the British have captured Continental General General Charles Lee and scared Congress into fl
148: Tales of Christmas from World War I (A Truce, Plum Pudding, and Love)
“The circumstances under which we are spending this particular Christmas are unusual.”
This is the story of the Christmases of World War I.
Germans and British troops, singing carols together. French and German troops, kicking, playing sports and exchanging treats. It may not last, but for a brief moment–for Christmas of 1914–these opposing armies refuse the orders of their superiors as they temporarily “beat their swords into plowshares and spears into pruninghooks.”
In the years ahead, the
147: Peacemaking in Paris: The Treaty of Versailles
“A Peace which cannot be defended in the name of justice before the whole world would continually call forth fresh resistance”
This is the story of peacemaking in 1919–a fraught peacemaking.
With the Armistice signed, some 30 nations (led by the major Allied Powers) are gathering in Paris, France, to deliberate on the terms they’ll give to Germany. But the conference is beset with conflicting views. Not only do these various nations and other unofficial representatives have conflicting views,
146: The Armistice of November 11, 1918
“The German delegation has come to receive the proposals of the Allied Powers looking to an armistice.”
This is the story of guns falling silent across war-ravaged fronts–the story of the Great War’s armistice between Germany and the Allied Powers.
Sailors are mutinying. Soldiers are breaking. A revolution–possibly a Bolshevist revolution–is knocking on the Second Reich’s door. German leaders are coming to accept a painful reality: they can’t carry on this war. They look to the merciful words
145: Halloween Special 2023: The Legend of Sleepy Hollow
“If I can but reach that bridge,” thought Ichabod, “I am safe.”
This is the story of schoolmaster Ichabod Crane and his ride home after an evening spent trying to woo Katrina Van Tassel at a party hosted by her father at their idyllic farm in rural New York. It’s a terrifying ride–perhaps as deadly as Ichabod’s pursuer is headless. For this third HTDS Halloween special, we “rewind” to one of the oldest ghost stories in American lore: Washington Irving’s “The Legend of Sleepy Hollow.”
Startin
144: A Conversation with Ken Burns - Storytelling and the American Buffalo
Professor Greg Jackson sits down with legendary documentary filmmaker Ken Burns about his latest film The American Buffalo which has a two-part premiere in the US on PBS beginning Monday, Oct. 16, 2023.
Some refer to Ken Burns as a historian, but he would be quick to tell you that he considers himself a storyteller.
His latest documentary The American Buffalo is a sort of biography of the American bison, or the buffalo as they are more commonly known. The fact is, we would only know of buffalo
Introducing: History Daily
Today, we have a special off-week treat: an episode of History Daily!
Hosted by Lindsay Graham (podcaster not Senator), History Daily brings you a tale from the past, on its anniversary, daily. Listen to History Daily on Spotify, Apple, or where you get your podcasts! https://www.historydaily.com/.
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143: The Meuse-Argonne Offensive (pt.2) – Breaking the Kriemhilde Line
“All right, General. We’ll take it, or my name will head the list.”
This is the story of Meuse-Argonne and the Americans’ continued struggles to take the Kriemhilde Line. Tennessean Alvin York hates war, yet he finds himself an unlikely hero when his youthful days of hunting turn him into a prisoner-taking sharpshooter as the US First Army presses forward against the Germans.
But this isn’t a battle just for the First Army anymore. A stressed-out, breaking, Black Jack Pershing finally decides
142: The Meuse-Argonne Offensive (pt.1) – “The Lost Battalion”
“Our own artillery is dropping a barrage directly on us. For heaven’s sake, stop it.”
This is the story of the Meuse-Argonne Offensive’s beginnings.
“Tout le monde à la bataille.” So says Ferdinand Foch as the Allies hit the Germans from several pressure points at once. For the Americans, that means fighting between the thick woods of the Argonne Forest and the deep waters of the Meuse River. The region is heavily guarded and a “natural fortress.” The attack will have a high cost – including i
141: Wartime Interlude
Time to review! Greg and Kelsi talk through the main takeaways of the American story in World War I to date, from causes to new inventions and social changes. We get a little behind the scenes on episodes, a few stories that didn’t make in, and set the stage for the last battle of the Great War.
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Introducing: Real Survival Stories from Noiser
A picturesque paragliding flight becomes a terrifying nightmare when a massive storm rolls in. Sucked into the clouds, Ewa Wiśnierska is pelted by hailstones the size of oranges. With lightning crackling all around her, she is sent hurtling upwards - still clinging to her parachute. Soon, she’ll be higher than Everest and nearing the cruising altitude of a jumbo jet. Covered in ice, approaching the edge of the breathable atmosphere… how on earth does she make it down in one piece?
Real Survival
140: WWI Aviators: From the Lafayette Escadrille to the Red Baron and More
“Something has happened to one of the boys.”
This is the story of the Great War’s flyboys – particularly, Americans taking to the skies to fight for France.
Long before the United States will enter the Great War, hundreds of American men head to Europe to fight for the French Republic. Some drive ambulances. Some fight in the French Foreign Legion. But come 1916, some begin to fly.
In 1916, seven pilots (our “Flying Founders,” if you will) start an American squadron within France’s Aéronautiq
139: From Yeomen (F) to “Hello Girls:” American Women in World War I
“Is there any regulation which specifies that a Navy yeoman be a man?”
This is the story of the United States in the Great War and the role of women in that changing world.
Women of the Progressive Era are all about change. They’re fighting for several reforms — including their own right to vote — and as the United States enters the Great War, they’re ready to embrace new responsibilities and opportunities. Women are stepping into all sorts of new roles, be that on a factory floor or by taking
138: The 15th New York/369th or The Harlem Hellfighters
“My men never retire. They go forward, or they die!”
This is the story of the 15th New York, a.k.a, the 369th, or the Harlem Hellfighters.
James “Big Jim” Europe is one of the most talented musicians in the world. His ragtime and early jazz sounds electrify New York City. That’s exactly why Colonel William “Big Bill” Hayward, who’s just been named commander of New York’s newly established Black regiment (the 15th) wants the young machine gun officer to step into his rightly earned celebrity st
137: The First Battle of the First American Army: St. Mihiel
“Marshal Foch, you have no authority as Allied Commander-in-Chief to call upon me to yield up my command of the American Army and have it scattered among the Allied Forces where it will not be an American army at all.”
This is the story of the first battle of the First American Army.
Fresh off of an Allied victory at Amiens, Supreme Commander Ferdinand Foch has new ideas for a combined Allied strategy along the Meuse and in the Argonne forest. But his plan comes at a cost to the Americans, re
136: The German Spring Offensive’s End, or The Second Battle of the Marne
“Every time I have felt annoyed since then at France, this picture comes to mind and my anger softens.”
This is the story of the Great War’s turning point.
After a fourth and failed Spring Offensive operation, German General Erich Luddendorf is ready to make a fifth push. He’s making a pincer movement around the city of Reims, and to its west, on the banks of the Marne River, the US 3rd Division finds itself caught in a fight that the French present call worse than Verdun. It’s a slaughter, bu
135: Belleau Wood – A Cut Deeper with Captain Mac Caldwell
The impact of the 1918 Battle of Belleau Wood on the US Marine Corps is hard to overstate. Though in existence since 1775, the Corps was reborn in those woods. Not only did it give rise to new lore, but a whole generation of future leaders.Given its significance, Greg sits down with Captain Mac Caldwell of the US Marine Corps to go several cuts deeper on Belleau Wood and its legacy right into the twenty-first century.____Connect with us on HTDSpodcast.com and
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134: (Most of) The German Spring Offensive of 1918 & The Fight for Belleau Wood
This is the story of the first real battles of the American Expeditionary Force (AEF) in World War I.
Carrying out his third operation of the German Spring Offensive, General Erich Ludendorff is hoping to distract the French before delivering a KO punch to the Brits farther north in Flanders. But this offensive is going far too well to let up. German troops are advancing rapidly down here. This mere diversion has taken them to Château-Thierry on the banks of the Marne River! Erich can’t help bu
133: Heading “Over There:” “Black Jack” Pershing & Creating WWI’s American Expeditionary Force
“Lafayette, nous sommes ici!” (Lafayette, we are here!)
This is the story of a nation building an army from nothing.
After years of trying to avoid entanglements with and war in Europe, President Woodrow Wilson has asked Congress for a declaration of war against Germany. But that’s easier said than done.
The US might be the world’s greatest industrial producer and have a large population, but will the nation’s population of heavily first- and second-generation American citizens (or non-citizens)
132: The US Enters WWI (RMS Lusitania, Black Tom Island, & The Zimmermann Telegram)
“I still think I see the struggling of poor passengers in the water.”This is the story of the United States’ path into the Great War.The United States wishes to stay out of the Great War. Woodrow Wilson wins reelection (barely) on that very basis. But as Germany contends with Britain’s blockade, its submarines, or “U-boats,” are attacking merchant and passenger ships (like the RMS Lusitania) without warning. This policy is touch and go, but worse still, the US learns in February 1917 th
Introducing: Ye Gods! with Scott Carter and Ken Burns
Introducing a new podcast: YE GODS WITH SCOTT CARTER. We all know that faith and ethics are recurring themes in history. Scott Carter is an award-winning TV producer for HBO and PBS whose shows get people talking about the big issues of the day. Now he’s launched a new podcast to get people talking about the big questions of life.
Each week he asks prominent authors, comics, musicians, filmmakers and philosophers about the rules that guide their lives, whether they be sacred or secular. Hear f
131: Epilogue on World War 1 before the US
Starting the Great War (World War I) and covering this massive conflict up to 1917 has been a pretty big task unto itself. So, before we go in close on America's role, Greg and Kelsi sit down to digest and talk through a few aspects of the War, as well as share a few additional stories and experiences.____Connect with us on HTDSpodcast.com and
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130: Russia: From the Great War to Revolution with Deputy Provost Kat Brown
To say Russia had a difficult go of it during World War I would be a gross understatement. Millions of dead, lost territory, soldiers charging into battle without guns, starvation, a less than savory holy man influencing the Czar and Czarina, and of course, revolution! How do we even begin to wrap our heads around all of that, let alone contemplate the impact on the United States? Simple: we talk it out with Greg’s UVU colleague, Deputy Provost Kat Brown. A historian and expert on Russi
129: World War I Before the US (Military Tech, Trenches, Global Armies, Ypres, Verdun & the Somme)
“In Flanders’ fields the poppies blowBetween the crosses, row on row.”This is the story of the first two and a half years of the Great War, particularly, of the Western Front. These are the years leading to the United States’ entry.After saving two German warships, the Ottoman Empire joins the Great War as a Central Power. Meanwhile, the work of death is moving forward on a scale unlike any other seen. Improved, or altogether new, weapons—rapid firing repeating rifles, machine guns, gas
128: The Causes of World War I (From the Congress of Vienna to Franz Ferdinand & the Marne)
“Sopherl, Sopherl! Don’t die on me. Live for our children.”
