Lore Legends 34: All American
Aug 19, 2024
Discover the captivating world of American folklore where legends like Johnny Appleseed and Paul Bunyan come to life. Dive into the powerful tale of John Henry, a symbol of resilience against mechanization, embodying the struggles of African American men after the Civil War. The podcast also examines the intriguing interplay of folklore and myth, featuring eerie stories like the Dullahan from Irish legend. Uncover the darker sides of these beloved tales and ponder their origins in the fabric of culture.
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The Real Johnny Appleseed
- John Chapman (Johnny Appleseed) was a real man who planted orchards across the frontier and legally acquired land by meeting settlement requirements.
- He planted bitter cider apples, preached Swedenborgian beliefs, and owned over 1,200 acres at his death in 1845.
Paul Bunyan As Compiled Folklore
- Paul Bunyan stories likely grew from many lumberjack tall tales and regional figures rather than one historical giant.
- Commercial authors and folklorists later stitched these tales into the single larger-than-life Paul Bunyan legend.
The Legend Of John Henry
- John Henry appears in multiple regional versions as a steel-driving laborer who raced a steam drill and died after winning.
- His tale symbolizes the post-Civil War Black labor experience and the human cost of mechanization.