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This Day in Esoteric Political History
This Day in Esoteric Political History
Jody Avirgan & Radiotopia

We’re living in unprecedented times. Maybe. In this show, Jody Avirgan (538, 30for30, TED) and historians Nicole Hemmer (Vanderbilt) and Kellie Carter... more

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Episodes

SNL's Political Impact (1974-Present)

It's October 31st. Happy Halloween! In October 1974, Saturday Night Live premiered and, from the jump, included political satire. Jody, Niki,... more

31 Oct 2024 · 23 minutes
The Harrison-Cleveland Rematch Takes A Pause (1892)

It's October 29rd. This day in 1892, Benjamin Harrison and Grover Cleveland are locked in a presidential election rematch, but... more

29 Oct 2024 · 16 minutes
Hamilton's Diss Letter To Adams (1800) w/ Lindsay Chervinsky

It's October 23rd. This day in 1800, Alexander Hamilton penned a letter titled "The Public Conduct and Character of John... more

24 Oct 2024 · 21 minutes
Reagan's Age and "Youth and Inexperience" Quip (1984)

It's October 22nd. This day in 1984, Ronald Reagan served up one of the most memorable lines in political history... more

22 Oct 2024 · 18 minutes
2024 Election Sunday: Trump Is Addled, The New Dark Money

On Sundays between now and the election, we're going to dip into the 2024 race to talk about the latest... more

20 Oct 2024 · 33 minutes
A Brief History Of Election TV Ads (Part 2)

We continue our look at the history of television ads in American elections. This episode, how ads got so negative,... more

17 Oct 2024 · 25 minutes
A Brief History Of Election TV Ads (Part 1)

As we wrap up our very informal "media ecosystem week" we take a look at the history of television ads... more

15 Oct 2024 · 19 minutes
2024 Election Sunday: Obama Scolds, A Podcast Election?

On Sundays between now and the election, we're going to dip into the 2024 race to talk about the latest... more

13 Oct 2024 · 49 minutes
FOX News's First Broadcast (1996) w/ Josh Levin

We're kicking off a series of episodes about the media environment during the election season. Today, a look at the... more

10 Oct 2024 · 33 minutes
McCain Suspends Campaign To Deal With Financial Crisis (2008)

It's October 8th. This week in 2008, John McCain announced that he was suspending his campaign in order to focus... more

08 Oct 2024 · 17 minutes
2024 Election Sunday: Cross-Party Endorsements, A Race In Stasis

On Sundays between now and the election, we're going to dip into the 2024 race to talk about the latest... more

06 Oct 2024 · 37 minutes
October Surprise! LIVE w/ Josh Gondelman (Part 2)

It's the October before a presidential election, which means that some final twists and turns are surely on the way. Jody,... more

03 Oct 2024 · 23 minutes
October Surprise! LIVE w/ Josh Gondelman (Part 1)

It's the October before a presidential election, which means that some final twists and turns are surely on the way. Jody,... more

01 Oct 2024 · 36 minutes
George HW Bush's Pro-Cop Stunt (1988)

It's September 26th. This day in 1988 George HW Bush holds a rally in Boston featuring police officers who were... more

26 Sep 2024 · 22 minutes
Chet Arthur Steps Up (1881)

It's September 24th. This day in 1881 (actually, September 22nd) Vice President Chester Arthur assumes office after James Garfield dies... more

24 Sep 2024 · 13 minutes
Washington's Farewell (Non) Address (1796)

It's September 22nd. This day in 1796, a letter from George Washington appeared in the Philadelphia Daily American Advertiser announcing... more

22 Sep 2024 · 17 minutes
The New York City Pig Wars (1859)

It's September 19th. This day in 1859, New York City declared victory in the war on pigs. Jody, NIki, and Kellie... more

19 Sep 2024 · 17 minutes
Packwood Sent Packing (1995)

It's September 17th. This day in 1995, Oregon Senator Bob Packwood resigns before he can be expelled for decades of... more

17 Sep 2024 · 18 minutes
Georgia's Three Governors Problem (1947)

This day, in 1947, Georgia holds a special election that finally - finally - brings an end to a period... more

12 Sep 2024 · 17 minutes
Witches (1693) w/ Josh Gondelman [[Archive Episode]]

Come to our first ever live show! In Boston, on Friday, September 13th. Tickets are available now! It features comedian... more

10 Sep 2024 · 19 minutes
The "Bra Burner" Myth Is Born (1969) w/ Cristen Conger

Come to our first ever live show! In Boston, on Friday, September 13th. Tickets are available now! It's September 8th. This... more

08 Sep 2024 · 27 minutes
Frederick Douglass's Two-Day Escape North (1838)

Come to our first ever live show! In Boston, on Friday, September 13th. Tickets are available now! It's September 5th. This... more

05 Sep 2024 · 18 minutes
Roosevelt's "Big Stick" (1901)

Come to our first ever live show! In Boston, on Friday, September 13th. Tickets are available now! It's September 3rd. This... more

01 Sep 2024 · 16 minutes
The HIV-Positive Ray Brothers House Is Burned Down (1987) w/ Eric Marcus

Come to our first ever live show! In Boston, on Friday, September 13th. Tickets are available now! It's August 29th. This... more

29 Aug 2024 · 24 minutes
Strom Thurmond's Epic Filibuster -- And Bladder Control (1957)

Come to our first ever live show! In Boston, on Friday, September 13th. Tickets are available now! It's August 27th. This... more

27 Aug 2024 · 16 minutes
A Global Anti-War (Or Is It Pro-Peace?) Pact (1928)

Come to our first ever live show! In Boston, on Friday, September 13th. Tickets are available now! It's August 25th. This... more

25 Aug 2024 · 25 minutes
Conventions Week: Hamer vs. Johnson (1964) [Archive Episode]

**Come to our first ever live show! In Boston, on Friday, September 13th. Tickets are available now!** Welcome to Conventions Week!... more

22 Aug 2024 · 21 minutes
Conventions Week: Seven Weird Conventions Moments (Part Two)

**Come to our first ever live show! In Boston, on Friday, September 13th. Tickets are available now!** Welcome to Conventions Week!... more

20 Aug 2024 · 15 minutes
Conventions Week: Seven Weird Conventions Moments (Part One)

**Come to our first ever live show! In Boston, on Friday, September 13th. Tickets are available now!** Welcome to Conventions Week!... more

