History on Fire

Listen Now: American History Tellers | The Mayflower

Nov 10, 2025
Discover the gripping tale of the Mayflower voyage and the dramatic decisions faced by the crew amid crisis. Delve into the untold stories of the pilgrims and their crucial alliance with the Wampanoag. Uncover how these pivotal events shaped the early days of America and resonate with us today. It's a captivating blend of historical drama and insightful commentary that shines a light on our nation's past.
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ANECDOTE

Perilous Mayflower Voyage

  • In October 1620 the Mayflower carried 102 people who risked everything to start anew in North America.
  • The voyage faced storms, a cracked main beam, sickness, delays, and desperate crew decisions that threatened to abort the trip.
INSIGHT

Myth Versus Harsh Reality

  • The familiar Thanksgiving myth masks a deeper history of alliance followed by conflict and violence against Indigenous people.
  • The show's season promises to explore both survival cooperation and subsequent betrayal in greater depth.
ANECDOTE

Captain's Night In A Storm

  • A narrated scene places you as the Mayflower's captain during a violent October 1620 storm, revealing the crew's tension over returning or continuing.
  • The captain reluctantly agrees to attempt mending a cracked beam under crew pressure, foreshadowing continued struggles.
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