This is the 99-year story of Europe’s descent into total war.
The Napoleonic Wars devastated Europe. The continent’s five great powers responded by meeting in Vienna in 1815 to establish a balance of power between them. In the future, no single power should be able to lead the continent into war. They also agree to meet as a “Concert of Europe” to hash out future developments.
The years give way to decades. The Concert endures the ri
127: Mr. Wilson Goes to Washington (Progressive Policies & Foreign Affairs in South America)
“It would be the irony of fate if my administration had to deal chiefly with foreign affairs.”
This is the story of the lesser-known aspects of Woodrow Wilson’s presidency–the events outside of World War I.
The Progressive Era is still in full force as Woodrow Wilson enters the White House. Amid constitutional amendments 16 and 17, Woodrow continues to carry this wave of reform with a new central banking system, income tax, and monopoly-checking regulations. He does so, however, at the expense
7 (Second Edition): An Olive Branch Rejected: Bunker Hill, Tom’s a Royal Pain(e), & The Siege of Boston
“Remember it is the fifth of March and avenge the death of your brethren!”This is the story of the expiration of hope for reconciliation between the American colonies and the "Mother Country." Bunker Hill's a blood bath. Congress isn’t sure about how aggressive to be in war as it still hopes for peaceful reconciliation. It sends King George III their "Olive Branch Petition," but it's D.O.A. Things only devolve further as the King proclaims the colonies in a state of rebellion and Thomas Paine in
6 (Second Edition): “The Shot Heard ’Round the World:” The Battle of Lexington & Concord
"Fire, for God's sake, fire!" - Unkown British officerThis is the story of the first battle of the American Revolution on April 19, 1775. We’re in Lexington, Massachusetts. Between Lexington’s Green, Concord’s North Bridge, and Colonel Smith’s troops returning to Boston, 49 Americans and 73 redcoats die. The battle and ongoing friction will also cause the Second Continental Congress to create an army. But who can lead it? Welcome back to the story, George Washington. 4 Ways to dive deeper into H
126: Christmas Special 6: Jacob Riis’ “Is There a Santa Claus?”
“Now, how would you like to be a reporter, if you have got nothing better to do?”
This is the story of a reporter–a muckraker–answering a boy who wants to know if Santa Clause actually exists. And somehow, it’s an answer that manages to mention Theodore Roosevelt.
This is Jacob Riis’ Is There a Santa Clause?
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125: Epilogue: The Progressive Era
So much to say–it’s been a while!
Kelsi and Greg share stories that they wish made it into some episodes, but alas, just couldn’t (looking at you, Ellis Island). Greg expresses his deep sympathy for K-12 teachers that are expected to teach “all” US history in a single year because that’s just an impossible task. And there’s a bit of discussion about newsletters and HTDS LIVE in New York City!
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124: The “Bull Moose” Election of 1912
“It’s true. But it takes more than that to kill a bull moose.”This is the story of one of the most unique, bitter, impactful, and noteworthy elections in US history: the presidential election of 1912.President William H. Taft is sure that he’s carrying on the progressive legacy of his dear friend and mentor, Theodore Roosevelt. But TR disagrees. Returning from an African safari and European tour, Teddy feels compelled to challenge his old friend for the GOP nomination as he touts his pr
123: The Wright Brothers Fly at Kitty Hawk
“Not in a thousand years would man ever fly.” This is the story of two brothers and the dream of controlled, sustained, and powered flight in a heavier-than-air flying machine. The Wrights are a tight-knit bunch. A supportive family. So perhaps it’s not surprising that, when Wilbur sinks into a deep, dark depression brought on by a terrible beating, his brother Orville is there for him. Just like Will and their sister Kate are there for Orv when Typhoid nearly takes his life. These sibl
122: Halloween Special II: H.P. Lovecraft – “The Outsider” & “Dagon”
“I am writing this under an appreciable mental strain, since by tonight I shall be no more.”
This is the story of a lonely, isolated figure who escapes a decaying castle only to have a frightful realization. It is also the story of a WWI sailor meeting unknown terrors in the middle of the Pacific.
Welcome to the mind of Edgar Allan Poe’s successor; one whose impact on popular culture defies quantification; an author whom Stephen King has dubbed “the twentieth-century horror story’s dark and baro
121: Henry Ford: The Model T & Mass Production
“Your car is self-contained–it carries its own power-plant … keep at it.”This is the story of the rise of the automobile and mass production.Powerful steam engines. Electric lights and telephones. The Second Industrial Revolution is radically remaking the turn-of-the-century United States. It’s in this world of technological change that a Michigan farm boy finds himself drawn into the growing “horseless carriage” craze, and particularly, to an emerging technology known as the internal c
120: From Atlanta to the NAACP, or Booker T. Washington v. W.E.B. Du Bois
“I am not quite sure of the exact place or exact date of my birth, but at any rate, I suspect I must have been born somewhere and at some time.” This is the story of a hardening Jim Crow color line. Lynchings and race riots. Black troops in Brownsville being summarily discharged “without honor.” Black Americans are indeed watching as Reconstruction-Era progress erodes. What can they do? Booker T. Washington has a vision. This Southerner of self-reliance–a former slave who’s gained an e
119: Women’s Suffrage & the Passage of the 19th Amendment
“President Wilson, how long must we wait for liberty?”This is the story of women’s suffrage. According to the legal doctrine of coverture, a married woman is “covered” by her husband. Legally, economically, politically—she largely ceases to exist. Yet, does widowed colonial Lydia Taft get to vote? And why does Revolutionary New Jersey buck the system, specifically writing a voting law that describes voters as “he or she,” then later disenfranchise women?Decades pass, but the idea of wom
118: “The Island of Hope and Tears:” Ellis Island
“That’s the light of freedom! Remember that. Freedom.”
This is the story of 40% of modern America’s ancestors—this is the story of Ellis Island.
Religious persecution. Economic devastation. Stifling political regimes. Whether fleeing for their lives or simply to improve them, Europeans—especially Eastern and Southern Europeans—are flocking to turn-of-the-century America. But no port is busier than New York City.
The journey is no laughing matter. Many immigrants are traveling nearly penniless as
Introducing: Short History Of...
"Short History Of... is the podcast series hosted by John Hopkins. Each week, we'll transport you back in time to witness history's most incredible moments and remarkable people. New episodes Mondays."Follow Noiser Podcasts on Twitter @Noiser_Podcasts for updates. And enjoy this episode about Stonehenge. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
117: Epilogue on Progressive Era Part I (Teddy Roosevelt)
With the Presidency of Teddy Roosevelt covered, Greg sits down with Zach and Kelsi to talk favorite stories (especially those that didn’t make it in the episodes) and take in the big picture of this bigger-than-life President. Zach’s settled in. Greg’s owning his botched pronunciation of “Reading, PA.” Kelsi’s landing some jabs. The sarcasm and snark is almost as strong as the history in this one!____Connect with us on HTDSpodcast.com and
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116: Teddy Roosevelt’s Foreign Policy: From Big Stick Diplomacy to the Panama Canal
“I [will] be obliged to interfere, by force if necessary, if the Germans [take] any action which look[s] like the acquisition of territory in Venezuela.”
This is the story of foreign policy (“Big Stick” Diplomacy) in the Theodore Roosevelt White House.
TR loves the West African proverb: “Speak softly and carry a big stick: you will go far.” It defines the Cowboy President’s approach to life—particularly to foreign affairs—and as Germany rattles the saber at indebted Venezuela, Monroe Doctrine-su
115: History–Doomed to Repeat It? A Conversation with Lindsay Graham
The Legendary podcaster and composer (but not US Senator) Lindsay Graham is a dear friend of HTDS and an integral part of the podcast's sound. Today, he gets behind the mic with the Prof. to interrogate the oft-repeated adage "those who don't study history are doomed to repeat it."So ... is it true? Centering the conversation around our current HTDS period (Gilded Age and into the Progressive Era) while pulling from various philosophers and thinkers (Hegel, Twain, Churchill, Santayana,
8 (2nd ed): Declaring Independence, the Rise of Alexander Hamilton, and the Fall of New York
"I long to hear that you have declared an independency.”This is the story of independence and crushed hope.Congress is finally declaring independence but it isn’t a straightforward process. Delegates have different perspectives; John Adams and John Dickinson are taking the floor to argue passionately for and against it. The vote will come down to the wire.It’s also time to bring the "$10" Founding Father into the story. That’s right. We’ll meet Alexander Hamilton, get the backstory of his rough
114: A Square Deal (pt. 3): “Leave it as it is” (Teddy Roosevelt & Conservationism)
“Very well then–I so declare it.”This is the story of the final “C” of President Theodore Roosevelt’s Square Deal: conservationism.Teddy loves the outdoors. He loves to challenge himself in the American wilderness. He also fears the nation’s natural resources and various species are disappearing. And TR won’t let that stand. From Florida’s Pelican Island to the Arizona Territory’s extremely large canyon—perhaps “grand,” you might say—and far beyond, TR is out to create bird reserves, na
113: A Square Deal (pt. 2): Consumer Protection–The FDA, & Ida Tarbell muckrakes Standard Oil
“In Bunyan's Pilgrim's Progress you may recall the description of the Man with the Muck Rake …”This is the story of another “C” in Teddy’s Square Deal: “consumer protection.”The nation is grappling with new ideas on how involved the Federal Government should be in the lives of US citizens. Earthquake and fire levels San Francisco but no one expects executive action. Meanwhile, the Supreme Court is torn on the Constitutionality of New York’s Bakeshop Act and TR’s Chicago meatpacking inve
112: A Square Deal (pt. 1): Corp. Regulation—a coal strike, a trust, & Teddy’s Frenemy J.P. Morgan
“If we have done anything wrong, send your man to my man and they can fix it up.”
This is the first story of President Theodore Roosevelt’s Square Deal: “corporate regulation.”
J. Pierpont Morgan hates economic volatility. He’s determined to eliminate that plaguing element from some of his railroad lines by making the competing Union Pacific a friend. He’ll do so by creating a stockholding company called “Northern Securities.” But is this an illegal trust? Or just good business? Teddy and his
111: The Assassination of Will McKinley & The Strenuous Life of Theodore Roosevelt
“I wish to preach, not the doctrine of ignoble ease, but the doctrine of the strenuous life.”
This is the story of (another) presidential assassination and the life of the man it brings to the White House: Theodore Roosevelt.
Though a sickly and asthmatic child, “Teedie,” as his family calls the child, works hard to build his physical strength. To take on the bullies who pick on him. Teddy grows up to become a rowing, boxing, and mountaineering athlete with an equally inquisitive mind.
