Historias Unknown
Carmen & Cristina
Obscure Latin American history, capitalism and corruption. Each week, your hosts (and twins) Carmen and Cristina, will tell each other a story about Latino/Latine history, capitalism or corruption and sometimes all three. Episodes every Thursday.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/historias-unknown--6253658/support.
The Failed Expedition of Francisco Hernandez de Cordoba
Francisco Hernandez de Cordoba was the captain of an expedition that left Castilla del oro (Cuba) in 1517, with the intent of finding more indigenous people to enslave. But none of it went as planned.Cristina tells Carmen about this failed expedition and the victory of the Maya, who drove the Spaniards out during their battle.If you have topic suggestions, feel free to email Historiasunknownpodcast@gmail.com or use the contact us form on the website https://www.historiasunknown.com/contact/Want
A Brief History of the Panama Canal Zone (Part Four)
The Panama Canal is now controlled by Panama, but before that, France and then the United Stated coveted and gained control of the zone, to develop the canal. Many lives were lost during the development of the canal, and many were displaced for the creation of the canal. The role of Panama in its own development is often forgotten or minimized.In part four, Carmen discusses how the displacement of Panamians in the canal zone went down, how the history of that displacement was rewritten and about
A Brief History of the Panama Canal Zone (Part Three)
The Panama Canal is now controlled by Panama, but before that, France and then the United Stated coveted and gained control of the zone, to develop the canal. Many lives were lost during the development of the canal, and many were displaced for the creation of the canal. The role of Panama in its own development is often forgotten or minimized.In Part three, Carmen tells Cristina about how the ICC, Robert Tomes, Dr. William Gorgas and other factors all worked together to create a separation betw
A Brief History of the Panama Canal Zone (Part Two)
The Panama Canal is now controlled by Panama, but before that, France and then the United Stated coveted and gained control of the zone, to develop the canal. Many lives were lost during the development of the canal, and many were displaced for the creation of the canal. The role of Panama in its own development is often forgotten or minimized. In part two, Carmen tells Cristina about how the US justified their need for control of the canal and how they eventually came to control it.If you have
A Brief History of the Panama Canal Zone (Part One)
The Panama Canal is now controlled by Panama, but before that, France and then the United Stated coveted and gained control of the zone, to develop the canal. Many lives were lost during the development of the canal, and many were displaced for the creation of the canal. The role of Panama in its own development is often forgotten or minimized.In part one, Carmen tells Cristina about the French development of the canal and the eventual US takeover of the project, to give us context to eventually
El Estudio de Sifilis en Guatemala
Los experimentos de sífilis de Guatemala se llevaron a cabo entre 1946 y 1948. Fueron dirigidos por John Cutler, quien luego participaría en los experimentos de Tuskegee. Esto no fue descubierto hasta que la historiadora y profesora Susan Mokotoff Reverby encontró los archivos de Cutler mientras investigaba los experimentos de Tuskegee. Guatemala ha condenado estos experimentos como crímenes contra la humanidad.Carmen le cuenta a Cristina sobre este capítulo oscuro de la historia de Guatemala. E
a Beloved Beverage and their not so Great History in Mexico
If you search Mexico and Coca Cola, there’s no doubt you’ll be flooded with content about how much Mexicans love it, as well as the sky rocketing rates of diabetes in the country. You might see the alarmin statistic that in Chiapas, Mexicans drink an average of 2.5 liters of coca cola, but of course, as with all these things, it is deeper. In this episode, Cristina tells Carmen about the corruption that led to Femsa Coca Cola's wealth in Mexico, as well as how they are leaving parts of Chiapas
Monsanto, Mexico and Leydy Pech
Monsanto started as a chemical company founded 1901. Later, the company became a major producer of genetically engineered crops. In part three, Cristina talks about how Monsanto affected towns surrounded by agricultural fields in Autlan, Jalisco, as well as Leydy Pech. The Mayan beekeeper who fought and won against the giant corporation. If you have topic suggestions, feel free to email Historiasunknownpodcast@gmail.com or use the contact us form on the website https://www.historiasunknown.com/c
Monsanto and Argentina
Monsanto started as a chemical company founded 1901. Later, the company became a major producer of genetically engineered crops. In part two of this series, Cristina shares some of the devastating effects Monsanto and roundup have had on Argentina, as well as the stories of those fighting back against Monsanto.If you have topic suggestions, feel free to email Historiasunknownpodcast@gmail.com or use the contact us form on the website https://www.historiasunknown.com/contact/Want ad free episodes
A Brief History of Monsanto and the Horrible Things They've Done
Monsanto started as a chemical company founded 1901. Later, the company became a major producer of genetically engineered crops. In this episode, Cristina shares a brief history of Monsanto, to get all of us up to speed on the topic she wants to cover: Leydy Pech, the Maya woman who defeated Monsanto. Before getting to that, it would be good to know what Monsanto actually is.Books mentioned: Seed Money: Monsanto’s Past and Our Food Future by Bartow J. Elmore.The World According to Monsanto by Ma
Operation Wetback
In 1954, the U.S. Border Patrol enacted “Operation Wetback,” a campaign to deport Mexican workers who were in the country illegally. The program was called a success and claimed to have rounded up 1 million people, though that number is now contested. US citizens were among the deported and many died due to being left in the desert.In this episode, Cristina tells Carmen about operation wetback, the context leading up to it and a little bit about the man behind it.If you have topic suggestions, f
The Puerto Rico Birth Control Pill Trials
The birth control pill revolutionized women’s independence in the US and everywhere, but came at the cost of Puerto Rican women who were experimented on without consent in the birth control trials of the 1950’s, overseen by Gregory Pincus and John Rock. If you have topic suggestions, feel free to email Historiasunknownpodcast@gmail.com or use the contact us form on the website https://www.historiasunknown.com/contact/Want ad free episodes? And the ocassioal bonus episode? Support Historias Unkn
Esterilización Forzada En California (in Spanish)