18 Aug 2024 · 23 minutes
Trump's "Very Fine People" Comments (2017)

Come to our first ever live show! In Boston, on Friday, September 13th. Tickets are available now! It's August 15th. This... more

15 Aug 2024 · 27 minutes
Thoreau Spends One Night In Jail (1846)

Come to our first ever live show! In Boston, on Friday, September 13th. Tickets are available now! It's August 13th. This... more

13 Aug 2024 · 15 minutes
What The Watts Riots Meant (1965)

Come to our first ever live show! In Boston, on Friday, September 13th. Tickets are available now! It's August 11th. This... more

11 Aug 2024 · 17 minutes
George HW Bush Compares Sadaam To Hitler (1990)

Come to our first ever live show! In Boston, on Friday, September 13th. Tickets are available now! It's August 8th. This... more

08 Aug 2024 · 17 minutes
The Shirtless George Washington Statue Is Unveiled (1841)

Come to our first ever live show! In Boston, on Friday, September 13th. Tickets are available now! It's August 5th. This... more

06 Aug 2024 · 14 minutes
Some 2024 Veepstakes Thoughts (Plus A Special Announcement)

Here in 2024, there is a lot of speculation about who Kamala Harris will select as her running mate. And... more

04 Aug 2024 · 33 minutes
Jim Traficant Heads To Jail, Toupee And All (2002)

It's August 1st. This day in 2002, Congressman James Traficant of Ohio has been expelled from Congress for bribery and... more

01 Aug 2024 · 16 minutes
The Mother Of Miami (1896)

It's July 28th. This day in 1896, residents vote to incorporate the city of Miami, Florida. Jody, Niki, and Kellie discuss... more

30 Jul 2024 · 14 minutes
Jesse Owens v Hitler, Behind The Scenes (1936)

It's July 27th. Today we mark the start of the Olympics by looking at one of the most famous --... more

28 Jul 2024 · 19 minutes
A Record Election-Year Heat Wave (1936)

It's the middle of July. In 1936, much of the country -- especially the Midwest -- is experiencing record heat. Jody,... more

25 Jul 2024 · 18 minutes
"Pretendians" And The Politics Of Native Identity (1934) w/ Angel Ellis and Robert Jago

It's July 22nd. This day in 1934, FDR has signed the "Indian Reorganization Act," which provided economic relief to many... more

23 Jul 2024 · 22 minutes
The Thiokol Weapons Plant Explosion (1971) w/ Patrick Longstreth

In 1971, a massive explosion at the Thiokol plant in Woodbine, Georgia shook the small town and killed 29 workers,... more

21 Jul 2024 · 22 minutes
Reagan says "MAGA" (1980)

It's July 18th. This day in 1980, Ronald Reagan accepted the Republican nomination for president. His speech included the phrase... more

18 Jul 2024 · 28 minutes
'A Harvest Of Death' And The Power Of Photography (1863) w/ Robert Sullivan

It's July 15th. This day in 1863, photographer Timothy O'Sullivan has taken a photo of dead soldiers at Gettysburg called... more

16 Jul 2024 · 17 minutes
The Real Free State of Jones (1863) [Archive Favorite]

[[It's the heart of the summer, which means that our crew is taking some breaks here and there. In the... more

11 Jul 2024 · 14 minutes
A Bombing At LaGuardia Airport (1975) [Archive Favorite]

[[It's the heart of the summer, which means that our crew is taking some breaks here and there. In the... more

09 Jul 2024 · 17 minutes
The Big Dig's Big Start w/ Ian Coss [Archive Favorite]

[[It's the heart of the summer, which means that our crew is taking some breaks here and there. In the... more

07 Jul 2024 · 28 minutes
The Statues That Represent The United States (1864)

It's July 2nd. This day in 1864, President Lincoln signed a law declaring the chamber previously used as the House... more

02 Jul 2024 · 13 minutes
Reagan Re-Ups The Voting Rights Act (1982)

It's June 30th. This day in 1982, Ronald Reagan signed a bill re-authorizing the Voting Rights Act, among a lot... more

30 Jun 2024 · 13 minutes
The Weird History Of U.S. Debates (Part 2)

Ahead of this week's very weird debate, we take a look at the weird history of how political debates have... more

27 Jun 2024 · 20 minutes
The Weird History Of U.S. Debates (Part 1)

Ahead of this week's very weird debate, we take a look at the weird history of how political debates have... more

25 Jun 2024 · 21 minutes
Third Parties Week: Ross Perot Crashes The Debate (1992)

Welcome to Third Party Week! From time to time this election year, we're going to do some special series that... more

23 Jun 2024 · 16 minutes
Third Parties Week: John Anderson's Middle Path (1980)

Welcome to Third Party Week! From time to time this election year, we're going to do some special series that... more

20 Jun 2024 · 22 minutes
Third Parties Week: Ralph Nader, Spoiler? (2000)

Welcome to Third Party Week! From time to time this election year, we're going to do some special series that... more

18 Jun 2024 · 15 minutes
Third Party Week: Who Goes Third Party? w/ Dave Weigel

Welcome to Third Party Week! From time to time this election year, we're going to do some special series that... more

16 Jun 2024 · 31 minutes
Lift Every Voice And Sing (1900) [Juneteenth Archive Episode]

Today we're reprising an episode we did for Juneteenth last year, as we get ready for this year's holiday! It’s June... more

13 Jun 2024 · 21 minutes
Coretta Scott Weds Martin Luther King (1953)

It's June 11th. This day (actually June 18th) in 1953, Coretta Scott married Martin Luther King, Jr. on the front... more

11 Jun 2024 · 25 minutes
The Sad Saga of the Late Lester Hunt (1953)

It's June 9th. This day in 1953, police in Washington, DC have arrested Lester "Buddy" Hunt, Jr on charges of... more

09 Jun 2024 · 21 minutes
We Refuse Week: Joy In Refusal, From Black Panther to The Boat Brawl

Our very own Kellie Carter Jackson has a brand new book! You can get "We Refuse" now wherever you get... more

06 Jun 2024 · 25 minutes
We Refuse Week: Carrie Johnson Kills A Police Officer

Our very own Kellie Carter Jackson has a brand new book! You can get "We Refuse" now wherever you get... more