Assemb
110: Epilogue to the Age of Imperialism
Greg, Zach, and Kelsi sit down for a chat about America’s surprisingly compact burst of turn-of-the-century overseas expansion (Age of Imperialism). They talk through an overarching overview of the era; highlight some of the things that, while in previous episodes, might have been less obvious (coaling stations, anyone?); and wax eloquent on historical research while sharing a small behind-the-scenes comedy of errors that went down amid the research for an episode.
Hope you enjoy it.
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Conn
109: The Election of 1900 & the Rise of Anti-Imperialism
“Only dead men can tell the truth in this world. It can be published after I am dead.”This is the story of imperialism and presidential politics: the election of 1900.US President William McKinley is looking for reelection. The economy is strong, the nation is powerful, and it's expanding overseas. For many Americans, that all sounds and looks rather good. But for others, this overseas imperial expansion is a betrayal of American values. With famous names like Mark Twain and Andrew Carn
108: G.O. 100, “The Water Cure,” & The Law of War in the Early-20th Century with Professor Ryan Vogel
The ugliest aspects of the Philippine-American War raised questions of legitimate warfare. Specifically, they required the US to think through a military code of conduct from the Civil War: General Order 100, or the “Lieber Code.”But what is the Lieber Code? How did it seek to rein in the worst of war atrocities, and where did it fail to do so in the Philippines? While we’re at it … what even was the status of the “Law of War” at the turn of the century, and how did it compare to the wa
107: The Philippine-American War
“Co … wards! Assassins!”This is the story of the Philippine-American War.Having bested the Spanish in war, the United States now lays claim to holding sovereignty over the Philippines. President William McKinley asserts that the US is enacting “benevolent assimilation” on the islands. William Taft says the US is going to help its “little brown brothers.” But nationalist Emilio Aguinaldo rejects these claims. He says the Philippines should be independent; that US rule is no better than S
106: The US Annexation of the Hawaiian Kingdom
“You have my love, and with sorrow I dismiss you.”This is the story of the Hawaiian Kingdom’s end.Queen Liliuokalani hates the Constitution of 1887–or “Bayonet” Constitution, as it’s known, since her predecessor and brother King Kalakaua signed it under duress. Under this constitution, wealth rather than citizenship determines who votes. This means a lot of wealthy sugar-planting foreigners of American and European origin control the legislature while few native Hawaiians are enfranchis
105: “A Splendid Little War:” The Spanish-American War and Theodore Roosevelt’s Rough Riders
“Sergeant, the Spanish bullet isn’t made that will kill me.”
This is the story of the Spanish-American War.
George Dewey’s squadron is in Manila Bay. Henry Glass is bombarding Guam’s Apra Harbor. Theodore Roosevelt’s Rough Riders are charging up Kettle Hill in Cuba’s San Juan Heights. One American victory follows another as the US fights against the Spanish for the sake of Cuba.
Or is it for the sake of Cuba? As the US and Spain work out a peace treaty in Paris, we’ll see one empire fall and
Introducing...History Daily!
Today, the Prof would like to provide you with a little bonus: an intro to the podcast History Daily! We will hear two tales related to the era HTDS is in now: the first flight of the Wright Brothers and the race to the South Pole. Our storyteller is the man behind HTDS's sound design and so many other excellent podcasts like 1865, American Scandal, American History Tellers, and more: Lindsay Graham.
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104: The Road to the Spanish-American War
“Remember the Maine, to hell with Spain!”
This is the story of the road to war for American Empire. Ruled by Spain, Cuba has nonetheless been at odds with the Crown for decades. The Caribbean isle has rebelled and warred against the colonial power more than once in the second half of the nineteenth century. The US has watched with great interest as some of its leaders and citizens have cheered for Cuban liberty, while others have thought more about annexation.
The US is ascendant; the Spanish
5 (Second Edition): “Delenda est Bostonia:” A Continental Congress, Paul Revere Rides, and the First Shot at Lexington
“Lay down your arms, you damned rebels, or you are all dead men.”
This is the story of the First Continental Congress and the build-up to the Battle of Lexington and Concord.
In the wake of the Coercive (Intolerable) Acts, delegates from 12 of the 13 colonies air their grievances against Parliament. It doesn't go well as His Majesty’s Government proclaims New England in a state of rebellion and Governor/General Thomas Gage moves to seize arms/munitions from town militias.
Paul Revere (and oth
4 (Second Edition): “Boston Harbor a Tea-Pot This Night:” The Boston Tea Party
“We have only been making a little salt-water tea.”
This is the story of the Boston Tea Party. The East India Company and the needs of the global British Empire are intertwined, and Parliament–ready for a third tax initiative in North America–wants the colonials to swallow an EIC monopoly on tea.
The East India Company sends its tea to America on seven ships. Four head to Boston. Three will make it. To be clear: the ships make it. The tea won’t.
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103: A Gilded Age Christmas: Joseph Pulitzer’s Christmas Tree Fund
“Santa can’t fool [me], since the holes in [my] stockings are too big for anything to be put in.”
This is the story of Gilded Age giving. Of 30,000 destitute children having a better Christmas because of one man who used his newspaper to connect those who were without to those who had and wanted to give. This is the story of Gilded Age New York’s real life Santa Clause: Joseph Pulitzer.
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2 (Second Edition): Patrick Henry & the Sons of Liberty Lose It over Taxes (the Sugar Act & the Stamp Act)
“Liberty, Property, and no stamps!”
This is the story of Parliament’s first ever attempt to tax the North American colonies: the Sugar Act and the Stamp Act.
His Majesty’s government might have won the Seven Years War, but it went broke in the process. Now it’s pinching pennies and trying to pay for a standing army to guard its newly claimed turf in North America. Lord George Grenville sees an answer: tax the Americans with the Sugar Act and Stamp Act.
But is this constitutional? A lot of col
102: Epilogue to the Gilded Age
Greg sits down with Zach and Kelsi for a chat. They make a rather … LIVE(ly) announcement … then proceed to talk about electricity, tycoons, and the New South. But the conversation can’t end without Greg and Zach nerding out (as Kelsi, perhaps rightly, rolls her eyes) about their mutually favorite author: Edgar Allan Poe.
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Introducing...Eclipsed!
Stories you never knew you never knew. From Campside Media, ECLIPSED is a new weekly narrative history podcast. Hosted by writer and internet-dweller Bijan Stephen (The Verge, The Believer), each episode features a story hidden in the shadow of another event. Lakes disappear, sailors cry, and pop stars go into battle on this season of ECLIPSED.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
101: The New South, Jim Crow (Plessy v. Ferguson), & the Death of Frederick Douglass
“Know ye not that there is a prince and a great man fallen this day in Israel?”
This is the story of the Gilded Age below the Mason-Dixon Line.
In the years since the Civil War, the cotton industry has been reshaped. The South has more international competition and is opening more of its own cotton mills. It’s a significant and deeper step into a post-slavery, industrial economy. This “New South” post-slavery economy has also turned to a new farming model: sharecropping. But amid forced labor
100: Halloween Special! Edgar Allan Poe: The Tell-tale Heart, The Cask of Amontillado, & The Raven
‘How, then, am I mad? Hearken! and observe how healthily—how calmly I can tell you the whole story.”
This is the story of a man driven to madness by a pale blue eye; the story of a man who’s vowed revenge; of a young scholar heartbroken by death. This is also the story of the man who brought us these three tales–one of the most grim and ghastly Gothic authors in American history–Edgar Allan Poe.
This episode is best enjoyed alone. In the dark. With headphones.
Happy Halloween!
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99: The Gilded Age’s Singer Sewing Machines & Dangerous Bananas w/ Dr. Ben Sawyer of The Road To Now
Did Singer Sewing Machines take over the world? And are bananas as dangerous as they appear in cartoons? The answer to both of these questions are a resounding “yes!” in the Gilded Age. Listen in as the Prof. discusses these and other Gilded Age topics with his esteemed colleague and fellow podcaster: Dr. Ben Sawyer of Middle Tennessee State University and The Road to Now Podcast (check them out here: https://www.theroadtonow.com/)!
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98: Silver & Gold: From Grover Cleveland to William Jennings Bryan & William McKinley
“You shall not crucify mankind upon a cross of gold.”
This is the story of Gilded Age’s later presidencies.
Grover “the Good” Cleveland is known as a man of integrity and honesty. Those characteristics alone are enough to get him to the White House. But as Benjamin Harrison interrupts his terms, the frustration of farmers and factory workers is boiling over into more labor strikes. Soon, working-class Americans are rallying around one issue in particular: the minting silver.
The issue is ripp
97: The Gilded Age’s Robber Barons: John D. Rockefeller & Andrew Carnegie
“Someday, some-time, when I am a man, I want to be worth a hundred thousand dollars!”
This is the story of two of the United States’ most wealthy industrialists.
John D. Rockefeller is the son of a con artist; he teaches young John never to trust and leaves the boy wondering if food will or won’t be on the table. John will rise from his world of uncertainty to dominate the emerging oil scene.
The son of a Scottish weaver, Andrew Carnegie comes from absolutely nothing. But Pennsylvania Railroad e
96: The War of the Currents: (Thomas Alva Edison v. Nikola Tesla & George Westinghouse)
“Tesla, you don’t understand our American humor.”
This is the story of opinionated inventors with very different views on electric lighting; a story of invention, genius, conniving, and even electrocutions. This is the War of the Currents.
Thomas Alva Edison believes in direct current. He’s convinced it’s safer. Freshly arrived from Europe, Nikola Tesla thinks alternating current has the potential to unleash indoor domestic lighting on a whole new level and can be made just as safe. The men dif
95: "Several Thousand Things that Won't Work:" Thomas Alva Edison and His Electric Light
“I have got so much to do and life is so short, I am going to hustle.”
This is the story of trial and error, of determination, and science merging with business.
Electric lights have been around since the early 1800s. Unfortunately, they’ve also been impractical. The energy it takes to operate an arc light makes it little more than a novelty. Likewise, newer lights called “incandescents” burn out far too quickly to be of value.
But what if someone could make incandescents last hundreds of hours
94: Epilogue to Gilded Age Part I (or Gilded Age interlude w/ Significant HTDS Updates)
An epilogue. Or interlude? Well, we aren’t done with the Gilded age, but we have too much behind-the-scenes HTDS evolution to discuss! So here we are. Zach is moving up from intern to writer status. Longtime HTDS team member Kelsi gets behind the mic for the first time. Meanwhile, Greg discusses doing a second edition of older episodes.
But of course, we won’t ignore the Gilded Age. We’ll still have some good old fashion chit-chat about recent episodes.