Leyes de esterilización en los Estados Unidos desproporcionadamente afectaron a personas Morena, Indígena, y Latina. Sterilizaciones masivas se llevaron en 32 estados y también en Puerto Rico. Entre 1930 a 1970, un tercio de las mujeres puertorriqueñas fueron esterilizadas. Entre 1907 y 1979, 20,000 personas fueron esterilizadas en Californa. De esos 20,000, personas con apellidos en español fueron los más afectados. Cuatro manicomios en California fueron responsables por todas las operaciones e
Cesar Chavez Part 5
Cesario Estrada Chavez was an American labor leader and civil rights activist.. He co-founded the National Farm Workers Association, along with Dolores Huerta, which later merged with the Agricultural Workers Organizing Committee to become the United Farm Workers labor union.In part five, the final part of this Cesar Chavez series, Cristina talks about Cesar Chavez' fascination with cult leader Charles Dederich, the Synanon cult and the game. As well as anti-semitism accusations against Cesar Ch
Cesar Chavez Part 4
Cesario Estrada Chavez was an American labor leader and civil rights activist.. He co-founded the National Farm Workers Association, along with Dolores Huerta, which later merged with the Agricultural Workers Organizing Committee to become the United Farm Workers labor union.In part four, Cristina talks about Cesar Chavez' trip to Europe, the UFW's Wet lines across the Arizona border, the UFW's "Illegals Campaign" and mass purges within the union. Part five will explore the ties between Synanon
Cesar Chavez Part 3
Cesario Estrada Chavez was an American labor leader and civil rights activist.. He co-founded the National Farm Workers Association, along with Dolores Huerta, which later merged with the Agricultural Workers Organizing Committee to become the United Farm Workers labor union.In part three, Cristina talks about the end of the grape strikes, the trouble with the lettuce boycotts, inlcuding two UFW member deaths and more.If you have topic suggestions, feel free to email Historiasunknownpodcast@gmai
Cesar Chavez Part Two
Cesario Estrada Chavez was an American labor leader and civil rights activist.. He co-founded the National Farm Workers Association, along with Dolores Huerta, which later merged with the Agricultural Workers Organizing Committee to become the United Farm Workers labor union.In part two, Cristina starts off with the 300 mile march from Delano to Sacramento and ends with Cesar Chavez' fast. Discussing his first purge, lies about his career, his relationship with Robert Kennedy and more. If you ha
Cesar Chavez
Cesario Estrada Chavez was an American labor leader and civil rights activist.. He co-founded the National Farm Workers Association, along with Dolores Huerta, which later merged with the Agricultural Workers Organizing Committee to become the United Farm Workers labor union.In part one, Cristina tells Carmen about Cesar Chavez' early lif, the troubles and tribulations and the beginning of the UFW. By the end of these episodes, we'll learn about the downfall of the UFW and the ties between Cesar
The Lemon Grove Incident
On January 5, 1931, Mexican students were turned away from the Lemon Grove Grammar School and were told to attend a barnyard for school. As a result, the Mexican community gathered and faced off with the school board, in Roberto Alvarez v. the Board of Trustees of the Lemon Grove School District, and won. This became known as "The Lemon Grove Incident.”On this episode, Carmen tells Cristina about this historic caseIf you have topic suggestions, feel free to email Historiasunknownpodcast@gmail.co
Mendez v Westminster
When Gonzalo and Felicitas Mendez, both US citizens tried to enroll their chidren to the 17th street school in Westiminster, CA, they were denied. They were told 17th street school was for White children only and their children had to attend the Mexican school 10 blocka away. The Mendez family wold not stand for this and they recruited four other parents from local school districts for a federal court case challenging school segregation.The Mendez, et al. v. Westminster School District of Orange
Culebra Island
The US Navy tried to take over the island of Culebra, but after years being displaced and harmed, the Culebrenses fought back. This is the story of how the US Navy was kicked out of Culebra Island.If you have topic suggestions, feel free to email Historiasunknownpodcast@gmail.com or use the contact us form on the website https://www.historiasunknown.com/contact/Join the Historians Unknown Support Club: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/historias-unknown--6253658/supportInstagram: https://www.inst
Los Motines de los Baños de 1917 (Spanish episode)
El 28 de enero de 1917, Carmelita Torres, de diecisiete años, se negó a bajarse del tranvía en el puente de Santa Fe y seguir a los funcionarios de salud estadounidenses hasta un baño químico. 30 mujeres la siguieron. Pronto, esas 30 se convirtieron en cientas y luego en miles. Esto se llamaría "los motines de los banos" y duró 2 días. Los periódicos se referían a las mujeres como amazonas y llamaban a Carmelita Torres la amazona pelirroja. No se sabe mucho sobre ella, pero inspiró a miles.En es
The 1948 Los Gatos Crash
The worst plane crash in California history happened in 1948, in Los Gatos. 32 died. 28 of those 32 were Mexican workers who were being deported. These workers were all put in a mass grave together and the grave was marked with the words “Mexican Nationals”. On today's episode, Cristina tells Carmen about this tragic crash and one person's journey to give them back their names. If you have topic suggestions, feel free to email Historiasunknownpodcast@gmail.com or use the contact us form on the w
Martin Ramirez Sostre
Martin Sostre was a pioneer for prison reform and prisoner rights. His fight against the injustices he faced as a prisoner helped secure rights for all prisoners, and continue to be an inspiration for those resisting the prison-industrial complex. If you have topic suggestions, feel free to email Historiasunknownpodcast@gmail.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/historiasunknown/Join the Historians Unknown Support Club: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/historias-unknown--6253658/supportSource
El Baile de Los 41 (Spanish episode)
El 18 de Noviembre, la policia toco la puerta de un jogar privado en Cuidad Mexico. Se encontraron con 41 hombres, la mitad vestidos como mujeres y fue un escandalo. Se conoce como el Baile de Los 41. Este es el primer episodio que Carmen y Cristina intentan en Espanol (empieza en minuto 04:26). Gracias por escuchar! If you have topic suggestions, feel free to email Historiasunknownpodcast@gmail.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/historiasunknown/Want to support Historias Unknown and access
Cornelius Dusty Rhoads: American Hero, Villain in Puerto Rico
