This Day
Jody Avirgan & Radiotopia
“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.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Aug 12, 2025 • 28min
Trump On Charlottesville: "Very Fine People" (2017) [Archive Favorite]
This discussion delves into the events surrounding the Unite the Right rally in Charlottesville, examining the extreme ideologies that fueled the violence. It offers insights into Trump's controversial claims about 'very fine people' and the challenges leaders face in condemning hate groups. The conversation critiques the manipulation of language in political discourse and explores the historical implications of Trump's remarks on societal views. Listeners will gain a deeper understanding of how language impacts public perception and the responsibilities of political communication.
Aug 10, 2025 • 16min
The Night Thoreau Spent in Jail (1846) [Archive Favorite]
On August 13, 1846, Henry David Thoreau spent a night in jail for refusing to pay a poll tax, showcasing his defiance against taxation. The discussion dives into how this incident shaped his philosophical views on civil disobedience and environmentalism. Thoreau's privileged background contrasts sharply with his moral advocacy for abolitionism, raising ethical questions about social privilege. The episode also connects his ideas to the broader spirit of resistance against injustice, making for a compelling exploration of his legacy.
4 snips
Aug 7, 2025 • 33min
Hiroshima, Nagasaki, and The Brutal Calculus of WWII (1945) w/ Garrett Graff
Garrett Graff, a historian and author known for his works on D-Day and 9/11, dives deep into the harrowing events of Hiroshima and Nagasaki. He discusses the moral dilemmas faced by scientists involved in the atomic bomb's creation, and the complexities of President Truman's decision to use it. The need to remember the perspectives of WWII veterans is emphasized, highlighting how their firsthand accounts shape our understanding of history. Graff also stresses the importance of preserving these memories for future generations to learn from.
Aug 5, 2025 • 19min
WWII Internment: Latin Americans in Texas (1944)
Dive into the little-known history of Latin Americans interned in Texas during World War II. Discover the complexities of identity and legal limbo faced by individuals of Japanese, German, and Italian descent. Explore the harsh realities of life inside internment camps like Crystal City, filled with surveillance and struggles. Learn how these historical injustices continue to resonate today amidst ongoing challenges in immigration and xenophobia. Uncover why this significant chapter in history has been largely forgotten.
Aug 4, 2025 • 16min
Texas Dems Flee To Stop Redistricting (Some Context) w/ Harry Enten
Texas Democrats made headlines by fleeing the state to block a controversial GOP redistricting plan. This act of defiance harkens back to a similar dramatic escape from 2003. The podcast dives into the historical significance of gerrymandering in the South, illustrating political battles in Texas and Georgia. With anecdotes and insights, it uncovers the peculiarities of Texas politics and the evolving norms in legislative tactics, showcasing how such strategies influence party dominance and election outcomes.
Jul 31, 2025 • 25min
Weird, Controversial, and Fake Historical Markers (Part 2)
Dive into the quirky world of historical markers, where some tell bizarre tales that challenge our understanding of the past. Explore the tangled narratives surrounding these markers, particularly those linked to the Civil War and racial tensions. Discover the complexities of contested stories, like that of Hayward Shepherd, and how rogue plaques can reshape narratives. Unravel supernatural connections with unique markers that spark local pride, from the eerie Greenbrier ghost to oddities that blend folklore with history.
Jul 29, 2025 • 22min
The History Of History Markers (Part 1) (1913)
The discussion kicks off with Pennsylvania's pioneering law from 1913 that started the historical marker movement. The hosts dive into why society craved to commemorate history in the early 20th century. They explore the role of markers in shaping local identities and preserving diverse narratives. The evolution of these markers during the rise of car culture is highlighted, as well as their influence on national memory. The complexities of community involvement in naming streets and markers add an intriguing layer to the conversation.
Jul 24, 2025 • 24min
The Frick Near-Assassination (1892)
On July 24th, 1892, an audacious assassination attempt unfolded as Alexander Berkman targeted industrialist Henry Clay Frick amid the Homestead strike's chaos. The podcast examines Berkman's transition into anarchism and the harsh realities of labor unrest. It highlights the struggles workers faced against corporate oppression and the extreme choices made in desperation. The legacies of both Frick and Berkman are explored, contrasting philanthropy with persecution, while drawing parallels to today's social movements and political violence.
Jul 22, 2025 • 19min
John Dillinger Is Killed, The FBI Is Born (1934)
On July 22, 1934, gangster John Dillinger is shot by federal agents, marking a pivotal moment in American criminal history. The podcast dives into Dillinger's transformation into a celebrity criminal, shaped by media narratives during the Great Depression. It highlights the rise of the FBI, driven by Hoover's desire to professionalize law enforcement. The discussion also touches on how public perceptions of criminals and law enforcement evolved, illustrating the lasting impact of these events on American culture.
Jul 17, 2025 • 20min
Willis Carrier Invents Air Conditioning (1902)
On July 17, 1902, Willis Carrier, amidst a brutal heatwave, unveiled air conditioning while cooling down printing machinery. This invention revolutionized urban development and boosted political productivity. The podcast explores historical cooling methods, from ice storage to ventilation, and how Carrier's innovation reshaped architectural designs, especially in the South. It also highlights the cultural impacts of air conditioning on American life, while reflecting on its ironic relationship with climate change and its unforeseen environmental consequences.