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93: La Liberté éclairant le monde: Frédéric-Auguste Bartholdi’s Statue of Liberty
“Vive l’entente fraternelle des deux républiques !”
This is the story of the Statue of Liberty. In 1865, Frédéric-Auguste Bartholdi (or “Auguste,” as his friends call him), claims to have attended a dinner at which his French colleagues and friends feted the United States’ victory over the Confederacy and slavery. With hope for a restoration of republican government and greater liberty at home, these Frenchmen living under the rule of Napoleon III spoke of the United States and France’s shared s
History That Doesn’t Suck, LIVE: The Boston Massacre, or the Incident at King Street
“Damn ye, rascals, what did ye fire for?”
This is the story of the Boston Massacre (or, for you loyalists out there, the “incident” at King Street), which the Prof. recounted LIVE this 4th of July weekend for the largest colonial history re-enactment event in the western United States: The Colonial Heritage Festival, in Orem, Utah. “Huzzah” or “fie” right along with the crowd. Enjoy!
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92: The Brooklyn Bridge, or the Story of the Roebling Family
“John Roebling has not the leisure to wait upon any man.”
This is the story of a bridge and a family.
John Roebling is weary of the oppressive, bureaucratic Prussian government. He’s heard from his professor–Georg Wilhelm Friedrich Hegel–that the United States is a land of opportunity. Those factors combined lead the driven über productive German to immigrate, where he introduces wire rope to his new adopted homeland and takes bridge building to another level.
But can he span the great East R
91: The Gilded Age, Industrialization, and Assassination of President James Garfield
“What is the chief end of man? A: To get rich.”
This is the story of the Gilded Age and its first three presidents: Rutherford B. Hayes, James A. Garfield, and Chester A. Arthur.
Mark Twain calls this era a “Gilded Age”–that is, a time of great greed covered with a thin veneer hiding the nation’s decadence. Is it? We’ll assess and define this oft-forgotten time. In doing so, we’ll meet three oft-forgotten presidents. Rutherford (or Rutherfraud?) Hayes, who receives the presidency through a Recon
1 (Second Edition): That One Time When George Washington Sort of Triggered an International War
“[He] washed his hands with the brains.”
Private John Shaw
This is the story of a 22-year-old George Washington as commander of a 400-man army fighting the French. We’ll also hear about his childhood, the deaths, backcountry experience, and finagling, that bring George—who’s untrained, inexperienced, too young, and completely outgunned—to this moment. He fails. Miserably. But not without triggering a war between France and Britain that will change the American colonies’ relationship to the Bri
Introducing: Real Dictators Podcast
Introducing: Real Dictators Podcast!It's exactly what you would expect it to be, and we want to share this episode with you! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
90: Epilogue to the Wild West
This is the end of the West! Meet two new researchers, Ryan Griffith and Zach Weaver, as they join Greg to discuss the latest inner workings of HTDS, the Transcontinental Railroad, Buffalo Bill, and industrialization. As they wrap up, Greg then discusses the Golden Spike Ceremony with National Park Service Lead Ranger Lucas Hugie. They do so on-site, just a stone's throw from where the Transcontinental Railroad was completed.
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89: Closing the Wild West: (Wounded Knee, Buffalo Bill & the 1893 Colombian Expo)
“I wish to impress upon your minds that what you are about to witness is not a performance in the common sense of the term.”
This is the story of the Wild West’s end and the close of the frontier.
The West is settled. The buffalo are gone. The US government is seeking to assimilate Native Americans. In this environment, a religious movement promising a restoration of traditional indigenous life, called the Ghost Dance, is spreading across the continent. Fearful of it, the government sends the
88: “The Last Frontier:” The Purchase of Alaska and the Klondike Gold Rush
“This is my last opportunity to make a big haul. Alaska is the last West.”
This is the story of the US purchase of Alaska and the famous Klondike Gold Rush.
Russia needs funds and sees its territory of Russian-America as a liability. That has US Secretary of State William Henry Seward seeing opportunities, such as fisheries and access to Asian markets. It’s an ideal match of interests for two major powers—provided William Henry can convince the Senate to approve the treaty to purchase a region
87:Gunslingers & Outlaws (pt 2): Pearl Hart, Tombstone, Jesse James, B. Cassidy & The Sundance Kid
“The fight’s commenced. Go to fighting or get away!”
This is the story of more gunslinging and heists.
Pearl Hart needs to see her mother; is a stagecoach robbery the answer? The Earps Brothers and Doc Holiday are on the opposite of a political and economic feud with the “Cow Boys” in the mining town of Tombstone, Arizona Territory; are they disarming the “Cow Boys” in accordance with a city ordinance? Or is there more to it? Jesse James is a Civil War bushwhacker; but is it still “bushwacking”
86: Gunslingers & Outlaws (pt 1): The Second Industrial Revolution, Sam Bass & Billy the Kid
“I am going to hell anyhow.”
This is the story of the rise of Western outlaws and gunslingers.
From transportation of goods and people, to mining and even the cattle industry, a Second Industrial Revolution has overtaken the United States. Economic and political disruption are everywhere … but the law isn’t. And that’s the perfect cocktail for a golden age of outlaws.
Sam Bass is robbing the Union Pacific. Henry—sorry, he doesn’t go by his legal name these days—Billy or “Kid,” is throwing down
85: Transcontinental Railroad (pt 3): The Central Pacific, Chinese Workers, & The Golden Spike
“Did they not build the Chinese Wall, the biggest piece of masonry in the world?”
The Central Pacific Railroad is struggling to find long-term construction workers. Many of them quickly leave the CP’s employ to pursue gold and silver in the mines of California or Nevada. But Big Four Associate Charlie Crocker has an idea: why not try hiring Chinese immigrants? The idea is semi-controversial in the eyes of many Americans, but the CP goes for it, and likes the results. Soon, the Chinese make up 9
84: Transcontinental Railroad (pt 2): Dr. Thomas Durant, The Union Pacific & “Hell on Wheels”
“How dare you try to hog all the continent?”This is the story of the Union Pacific Railroad.The US Government has legislated that a private company be organized with government oversight to build a railroad from Nebraska to Nevada. It will meet the Central Pacific and form a transcontinental rail across the whole United States. Unfortunately, few are interested in investing in this risky endeavor in the midst of the Civil War.But one man isn’t afraid to do so. Of course, his lack of fea
Introducing: Skeptoid!
Introducing the Skeptoid podcast!Since 2006, the weekly Skeptoid podcast has been taking on all the most popular myths and revealing the true science, true history, and true lessons we can learn from each. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
83: Transcontinental Railroad (pt 1): Industrialization, Ted Judah & The Rise of the Central Pacific
“Every great enterprise has been ridiculed in the outset.”
This is the story of the rise of the railroad.
Travel on land is slow. Arduous. Inhibited by rough terrain like mountains, rivers, and bogs. That reality makes Americans view the continent’s interior as an inaccessible “Great Desert,” only to be visited by daring pioneers passing through en route to Oregon Country or California.
But technology is changing. “Iron horses” are starting to run at rapid speeds across rails. And as these rails
82: Best Mini Episodes and Cold Opens of 2020
“Gentlemen, what is the cause of this violence?”
This is the story HTDS's 2020.
Most people wouldn’t call last year a good one. Doesn’t mean we didn’t have some fun mini episodes and cold opens here on HTDS. Join Greg for a look at some favorites from both of those camps.
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81: Epilogue to Volume 6: Reconstruction and The Indian Wars
“The older I get the more I’m convinced that it’s the purpose of politicians and journalists to say the world is very simple, whereas it’s the purpose of historians to say, ‘No! It’s very complicated’.” — David Cannadine (British historian at Princeton)
It’s epilogue time. Join Greg and Cielle as they talk broad strokes on one of the darkest periods of American history: Reconstruction and the (post-Civil War) Indian Wars. In the process, we’ll revisit a few fascinating figures who seem to reject
80: “Yes, Virginia, There is a Santa Claus:” A History
“Church bristled and pooh-poohed at the subject when I suggested that he write a reply to Virginia O’Hanlon.”
This is the story of America’s most famous editorial.
Virginia O’Hanlon is an inquisitive eight-year-old. She’s debated with her friends and studied out the matter, but she still can’t decide: is there a Santa Claus? At her father’s suggestion, she writes to New York’s great arbiter of truth: The Sun. Her letter is handed to an editorial writer by the name of Francis “Frank” Pharcellus C
79: The Indian Wars (Part 3): Chief Joseph of the Nez Perce & Standing Bear’s Fight for Civil Rights
“Does this court think an Indian is a competent witness?”
This is the story of the start of indigenous civil rights.
Since the arrival of Lewis and Clark, the Nez Perce have lived peacefully beside US citizens. The Pacific Northwest indigenous group is proud of the fact that not one of them has ever killed a white person. But things are changing. New settlers are flocking, and the US government wants the Nez Perce to cede more land. In 1863, the Upper Nez Perce sign a treaty that cedes Lower Nez
78: The Indian Wars (Part 2): The Battle of the Little Bighorn (the Greasy Grass)
“There’s a good fight coming over the hill. That’s where the big fight is going to be. We’ll not miss that one.”
This is the story of the Battle of the Little Bighorn (or the Greasy Grass).
In 1868, representatives of the US government meet leaders from a few indigenous nations at Fort Laramie to sign a treaty. The agreement creates the boundaries for a Great Sioux Reservation and “unceded” Sioux territory. But the treaty soon falters: With the discovery of gold in the Lakota’s sacred Black Hil
77: The Indian Wars (Part 1): The U.S.-Dakota War
“To be hanged by the neck until he is dead.”This is the story of the US-Dakota War. The most eastern of the three major Sioux peoples, the Dakota are indigenous to Minnesota. They’ve lived beside trappers, fur traders, and the like, for quite a while (salut, les Canadiens-français). But now, more white settlers are showing up and setting up farms, and American officials are buying lands in exchange for long-term payments.But what happens when those payments are late? Shorted? Meanwhile,
76: Reconstruction (Part 4): The Battle of Liberty Place and the Mississippi Plan
“Hang Kellogg! We’ll fight!”
This is the story of the end of Reconstruction.
Voter fraud and intimidation has made Louisiana’s 1872 Gubernatorial election a mess. So, when a Federal judge and Republican President Ulysses S. Grant uphold the Republican candidate, the stage is set for more partisan and racial violence in the Bayou State. The outcome is Reconstruction’s worst episode of violence and murder (the Colfax Massacre), and a full-on street battle in New Orleans between the paramilitary
75: Reconstruction (Part 3): The Rise of the KKK and the First Black Men in Government
“Boys, let us get up a club or society of some description.”
This is the story of Reconstruction peaking and its opponents organizing to fight back.