Cornelius Rhoads was an esteemed cancer researcher, known as the father of chemotherapy. He was on the cover of Time in 1949 and The American Association for Cancer Research used to give out an award in his honor. But before all that, he was the subject of a racist scandal that left a stain in Puerto Rico. Where he is still remembered as a monster.In this episode, Cristina tells Carmen about the doctor remembered as a monster in Puerto Rico and a hero in the Unites States.Carmen and Cristina wil
The Dance of the 41
On November 17, 1901 a societal scandal changed LGBTQ history in Mexico forever. Police raided a secret dance in Mexico City, where 42 of Mexican's elite men were caught in an all man party. Half the men were dressed as women. The official number put out by the government was 41, because the 42nd attendee and organizer was said to be President Porfirio Diaz' son in law Ignacio de la Torre y Mier. The number 41 was never the same. In this episode, Cristina tells Carmen about this epic scandal in
Lorena Borjas: The mother of the Trans Latinx Community in Queens, New York
Lorena Borjas was known as the mother of the trans Latinx community in Queens, New York. After a life of activism, she passed in 2020 from COVID, but her legacy lives on. In this episode, Carmen tells Cristina about Lorena's life, activism and legacy.If you have topic suggestions, feel free to email Historiasunknownpodcast@gmail.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/historiasunknown/Want to support Historias Unknown and access ad-free episodes? Join Historias Unknown Premium: https://historias
The Infamous School of Americas
The School of the Americas (SOA) was founded in 1946 in the Panama Canal Zone, and it's purpose was to be a training ground for Latin American military and police in U.S. service schools. By 1949, SOA produced 749 U.S. military personnel and 251 Latin American graduates, representing 10 different countries. Spanish became the official language of the school in 1956, and classes were no longer taught in English. The SOA was expelled from Panama in September 1984, due to the signing of the Panama
Environmental Activism in Latin America
Latin America is one of the deadliest places to be a defender of rights; despite the high rates of activist killings and high rates of impunity, many risk their lives to fight for their rights. In this episode, Carmen tells Cristina about the state of environmental activism in Latin America, as well as a few cases of environmental activists whose lives were taken for their activism. If you have topic suggestions, feel free to email Historiasunknownpodcast@gmail.comInstagram: https://www.instagra
The Homosexual Liberation Front of Argentina
La Frente de Liberacion Homosexual, the Homosexual Liberation Front or FLH in Argentina was a gay rights organization that formed in August 1971 in Buenos Aires. They were a coalition of semi-autonomous groups, who were all far left, anti-imperialist, anti-capitalist, and stood for LGBT rights, women’s rights and labor rights. They were met with repression, arrests and even disappeared during the Military Junta of Argentina.In this episode, Cristina tells Carmen about the FLH. If you have topic
Nuño Beltran de Guzman: Behind the Bastardos
When it comes to the Spanish Conquistadors, it’s not incorrect to say they were pretty terrible people. But out of all of them, one name stands out, he also happens to be the founder of Guadalajara, Jalisco, among other towns in the Northwest of Mexico. Nuño Beltran de Guzman was called "the most depraved man to set foot in New Spain".In this episode, Cristina tells Carmen about Nuño Beltran de Guzman, in a new series they are calling "Behind the Bastardos", where they talk about some of the wor
Student Movements in Latin America
In light of the student protests calling for divestments from Israel and a ceasefire in US schools, Carmen tells Cristina about the student movements from the 1920s to the 1950s in Colombia and the student movement from 1918 in Argentina that led to university reform.If you have topic suggestions, feel free to email Historiasunknownpodcast@gmail.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/historiasunknown/Want to support Historias Unknown and access ad-free episodes? Join Historias Unknown Premium:
Teresa Urrea, La Santa de Cabora
Teresa Urrea was a curandera, folk saint, feminist and revolutionary. A woman ahead of her time. She came to be known as Santa Teresa or La Santa de Cabora. And in more recent times, the Joan of Arc of Mexico. In this episode, Cristina tells Carmen about the life of Teresa Urrea. If you have topic suggestions, feel free to email Historiasunknownpodcast@gmail.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/historiasunknown/Want to support Historias Unknown and access ad-free episodes? Join Historias Unkn
Victor Jara
Victor Jara was a popular singer in Chile, famous for his folk songs that focused on politics, human rights, and social justice. This, along with aligning himself with Allende, made him a target for the Chilean right-wing, and he was captured and killed by the Pinochet regime after the US backed coup against Allende. Following Victor Jara’s assassination, his family fought a decades-long battle for justice, which continues to this day.If you have topic suggestions, feel free email Historiasunkno
A Brief History of Chile: The End of the Pinochet Regime
In October 1998, General Augusto Pinochet was arrested for crimes of genocide and terrorism. He spent months in house arrest in England, but 15 months after his arrest, he was declared not fit to stand trial. Upon his return to Chile, he was charged for his role in the Caravan of Death. He faced more charges over the next 5 years, but died of a heart attack in 2006. At the time of his death, he faced 300 criminal charges. He never spent a day in jail.On this episode of Historias Unknown, Cristin
A Brief History of Chile: The Caravan of Death and DINA
In the aftermath of the Pinochet coup, Chileans faced unimaginable horrors under the military dictatorship. The Caravan of Death: Initiated by Pinochet, this series of massacres between September 30th and October 22nd, 1973, led to the deaths of at least 97 people. Victims were tortured, stabbed, and shot, their bodies disposed of in unmarked graves or dumped into the ocean. DINA's Reign of Terror: The National Intelligence Directorate, DINA, became a powerful and ruthless secret police force, t
A Brief History of Chile: The Rise of Pinochet
After Salvador Allende's presidency in Chile and the coup that deposed him, one man rose to power: Augusto Pinochet. A figure shrouded in ambiguity until the devastating consequences of his rule unfolded. In this episode, Cristina tells Carmen about what who Augusto Pinochet was and the weeks that followed the coup of 1973. While many celebrated the coup, followers of Allende mourned, recognizing the ominous future ahead. Pinochet's unassuming demeanor masked his vehement anti-Marxist stance an
A Brief History of Chile: The Coup Against Allende