04 Jun 2024 · 18 minutes
We Refuse Week: Kellie's Family History of Resistance

Our very own Kellie Carter Jackson has a brand new book! You can get "We Refuse" now wherever you get... more

02 Jun 2024 · 22 minutes
How Many Presidents? (1787) w/ A.J. Jacobs

It's May 7th. This day in 1787, the writers of the constitution are debating a central question -- how many... more

30 May 2024 · 19 minutes
The Incident That Led Ida B. Wells To Flee Memphis (1892)

It's May 28th. This day in 1892, the newspaper offices of Ida B. Wells are ransacked by a white mob... more

28 May 2024 · 20 minutes
War Stories: A Confederate Day of Fasting and Prayer (1863)

In the runup to Memorial Day, we're bringing you some stories from the archives about war and the cost of... more

26 May 2024 · 19 minutes
War Stories: The Port Chicago Mutiny (1944)

In the runup to Memorial Day, we're bringing you some stories from the archives about war and the cost of... more

23 May 2024 · 18 minutes
War Stories: Camp Casey (2005)

In the runup to Memorial Day, we're bringing you some stories from the archives about war and the cost of... more

21 May 2024 · 20 minutes
War Stories: The Vietnam Draft Lottery Gets Exposed (1970)

In the runup to Memorial Day, we're bringing you some stories from the archives about war and the cost of... more

19 May 2024 · 27 minutes
The "Louie Louie" Freakout (1964)

It's May 16th. This day in 1964, the FBI drops its years-long investigation into the pop song "Louie Louie." Jody, NIki,... more

16 May 2024 · 15 minutes
Nixon Attacked In Caracas (1958)

It's May 14th. This day in 1958, Vice President Richard Nixon is on a goodwill tour of South America when... more

14 May 2024 · 15 minutes
The Jefferson Davis Trial That Wasn't (1867)

It's May 12th. This day in 1867, Jefferson Davis, the former President of the Confederacy, left a courthouse in Richmond... more

12 May 2024 · 19 minutes
What Do We Call The President? w/ A.J. Jacobs

Jody, Niki, and Kellie are joined by author A.J. Jacobs, whose new book "The Year of Living Constitutionally" dives into... more

09 May 2024 · 19 minutes
The Chinese Exclusion Act (1882)

It's May7th. This day in 1882, Congress passes the Chinese Exclusion Act, aimed at curbing Chinese immigration as fears about... more

07 May 2024 · 17 minutes
A Deep Dive Into The Cultural Cold War (1960) w/ Benjamen Walker

It's May 5th. This day in 1960, a British theater critic named Kenneth Tynan is hauled before a Senate sub-committee... more

05 May 2024 · 24 minutes
Pepsi Trades Soda For Soviet Warships (1989)

It's May 2nd. This day in 1989, Pepsi cuts a trade deal with the USSR in which it receives 17... more

02 May 2024 · 16 minutes
The Columbia Protests (1968)

It's April 30th. This day in 1968, Columbia University asks the NYPD to intervene and break up campus protests. Sound... more

30 Apr 2024 · 27 minutes
Veepstakes Week: JFK Picks LBJ (1960)

Welcome to Veepstakes Week! From time to time this election year, we're going to do some special series that highlight... more

25 Apr 2024 · 17 minutes
Veepstakes Week: The Legend Of The Sarah Palin Cruise Ship (2007)

Welcome to Veepstakes Week! From time to time this election year, we're going to do some special series that highlight... more

23 Apr 2024 · 25 minutes
Veepstakes Week: Does A VP Pick Matter?

Welcome to Veepstakes Week! From time to time this election year, we're going to do some special series that highlight... more

21 Apr 2024 · 28 minutes
The Great San Francisco Earthquake (1906)

It's April 18th. This day in 1906, a massive earthquake devastates San Francisco. Jody, Niki, and Kellie discuss the political impact... more

18 Apr 2024 · 17 minutes
Walter Cronkite's America (1962)

It's April 16th. This day in 1962, Walter Cronkite takes over as the anchor of CBS's evening news program. Jody, Niki,... more

16 Apr 2024 · 22 minutes
George W. Bush Meets With Gay Voters (2000) w/ Neil J. Young

It's April 14th. This day in 2000, GOP candidate for president George W. Bush meets with a group of "Log... more

14 Apr 2024 · 27 minutes
Democrats Seize Power In South Carolina (1877)

It’s April 11th. This day in 1877, Democrat Wade Hampton finally becomes the sole Governor of South Carolina after months... more

11 Apr 2024 · 19 minutes
Marian Anderson Sings On The Steps Of The Lincoln Memorial (1939)

It’s April 9th. This day in 1939, singer Marian Anderson performs for 75,000 people outdoors on the steps of the... more

09 Apr 2024 · 19 minutes
Wisconsin Tries To Recall Scott Walker (2012)

It’s April 7th. This day in 2012, there is an effort underway to recall Republican Governor Scott Walker. Jody, Niki, and... more

07 Apr 2024 · 23 minutes
Why William Henry Harrison Really Died (1841)

It’s April 4th. This day in 1841, President William Henry Harrison died, just 30 days after his inauguration. Jody, Niki, and... more

04 Apr 2024 · 16 minutes
The Richmond Bread Riots (1863)

It’s April 2nd. This day in 1863, a riot breaks out in the Confederate capitol of Richmond, due to deepening... more

02 Apr 2024 · 16 minutes
Truman Says He Won't Seek Re-Election (1952)

It’s March 31st. This day (actually March 29th) President Harry Truman announces that he won’t be seeking the Democratic re-nomination... more

31 Mar 2024 · 23 minutes
The Slaveowner Executed for Killing His Slave (1839)

It’s March 27th This day in 1839, a North Carolina man by the name of John Hoover is found guilty... more

28 Mar 2024 · 17 minutes
DC Plants The Cherry Blossoms (1912)

It’s March 26th. This day in 1912, First Lady Helen Herron Taft planted two cherry trees in Washington, DC. The... more

26 Mar 2024 · 17 minutes
Lincoln's Avenger And The Aftermath Of Assassination (1894) [[Archive Episode]]

Today we’re bringing you a favorite recent episode, in part because there’s a new series on Apple TV about the... more

24 Mar 2024 · 17 minutes
Montana Enshrines a Right To Privacy (1972)

It’s March 21st. This day in 1972, a group of 100 regular citizens are meeting to re-write Montana’s constitution. Among... more

21 Mar 2024 · 22 minutes
The First Government Shutdown Fight (1879)

It’s March 19th. This day in 1879, a small group of Southern Democrats is holding up budget appropriations bills in... more

19 Mar 2024 · 20 minutes
The Shamrock Summit (1985)

Happy St. Patrick’s Day! It’s March 16th. This day in 1985, U.S. President Ronald Reagan and Canadian Prime Minister Brian... more

17 Mar 2024 · 15 minutes
FDR Says Bottoms Up (1933)

It’s March 14th. This day in 1933, just over a week after taking office, President Frankin Roosevelt announces that a... more

14 Mar 2024 · 14 minutes
Kennedy's Latin American Marshall Plan (1964)

It’s March 12th. This day in 1961, President John F Kennedy is hosting a couple hundred Latin American diplomats to... more

12 Mar 2024 · 15 minutes
Hoover Almost Takes Over Baseball (1951)

It’s March 10th. This day in 1951, the owners of Major League Baseball are looking for a new commissioner, and... more

10 Mar 2024 · 19 minutes
When "Primary" Became A Verb (2004)

It’s March 4th. This day in 2004, Pat Toomey is challenging Republican Senator Arlen Specter in the Pennsylvania senate race... more

07 Mar 2024 · 18 minutes
The Ask President Carter 1-900 Number (1977)

It’s March 5th. This day in 1977, President Jimmy Carter and CBS’s Walter Cronkite took phone calls, unfiltered, from Americans... more

05 Mar 2024 · 16 minutes
Hangers On Week: Al Smith and Remakes The Democratic Party

Throughout this election year, we’re going to be doing a few special series tied to the notable stretches in an... more

03 Mar 2024 · 23 minutes
Hangers On Week: Jesse Jackson's Rainbow Coalition

Throughout this election year, we’re going to be doing a few special series tied to the notable stretches in an... more

29 Feb 2024 · 21 minutes
Hangers On Week: Sowing The Seeds of Trump

Throughout this election year, we’re going to be doing a few special series tied to the notable stretches in an... more

27 Feb 2024 · 17 minutes
Hangers On Week: Why Candidates Stick Around w/ Amy Walter

Throughout this election year, we’re going to be doing a few special series tied to the notable stretches in an... more

25 Feb 2024 · 30 minutes
Malcolm X Is Assassinated (1965)

It’s February 22nd. This day (February 21st, in fact) in 1965, Malcolm X is assassinated as he’s giving a speech... more

22 Feb 2024 · 19 minutes
Dick Cheney Shoots His Friend In The Face (2006)

It’s February 20th. This day in 2006, the news — and the jokes — are swirling about the incident that... more

20 Feb 2024 · 19 minutes
NJ Law Calls For "Gradual Emancipation Of Slaves" (1804)

It’s February 18th. This day in 1804, the Northern state of New Jersey passed a law that included a call... more

18 Feb 2024 · 18 minutes
The FDR Assassination Attempt (1933)

It’s February 15th. This day in 1933, in Miami, Giuseppe Zangara pulled out a pistol and, while yelling “too many people... more

15 Feb 2024 · 17 minutes
Mandela Released From Prison (1990)

It’s February 13th. This day — actually, February 11th — in 1990, South African leader Nelson Mandela emerges from prison... more

13 Feb 2024 · 23 minutes
The First Execution By Gas Chamber (1924)

It’s February 11th. This day in 1924, the State of Nevada executed a man named Gee Jon, using the gas... more

11 Feb 2024 · 18 minutes
Lockheed Caught Bribing The Japanese Government (1976)

It’s February 8th. This day in 1976, officials for defense and airline manufacturer Lockheed Martin admit to spending millions of... more

08 Feb 2024 · 19 minutes
FDR's Court-Packing Plan Backfires (1937)

It’s February 6th. This day in 1937, President Franklin Delano Roosevelt announces a plan to reforming the judiciary, most notably... more

06 Feb 2024 · 22 minutes
The Sketchy Deal That Makes Hayes President (1877)

It’s February 4th. This day in 1877, a hastily assembled commission is meeting to try and sort out the very... more

04 Feb 2024 · 22 minutes
Groundhog Day's Very Weird Origins (1877)

It’s February 1st. This day in 1877, the first Groundhog Day ceremony is held in Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania — in which... more

01 Feb 2024 · 16 minutes
A Brawl In Congress (1798) w/ Joanne Freeman

It’s January 30th. This day in 1798, representatives Roger Lyon and Matthew Griswold get into a fight on the house... more

30 Jan 2024 · 22 minutes
No Nukes In Space (1967)

It’s January 28th. This day in 1967, the U.S., U.K., and Russia sign a treaty that, among other things, says... more

28 Jan 2024 · 17 minutes
Why Do We Vote On Tuesday? (1845)

It’s January 25th. This day in 1845, Congress passed a law designating that Americans would henceforth vote on “the first... more

25 Jan 2024 · 17 minutes
Ed Roberts, Father Of Independent Living (2010)

It’s January 23rd, happy Ed Roberts Day! This day in 2010, the State of California proclaimed this day to commemorate... more

23 Jan 2024 · 18 minutes
Marion Barry Caught Smoking Crack (1990)

This day, January 19th, 1990, at the end of a joint sting operation by FBI agents and District of Columbia... more

21 Jan 2024 · 21 minutes
The Pentagon, The Building (1943)

It’s January 17th. This day in 1943, the U.S. military has a shiny - and massive - new home. Jody, Niki,... more

18 Jan 2024 · 15 minutes
America's Biggest Slave Rebellion (1811)

It’s January 16th. This day in 1811, the aftermath of what came to be known as the “German Coast” uprising... more

16 Jan 2024 · 15 minutes
America Drags Its Feet on MLK Day (1986)

It’s January 14th. This day in 1986, Ronald Reagan issued a proclamation that January 15th would be a federal holiday... more

14 Jan 2024 · 23 minutes
The Children's Blizzard (1888)

It’s January 11th. In 1888, a massive and quick-moving storm swept across the American Midwest, trapping hundreds of school-children in... more

