

A pig was shot dead in 1859. It sparked a British-U.S. war
May 15, 2025
Matthew Lazen-Rider, the producer, revisits the Pig War site, delving into its unexpected cultural impact. Historian Gordon Lyle uncovers the intricacies of historical storytelling surrounding this bizarre conflict. Professor Scott Mogelson draws parallels between the absurdity of a war over a pig and broader narratives of conflict. Wusenich elder Jim Elliott shares the Coast Salish perspective, offering depth and reflection on indigenous experiences. Together, they explore the importance of diplomacy, humor, and the stories that shape our understanding of history.
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
Intro
00:00 • 2min
Unpacking the Pig War
02:21 • 5min
The Pig War: A Tension Over a Pig
06:52 • 14min
Reflections on War and Peaceful Conflict Resolution
21:12 • 3min
The Prolonged Conflict Over a Pig
24:08 • 2min
The Pig War: A Historical Oddity
26:30 • 14min
The Intersection of History, Narrative, and Morality
40:49 • 2min
Revisiting the Pig War: Narratives of Nostalgia and Inclusion
42:25 • 13min