The Past and The Curious: A History Podcast for Kids and Families Episode 32: Strange Things
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May 16, 2019 Explore strange and unusual historical events like the Boston Molasses Disaster and the Kentucky Meat Shower of 1876. Hear captivating stories narrated by special guest Eric from What If World and learn about safety regulations, unexpected consequences, and future collaborations. Dive into the intriguing mysteries of meat falling from the sky and the aftermath of these bizarre incidents.
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Origin and Design of Exit Signs
- Exit signs were not always present; they resulted from tragic factory fires in America.
- American "EXIT" signs in red can confuse non-English speakers, unlike international green running man signs.
Boston Molasses Disaster
- In Boston 1919, a giant molasses tank holding 2.3 million gallons burst, causing a deadly flood.
- Despite warning signs and leaks, the company ignored risks leading to massive destruction and loss of life.
Impact of Molasses Flood
- The molasses flood clean-up took months and left a lasting sweet smell for decades.
- This disaster led to the first class action lawsuit in the US, holding companies accountable for public safety.