11 Jan 2024 · 20 minutes
Jefferson's Wall Between Church and State (1802)

It’s January 9th. In 1802, Thomas Jefferson penned a letter in which he referred to a “wall of separation between... more

09 Jan 2024 · 27 minutes
Vietnam Draft Lottery Is Exposed (1970) w/ Walt Hickey

It’s January 7th. In 1970, the New York Times published an article with the headline “Statisticians Charge Draft Lottery Was... more

07 Jan 2024 · 26 minutes
Ike vs. Squirrels (1955) [Archive Episode]

**We’ll be back on Sunday with our first new epsiode of 2024. In the meantime, here’s a treat from the... more

03 Jan 2024 · 15 minutes
The Great Idaho Beaver Parachute Drop (1948) w/ Ian Chillag

** It’s the final day of the Radiotopia fundraiser! Support the show using this link and you’ll get a 20%... more

31 Dec 2023 · 23 minutes
A Bombing At LaGuardia Airport (1975)

** It’s the Radiotopia fundraiser! Support the show using this link and you’ll get a 20% discount to our new... more

28 Dec 2023 · 19 minutes
The Assassination of Harry and Harriette Moore (1951)

** It’s the Radiotopia fundraiser! Support the show using this link and you’ll get a 20% discount to our new... more

26 Dec 2023 · 21 minutes
How Puzzles Explain WWII w/ A.J. Jacobs

** It’s the Radiotopia fundraiser! Support the show using this link and you’ll get a 20% discount to our new... more

24 Dec 2023 · 20 minutes
The First Crossword (1913) w/ A.J. Jacobs

** It’s the Radiotopia fundraiser! Support the show using this link and you’ll get a 20% discount to our new... more

21 Dec 2023 · 21 minutes
Poor Richard's Almanack (1732)

** It’s the Radiotopia fundraiser! Support the show using this link and you’ll get a 20% discount to our new... more

19 Dec 2023 · 18 minutes
When Flying Got Miserable (1978) w/ Ganesh Sitaraman

** It’s the Radiotopia fundraiser! Support the show using this link and you’ll get a 20% discount to our new... more

17 Dec 2023 · 26 minutes
Alaskan Natives Embrace Capitalism (1971)

** It’s the Radiotopia fundraiser! Support the show using this link and you’ll get a 20% discount to our new... more

14 Dec 2023 · 18 minutes
The Garment Strikes Before Triangle Shirtwaist (1909)

** It’s the Radiotopia fundraiser! Support the show using this link and you’ll get a 20% discount to our new... more

12 Dec 2023 · 19 minutes
Louis Riel Needs Grant's Help (1875)

** It’s the Radiotopia fundraiser! Support the show using this link and you’ll get a 20% discount to our new... more

10 Dec 2023 · 25 minutes
Lā Kū'oko'a aka Hawaiian Independence Day (1843)

** It’s the Radiotopia fundraiser! Support the show using this link and you’ll get a 20% discount to our new... more

07 Dec 2023 · 15 minutes
Du Bois Joins The Communist Party (1961)

** It’s the Radiotopia fundraiser! Support the show using this link and you’ll get a 20% discount to our new... more

05 Dec 2023 · 14 minutes
The First Phone In The White House (1878)

** It’s the Radiotopia fundraiser! Support the show using this link and you’ll get a 20% discount to our new... more

03 Dec 2023 · 17 minutes
The Alcatraz Occupation (1969) w/ Julian Brave Noisecat [[Archive Episode]]

** It’s the Radiotopia fundraiser! Support the show using this link and you’ll get a 20% discount to our new... more

30 Nov 2023 · 19 minutes
The Hopis On Alcatraz (1894)

** It’s the Radiotopia fundraiser! Support the show using this link and you’ll get a 20% discount to our new... more

28 Nov 2023 · 16 minutes
A Thanksgiving Potluck!

** It’s the Radiotopia fundraiser! Support the show using this link and you’ll get a 20% discount to our new... more

22 Nov 2023 · 42 minutes
JFK Almost Assassinated (1960) [Revisited]

** It’s the Radiotopia fundraiser! Support the show using this link and you’ll get a 20% discount to our new... more

21 Nov 2023 · 14 minutes
Joe Hill's Last Will (1915)

** It’s the Radiotopia fundraiser! Support the show using this link and you’ll get a 20% discount to our new... more

19 Nov 2023 · 25 minutes
Pence Gets Booed At "Hamilton" (2016)

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16 Nov 2023 · 21 minutes
Henry Ford Contests An Election (1918)

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14 Nov 2023 · 20 minutes
The Exploding Whale (1970)

** It’s the Radiotopia fundraiser! Support the show using this link and you’ll get a 20% discount to our new... more

12 Nov 2023 · 20 minutes
"The Demon of Andersonville" Executed for War Crimes (1865)

** It’s the Radiotopia fundraiser! Support the show using this link and you’ll get a 20% discount to our new... more

09 Nov 2023 · 17 minutes
An Explosion Rocks The Capitol (1983)

It’s November 7th. This day in 1983, a bomb placed under a bench on the second floor of the Capitol... more

07 Nov 2023 · 16 minutes
Elected While In A Coma (1980)

It’s November 5th. This day in 1980, voters in the Maryland 5th Congressional District have just re-elected Gladys Noon Spellman... more

05 Nov 2023 · 12 minutes
The Unmarked Grave (2019) w/ Joe Richman

It’s November 2nd. This day in 2019, New York City began a process of opening up Hart Island to the... more

02 Nov 2023 · 21 minutes
The Americans Fighting In Spain (1938) w/ Adam Hochschild

It’s October 31st. This day in 1938, hundreds of thousands gather in Barcelona, Spain, to say thanks and bid farewell... more

31 Oct 2023 · 27 minutes
The Donora Killer Smog (1948)

It’s October 29th. This day in 1948, a heavy, pollutant-laden fog is sitting over the Pennsylvania town of Donora. Over... more

29 Oct 2023 · 14 minutes
NOW is Next (1966)

It’s October 25th. This day in 1966, a group gathers for the first conference of the National Organization for Women,... more

26 Oct 2023 · 16 minutes
Colin + Obama (2008) w/ Leah Wright Rigueur

It’s October 24th. This day in 2008, former secretary of state Colin Powell goes on Meet the Press and endorses... more

