This Day

Dive into the fascinating world of the Fugio cent, America’s first one-cent coin, designed by none other than Ben Franklin. Discover why the minting of the penny has come to an end and how rising production costs played a role. Uncover the symbols etched into the coin, from a sundial to Franklin's 'Mind Your Business' motto. Hear about the early struggles of minting and the chaos surrounding contracts that led to corruption. This rich history highlights the importance of stable currency in shaping a young nation.

Dive into the groundbreaking premiere of a beloved children's show that changed television forever. Discover the original Muppets and classic songs like 'Rubber Ducky.' Hear about the cultural impact and awards that made it a phenomenon. Discussions include early controversies around representation and the show's evolution to address diversity. Relive favorite moments, from iconic guest appearances to the show's nostalgic 70s aesthetic. Finally, explore how it addresses modern topics while ensuring every child feels seen.

On November 10, 1969, a revolutionary children's show made its debut, sparking discussions about its cultural significance. The hosts explore the visionaries behind the creation, highlighting Joan Ganz Cooney and her collaborators. They examine the shift in television’s role, aiming to educate rather than entertain. Deliberate urban settings and groundbreaking respect for children's intelligence were key themes. The journey includes insights into the Muppets' engaging format and the thoughtful naming process, paving the way for a lasting legacy.

On November 6, 1868, Martha Hughes Cannon made history as the first female state senator in the U.S., defeating her husband in Utah. The hosts dive into her impressive journey from medicine to politics, illuminating the role of polygamy in Utah's politics and how it shaped women's rights. Cannon's activism and connections with suffragists like Susan B. Anthony are highlighted, along with her groundbreaking legislative efforts. Despite her significant accomplishments, the podcast explores why her legacy has faded over time.

Explore the fascinating rise of Milwaukee's 'sewer socialists' in the early 20th century, focusing on their impact on city services and public health. Discover how immigrant influences and labor unrest shaped a socialist stronghold. The hosts analyze Daniel Hoan's legacy of anti-KKK efforts and community projects, while drawing parallels to modern candidates like Zohran Mamdani. The discussion highlights the resurgence of socialist ideas in today's political landscape amid rising inequality and changing urban coalitions.

On this day in 1982, the first Honda Accord produced by American workers rolled off the assembly line. Explore the rise of Japanese auto manufacturing in the U.S. during the 70s and how fuel efficiency made these cars popular. The discussion dives into Reagan's struggle between free trade and protecting jobs, leading to Japan's voluntary export restrictions. The Marysville plant not only transformed local economies but marked a symbolic shift in American auto production. Discover the cultural fusion and identity debates that emerged from foreign factories in small towns.

It's October 28th. This day in 1964, the presidential election is in the home stretch, with candidates like Lyndon B Johnson, Barry Goldwater -- and Dizzy Gillespie?Jody, NIki, and Kellie discuss the only-half-joking candidacy of the legendary jazz trumpeter, and the intersection of entertainment and politics in that era. Plus: the power of great merch.Sign up for our America250 Watch newsletter, where you'll also get links and lots more historical tidbits.https://thisdaypod.substack.com/Find out more about the show at thisdaypod.comThis Day In Esoteric Political History is a proud member of Radiotopia from PRX.Your support helps foster independent, artist-owned podcasts and award-winning stories.If you want to support the show directly, you can do so on our website: ThisDayPod.comGet in touch if you have any ideas for future topics, or just want to say hello. Follow us on social @thisdaypodOur team: Jacob Feldman, Researcher/Producer; Brittani Brown, Producer; Khawla Nakua, Transcripts; music by Teen Daze and Blue Dot Sessions; Audrey Mardavich is our Executive Producer at Radiotopia Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

This Sunday, we are convening a teach-in in Washington DC with our friend Nate DiMeo of The Memory Palace. Here is Nate's latest episode, where he discusses the path to this event and the need to defend the work of history and museums.Find out more information about the teach in here.Sign up for our America250 Watch newsletter, where you'll also get links and lots more historical tidbits.https://thisdaypod.substack.com/Find out more about the show at thisdaypod.comThis Day In Esoteric Political History is a proud member of Radiotopia from PRX.Your support helps foster independent, artist-owned podcasts and award-winning stories.If you want to support the show directly, you can do so on our website: ThisDayPod.comGet in touch if you have any ideas for future topics, or just want to say hello. Follow us on social @thisdaypodOur team: Jacob Feldman, Researcher/Producer; Brittani Brown, Producer; Khawla Nakua, Transcripts; music by Teen Daze and Blue Dot Sessions; Audrey Mardavich is our Executive Producer at Radiotopia Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

It's October 22nd. This day in 1999, in Annapolis, MD, the last of the so-called "Liberty Trees" was cut down.Jody, Niki, and Kellie discuss the original liberty trees that served as gathering spots for political ideas to be shared -- and political violence to play out -- during the American revolution. And they make the case for bringing back gatherings-under-trees as a political act.Sign up for our America250 Watch newsletter, where you'll also get links and lots more historical tidbits.https://thisdaypod.substack.com/Find out more about the show at thisdaypod.comThis Day In Esoteric Political History is a proud member of Radiotopia from PRX.Your support helps foster independent, artist-owned podcasts and award-winning stories.If you want to support the show directly, you can do so on our website: ThisDayPod.comGet in touch if you have any ideas for future topics, or just want to say hello. Follow us on social @thisdaypodOur team: Jacob Feldman, Researcher/Producer; Brittani Brown, Producer; Khawla Nakua, Transcripts; music by Teen Daze and Blue Dot Sessions; Audrey Mardavich is our Executive Producer at Radiotopia Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

It's October 21st. This day in 1982, residents of Warren County, NC are fighting back against plans to dump tons of PCB-laden dirt in their local landfill.Jody, NIki, and Kellie discuss how Warren County came to be a target of this environmental disaster, how residents banded together, and the legacy of "environmental racism."Sign up for our America250 Watch newsletter, where you'll also get links and lots more historical tidbits.https://thisdaypod.substack.com/Find out more about the show at thisdaypod.comThis Day In Esoteric Political History is a proud member of Radiotopia from PRX.Your support helps foster independent, artist-owned podcasts and award-winning stories.If you want to support the show directly, you can do so on our website: ThisDayPod.comGet in touch if you have any ideas for future topics, or just want to say hello. Follow us on social @thisdaypodOur team: Jacob Feldman, Researcher/Producer; Brittani Brown, Producer; Khawla Nakua, Transcripts; music by Teen Daze and Blue Dot Sessions; Audrey Mardavich is our Executive Producer at Radiotopia Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices