Last Podcast On The Left Episode 627: The Great Molasses Flood of 1919 Part I - Killer Condiments
Jul 18, 2025
Dive into the bizarre world of the Great Molasses Flood of 1919, where a burst tank unleashed a sticky tsunami of chaos in Boston. The humor contrasts the sweetness of molasses with the grim realities of this tragic event, uncovering its surprising historical significance. Hear about the absurd mismanagement leading to disaster and the colorful anecdotes that highlight industrial corruption. The narrative also touches on the darker side of molasses's role in trade and reflects on the quirky intersections of history and modern entrepreneurship.
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Great Molasses Flood Overview
- The Great Molasses Flood was a deadly industrial disaster in Boston in 1919 involving a massive molasses tank collapse.
- It killed 21 people and injured 150, showing the destructive power of a large volume of molasses.
Molasses' Historic Economic Role
- Molasses was crucial historically, fueling the triangle trade linked to slavery and American independence.
- Its economic role contributed to shaping slavery in the South and the birth of America.
Molasses and Industrial Alcohol
- By the early 20th century, molasses became key to industrial alcohol for munitions, centered in Boston.
- This industrial role eventually led to the tragic molasses tank disaster in Boston's North End.