With Radical Republicans at the helm of Reconstruction, the former Confederate states are forced to make new state constitutions that include black men in the process. The outcome is nothing short of revolutionary. Black men not only come away with the vote but the ability to run for office! Black Americans like PBS Pinchback, Robert Smalls, and R
Bonus Episode: Game Changers: Precedent-Setting Presidential Elections
Game Changers: Precedent-Setting Presidential Elections takes a look at some of the earliest and most influential presidential elections in US history. Join Greg and Cielle as they highlight the backstory of key players in four early presidential elections. Then, listen and learn as they engage in lively discussions about the precedents set in each of these elections and how those still play out in our system today.
In Episode 1: The Election of 1800: A Changing of the Guards Part 1, you’ll hea
74: Reconstruction (Part 2): The Presidency of Ulysses S. Grant
"The office has come to me unsought; I commence its duties untrammeled. I bring to it a conscious desire and determination to fill it to the best of my ability to the satisfaction of the people. "
This is the story of scandal.
Ulysses S. Grant has just been elected as the youngest US President to date. He has great hopes to usher in a new era of civil and political rights for African-Americans and American Indians, as evidenced by the new 15th amendment. But can the honest Civil War hero do so
73: Reconstruction (Part 1): The Impeachment of Andrew Johnson
“You are placed in a position where you have the power to save or destroy us; to bless or blast us--I mean our whole race.”
This is the story of the first US Presidency to end in impeachment. This is the story of Andrew Johnson.
The post-Civil War government of the United States faces difficult decisions. Should it be lenient to former Confederate states? Or should it take a hard hand? Should the Federal government play a role in reconstructing state governments (Reconstruction)? Or should it le
72: The Assassination of Abraham Lincoln
“Sic semper tyrannis!”
This is the story of deception. Conspiracy. Assassination.
The handsome, 26-year-old successful actor John Wilkes Booth has sympathized with the Confederacy since the war began. So when Abraham Lincoln wins reelection as President of the United States amid several crucial late-1864 victories, John becomes enraged. He decides to kidnap President Lincoln.
But as John’s attempts at kidnapping fail, things go worse for the CSA. By April 1865, it’s over for the Confederacy.
71: Revisiting the Hamilton/Burr Duel: An Affair of Honor
"Adieu best of wives and best of women."
We’re interrupting our usual chronological walk through US history today to bring you a remastered, new sound design take on Episode 22, “An Affair of Honor: Alexander Hamilton & Aaron Burr.” In these last few months, cellist Buffi Jacobs and violinist Austin Burket, both of whom usually perform with the Hamilton musical’s “Philip” Tour, contributed their talents to the new music you’ve been hearing since Airship took on our sound design. Given that conne
70: Epilogue: The Civil War Comes to a Close
After nearly a full year of covering only four years of US history, we are done with the Civil War. It’s time for an epilogue! Greg and Cielle talk big picture and bring in some intriguing stories that just didn’t quite make the cut for regular episodes (including the Civil War origins of Coca-Cola, and the tale of Confederates who immigrate to Brazil, where slavery is still legal).
Ready to decompress and gear up for Reconstruction? Here we go.
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go
69: Surrender at Appomattox: The Last Days of the Civil War
“I feel that it is … my duty to shift from myself the responsibility of any further effusion of blood, by asking you to surrender … the army of Northern Virginia. Very respectfully, U. S. Grant.”
This is the story of one army surrendering to another. Of foes becoming brothers once more. This is the Surrender at Appomattox.
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join discussions in our Facebook community
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68: Sherman's March to the Sea and the Thirteenth Amendment
“I can make the march, and make Georgia howl!”
This is the story of the March to the Sea and the 13th Amendment.
William Tecumseh “Cump” Sherman describes war as two things: “cruel” and “hell.” Acting under this philosophy, he takes 60,000 of his toughest, most battle-hardened men, and marches from Atlanta to the Peach State’s coast in a show of force meant to break the Confederacy of its will to fight. Cump’s effective--but does he go too far? Americans North and South will debate whether he’
67: Ending 1864: The Battles of the Crater, Mobile Bay, Centralia, and Franklin
“Damn the torpedoes! Full speed ahead!”
This is the story of the Civil War in late-1864. Battles of significance are happening all across the country, and many of them are quite odd or unique: Pennsylvania miners are secretly digging under Confederates to blow them up from below; Admiral David Farragut is fighting in the torpedo-filled waters of Alabama’s Gulf Coast; Bushwacker “Bloody Bill” Anderson is fighting the war as a brutal gun-slinger; and one-legged Confederate General John Bell Hood i
66: The Election of 1864: Lincoln's Bid for Reelection
“Johnson is either drunk or crazy,”
This is the story of the fight for the presidency in 1864.
No US President since Andrew Jackson has seen a second term. Few are even nominated by their party for a second term. Will the Republicans choose Abraham Lincoln again? More to the point--will war-weary Americans voters, including moderates who disapprove of Lincoln making the abolition of slavery a war aim, choose Lincoln again?
The Democrats have a strong candidate: General George B. “Little Mac”
65: Sherman’s Atlanta Campaign & The Free State of Jones
“War is war, and not popularity-seeking.”
This is the story of the fall of Atlanta. William Tecumseh “Cump” Sherman is leading three armies in an attack against this vital city in the Peach State. His forces are formidable, but so are his opponents: Confederate master of defense, Joseph E. “Joe” Johnston; and the far more aggressive Confederate General John B. Hood. The loss of life will be staggering and include prominent figures on both sides.
There’s also rebelling brewing within the rebellio
Bonus: A New Sound for HTDS (Farewell to Josh, Hello to Lindsay Graham & Airship)
After more than two years of putting his blood, sweat, and tears into HTDS, Sound Designer Josh Beatty is moving on. We'll miss him! But we're also excited to have history podcasting legend Lindsay Graham and his audio production company Airship (https://airship.fm/) stepping in.
Why is Josh leaving? In what ways will this change the sound of HTDS? Join Greg, Josh, Cielle, and Lindsay as they discuss those dynamics, reflect on Josh's time at HTDS, and explain how the four of them met through Pod
64: Grant's Overland Campaign: The Battles of the Wilderness, Spotsylvania, Cold Harbor, & Petersburg
“I propose to fight it out on this line if it takes all summer.”
This is the story of hard fights and harder losses.
It’s early 1864, and battle-proven, newly promoted Ulysses S. Grant is now over the whole army, and he’s launching an ambitious plan: the Overland Campaign. He’ll wage several battles in Virginia as other generals strike other parts of the Confederacy. The losses are staggering. Not only will tens of thousands of men lose life or limb, but one particularly influential and beloved
Bonus: A Chat about Southern Accents w/ Jeremy Collins from "Podcasts We Listen To"
History can touch on present-day issues, and rather than duck away from such discomforts, Greg has always been stupid enough to try to hit them straight on. Indulging that stupidity today, Greg sat down with born-and-bred Southerner Jeremy Collins from the podcast, "Podcasts We Listen To," to discuss the South; particularly, Southern accents. Whether you've never been south of the Mason-Dixon Line or are as Southern as Jeremy, we hope you learn from and enjoy this honest, candid, and jovial chat
63: Wounded and Dying: Nurses, Doctors, and Disease in the Civil War
“I had never severed the nerves and fibers of human flesh.”This is the story of Civil War medicine. At the start of the war, the wounded sometimes lay on the field of battle for days hoping for help. Some die slowly and painfully from exposure and thirst. Others are robbed as their life expires. The divided nation has new, deadlier guns, but medical treatment has changed. It’s a deadly combination. Both sides step up. The Union’s new “Ambulance Corps” sets a new standard for battlefiel
62: The War in Tennessee: Chickamauga and Chattanooga
“Gloom and unspoken despondency hang like a pall everywhere.”
This is the story of personalities.
Union General William “Old Rosy” Rosecrans takes on Confederate General Braxton Bragg out in Tennessee. Their clash at the Battle of Chickamauga is among the deadliest of the whole war.
The aftermath is anything but straightforward. Short-tempered as ever, Braxton Bragg is clashing with his generals, particularly Nathan Bedford Forest and James “Old Pete” Longstreet. CSA President Jefferson Davi
61: The Louisiana Native Guard, the 54th Massachusetts & On: Black Soldiers in the Civil War
“It is hard to believe that Southern soldiers—and Texans at that—have been whipped by a mongrel crew of white and black Yankees … there must be some mistake.”
This is the story of Black Soldiers in the Civil War.
Black patriots are ready to fight from day one. The Lincoln Administration and Congress, however, are not ready to have them. They fear losing the support of the border states and the Democrats. But as the war drags on, they change their tune. Lincoln issues the Emancipation Proclamatio
60: Gettysburg
“I shall lead my division forward, sir.”
This is the story of Gettysburg.
It’s summer, 1863, and Robert E. Lee is making a bold move; he’s leading his Army of Northern Virginia into Union territory. He hopes a victory up north might be the decisive blow he needs to demoralize the US. Meanwhile, Union leadership is getting shaken up (yet again) as the Army of the Potomac’s command passes from “Fightin’ Joe” Hooker to George Meade. But the two armies won’t clash on either commander’s terms. They
Crossover w/ A Teacher's History of the United States - Christopher Caldwell
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59: Stone’s River, Suspending Habeas Corpus, Vicksburg, & Stonewall’s Death at Chancellorsville
“Grant is my man and I am his the rest of the war.”
This is the story of hard fighting—on the battlefield and in the courts.
President Abraham Lincoln is making the controversial decision to suspend the writ of habeas corpus. While the Constitution does permit this to be done “in Cases of Rebellion or Invasion” that threaten “the public Safety,” is the executive branch the one to do it? Is it prudent?
Meanwhile, battles rage across the nation. Stone’s River claims a higher percentage of comba
58: Conscription & Riots (“A Rich Man’s War, But a Poor Man’s Fight”)
“Here’s a damned abolitionist! … He’s a Tribune man! Hang the son of a b****!”
This is the story of Civil War conscription and riots.
Conscription is completely foreign to Americans. They’ve never relied on force to fill the military’s ranks. But the Civil War is changing that. Left with the choice to either give up or draft men in the army, the Confederacy, then the United States, both turn to conscription. When it appears that the burden of fighting will fall disproportionately on the shoulder
57: Recap of The Civil War's First Half (1861-63)
"Keep the details! We love the stories!"
After 11 episodes covering the first half of the Civil War, it’s time to digest a bit. Greg, Josh, and Cielle attend to the usual roundtable business (pronunciation corrections and talking cotton production in Arizona!), then talk through the “who’s who” of our massive cast of characters. Enjoy one last chat before we dive into the final harsh years of the war.