On 9/11/1973, Salvador Allende’s government was overthrown by the military. Among the conspirators was Chile’s future dictator, Augusto Pinochet. In this episode, Carmen tells Cristina about the day of the coup, and Allende’s final moments.This is part two of a series on Chile. In part one, Historias Unknown covered the life of Allende, leading up to the coup. The next episodes in the series will cover the Pinochet regime and the end of the dictatorship in the next few episodes.If you have topic
A Brief History of Chile: Salvador Allende
Salvador Allende died during the US backed coup of Chile, but other than that, not a lot of people are familiar with who he was. In this episode, Carmen goes over a brief history of Chile, focusing on Salvador Allende, leading up to his presidency and the events that unfolded during his time in office. Allende's upbringing within a politically active family, his education, and his early involvement in left-wing politics. As well as the socio-political context of Chile during Allende's formativ
A 1996 Pasaco Kidnapping with Luis Corzo
On the 18th of April of 1996, 6-year-old Luis Corzo was abducted together with his father Juan Corzo, Jr. from their home by seven rifle-armed intruders. The kidnapping was organised by a group called "Los Pasaco", who were the most feared group of criminals in Guatemala in the early 90s. During the month-long captivity Juan Corzo, Jr. was physically tortured to pressure the family into sending money for ransom. Eventually, Juan was released on the 30th day and told to gather more ransom money i
A Brief History of La Cucaracha
La Cucaracha is a popular Mexican folk song, there's no doubt that almost everyone has heard a version of this song. But, where does it come from? On today's episode of Historias Unknown, Cristina tells Carmen about where the popular song came from. If you have topic suggestions, feel free email Historiasunknownpodcast@gmail.com or use this formInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/historiasunknown/Want to support Historias Unknown and access ad-free episodes? Join Historias Unknown Premium: http
The US Invasion of Panama
On December 20, 1989 the United States launched Operation Just Cause, invading Panama, under the guise of capturing dictator Manuel Noriega. This invasion is often told from the US perspective, and the suffering of Panamians is overlooked and minimized. To this day, the number of Panamanians that lost their lives from this invasion is still unknown, but the numbers range from 500 to 5000.On today's episode, Carmen tells Cristina about the US invasion of Panama.If you have topic suggestions, feel
The Student Massacre of 1975- El Salvador
On July 30, 1975 Salvadoran students were peacefully protesting in San Salvador when they were met by police and national guard, who opened fire on them. This massacre was a turning point in Salvadoran history and directly contributed to the buildup to El Salvador's civil war.In this episode, Cristina tells Carmen about the student massacre of 1975 in El Salvador.If you have topic suggestions, feel free email Historiasunknownpodcast@gmail.com or use this formInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/
Ruben Salazar- The Chicano Moratorium Part Two
Ruben Salazar was an activist, journalist and reporter. He highlighted Mexican American issues during a time when no one else was. He was killed during the Chicano Moratorium, which Carmen discussed in the last episode. In this episode, Cristina tells Carmen about Ruben Salazar. If you have topic suggestions, feel free email Historiasunknownpodcast@gmail.com or use this formTwitter: https://twitter.com/historiaunknownInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/historiasunknown/Want to support Historias
The Chicano Moratorium
On August 29, 1970, East LA became the scene for the largest antiwar protest organized by people of color in US history, in which 20,000 to 30,000 people participated in the National Chicano Moratorium to protest against the disproportionate loss of Mexican-American servicemen in the Vietnam War.In this episode, Carmen tells Cristina about the Chicano Moratorium. This is part one of two. In part two, Cristina will talk about Ruben Salazar, who was killed during the Chicano Moratorium.If you have
A Brief History Of Palestine and Latin American Solidarity
The origins of colonialism in Palestine can be traced back to 1799, during the French invasion of the middle east, when Napoleon issued a proclamation offering Palestine as a homeland to Jewish people, under France’s protection, as a way of establishing a French presence in the region. This planted the seed for a vision of a Jewish state in the Middle East which did not materialize at the time, but was revived by the British in the 19th century. Zionists believe Judaism is a nationality as well
A Short History of La Placita Olvera
Placita Olvera is a historic street in Los Angeles, vital to California history but with some dark moments in its past. In February 26, 1931, La Placita was full with almost 400 people when immigration agents sealed off exits, arrested and deported many, including Mexican-American citizens. On today's episode, Cristina tells Carmen about La Placita Olvera. They also discuss the Golondrina Cafe and how the owners are facing eviction. This is the link to help save La Golondrina Cafe: https://www.g
Myrna Mack Chang
Myrna Mack Chang was a Guatemalan anthropologist whose research brought to light the atrocities committed by the Guatemalan government against the Maya. She also fought for better treatment for the Maya; unfortunately, she was assassinated by the government for speaking out, and her family fought a decades long battle for justice.On today's episode, Carmen tells Cristina the story of Myrna Mack Chang.If you have topic suggestions, feel free email Historiasunknownpodcast@gmail.com or use this for
A Brief History of the Guatemala Civil War
The roots of Guatemala’s civil war can be tied back to June 27, 1954, when the CIA orchestrated a coup against president Jacobo Arbenz Guzman to protect the profits of the infamous United Fruit Company. Over the next 40 years, a civil war ensued in which over 200,000 people lost their lives and atrocities were committed against the Maya.On today's episode, Carmen gives Cristina a brief history on the Guatemalan civil war, so that next episode, she can share the story of Myrna Mack Chang.If you h
The Bath Riots
On January 28, 1917, seventeen year old Carmelita Torres refused to exit the trolley on the Santa Fe Bridge and follow US health officials to a chemical bath. 30 women followed after her. Soon, that 30 became hundreds and then thousands. This would be called "the Bath Riots" and it lasted 2 days. Newspapers referred to the women as Amazons and called Carmelita Torres the red haired amazon. Not much is known about her, but she inspired thousands. If you have topic suggestions, feel free email His
Santos Rodriguez: The March of Justice
