This Day

Garrett Graff, a historian and journalist, discusses the transformative moment when Wikipedia became a nonprofit. He explains how this decision shaped the site’s growth and community-driven success against giants like Encarta and Britannica. The conversation delves into the challenges of academic skepticism towards Wikipedia, the influence of algorithms on information consumption, and how online radicalization took root. Lastly, Graff introduces his new series focusing on the internet's evolution and the looming threats posed by AI to trust in information.

Explore the bold move of a Tucson church declaring sanctuary for immigrants in 1980, defying U.S. law. Unpack the roots of the church sanctuary movement, driven by U.S.-backed conflicts in Central America. Discover how liberation theology connected faith communities and prompted moral action. Delve into the convictions of leaders like Reverend John Fife amid growing federal scrutiny. Reflect on the resilience of the movement and its lasting impact on religious progressivism and human rights.

Explore the cultural impact of the 1976 classic 'I'm Just A Bill' from Schoolhouse Rock. Delve into its origins, revealing how FCC pressure and Nixon-era politics spurred educational TV. The hosts discuss the song's catchy jazz roots and its real-world inspiration linked to school bus safety. They debate the relevance of the legislative process today, amidst today's polarization and bureaucratic gridlock, all while reminiscing about the importance of civic education in a rapidly changing media landscape.

In a quirky retrospective, the hosts dive into Starbucks' short-lived 'Race Together' campaign from 2015, contextualizing it against the backdrop of the Obama era. They discuss the failures of the initiative, including untrained baristas and a meme backlash that mocked the effort. The conversation highlights the romantic notion of coffee shops as civic spaces versus the harsh realities of corporate practices. Finally, they reflect on the irony of corporate DEI initiatives often falling short of meaningful economic change, revealing the limits of corporate goodwill.

On December 17, 1947, a film trade war erupts between the US and UK, highlighting the cultural clash post-WWII. The hosts explore Britain's efforts to protect its faltering film industry from American dominance while assessing the economic pressures of the time. Hollywood’s influence as a diplomatic tool is examined, particularly through boycotts and agreements. The conversation also touches on the resurgence of British cinema and its challenges against an ever-powerful Hollywood, including modern parallels in today’s film globalization.

It's December 15th. This winter, 1971, the first season of "All In The Family" is coming to a close, and it's already the biggest show in America. It's a total sensation, in part because of its willingness to dive into the cultural and political battles of the age.Jody, Niki, and Kellie are joined by Oscar Winberg to discuss the way All In The Family captured a fractured country, and in particular how the character of Archie Bunker became a powerful avatar -- for viewers who admired and hated him alike.Oscar's new book is "Archie Bunker for President: How One TV Show Remade American Politics" -- it's out now!Sign up for our newsletter! We’ll be sending out links to all the stuff we recommended later this week.Find out more 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. Our website is thisdaypod.com 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

Marion Orr, a political scientist and author, delves into the life of Charles C. Diggs Jr., a trailblazing congressman known for his staunch fight against apartheid. Orr discusses Diggs's strategic coalition-building in Congress and his significant role in founding the Congressional Black Caucus. The conversation highlights his moral stance, shaped by civil rights experience, and his effective pressure tactics alongside advocacy groups. Unfortunately, his legacy is marred by a corruption scandal, prompting reflections on whether a figure like Diggs could thrive in today's political climate.

On December 8, 1952, Christine Jorgensen made headlines as the first transgender celebrity. The discussion delves into her transformative journey, from early discomfort in the Bronx to pioneering surgeries in Denmark. Hosts explore the public's curious acceptance during the 1950s and Jorgensen's captivating nightclub performances. They also highlight her advocacy efforts, struggles with legal barriers, and lasting influence on LGBTQ history. Jorgensen's story is a fascinating reflection of changing cultural and sexual norms.

This discussion dives into the captivating journey of the polio vaccine trials in 1954, highlighting Jonas Salk's groundbreaking work. The hosts reveal the high stakes and dangers surrounding early vaccine research, including the impact of race and the infamous Cutter incident that shook public trust. They also explore the political implications of vaccine rollout, addressing issues of inequality and privatization. Ultimately, they celebrate the vaccine's miraculous success while emphasizing the importance of continued vaccination efforts amidst resurgent skepticism.

Dive into the roots of vaccine skepticism in America, starting with early legal battles from the 1860s to the rise of cultural opposition in the early 20th century. Discover the formation of the Anti-Vaccination League and how provocative pamphlets outshined scientific messaging. Personal stories, such as the tragedy of Lewis Loyster, reveal the deep connections between activism and community identity. Explore how historical narratives intertwine with contemporary anti-vax arguments, reflecting broader societal debates on medical liberty and state power.