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go deep into episode bibliographies and book re
56: The Battle of Fredericksburg and the First Campaign of Vicksburg
“If the world had been searched by Burnside for a location in which his army could be best defeated ... he should have selected this very spot.”
This is the story of leadership turnover in the Union and total war on the field. US President Abraham Lincoln has had his fill of George B. “Little Mac” McClellan. Little Mac is getting fired. He’s being replaced by the general with the best facial-hair game in the army: Ambrose Burnsides.
But Ambrose doesn’t want command. He doesn’t think he’s the ma
55: The Road to The Emancipation Proclamation
“The Proclamation is the drawing of a sword that can never be sheathed again.”
This is the story of the Emancipation Proclamation.
Anti-slavery, moderate-Republican President Abraham Lincoln has never liked slavery. He wants to prevent it from expanding to new US territories. But he also never intended to go on the offensive against the “peculiar institution” within those states where it already exists. The Illinois Rail-Splitter knows the law; he’s aware that the Constitution protects slavery
54: The Best Opening Scenes in HTDS History
“Our top spot goes to …”
This is the story of stories (yeah, super “meta”). You know regular HTDS episodes always start with a cold open. You probably have a favorite. So do we.
Today, Greg and Cielle count down their top seven favorite openings, from George Washington’s loss at Fort Necessity to our current point in the Civil War. It’s a peek into the minds behind HTDS, a bit of nostalgia for long-time listeners, and the perfect HTDS introduction for the newly initiated. Enjoy, and Happy New
53: A Civil War Christmas with Henry Wadsworth Longfellow
“Our dispatches state that Lieut. Longfellow of First Mass. Cavalry was severely wounded.”
This is the story of a son nearly lost and a poet in a dark place.
Young, idealistic Charley Longfellow loves his country and is ready to fight and die for it. His father—the former Harvard College Professor of English and Literature, celebrated author, and grieving widower, Henry Wadsworth Longfellow—fears losing his son in the Civil War and doesn’t want him to enlist. But Charley does. A bullet rips thr
52: From Second Bull Run, or Second Manassas to Antietam, or Sharpsburg
“Come on God damn you.”
This is the story of the Second Bull Run/Manassas Campaign and the Battle of Antietam.
Robert “Bobby” E. Lee isn’t content to run George “Little Mac” McClellan down to the James River. With the help of Thomas “Stonewall” Jackson, James Longstreet, J.E.B. Stuart, and others, Bobby’s ready to use his aggressive, divide and conquer tactics on the Union’s new Army of Virginia. The question is: can the bickering Union generals put their pettiness aside and work together? Or wi
51: A Change in Command: Seven Days Battles to the Battle of Cedar Mountain
“[Malvern Hill] was not war--it was murder.”
This is the story of a Confederate comeback.
Union General George “Little Mac” McClellan has an army of 100,000 within a few mere miles of the Confederate Capital: Richmond, Virginia. The city’s defending force is significantly smaller. It’s his for the taking. But where “Little Mac” is cautious, the new Confederate Commander of the Army of Northern Virginia Robert E. “Bobby” Lee is ready to fight to the death. They’ll duke it out in the Seven Days B
50: Mississippi Valley 1862: The Battles of New Orleans, Corinth, Memphis, and Vicksburg
This is the story of the Mississippi Valley in 1862. Navy Secretary Gideon “Father Neptune” Welles is moving forward with an audacious plan. He’s sending a fleet to sack the Confederacy’s largest city, New Orleans, via the Mississippi River. Can this fleet—commanded by a Southerner loyal to the Union—really take out two forts—commanded by a Northerner throwing in with the CSA—and claim the Big Easy?
Meanwhile, Union generals are in disagreement as they move on a railroad junction called Corinth.
49: From Little Mac McClellan to Stonewall Jackson: The Peninsula and Shenandoah Valley Campaigns
“In my opinion, Cadet Jackson of Virginia is a complete jackass.”
This is the story of daring. On both sides.
President Lincoln is tired of waiting for General-in-Chief George “Little Mac” McClellan to act. So he’ll act instead. The President goes to the front on the Old Dominion’s coast, walks on Confederate soil, and oversees the taking of Norfolk, Virginia.
But things aren’t going as well for the Union as he’d hope. Little Mac continues to dawdle while the eccentric-yet-brilliant “Stonewa
48: The Battle of Shiloh: “Now boys, pitch in!”
“Here boys, is as good a place as any on this battlefield to meet death!”
This is the story of the Civil War kicking into a higher gear as two massive armies converge at Pittsburg Landing, Tennessee.
Jealous Union generals are letting false rumors of Ulysses drinking on the job fly as they hope to benefit from his demise. But Ulys has some good people backing him up: Lincoln’s newest War Secretary Edwin Stanton and his good friend William Temcuseh “Cump” Sherman.
But intrigue is the least of
A Final Two-Year Anniversary of HTDS Bonus: The Death of Elmer Ellsworth
This is the story of the death of a soldier and friend of Abraham Lincoln: Elmer Ellsworth. This is the second and last bonus episode of our two-year anniversary celebration and Patreon drive. Greg, Cielle, and Josh take just a few minutes to reflect on the past two years, talk future plans and Patreon, then give you a taste of the mini-episodes $10/month patrons get every off week. Enjoy!
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Crossover w/ 1865 - Lindsay Graham and Steve Walters
Lindsay Graham and Steve Walters of the highly acclaimed audio drama and historical fiction podcast 1865 join Greg for a robust discussion on events surrounding Lincoln's assassination and the aftermath. We are honored to have them and excited to bring this to you as part of our 2-year anniversary celebration Patreon drive. Hope you enjoy!
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47: Bull Run, Trent Affair, the Merrimack, & Fort Donelson: The Early Days of the Civil War
“There is Jackson standing like a stone wall! Rally behind the Virginians!”
This is the story of violence on land and sea. Of violence unlike anything America has ever known.
Tens of thousands of Union and Confederate forces clash near Virginia’s Bull Run River and Manassas railroad junction. Naive, young soldiers quickly learn their romantic notions of war are a farce, Thomas Jackson defends “like a stone wall,” and Yankees hear a horrific sound: “the rebel yell.”
Things are calmer on the sea.
46: The Civil War Begins: Fort Sumter, Secession, & Raising Armies
“I hope to have God on my side, but I must have Kentucky.”
This is the story of the last, bare thread holding the Union together snapping. This is the start of the Civil War. US President Lincoln is giving Confederate President Jefferson Davis a difficult choice: let a peaceful, unarmed boat deliver supplies to Fort Sumter (and be seen as weak); or attack the unarmed boat (and be seen as the aggressor). Jeff chooses the latter. More states secede. Regiments form by the thousands on both sides. B
45: Volume IV Epilogue
"They are beautiful words, they are beautiful ideals... and there is beauty in seeing others as they make those words shift and close the gap towards reality"
Today, we wrap up Volume IV: “Prelude to the Civil War.” Greg acknowledges some more pronunciation failures, the HTDS team mentions two fun emails, then gets to analysis. Particularly, we’re discussing how the Union tried over and over again to compromise on slavery but came to its breaking point in 1860. Listen to Greg, Josh, and Cielle c
44: Abraham Lincoln Becomes President of the Divided States of America
“Mary, Mary, we are elected!”
This is the story of the election of Abraham Lincoln as President of the United States … which means it’s also the story of secession. The presidential election of 1860 is split between four men: southerners John C. Breckinridge and John Bell, and northerners Stephen Douglas and Abraham Lincoln. Incredibly, Lincoln pulls off enough electoral college votes to win the presidency outright! He does so without a single electoral vote from the south.
The election of this
43: Honest Abe, the Lincoln-Douglas Debates, & John Brown’s Raid on Harpers Ferry
“Any man who took Lincoln for a simple-minded man would wind up with his back in a ditch.”
This is the story of America on the eve of the Civil War. Kentucky-born farmboy Abraham Lincoln has an interesting early life. Between losing his mom as a child, suffering from chronic depression, and receiving little formal education, you might not think he’d become one of the youngest state legislators in Illinois, a successful lawyer, and a US Congressman. But that’s Lincoln. He’s a man who beats the od
42: Solomon Northup’s 12 Years a Slave
“Master Bass, if justice had been done, I never would have been here.”
This is the story of betrayal. Restoration. Human trafficking. Daring selflessness. Oppressive inhumanity. Hope. And Forgiveness. A talented carpenter, driver, and violinist, Solomon Northup lives a happy life with his wife and three kids in upstate New York. The unassuming, kind-hearted man doesn’t think twice when offered good money to fiddle along with a circus act in Washington, DC. If only he’d known this was all a set u
41: Kansas! (Bleeding Kansas, the Kansas-Nebraska Act, & Caning of Charles Sumner)
“We can send five thousand--enough to kill every God-damned abolitionist in the Territory.”
This is the story of the Civil War’s warm up. The States are increasingly dividing along northern and southern (anti-slavery and pro-slavery) lines, and this tension is coming out in spades in Kansas. Northerners want to see it become a free state; Southerners want it to be a slave state. The 1854 Kansas-Nebraska Act is meant to produce a meaningful compromise, but it seems to only make things worse! Terr
40: Elizabeth Cady Stanton, the 1848 Seneca Falls Convention & the Explosion of Social Reform
“In the history of the world, the doctrine of Reform had never such scope as at the present hour.”
“Resolved, That woman is man’s equal.”
This is the story of social reform. Europe is swept up in calls for reform and greater democracy. France is having another revolution! Those same thoughts are sweeping through the United States, leading to calls for better treatment in prisons, public education, and temperance (cutting back on the alcohol). In this atmosphere of reform, one woman has a particu
39: The California Gold Rush and the Compromise of 1850
“The Union is doomed to dissolution. … I fix its probable occurrence within twelve years or three presidential terms.”
This is the story of statehood and compromise. California is booming. The gold rush is in full swing with Americans and immigrants from all over the world hoping to make their fortune. But it’s not all sunshine and rainbows. Nature and the miners show their violent sides. With such a flood of Americans in California, it also means statehood is needed. But will it be a slave stat
38: The (Early) Life and Times of Frederick Douglass
“I am your fellow man, but not your slave, Frederick Douglass.”
This is the story of self-education, self-emancipation, overcoming adversity, bad and good luck, and the abolitionist cause. Born into slavery in Maryland, Frederick is ripped from his mother, never knows his father, but quickly realizes the power of literacy. Against the odds, the Baltimore-living youth teaches himself to read and write behind his master’s back.
But despite his evident natural intelligence, he’s soon sent back to
37: La Amistad Slave Rebellion and the Rise of Abolitionism
“Give us free! Give us free!”