On July 24, 1973, twelve year old Santos Rodriguez was brutally murdered by Dallas Police Officer Darell Cain, but the murder pushed the Mexican American community of Dallas to demand justice. On today's episode, Carmen tells Cristina about the violent and tragic murder of Santos and how the Mexican American community came together in the aftermath. TW: murder of a child, police violence, mention of suicide If you have topic suggestions, feel free email Historiasunknownpodcast@gmail.com or use
The Unknown Hispano History of the Manhattan Project
During opening weekend, Oppenheimer, raked in$80.5 million, second to Barbie. While the film Oppenheimer is about physicist Robert Oppenheimer and his efforts to create the atomic bomb, what many movie goes do not know, is that this "near-desolate" land where all this was taking place, was actually not empty. It was home to indigenous people and to several Hispano families. They were displaced for Oppenheimer's labs, then, on July 16th, 1945, these same communities, the downwinders, lives were c
Luisa Moreno
Luisa Moreno was Guatemalan labor movement activist, she unionized workers, led strikes, and brought together first national Latino civil rights assembly in 1939. She paved the road for future labor movements like the United Farm Workers, yet her name is not as well known.On today's episode, Cristina tells Carmen about Luisa MorenoIf you have topic suggestions, feel free email Historiasunknownpodcast@gmail.com or use this formTwitter: https://twitter.com/historiaunknownInstagram: https://www.ins
Pedro Zamora
Pedro Zamora gained notoriety as a cast member in season four of the Real World. As a Real World cast member, Pedro touched many lives and humanized AIDS/HIV. Prior to the Real World, Pedro was an AIDS educator and he even testified before congress advocating for better HIV/AIDS educational programs.On today's episode, Carmen tells Cristina about Pedro Zamora..If you have topic suggestions, feel free email Historiasunknownpodcast@gmail.com or use this formTwitter: https://twitter.com/historiaunk
Jose Sarria
Did you know, the first openly gay candidate to run for a public office in the United States was a Latino man and a drag queen? Jose Sarria was an instrumental activist to the LGBTQ+ community, he was a veteran, a drag queen and an empress. On today's episode, Cristina tells Carmen about the historic and iconic, Jose SarriaIf you have topic suggestions, feel free email Historiasunknownpodcast@gmail.com or use this formTwitter: https://twitter.com/historiaunknownInstagram: https://www.instagram.c
Jessie Lopez De La Cruz
Jessie Lopez De La Cruz was a Mexican America Farm worker and activist. She was the first women to work as a recruiter for the United Farm Workers and she was responsible for the signing up the highest amount of new members. She also worked at the first UFW hiring hall, which was located at her house in Parlier, CA. She joined every strike and protest she could, she was a community organizer and she also taught English to farm workers.On today's episode, Cristina tells Carmen about this historic
The West High Walkout
On March 20, 1969, students of West High in Denver, CO walked out of their classes to protest racism. This became one of the most violent student protests in US history. The students were demanding bilingual classes, the firing of a racist teacher, for teachers to quit steering students toward the armed forces and more. On today's episode, Carmen tells Cristina about this moment in US History.If you have topic suggestions, feel free email Historiasunknownpodcast@gmail.com or use this formTwitter
The History of Chicano Park
The 1960s were a time of revolution, with many movements co-occurring across the United States. Inspired by these movements, one neighborhood made history. Barrio Logan in San Diego, California came together to stop the construction of a highway patrol substation and instead built their own park, now known as Chicano park. In this episode, Cristina tells Carmen about the occupation that led to Chicano park.If you have topic suggestions, feel free email Historiasunknownpodcast@gmail.com or use th
Camilo Torres Restrepo
Camilo Torres Restrepo was a Colombian Roman Catholic priest and sociologist, who abandoned the priesthood for the revolution and became a guerrillero. Camilo is often referred to as “the revolutionary priest,” and during his life, he attempted to reconcile Marxism and Catholicism. Camilo paved the way for liberation theology, and is known as a pioneer of liberation theology. Listen to this episode to learn more about the revolutionary priest.If you have topic suggestions, feel free email Histo
The Sanctuary Movement of the 1980s
In the 1980s, a network of religious congregations became known as the Sanctuary Movement. It started with a Presbyterian church and a Quaker meeting in Tucson, Arizona. They began legal and humanitarian assistance to Salvadoran and Guatemalan refugees in 1980. After two years, none of the refugees they assisted had been granted political asylum. That's when Rev. John Fife of Southside Presbyterian Church in Tucson announced — on the anniversary of the assassination of Salvadoran Archbishop Osca
La Gran Marcha
On December 15, 2005, the House of Representatives passed HR 4437, also known as the Sensenbrenner Bill. This bill sought to criminalize undocumented people, give the government extraordinary powers to detain non-citizens without meaningful review (and more). Many felt this was unconstitutional, including the immigrant community and the Latino/Latine community. They began to mobilize in numbers that had never been seen and on March 25th, 2006, made history, when millions protested HR 4437. It is
Diane Rodriguez
In 2017, Diane Marie Rodriguez Zambrano was the first trans person to be elected to the National Assembly of Ecuador. Additionally, she made history in Ecuador by setting legal precedent that paved the way for trans people to be able to legally change their birth given names. Listen to this episode to learn more about Diane and her trailblazing activism and career.If you have topic suggestions, feel free email Historiasunknownpodcast@gmail.com or use this formTwitter: https://twitter.com/histori
Chico Mendes
If you’re a Mana fan, you’ve probably heard the Cuando Los Angeles Lloran song, which is about Chico Mendes, but maybe you’ve never learned about Chico’s story beyond Mana’s song. Chico was a rural workers’ rights activist and environmentalist who fought to protect and preserve the Amazon rainforest, and was unfortunately killed for his activism. In this episode, Carmen tells Cristina about Chico Mendes.If you have topic suggestions, feel free email Historiasunknownpodcast@gmail.com or use this
Celestina Cordero
By the mid 1800s, the population pf Puerto Rico increased to half a million. Despite the increasing population, literacy rates for all of Puerto Rico were about six percent. Only six percent of the population on the island could read and write.Celestina Cordero and her siblings, sought to change this in Puerto Rico and for their entire life, they fought for the education of all. The Cordero siblings were vital to Puerto Rico's education system. In this episode, Cristina tells Carmen about Celest