24 Oct 2023 · 24 minutes
"The Jazz Singer" and Hollywood Empire (1927) w/ Walt Hickey

It’s October 22nd. This day in 1927, Americans are flocking to the theaters to watch “The Jazz Singer,” the first... more

22 Oct 2023 · 27 minutes
Trump Shows Up In New Hampshire (1987) w/ Robert Fleegler

It’s October 19th. This day in 1987, real estate mogul Donald Trump was invited to New Hampshire to give a... more

19 Oct 2023 · 23 minutes
Carter Restores Jefferson Davis's Citizenship (1978)

It’s October 17th. This day in 1978, President Jimmy Carter signed a resolution that passed Congress to restore the citizenship... more

17 Oct 2023 · 17 minutes
"Operation Clark County" Totally Backfires (2004)

It’s October 15th. This day in 2004, voters in the swing region of Clark County, Ohio are receiving letters encouraging... more

15 Oct 2023 · 18 minutes
The Real Free State of Jones (1863)

It’s October 12th. This day in 1863, fighting is breaking out in Jones County, Mississippi, as a group of southern... more

12 Oct 2023 · 13 minutes
The Scrub Bull Trials (1919)

It’s October 9th. In 1919, the US Department of Agriculture began a nationwide campaign to promote better breeding among livestock... more

10 Oct 2023 · 19 minutes
The Poisoned Tylenol Panic (1982)

It’s October 5th. This day in 1982, a massive recall is underway for Tylenol, in the wake of a series... more

08 Oct 2023 · 20 minutes
Italy Invades Ethiopia, World Freaks Out (1935) w/ Isaac-Davy Aronson

It’s October 3rd. This day in 1935, Italian leader Benito Mussolini invades Ethiopia, one of the only independent Black states... more

05 Oct 2023 · 24 minutes
The Hiroshima Maidens (1955) w/ Josh Levin

It’s October 3rd. This day in 1956, a group of 25 Japanese women are heading back to Japan after spending... more

03 Oct 2023 · 26 minutes
Yeltsin Refuses To Leave The Plane (1994)

It’s October 1st. In 1994, Russian President Boris Yeltsin is set to stop off for a diplomatic visit in Ireland.... more

01 Oct 2023 · 14 minutes
"Actually, You Forgot Poland" (2004)

It’s September 30th. This day in 2004, George W. Bush and John Kerry take the stage for the first presidential... more

28 Sep 2023 · 17 minutes
Big Dig Energy (1983) w/ Ian Coss

It’s September 26th. This day in 1983, Massachusetts Senator Michael Dukakis held a press conference to announce an enormous and... more

26 Sep 2023 · 28 minutes
Stanislav Petrov Prevents Armageddon (1983)

It’s September 26th. This day in 1983, a lieutenant colonel in the Soviet Air Defense Forces determined that an alert... more

24 Sep 2023 · 20 minutes
'The West Wing' Premieres (1999) w/ Hrishikesh Hirway

It’s September 22nd. This day in 1999, Aaron Sorkin’s podcast “The West Wing” premiered on NBC. Jody, Niki, and Kellie are... more

21 Sep 2023 · 23 minutes
The First Anti-Amalgamation Law (1664)

It’s September 19th. This day, in 1664, Marlyand passed the first “anti-amalgamation” law in the colonies, outlawing the marriage between... more

19 Sep 2023 · 17 minutes
What YOU Learned On Your Summer Travels

A few episodes ago, we discussed what we’d learned on our summer travels, and asked for your stories. Today, we... more

17 Sep 2023 · 24 minutes
The Case For Capitalism (1970) w/ Noel King

It’s September 14th. This day in 1970, economist Milton Friedman pens an op-ed in The New York Times making the... more

14 Sep 2023 · 25 minutes
The Reagan's Prime-Time Drug Address (1986) w/ Donovan X Ramsey

It’s September 14th. This day in 1986, President Ronald Reagan and First Lady Nancy Reagan gave a prime-time television address... more

12 Sep 2023 · 22 minutes
The First Food Nutrition Labels (1971) w/ Xaq Frohlich

It’s September 8th. This day in 1971, a consumer advocate Esther Peterson worked with the supermarket chain GIANT to come... more

10 Sep 2023 · 20 minutes
Upton Sinclair's Epic Run For Governor (1933)

It’s September 7th. This day in 1933, journalist Upton Sinclair launches a campaign for California governor. Jody, Niki, and Kellie discuss... more

07 Sep 2023 · 16 minutes
What We Learned On Our Summer Travels

It’s the end of summer, and today we’re doing a special episode where we talk about some of the most... more

05 Sep 2023 · 32 minutes
Adam Mckay is Morris The Cat (1992) [[Archive Episode]]

As we wrap up summer, we’re bringing you some of our favorite episodes from the archives. We’ll see you after... more

31 Aug 2023 · 25 minutes
The Man Who Killed The Man Who Killed Lincoln (1894) [[Archive Episode]]

As we wrap up summer, we’re bringing you some of our favorite episodes from the archives. We’ll see you after... more

29 Aug 2023 · 17 minutes
Fred Korematsu's Internment (1942) [[Archive Episode]]

On Sundays this summer, we’re bringing you some of our favorite episodes from the archives. We’ll continue to do new... more

27 Aug 2023 · 17 minutes
Missouri's Early Emancipation Proclamation (1861)

It’s August 24th. This day in 1861, a Union general in Missouri issued an edict freeing all enslaved people in... more

24 Aug 2023 · 12 minutes
The Bridge To Nowhere (2005)

It’s August 22nd. In the summer of 2005, a proposed bridge in rural Alaska was becoming a hot-button controversy, as... more

22 Aug 2023 · 15 minutes
Nat Turner's Community (1831) w/ Vanessa Holden [[Archive Episode]]

On Sundays this summer, we’re bringing you some of our favorite episodes from the archives. We’ll continue to do new... more

20 Aug 2023 · 19 minutes
The Steam Tunnel Incident and the D&D Panic (1979)

It’s August 17th. This day in 1979, a young college student by the name of James Dallas Egber III disappeared... more

17 Aug 2023 · 20 minutes
The Smithsonian, Great Idea (1846)

It’s August 15th. This day (actually Aug 10th) in 1846, President Polk signed into law a bill establishing the Smithsonian... more

15 Aug 2023 · 21 minutes
"Macaca" (2006) w/ Peter Hamby [[Archive Episode]]

On Sundays this summer, we’re bringing you some of our favorite episodes from the archives. We’ll continue to do new... more

13 Aug 2023 · 26 minutes
Budd Trips Decker at the '84 Olympics (1984)

It’s August 10th. In 1984, at the LA Olympics, South African Zola Budd and American Mary Decker are facing off... more

10 Aug 2023 · 17 minutes
Clinton Finds Life On Mars (1996)

It’s August 8th. This day in 1996, President Bill Clinton gives a startling announcement about a rock — ALH84001 —... more

08 Aug 2023 · 19 minutes
The Roots of "Roots" (1976) [[Archive Episode]]

On Sundays this summer, we’re bringing you some of our favorite episodes from the archives. We’ll continue to do new... more

06 Aug 2023 · 16 minutes
Clean Up After Your Dog! (1978)

It’s August 3rd. This day in 1978, dog owners in NYC are dealing with a whole new reality — they... more

03 Aug 2023 · 18 minutes
The Subway Vigilante (1984) w/ Leon Neyfakh

It’s August 1st. This day in 1996, a judge ruled that Bernie Goetz still owed his victims millions of dollars... more

01 Aug 2023 · 30 minutes
The Irish-American Gun-Runners (1973) w/ Nate Lavey [[Archive Episode]]

On Sundays this summer, we’re bringing you some of our favorite episodes from the archives. We’ll continue to do new... more

30 Jul 2023 · 32 minutes
Thunderation! The Speaker Demands Bean Soup (1904)

It’s July 27th. This day in 1904, Speaker of the House Joseph Cannon (IL) goes to the Capitol dining room... more

27 Jul 2023 · 10 minutes
The Plot To Blow Up Hell Gate Bridge (1942) w/ Rebecca Seidel

It’s July 24th. This day in 1942, a trial is wrapping up in New York City centered on a Nazi... more

25 Jul 2023 · 22 minutes
The Beer Summit (2009) [[Archive Episode]]

On Sundays this summer, we’re bringing you some of our favorite episodes from the archives. We’ll continue to do new... more

23 Jul 2023 · 19 minutes
The Szilard Anti-Nuke Petition (1945)

It’s July 20th. This day in 1945, a petition signed by 70 scientists working on the development of nuclear weapons... more

20 Jul 2023 · 15 minutes
The Ft Ontario Holocaust Refugees (1944) w/ Sarah Botstein

It’s July 18th. This day in 1944, a group of almost one thousand refugees are headed to the United States,... more

18 Jul 2023 · 22 minutes
The Lost Robert E. Lee Oath Theory (1975) w/ John Reeves [[Archive Episode]]

On Sundays this summer, we’re bringing you some of our favorite episodes from the archives. We’ll continue to do new... more

16 Jul 2023 · 23 minutes
Hubert Humphrey Takes Center Stage (1948) w/ Samuel G Freedman

It’s July 13th. Only July 14th, 1948, at the Democratic National Convention, a young Hubert Humphrey took the stage and... more

13 Jul 2023 · 25 minutes
Skylab Crashes Back To Earth (1979)

It’s July 11th. This day in 1979, Americans and others around the world are watching the skies as the first... more

11 Jul 2023 · 14 minutes
Nativists vs Catholics in Philadelphia (1844) [[Archive Episode]]

On Sundays this summer, we’re bringing you some of our favorite episodes from the archives. We’ll continue to do new... more

09 Jul 2023 · 17 minutes
L'Enfant Maps Out DC (1791) w/ Scott W Berg

It’s July 6th. Today we revisit our conversation about how Washington DC came to be the nations capitol, with a... more

06 Jul 2023 · 28 minutes
Napalming Harvard's Soccer Field (1942)

It’s July 4th. This day in 1942, researchers at Harvard conducted the first ever napalm test — right in the... more

04 Jul 2023 · 15 minutes
The Great American Roadtrip (1956) w/ Eddie Alterman [[Archive Episode]]

On Sundays this summer, we’re bringing you some of our favorite episodes from the archives. We’ll continue to do new... more

02 Jul 2023 · 25 minutes
The Abortion Pill Protest (1992) w/ TJ Raphael

It’s July 1st. This day in 1992, two abortion rights activist traveled to the United States carrying abortion pills, in... more

29 Jun 2023 · 21 minutes
Readmitting Rebel States (1868)

It’s June 26th. In 1868, throughout the summer, there is a process underway to bring seven Southern US states back... more

27 Jun 2023 · 12 minutes
Flag Burning Is Free Speech (1989) w/ Michael Liroff

It’s June 21st. This day in 1989, the Supreme Court ruled that the burning of the American flag was allowed... more

25 Jun 2023 · 22 minutes
Superman vs KKK (1946)

It’s June 21st. This day in 1946, an epic battle is playing out across the radio waves, as The Adventures... more

22 Jun 2023 · 20 minutes
Nightwalking w/ Bianca Giaever

It’s June 20th. Tonight, it will be dark — and maybe you will go for a walk? Jody, NIki, and Kellie... more

20 Jun 2023 · 22 minutes
Lift Every Voice and Sing (1900)

It’s June 18th. Today, for Juneteenth, we look at the history of “Lift Every Voice and Sing,” aka the Black... more

18 Jun 2023 · 20 minutes
The Seligman Affair (1877) w/ Zev Eleff

It’s June 15th. This day in 1877, a prominent Jewish businessman by the name of Joseph Seligman is turned away... more

15 Jun 2023 · 26 minutes
The Challenger Disaster Final Report (1986)

It’s June 13th. This day in 1986, the Rogers Commission has issued a report and is conducting a series of... more

13 Jun 2023 · 15 minutes
Death On The Lot: Hattie McDaniel's Fight w/ Hadley Meares and Brian Steele

As it happens, the This Day team has a bunch of cool new projects coming out over the next week... more

11 Jun 2023 · 20 minutes
Death On The Lot: Hollywood's Wild Labor History w/ Brian Steele and Hadley Meares

As it happens, the This Day team has a bunch of cool new projects coming out over the next week... more

08 Jun 2023 · 30 minutes
The Obama Oral History Project Is Here

As it happens, the This Day team has a bunch of cool new projects coming out over the next week... more