This is the story of a daring slave rebellion at sea and the long road to freedom. This is the story of La Amistad. It’s 1839, and the international slave trade is illegal, but that doesn’t mean it’s over. Hundreds of kidnapped and stolen souls are forcefully taken from Africa to Cuba aboard the Teçora. Upon their arrival on the Spanish isle, Pépé Ruiz and Pedro Montez buy 54 and take them on another ship, La Amistad. But what this Cuban duo doesn't realize is that
Volume III Epilogue
No, no, no, no--Cortes would’ve gotten his butt whooped if he had not gained lots of indigenous help.” -Josh
It’s time to end Volume III: “The Age of Jackson!” We have more corrections on Greg’s pronunciation (and on fracking!), an Antarctic email (no joke), other updates, and--of course--historical analysis to tie together the whole volume. We’re talking Andrew Jackson’s presidency, the extension of American democracy, western settlement, and the Mexican-American War. Finally, we’ll end with a
36: Mexican-American War (Part 4): Los Niños Héroes, St. Patrick’s Battalion, & the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo
This is the story of the Mexican-American War’s end and the making of Mexican heroes.
Winfield Scott is closing in on Mexico City. Battles rage as Mexican troops defend, but General Scott can’t be stopped. American troops even snag one of Santa Anna’s spare prosthetic legs! But sometimes loss can be the breeding ground of heroes, and that’s just what happens as US forces close in on Mexico’s capital. Six teenage Mexican cadets--one of whom is only 13-years-old--fight to the death. Meanwhile, Cat
35: Mexican-American War (Part 3): Nuevo México and the Final Push from Vera Cruz
“By God, that does looked forked!”
This is the story of further American advancements through Northern Mexico and the start of its final invasion from the Gulf Coast. General Stephen Kearney’s descending upon New Mexico. He’ll take the territory without firing a shot, but that doesn’t mean violence isn’t coming. The Taos Revolt will lead to a beheaded American Governor and the execution of New Mexicans by an American regime of questionable legal authority. Meanwhile, Alexander Doniphan is marchi
34: Mexican-American War (Part 2): The Pathfinder, the Bear Flag Revolt, y Los Californios
“Who the devil is Governor of California?’” This is the story of covert ops, secret orders, fake identities, rebellion, and conquest; this is the story of California’s annexation. John C. “the Pathfinder” Frémont is out on another surveying expedition. But something’s off ... why’s he making trouble with the Californio government? And why is an undercover messenger traveling from DC to Oregon Country to deliver an unwritten, memorized message directly from the President to this simple cartograph
33: Mexican-American War (Part 1): From the Nueces River to the Rio Grande
“Hostilities may now be considered as commenced.”
This is the story of the Mexican-American War’s beginnings. President James Polk is annexing Texas (much to Mexico’s chagrin). But does Texas end at the Nueces River? Or the Rio Grande? Whatever your view, this won’t be settled with words. Welcome to the story, General Mariano Arista and General Zachary “Old Rough and Ready” Taylor.
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go deep into episode bibliographies and book recommendations
join d
32: Mormonism and the Mormon Trail
“Nits will make lice, and if he had lived he would have become a Mormon.”
This is the story of our last major pioneer migration out west; it’s also the story of America’s largest homegrown faith: Mormonism. Growing up in the “burned-over district” of America’s Second Great Awakening, it’s not too surprising that upstate-New-York farmer Joseph Smith has his mind on God. But with a new book of scripture (The Book of Mormon), a restorationist gospel, the power of the Mormon vote, and polygamy, memb
31: The California Trail: From the Donner Party to the Gold Rush
“Never take no shortcuts.”
This is the story of one of the larger Oregon Trail’s most important branches: the California Trail. The Mexican province of Alta California has some beautiful land, so it’s not hard to see why west-bound Americans might want to make their home there. We’ll hear about newly independent Mexico’s struggles to support Alta California; why American Commodore “Tac” Jones mistakenly seizes (then leaves) Monterey; and of course, how the California Trail gets blazed by brave e
30: The Oregon Trail (“You Have Died of Dysentery”)
“You damn Yankees will do anything you like.”
This is the story of the Oregon Trail, including the reasons pioneers crossed it and the trail’s development. As President Andrew Jackson leaves us and we fly through presidents in rapid succession (RIP President William Harrison), the US is going through the worst economic slump it’ll see until the Great Depression. A mixture of financial urgency and a sense of destiny--Manifest Destiny--now convinces tens of thousands of Americans to trek over 2,00
Christmas Special II: A Jackson White House Christmas
“Now let’s see how Santa Claus will treat you, Mr. Uncle Jackson, President of all these United States!”
This is the story of Christmas at the Jackson White House in 1835. Andrew’s going (as he often does) to visit a local Washington DC orphanage. He’s giving out gifts like the skinniest Santa you’ve ever seen. Then it’s back to the White House, where: six young Jackson/Donelson children are hoping Santa will come; VP Martin Van Buren is gladly embarrassing himself playing with the children; an
29: The Bank War, Whigs, & Revolution in Texas
"Come and take it!”
This is the story of Andrew Jackson’s ongoing Administration and the Texas Revolution. Old Hickory is up for reelection, and his opponent, Henry Clay, bets the bank--the Bank of The United States--on his ability to beat Andrew. It’s not going to end well for him, but it will help those who dislike Andrew and his Democrats to form a party of their own: the Whigs. Welcome back to a fully partisan America.
Meanwhile, trouble’s brewin’ in Tejas Mexicana. Mexican federalism is fal
28: Ushering in the Age of Jackson
“May God Almighty forgive her murderers as I know she forgave them. I never can.”
This is the story of a democratizing America. John Quincy Adams barely has his presidency off the ground and Andrew Jackson’s “common man” crew is already starting his presidential campaign. This election gets ugly fast as each side tells lies so vicious it’s possible they cause or contribute to Rachel Jackson’s death! After Andrew’s rambunctious inauguration, the now widower president stands up for the honor of Mr
Epilogue to Volume 2
"There were no Canadians hurt in the making of this last volume."This is not a story. This is our second epilogue! Greg, Josh, and Cielle hash about the great birthing pains of launching the new podcast, "Office Hours," the HTDS podcast in general, and what they consider to be the big takeaways from volume II (episodes 16-27). Enjoy!____Connect with us on HTDSpodcast.com and
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get new
27: The Last of the Founding Fathers
“Thomas Jefferson survives.”
This is the story of reconciliation--and death. With peace abroad and the collapse of the Federalist Party, the United States seems to be out of crisis mode. Reconciled even. President James Madison’s got so much consensus, one newspaper’s calling this the “era of good feelings.” But there are still important developments and conflicts. The Supreme Court’s setting new precedents. 1819 marks the start of a serious “panic” (recession). And when James finishes his secon
26: Peace in Ghent, War in New Orleans
“I could have walked on the dead bodies of the British for one-quarter of a mile without stepping on the ground.”
This is the story of peace and war; of self-destruction and political birth. American and British negotiators are hashing out a peace treaty in Ghent, Belgium. The War of 1812 is over! But funny things can happen when word of the treaty’s signing hasn’t made it back to the US. Some out-of-power Federalists are going to make a few ill-timed demands in Washington, D.C., inadvertently k
25: From Lake Champlain to the “Defense of Fort M’Henry”
“Does that star-spangled banner yet wave?”
This is the story of the worst of the War of 1812 for America--the year 1814. As the threat of Napoleon’s crumbling empire subsides, the British military has more ships and thousands of men available to fight against the United States. This means Canada’s getting reinforced and the British blockade on America’s east coast is extending. But the worst of it is in the Chesapeake Bay. Washington DC is burning! As the White House goes up in flames, we’ll hea
24: From Granny to Old Ironsides: The Campaigns of 1812 and 1813.
“Don’t give up the ship!”
This is the story of the first two years of the War of 1812, and it seems quite backward.
Despite expectations, the Americans are trying and failing (miserably) to invade Canada. The only thing more confusing is that the US Navy is holding its own against the British on the high seas ... well, at first, that is.
Several major events happen in these two years: Indian coalition leader Tecumseh makes his last stand; the USS Constitution earns an enduring nickname; and the
23: Prelude to America's Forgotten War
“We’ll root out the damn’d tories. We’ll drink their blood. We’ll eat their hearts!”
This is the story of the path to war--the War of 1812. The United States is stuck between a rock and a hard place: Britain and Napoleonic France. The two empires are seizing American ships amid a large-scale throwdown. Britain’s going one step further; it’s impressing thousands and thousands of American sailors into His Majesty’s Royal Navy. Meanwhile, two Shawnee brothers, Tecumseh and The Prophet, are forming
22: An Affair of Honor: Alexander Hamilton & Aaron Burr
"Adieu best of wives and best of Women. Embrace all my darling Children for me."
This is the story of the most influential duel in American History: Vice President Burr versus General Hamilton. Aaron is down on his luck. He's an outgoing, lame-duck Vice President who's just lost the New York gubernatorial election... and word is Alex's been talking smack. Alex is down on his luck. He's an out-of-the-game General who's hoping to get back in ... and Aaron's calling him out. Aaron's itchin' for a f
21: Thomas Jefferson Presents: Lewis & Clark’s Excellent Expedition
“Damn sugar, damn coffee, damn colonies!”
This is the story of Thomas Jefferson building an “empire of liberty.” As the new US President, Tommy’s lowering taxes while cutting the deficit, trimming the government, fighting off Federalist judges, and an increasingly Republican America is loving it. Oh, the Sage of Monticello is also fighting off pirates; brilliantly purchasing the Louisiana Territory from a very serious potential enemy (Napoleon Bonaparte); as well as sending William Clark and Mer
20: "A Wolf by the Ears": Gabriel Rebels and Cotton Becomes King
“I have nothing more to offer than what General Washington would have had to offer, had he been taken by the British and put to trial by them. I have adventured my life in endeavoring to obtain the liberty of my countrymen, and am a willing sacrifice in their cause.”
This is the story of Gabriel’s fight for freedom. An intelligent, literate, and enslaved blacksmith, Gabriel is raising a slave army to seize Virginia’s capital of Richmond and set up a new society where all people, regardless of th
19: The Traitor and The Thieving Spy: The Start of American Industrialization
“He invited me to see the loom operate. I well recollect the state of admiration and satisfaction with which we sat by the hour, watching the beautiful movement of this new and wonderful machine.”
This is the story of audacity. A young Samuel Slater risks it all by immigrating to America in order to open his own industrial textile factory. This isn’t just a risky entrepreneurial move; it’s illegal. His industrial know-how is about to give America a huge leg up, and Britain will consider him a tr
18: Affairs! Foreign and ..."Domestic"
“The intercourse with Mrs. Reynolds, in the meantime, continued.”
