Writer Cody Cassidy discusses his new book on surviving historical disasters, including the black death, Pompeii's eruption, and the Titanic sinking. He also explores the advantages of being on a pirate ship, the causes of ice ages, ancient hunting techniques for mammoths, and the theory of early cultures eating oysters.
During the Black Death in 1348, staying in the city but avoiding rat-infested areas was the best option for survival, as fleeing to rural areas put individuals at a higher risk of getting bitten by fleas.
During the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD, running towards the volcano and past it, within a five-hour window, increased the chances of survival in Pompeii.
Deep dives
Surviving the Black Death in London
During the Black Death in 1348, people in London faced a devastating plague with limited knowledge on how to protect themselves. The disease was primarily transmitted by fleas, which traveled on rats. Contrary to common belief, fleeing to rural areas would have put individuals at a higher risk of getting bitten by fleas desperate for new hosts. Staying in the city, but avoiding rat-infested areas, was the best option. Strategies like wearing long pants and sleeves, tucking pant legs and socks, and bathing frequently to remove fleas were suggested. Additionally, it was advised not to have cats or rat traps, as dead rats attract hungry fleas. The misconception about the spread of the plague led to poor decisions, such as avoiding exercise and bathing, which only made matters worse.
Surviving the Eruption of Mount Vesuvius in Pompeii
During the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD, surprisingly, some people did survive in Pompeii. Initially, the volcano released ash like falling snow, which gave individuals a false sense of safety. Some took cover, but this turned out to be a mistake. When the volcano's activity intensified, a pyroclastic surge moved through Pompeii, traveling at high speeds and suffocating those in its path. However, by running towards the volcano and then past it, individuals had a chance to escape. The wind direction at the time favored this strategy. If they could make it about 13 miles to Naples within the five-hour window before the deadliest phases of the eruption, they had a higher chance of survival.
Surviving the Titanic Disaster
On the ill-fated Titanic, knowing how to access life rafts was crucial for survival. Unfortunately, the crew did not provide clear instructions on finding the lifeboats, which was a significant oversight. Passengers were left to fend for themselves, but some specific strategies could have increased their chances. Familiarizing oneself with escape ladders and knowing how to navigate the ship could lead to finding alternative escape routes. During the disaster, dressing in formal attire was unexpectedly advantageous, as the lifeboats were primarily located on the first-class deck. Acting the part of an aristocrat improved the likelihood of securing a seat. Gender also played a role, as women and children were given priority on lifeboats. If all else failed, swimming to the lifeboats within a limited timeframe was a risky but possible option, covering a distance of 500 yards.
This week we talk to writer Cody Cassidy about his new book How to Survive History: How to Outrun a Tyrannosaurus, Escape Pompeii, Get Off the Titanic, and Survive the Rest of History's Deadliest Catastrophes.
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