06 Jun 2023 · 22 minutes
An Ode To The Obit w/ Don Van Natta and Jacob Feldman

As it happens, the This Day team has a bunch of cool new projects coming out over the next week... more

04 Jun 2023 · 22 minutes
You Get A Podcast!

As it happens, the This Day team has a bunch of cool new projects coming out over the next week... more

01 Jun 2023 · 27 minutes
Etan Patz And The Rise Of "Stranger Danger" (1979)

It’s May 30th. This day in 1979, a Manhattan 6-year-old by the name of Etan Patz goes missing on his... more

30 May 2023 · 19 minutes
Memorial Rerun: The Vietnam Memorial Controversy

It’s Memorial Day — today we’re bringing you an episode from the archives to mark the weekend. We’ll be back... more

28 May 2023 · 15 minutes
Addy, American Girl Doll (Part 2) w/ Aisha Harris

We’re doing a special two-part series on the American Girl Doll line of historical dolls! This is part two. Jody, Niki,... more

25 May 2023 · 24 minutes
American Girl Doll (Part 1) w/ Aisha Harris

We’re doing a special two-part series on the American Girl Doll line of historical dolls! Jody, Niki, and Kellie are joined... more

23 May 2023 · 24 minutes
William Burns, America's Sherlock Holmes (1934)

It’s May 21st. This day in 1934, William Burns resigns from the Bureau of Investigations in scandal, replaced by J... more

21 May 2023 · 16 minutes
The Bath School Bombing (1927)

It’s May 18th. This day in 1927, a man detonated bombs at a school in Bath, Michigan, killing dozens of... more

18 May 2023 · 15 minutes
Wounded Knee '73 (1973)

It’s May 16th. This day in 1973, a 70-day standoff at Wounded Knee on the Pine Ridge reservation comes to... more

16 May 2023 · 18 minutes
RFK's Fateful Meeting With Baldwin And Belafonte (1963) w/ Paul Kix

It’s the second of two episodes we’re doing with Paul Kix about the critical weeks in Birmingham, Alabama in May... more

14 May 2023 · 28 minutes
The Gaston Bombing in Birmingham (1963) w/ Paul Kix

It’s May 11th. This day in 1963, a series of bombs explode in Birmingham, Alabama — one at the hotel... more

11 May 2023 · 20 minutes
Biden Spoils Obama's Gay Marriage Evolution (2012) w/ Sasha Issenberg

It’s May 9th. This day in 2012, President Obama gives an interview in which he expresses his support for gay... more

09 May 2023 · 31 minutes
Clinton Boxers or Briefs (1994) w/ Kelsey and Alex from Normal Gossip

It’s May 7th. This day in 1994, during a town hall airing on MTV, President Bill Clinton is asked whether... more

07 May 2023 · 21 minutes
Anne Royall, Common Scold (1826) w/ Kelsey and Alex from Normal Gossip

We’re doing a couple episodes on moments of historical gossip with our new Radiotopia pals from the show Normal Gossip. Today,... more

04 May 2023 · 23 minutes
USS Jamestown Helps Ireland (1847)

It’s May 2nd. In 1847, a US military ship, the USS Jamestown, was loaded up with food and other relief... more

02 May 2023 · 12 minutes
The Caning of Michael Fay (1994)

It’s April 30th. This day in 1994, an 18-year-old American named Michael Fay is awaiting his punishment in Singapore for... more

30 Apr 2023 · 15 minutes
The Abu Ghraib Photos (2004)

It’s April 27th. In 2004, a report aired on 60 Minutes II featuring reports and photos of abuse by American... more

27 Apr 2023 · 24 minutes
Sybill's Midnight Ride (1777)

It’s April 25th. In 1777, a 16-year-old by the name of Sybil Luddington went on a 40-mile nighttime ride to... more

25 Apr 2023 · 15 minutes
Recent Favorite: Colored Conventions (1830)

We’re re-running some favorite recent episodes this week, and will be back with brand new episodes very soon! It’s December 4th.... more

23 Apr 2023 · 15 minutes
Recent Favorite: Franklin in France (1776) w/ Mike Duncan

We’re re-running some favorite recent episodes this week, and will be back with brand new episodes very soon! It’s October 4th.... more

20 Apr 2023 · 33 minutes
Recent Favorite: JFK Almost Assassinated (1960)

We’re re-running some favorite recent episodes this week, and will be back with brand new episodes very soon! It’s December 15th.... more

18 Apr 2023 · 12 minutes
DC, Not A Swamp (1810)

It’s April 13th. This day 1810, a new canal is being built in Washington, DC in an attempt to give... more

13 Apr 2023 · 18 minutes
Reverse Freedom Rides (1962)

It’s April 11th. This day in 1962, ads are appearing in Louisiana newspapers offering one-way bus rides to northern cities... more

11 Apr 2023 · 16 minutes
Rosewood Reparations (1994)

It’s April 8th. This day in 1994, the Florida legislature passed a bill that would offer some reparations and support... more

09 Apr 2023 · 18 minutes
The Tank Fire-Nado (1926)

It’s April 6th. This day in 1926, a massive oil fire near San Luis Obispo, California is enveloping the area... more

06 Apr 2023 · 13 minutes
Mecham: Worst Governor Ever? (1990)

It’s April 3rd. This day in 1990, the Arizona Senate votes to remove Governor Evan Mecham from office — for... more

04 Apr 2023 · 18 minutes
The Hippo Meat Plan (1910) w/ Dan Pashman

It’s April 2nd. This day in 1910, a Louisiana senator proposes allocating a quarter of a million dollars to import... more

02 Apr 2023 · 26 minutes
The Oyster Wars (1959) w/ Christine Keiner

It’s March 20th. This day in 1959, a skirmish between the fisheries police and an oyster boat results in the... more

30 Mar 2023 · 19 minutes
H1N1 Reaches America (2009) w/ James Hamblin

It’s March 27th. This day in 2009, the US is responding to the outbreak of the H1N1 flu, which would... more

28 Mar 2023 · 24 minutes
This Day in Esoteric Political History
Recent Favorite: JFK Almost Assassinated (1960)
This Day in Esoteric Political History
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Description

We’re re-running some favorite recent episodes this week, and will be back with brand new episodes very soon! It’s December 15th. In 1960,... more