Comandanta Ramona
Comandanta Ramona was born in 1959. She was a Tzotzil Mayan woman & a revolutionary Zapatista who championed indigenous women’s rights. In this episode, Carmen tells Cristina about Comandanta Ramona’s legacy and Cristina has a Bukele/El Salvador update.If you participated in the 2006 student walkouts or La Gran Marcha, please email Historiasunknownpodcast@gmail.comIf you have topic suggestions, feel free email Historiasunknownpodcast@gmail.com or use this formTwitter: https://twitter.com/histori
Juana La Avanzadora
Juana Ramirez was born in 1790, she was a soldier, a heroine of the Venezuelan war for independence and a formerly enslaved Afro-Venezuelan. She earned the name La Avanzadora (the Advancer), a title earned because she was the first to courageously advance during battle.On this episode, Cristina tells Carmen about Juana La Avanzadora and Carmen has a Bukele/El Salvador update.If you participated in the 2006 student walkouts or La Gran Marcha, please email Historiasunknownpodcast@gmail.comIf you h
Maria Remedios del Valle, the Mother of the Homeland
Maria Remedios del Valle is an Afro-Argentine woman, born in 1766 in Buenos Aires and through her brave fighting in the war for independence, she earned the title of "Mother of the Homeland", la madre de la patria. She had to fight for her pension and thanks to the work of Black organizations in Argentina, she is celebrated yearly on November 8. In 2013, November 8th was declared the “Day of Afro-Argentines and Afro-Culture.”In today's episode, Cristina tells Carmen about her story. If you parti
Azucena Villaflor & Las Madres de la Plaza de Mayo
In 1976, Azucena Villaflor's seemingly normal life, changed forever. Her son Nestor, and his girlfriend disappeared, during a time when many people were disappearing in Argentina. She looked for him and when she was ignored by local authorities, she and other mothers began gathering at the Plaza de Mayo in Buenos Aires, all holding images of their missing loved ones and demanding answers. In December of 1977, the founder of the Mothers of Plaza de Mayo, Azucena herself, disappeared.TW for forced
Toña la Negra
One woman, one Black Mexican woman, made history singing Boleros and in Mexican music. She had a voice like no other. She was Toña la Negra. She was a Black Mexican woman, of Haitian ancestry, performing, singing, dancing, in a culture that denied her existence. Mexico didn't count Afro-Mexicans in the census until 2010. She proudly sang of her culture. In today's episdoe, Cristina tells Carmen about Toña la Negra's legacy.If you participated in the 2006 student walkouts or La Gran Marcha, plea
A Brief History of The Young Lords and Denise Oliver-Velez
The Young Lords started as a street gang in the Lincoln Park in Chicago, but not long after, they became a political organization, working with the Black Panthers and other groups in the Rainbow Coalition. They still fight today for neighborhood empowerment and self-determination for Puerto Rico, Latinos, and colonized people. Denise Oliver-Velez became an integral member in the Young Lords Organization during the 1970s and she went on to continue amazing work in human rights and education. In t
Gaspar Yanga
Usually when discussing the enslavement of Africans, the United States immediately comes to mind and many, don't even think about Latin America. The trafficking of enslaved Black people in Mexico was thriving, especially from 1509 to 1619. In that time period, at least 120,000 enslaved were trafficked to Mexico. Of course, as with all oppression, there were uprisings and revolts. One successful revolt was that of Gaspar Yanga, who escaped enslavement, into the mountains, of Veracruz. He stayed
Protests Against Bukele
Despite numerous human rights violations, fraud, authoritarianism, and corruption, the Salvadoran President, Bukele, has immense support from Salvadorans, but even among intense oppression, there are also brave dissidents who oppose Bukele. In the episode titled El Salvador: the History of Bukele, Carmen shared how Bukele rose to power and in the episode titled El Salvador: Bukele and the State of Exception, Carmen shared about the human rights violations and state violence that have occurred du
Hero Dogs That Made History
During chaos, disasters and loss, it seems that you can look and always see a furry friend, there to help. Hero dogs like Frida, who rescued many after earthquakes, but also unofficial rescue dogs like Citla, who was known to help lost mountain climbers in Mexico. On today's episode, Carmen and Cristina tell each other about these historic and heroic puppers.If you have topic suggestions, thoughts or any comments feel free to email Historiasunknownpodcast@gmail.com use this form Twitter: https:/
The History of Gum and Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna
Gum or forms of gum have been used by people for the longest time, but the commercialization of gum is relatively new, in terms of history. In the Americas, indigenous peoples have been chewing gum for, well, forever. In the Yucatan region, their gum is chicle based and chicle is the milky latex of the sapodilla tree. These trees were abundant in southern Mexico, Guatemala and Belize. What does chicle have to do with former Mexican president Santa Anna?On today's episode, Cristina tells Carmen a
El Salvador: Bukele and the State of Exception
On March 25, 2022, until the 28th, 87 homicides took place in El Salvador. These 3 deadly days led President Nayib Bukele to enact a State of Exception. The state of exception is temporary, to address emergency situations, but Bukele has continuously extended the 30 day exception. As of today, 1/12/22, the state of exception is still in place. Thousands have been arrested and hundreds have reported abuses during the state of exception.On today's episode, Carmen tells Cristina about the state of
El Salvador: the History of Bukele
A democratic two party government was put in place after the long Salvadoran civil war. These parties were the FMLN and ARENA, but throughout the years, both parties have seen a number of corruption scandals. From these scandals and mistrust, one politician was able to rise to power. This episode is part two of a series of episodes on El Salvador. Last episode, Cristina talked about El Mozote Massacre and the civil war, which ended in a discussion on the current president, Bukele and his part in
El Salvador: El Mozote Massacre
On December 11, 1981, the US trained Atlácatl battalion descended on the village of el Mozote (and surrounding villages) and enacted one of the worst human rights violations in Latin America. They murdered women, children and village. After their attack was over, it is estimated that at least 1000 civilians were killed. Survivors of the attack are still trying to seek justice.In this episode, Cristina tells Carmen about the Salvadoran civil war and the massacre of El Mozote. This episode discuss
The Ponce Massacre