This is the story of seduction and failing relationships. New England’s favorite curmudgeon, John Adams, is now leading America as its second president, and the French Revolution is making life no easier for him than it did for George. The new French government’s agents, “X,” Y,” and “Z,” are trying to extort bribes and it’s ripping the Franco-American friendship apart--it seems France is losing its charm. But back at home, Alexan
Historians (of The) Roundtable: I
“The American Revolution is really different from most revolutions around the world. Sometimes Americans get a false sense of how revolutions work because we look at ours and think, ‘Oh right, revolutions! That’s where things get more awesome!’ No.”This is the story … of our stories (I know, super “meta,” right?). In Historians (of the) Roundtable, Greg chats it up with the HTDS Team (Josh and Cielle) “roundtable” style as they analyze the last two episodes … or otherwise tangent on awe
17: Death of a Nation's Father
“I die hard, but I am not afraid to go.”
This is the story of death and (another) revolution. The French Revolution means the end for King Louis XVI’s life. As his royal blood stains a Parisian square, the fallout of revolution in France is hitting George Washington hard; France is going to war against Britain! America is in no condition for war, but should George stand by his French allies?
And with its regime change, is France still an ally? Alexander Hamilton and Thomas Jefferson couldn’t dis
16: The Founding Fractures: Alexander Hamilton and Thomas Jefferson
“I always knew Colonel Hamilton to be a man of superior talents, but never supposed that he had any knowledge of finance.”
This is the story of conflict. Infighting. Intrigue. Dissension. This is the story of George Washington’s first term as President of the United States. The new government is making important strides: it’s creating the Bill of Rights and new departments: War, State, and Finance. But Alexander Hamilton’s ambitious plan for the American economy is completely contradictory to Th
Epilogue To The Revolution; Or The Big Stuff You Should’ve Caught
“Oh, what, you want it in a single sentence? Fine, here you go.”
The epilogue to the Revolution. After enjoying the stories of Revolutionary America (1763-1789), it’s time to make sure you didn’t lose the big picture before we dive into the Early Republic. So today, we’ll cover: (1) the main causes of the Revolution; (2) the highlights of the war; (3) the bare essentials of the peace process and making the US Constitution; and (4) who won and who lost (beyond the obvious). College students who b
Q&A with The HTDS Team
"I'd say you know more than 90 percent of the American population about the American Revolution at this point."This is the story... of your questions! Rather than telling you a story this week, Greg sits down with the rest of the History That Doesn't Suck team (Joshua Beatty and Cielle Salazar) and talks through questions submitted by you, the listeners!____Connect with us on HTDSpodcast.com and
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15: “We the People:” Constitution Making in Philly
“What even is the Virginia Plan but democracy checked by democracy, or pork with a little change of the sauce?”
This is the story of 55 men from 12 of the 13 sovereign states gathered at the Pennsylvania State House during the miserably hot Philadelphian summer of 1787. They are here to discuss the failing Articles of Confederation. Foreign debts are past due. Rebellions are rising. The states are fighting. Can they fix all of this? Or will the disagreeing, arguing, threatening, theorizing, brai
14: Peace in Paris; Turmoil in New York
“I have not only grown gray but almost blind in service to my country.”
This is the story (or tale) of two cities. In Paris, Ben Franklin, John Adams, John Jay and (briefly) Henry Laurens negotiate the terms of American independence. They’ll outmaneuver the greatest powers on earth and defy Congress as they negotiate the greatest achievement in American diplomatic history. Meanwhile, officers in the Continental Army are done with Congress’s broken promises. They’re even considering violence … co
13: The World Turns Upside Down at Yorktown
“The British officers in general behaved like boys who had been whipped at school.”
This is the story of the beginning of the Revolution’s end. Lord Cornwallis swears the British need to take the fight to Virginia. He’s got Thomas Jefferson and Lafayette on the run. But at the same time, French General Rochambeau and Admiral de Grasse are ready to give George Washington some serious support ... enough support that the Americans just might turn the world upside down.
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12: An American Judas Betrays & Nathanael Greene Saves!
“Arnold has betrayed us! Whom can we trust now?”
This isn’t a story of betrayal; this is the story of betrayal. After half a decade of giving his all for the Patriot cause, Benedict Arnold becomes America’s Judas Iscariot. He betrays his brothers-in-arms for a commission in the British army and cold hard cash (even more than 30 pieces of silver). Meanwhile, Lord Cornwallis has Georgia and South Carolina well in hand. Now his sights are set on North Carolina and maybe even Virginia! Can anyone st
Second Edition Episodes: A Discussion
While discussed in passing in a few epilogues, the Prof. sits down with Kelsi to go deep on “second edition” or “remaster” episodes of HTDS. The conversation includes Greg’s guiding views and philosophy in making HTDS, a bit of HTDS history (how meta is that?), all the technical aspects behind second editions, as well as discussions about the new scenes often added. Oh, and of course, directions on where to find the much beloved old-school originals, which will always be available.It’s
11: Southern Discomfort: Savannah & Charleston Captured, Slavery, Massacres, & 1779’s Sundries
“I reject your proposals … and shall defend myself to the last extremity.”
This is the story of the Revolution's new hot spot: the South. Down here, British leaders hope to score some quick victories with the help of enslaved Americans and Loyalists. This new "Southern Strategy" enjoys a strong start. It will cause the greatest losses of the whole war for the Americans. But other important events are happening all over the globe in 1779, too. The Continental dollar's inflation is getting out of
10: Dueling, Life Sucks at Valley Forge, von Steuben's Cool & the Battle of Monmouth
“Stand fast, my boys, and receive your enemy!”This is the story of a miserable winter and the summer of 1778. It's full of conniving, vengeance, honor, and starvation. George's political enemies learn the hard way not to mess with him. We'll have two duels in this episode alone. Most of this goes down during a grim winter at Valley Forge, where one fourth of the Continental Army will die from exposure and starvation. But it's not all bad news in this deadly winter's camp; von Steuben's
9: (Almost) Everything Important in 1777--Saratoga, Lafayette & George Returns Gen. Howe’s Dog
“If old England is not by this lesson taught humility, then she is an obstinate old slut, bent upon her ruin.”
This is the story of 1777. Playboy and playwright "Gentleman Johnny" is leading a Canadian-based invasion of upstate New York (seriously, why are those Canadians so militaristic?). It's a tale of egos. From Gentleman Johnny to the American side, a lot of dudes are looking out for "number one." The outcome of Gentleman Johnny's invasion helps Ben Franklin score a full-on military allianc
Christmas Special: George Wishes Some Hessians a Merry F’ing Christmas
"These are the times that try men's souls."This is the story of the Battle of Trenton. George crosses another ice-filled river, this time on Christmas Day. Plenty will go wrong, but at the end of it... he's about to get off the naughty list.____Connect with us on HTDSpodcast.com and
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8: From Independence to NY (meeting A. Ham, Nathan Hale & Charles Lee is a Sneaky Bastard)
“I wish there was a war.”This is the story of independence and crushed hope. Congress is finally declaring independence and it’s not a straight-forward process. We’ll listen to different delegates argue passionately for and against it.Then we follow the war to New York where we’ll meet Alexander Hamilton and get the backstory of his rough childhood in the Caribbean and how he ended up in the Big Apple. After hanging out with Alex, we’ll hook up with George Washington who’s just come to
7: An Olive Branch Rejected, Tom's a Royal Pain(e), & the Siege of Boston
“Remember it is the fifth of March, and avenge the death of your brethren!”
This is the story of the expiration of hope for reconciliation between the American colonies and the "Mother Country." Bunker Hill's a blood bath. Congress sends King George III their "Olive Branch Petition;" it's D.O.A. Things only devolve further as Thomas Paine rips the King a new one in his #colonialviral pamphlet, Common Sense.
Meanwhile, Captain Aaron Burr witnesses the death of General Montgomery in Quebec and He
6: "The Shot Heard Round the World"
“Fire, for God’s sake, fire!”
This is the story of the first battle of the American Revolution on April 19, 1775. We're in Lexington and Concord, Massachusetts. Between Lexington's Green, Concord's North Bridge, and Colonel Smith's troops returning to Boston, 49 Americans and 73 Redcoats die. The battle and ongoing friction will also cause the Second Continental Congress to create an army. But who can lead it? Welcome back to the story, George Washington.
____
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5: "Delenda est Bostonia:" a Congress, Paul Rides, & the First Shot at Lexington
"Lay down your arms, you damned rebels, or you are all dead men."
This is the story of the First Continental Congress and the build-up to the Battle of Lexington and Concord. Delegates from 12 of the 13 colonies air their grievances against Parliament, and it doesn't go well. Paul Revere goes for a ride. Rather than making it to Concord, he gets to listen to soldiers threaten to "blow his brains out." The next morning, shots are fired at Lexington. War is here. British America will never be th
4: "Boston Harbor A Tea-Pot This Night:" The Boston Tea Party
"We have only been making a little salt-water tea."
This is the story of the Boston Tea Party. The East India Company and the needs of the global British Empire are intertwined, and Parliament wants the American colonies to help foot the bill by drinking the company's tea. The East India Company sends its tea to America on seven ships. Four head to Boston. Three will make it. To be clear: the ships make it. The tea won't.
This Second Edition episode is a rewritten, rerecorded, and remastered ver
3: "Clean My Sh*t House!" The Boston Massacre
"Damn you, fire, be the consequences what it will!"
This is the story of the Boston Massacre. In the aftermath of a second botched attempt to tax the Americans and stop them from smuggling, John Hancock's accused of smuggling and Boston gets occupied by a British army. Then, one cold night, things get out of hand, and five Bostonians are shot dead by the King's soldiers. The story has two sides. There's the Patriot version, where murderous soldiers terrorize, then fire into a crowd of 40 "lads
2: Patrick Henry and Boston Get Pissed about Taxes
"Treason!"
This is the story of Virginia's Patrick Henry. He is a dangerous combination: young, idealistic, and persuasive. Patrick has a silver tongue that's going to light up some serious American furry against the Stamp Act. Boston's going to light up with these ideas, too ... but also ... with fire. Actual, real, fire.
This Second Edition episode is a rewritten, rerecorded, and remastered version of the original episode that aired on September 29, 2017. Head to HTDSpodcast.com to find out
1: That One Time When George Washington Sort of Triggered an International War
"[He] washed his hands with the brains."This is the story of a 22-year-old George Washington as commander of a 400-man army fighting the French. We'll also hear about his childhood, the deaths, backcountry experience, and finagling, that bring George--who's untrained, inexperienced, too young, and completely Outgunned--to this moment. He fails. Miserably. But not without triggering a war between France and Britain that will change the American colonies' relationship to the British Crown
0: Preamble
I the Professor, in order to give you a more perfect podcast, establish my goals, insure you know who I am, provide for your common entertainment, promote a generally historical education, and do ordain and establish this little five-minute intro episode for History that Doesn't Suck.
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