
This Day
“This Day” takes you beyond the head-spinning headlines of today and into the unexpected historical moments that have shaped American politics. Hosted by Jody Avirgan (538), and historians Nicole Hemmer (Vanderbilt), and Kellie Carter Jackson (Wellesley), each episode explores a moment from that day in U.S. political history to uncover its lasting impact. On Sunday episodes, Jody, Niki and Kellie react to current news with their usual mix of humor, analysis, and historical perspective.New episodes released Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays. Lots more on our Instagram page, YouTube, and newsletter. Find it all at thisdaypod.com.This Day is a proud member of the Radiotopia podcast network from PRX.
Latest episodes

Jun 11, 2024 • 25min
Coretta Scott Weds Martin Luther King (1953)
Coretta Scott and Martin Luther King Jr.'s marriage, their relationship beginnings, Scott's compromises, and her evolving legacy are discussed. The dynamics of their iconic marriage, Coretta's activism in the civil rights movement, and the challenges she faced in balancing personal aspirations with societal expectations are explored.

Jun 9, 2024 • 22min
The Sad Saga of the Late Lester Hunt (1953)
The podcast covers the tragic events surrounding Lester Hunt's arrest in a 1953 anti-LGBT sting, delving into political blackmail, family tragedy, and the Lavender Scare. Hunt's resignation under pressure from McCarthy, his subsequent suicide, and the aftermath leading to McCarthy's censure are discussed in detail.

Jun 6, 2024 • 26min
We Refuse Week: Joy In Refusal, From Black Panther to The Boat Brawl
Guest Kellie Carter Jackson, author of 'We Refuse,' discusses the power of joy in black resistance, delegitimizing white supremacy through humor, and wrapping up 'We Refuse Week' with merchandise and a reality dating podcast with a unique twist.

Jun 4, 2024 • 18min
We Refuse Week: Carrie Johnson Kills A Police Officer
Carrie Johnson, from 'We Refuse' by Kellie Carter Jackson, defended her home in 1919 resulting in the death of a police officer. The podcast explores black resistance history, power dynamics, and the connection between resistance and joy in modern times.

Jun 2, 2024 • 22min
We Refuse Week: Kellie's Family History of Resistance
Author Kellie Carter Jackson discusses black resistance throughout history, highlighting revolution, protection, force, flight, and joy. Personal anecdotes reveal family histories of activism, such as a great grandmother's defiance in rural Alabama. The hosts also share excitement over Kellie's new book release and upcoming episodes.

May 30, 2024 • 19min
How Many Presidents? (1787) w/ A.J. Jacobs
It's May 7th. This day in 1787, the writers of the constitution are debating a central question -- how many presidents should the United States have?Jody, Niki, and Kellie are joined by author A.J. Jacobs, whose new book "The Year of Living Constitutionally" dives into the weird world of our founding document. They discuss why the founders were concerned with the imperial presidency, and how the system we have was finally agreed on.AJ's new book is out now! And be sure to check out The Puzzler too!This 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
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May 28, 2024 • 20min
The Incident That Led Ida B. Wells To Flee Memphis (1892)
Discuss the attack on Ida B. Wells's office in Memphis in 1892, her journalism on lynching threatening white supremacy, leading her to flee to Chicago. Explore her activism post-Memphis, with awards and a Chicago street in her honor. Also, learn about a plaque in Memphis from 1892, the formation of the Sierra Club, and sending primates into space.

May 26, 2024 • 19min
War Stories: A Confederate Day of Fasting and Prayer (1863)
Jefferson Davis declared a day of fasting and prayer to support the Confederate cause in the Civil War, exploring the religious and war dynamics in the North and South. The significance of fasting, prayer, and food shortages in maintaining morale. The complex relationship between religion, slavery, and the Civil War era. Enslaved individuals supporting Union soldiers and seeking justice. A brief overview of business management software and a reality dating podcast promotion.

May 23, 2024 • 18min
War Stories: The Port Chicago Mutiny (1944)
Explore the Port Chicago Mutiny of 1944, where sailors faced mutiny charges for refusing to work in unsafe conditions after a deadly explosion. Learn about the mistreatment of Black sailors, the impact of the explosion, and the lack of recognition for those involved

May 21, 2024 • 20min
War Stories: Camp Casey (2005)
In the runup to Memorial Day, we're bringing you some stories from the archives about war and the cost of war. We'll be back with new episodes next week!It’s September 2nd. This day in 2005, Cindy Sheehan embarks on a tour around the country to protest the Iraq War, where her son Casey had died the prior year.Jody, Niki, and Kellie discuss Sheehan’s protests, the “Camp Casey” encampment she established outside of George W. Bush’s Texas ranch, and how public opinion around a number of issues was starting to shift in late 2005.Sign up for our newsletter! Get your hands on This Day merch!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. 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 RadiotopiaThis Day In Esoteric Political History is produced by Jody Avirgan’s Roulette Productions.
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