A peaceful Palm Sunday parade turned deadly in Ponce, Puerto Rico in 1937. 21 Puerto Ricans were killed and more than 200 wounded, all at the hands of US funded Insular Police.In this episode, Cristina tells Carmen about this dark chapter of Puerto Rico history.If you have topic suggestions, thoughts or any comments feel free to email Historiasunknownpodcast@gmail.com use this form Twitter: https://twitter.com/historiaunknownInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/historiasunknown/Want to support H
The History of International Adoption in Chile
Thousands of Chilean Children were stolen from their mothers during the Pinochet regime. They were sent abroad, to adoptive parents, to countries like Sweden, the Netherlands, Denmark, France, Germany and the United States. These adoptive parents had no idea their children were placed under adoption through coercive methods.Carmen tells Cristina about the dark history and corruption behind international adoption in Chile during the Pinochet regimeIf you have topic suggestions, thoughts or any co
El Cri-Cri
El Cri-Cri is a fictional cricket created by Francisco Gabilondo Soler. El Cri-Cri is arguably the most famous Spanish singing character, at least for the generation of millennials and above. His more than 200 songs hold a special place in history, but his songs are not without controversy.In today's episode, Cristina tells Carmen about the history, legacy and controversy behind El Cri-CriIf you have topic suggestions, thoughts or any comments feel free to email Historiasunknownpodcast@gmail.com
Prudencia Ayala
Prudencia Ayala was an indigenous woman, writer, social activist and in 1930, she dared to run for president, in a time when women couldn't even vote in El Salvador (or in all of Latin America).In today's episode, Cristina tells Carmen about an amazing woman who made history by daring to run.If you have topic suggestions, thoughts or any comments feel free to email Historiasunknownpodcast@gmail.com use this form Twitter: https://twitter.com/historiaunknownInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/his
Mustard Gas Experiments During WWII
Latines had a huge role in WWII, from filling in work shortages to filling in ranks in the United States Armed forces. Many Mexican and Puerto Rican members of the military were sent to the Philippines or different Latin American countries. Puerto Rican soldiers that were sent to Panama, participated in mustard gas experiments. They, along with Black and Japanese-American soldiers, were sought out for these experiments due to their race.In today's episode, Cristina tells Carmen about this dark c
History of Sterilizations in California: Madrigal v. Quilligan
From 1909 to the 1970s, the state of California performed one third of all sterilizations in the United States. 20,000 sterilizations were performed during these years, to people that did not consent. The case of Madrigal v. Quilligan, took place in Los Angeles in the 1970s. Many unsuspecting women were coerced to sign paperwork to perform their sterilization, while others were told that the process could be reversed.Cristina tells Carmen about this dark chapter in California history and they al
The Guatemalan Syphilis Experiments
The Guatemalan Syphilis experiments were conducted in Guatemala from 1946 to 1948. They were led by John Cutler, who would go on participate in the Tuskegee Experiments. This was unknown, until Historian and Professor Susan Mokotoff Reverby found Cutler's archives, while she was researching the Tuskegee Experiments. Guatemala has condemned these experiments as crimes against humanity.Carmen tells Cristina about this dark chapter in Guatemala history and it's aftermath. They also discuss the rece
The History of Eugenics and Sterilizations in California
Eugenics was developed largely by Sir Francis Galton as a method of improving the human race, eugenics was increasingly discredited as unscientific and racially biased during the 20th century and it also informed many policies in California.In California, Mexicans were targeted by eugenic policies, making up the majority of people sterilized in during the 1900s.Today, Cristina tells Carmen about eugenic history, sterilizations and how the same rhetoric exists today, in stereotypes about "dirty M
Cliserio Reyes - The Boy Who Flew
Cliserio Reyes was a young boy in Mexico when the Torreon airport was built. He loved airplanes and dreamed of flying. This is the story of his dream.Since Carmen and I were busy to record together for this week, enjoy this mini-sode!If you have topic suggestions, thoughts or any comments feel free to email Historiasunknownpodcast@gmail.com use this form Twitter: https://twitter.com/historiaunknownInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/historiasunknown/Sources:https://content.time.com/time/magazin
LGBTQ+ Mexican Revolutionaries
September 16th is Mexican Independence day, why not talk about another Mexican war, the Mexican revolution. While people like Pancho Villa and Emiliano Zapata are discussed when the revolution is discussed, there are people that are forgotten or erased from history.Today, we wanted to share two queer revolutionaries, Amelio Robles Avila and Manuel Palafox.If you have topic suggestions, thoughts or any comments feel free to email Historiasunknownpodcast@gmail.com use this form Twitter: https://tw
Emma Beatrice Tenayuca
It's labor day week, let's talk about a less known labor movement leader, Emma Beatrice Tenayuca. She was an American Labor leader and union organizer, yet, she's not as well known as other Mexican-American labor leaders that we know today, like Cesar Chavez and Dolores Huerta. She fought for Mexican workers in Texas, but is most well known for her role as a leader in the 1938 San Antonio Pecan shellers strike. If you have topic suggestions, thoughts or any comments feel free to email Historiasu
The Story of "El Muelle de San Blas"
Mana is one of the most famous Mexican pop rock bands and their song, En El Muelle de San Blas is one their most well known and loved songs. It is based on a true story, but the true story and the song have their differences.This is the story behind Rebeca Blanca Leticia Suarez Mendez, the woman behind the song.If you have topic suggestions, thoughts or any comments feel free to email Historiasunknownpodcast@gmail.com use this form Twitter: https://twitter.com/historiaunknownInstagram: https://w
The History of the Hard Shell Taco (in the United States)
The hard shell taco has become synonymous with Taco Bell and "white" people tacos, but the history and heritage of it, is actually very Mexican. The patent for the first hard shell taco mold was placed by a Oaxacan immigrant and the "inspiration" behind Taco Bell came from a woman who migrated from Jalisco, Mexico. So, how did this dish become white washed? Today, we bring you the history of the hard shell taco, a little bit of appropriation talk and a little bit of tiktok talk.If you have topic
The History of International Adoption in Guatemala
Adoption is often presented as the solution to abortion, but the dark side of adoption is rarely talked about. In between 1996 and 2007, Guatemala was one of the major providers of children for international adoption and while for adoptive parents in the US, this was a win, the Guatemalan adoption system was riddled with corruption, coercion and abductions. This led to necessary reform that still has its flaws.If you have topic suggestions, thoughts or any comments feel free to email Historiasun
The Soccer War (La Guerra del Futbol)
In the summer of 1969, El Salvador and Honduras played three soccer games against each other and the winner would move on to the 1970 world cup. As they played the game of their lives, the soccer players had no idea the events that followed, would be known as the soccer war (also known as the one hundred hour war). For 4 days, El Salvador and Honduras were at war with each other.If you have topic suggestions, thoughts or any comments feel free to email Historiasunknownpodcast@gmail.com use this
Vieques 1999: When Puerto Rico Kicked Out the Navy
Vieques is a little island, 8 miles from mainland Puerto Rico. From the 1920s until 2003, 2/3rds of the island was occupied by the US Navy. Day after, day, the people of Vieques lived with bombs falling every day. Until they had enough.Petition to demand healthcare, clean up, sustainable development and demilitarization and return of the land for Vieques.http://act.rootsaction.org/p/dia/action/public/?action_KEY=7743If you have topic suggestions, thoughts or any comments feel free to email Histo
Revolutionary Dogs
Dogs hold many titles, they are family, they rescue, they protect, they are loved. Some dogs become symbols of a revolution. When mass protests broke out in Chile, in 2011 and again in 2019, some beloved street dogs rose to fame for marching with students. These dogs are El Negro Matapacos, El Rucio Capucha and El Vaquita.If you have topic suggestions, thoughts or any comments feel free to email Historiasunknownpodcast@gmail.com use this form Twitter: https://twitter.com/historiaunknownInstagram
The 1970 Uvalde School Walkouts
Robb Elementary in Uvalde, Texas was the epicenter of a historic school walkout during the Chicano movement. In 1970, the firing of one beloved Mexican-American teacher set off a fire in the Mexican community of Uvalde and they were ready to stand for their rights. This is the story of the school walkouts. If you have topic suggestions, feel free to send an email to capitalismallalong@gmail.comIf you'd like to support Historias Unknown, consider joining the Patreon! We will use these funds to do
Las Soldaderas & the Saint Patrick's Battalion Featuring Espooky Tales Podcast
There are stories that often go unknown in history, las Soldaderas and the Saint Patrick's Batallion are two that fit that bill.Las Soldaderas are women who fought during the Mexican Revolution and whose contributions to victory often go uncredited. The Saint Patrick's Battalion was mostly comprised of Irish and Irish-American soldiers who fought for Mexico during the Mexican-American war. Since Carmen & I were busy hanging out, we are featuring this episode of Espooky Tales instead. If you've a
Sylvia Rivera
Sylvia Rivera is often remembered for the stonewall uprising, but she was much more than that. She identified as a drag queen, she was a trans rights activist, and an advocate for unhoused people. Even on her deathbed, she continued to fight for Trans rights.If you have topic suggestions, feel free to send an email to capitalismallalong@gmail.comIf you have topic suggestions, thoughts or any comments feel free to email Historiasunknownpodcast@gmail.com use this form Twitter: https://twitter.com/
The Shady Labor Practices of America's Favorite Soft Drink
There's a certain soft drink that comes to mind when you think of family parties, popcorn and movies and America, but what probably doesn't come to mind is the dark history behind that soft drink. A history that includes shady marketing and murderous union-busting activity.If you have topic suggestions, thoughts or any comments feel free to email Historiasunknownpodcast@gmail.com use this form Twitter: https://twitter.com/historiaunknownInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/historiasunknown/Sourc
The Battle of Chavez Ravine
Baseball is often referred to as America's National Pastime. Stadiums are full of cheering fans, but few think of the ugly history behind the very stadiums they sit in. Chavez Ravine was a thriving Mexican-American community before being forced out for the Dodger Stadium.If you have topic suggestions, thoughts or any comments feel free to email Historiasunknownpodcast@gmail.com use this form Twitter: https://twitter.com/historiaunknownInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/historiasunknown/Sources
Taking presents away during Christmas.... Patreon Teaser
For some of our Patreon episodes, we hunt down AITA Reddit stories that involve money issues and blame capitalism! Just kidding, but we do read them and react. We want to do something lighter than the dark and heavy topics of our regular episodes. All Patreon funds will go to helping communities in Latin America. If you would like to help us do that, join the patreon! Support the pod on Patreon & help us donate funds to communities in Latin America- https://www.patreon.com/itwascapitalismFollo
Announcement
Hi everyone! Cristina here, we just wanted to make an announcement. After some discussion, Carmen and I decided to rebrand a bit! We wanted to change the name to better describe all of the topics we are discussing here. We of course will still be touching on corrupt corporations and capitalism in Latin America, as we did with episode one (about the history of the coffee industry in Guatemala and El Salvador), but we also want to cover more unknown history involving Latin America and Latino/Latin
Bitter Cup of Coffee: Coffee & Capitalism in Guatemala and El Salvador
For many, coffee is a staple in every day life, but few know of the dark history involved in the creation of the coffee industry in the Americas. In this episode, Cristina tells Carmen about the history of the coffee industry. A history that includes enslaved labor, stealing land from indigenous people and lots of blood.If you have topic suggestions, thoughts or any comments feel free to email Historiasunknownpodcast@gmail.com use this form Twitter: https://twitter.com/historiaunknownInstagram:
It Was Capitalism All Along Trailer
In each episode, your hosts (and twins), Carmen and Cristina will tell you about a story in which corporations, business men (or women) and in a lot of cases, countries, put their greed for profit over human lives.You'll here stories like corporations hiring hitmen, polluting water and destroying ecosystems, and for what, you might ask? For more money. What is to blame? Well, capitalism.New episodes bi-weekly. Follow us on Twitter for podcast updates https://twitter.com/itwascapitalismMentioned