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
Feb 20, 2024 • 19min
Dick Cheney Shoots His Friend In The Face (2006)
Guest Harry Whittington, hunting partner of VP Dick Cheney, discusses the 2006 hunting incident. They cover the delayed news release, Whittington's apology, and the podcast's humorous take on the event.
Feb 18, 2024 • 18min
NJ Law Calls For "Gradual Emancipation Of Slaves" (1804)
Explore New Jersey's unique stance on slavery with a law for gradual emancipation, shedding light on regional variations and tensions. Uncover the harsh realities of slavery reform and the complexities of transitioning away from the economic system. Delve into the lingering presence of slavery leading up to the Civil War.
5 snips
Feb 15, 2024 • 17min
The FDR Assassination Attempt (1933)
This podcast explores the 1933 assassination attempt on FDR by Giuseppe Zangara and the socio-political context of the time. It discusses the influence of chronic pain on Zangara's actions and the heroic actions of Lillian Cross in preventing the assassination. The chapter also delves into comparisons with other assassination attempts and the health issues and conspiracy theories surrounding Zangara.
Feb 13, 2024 • 23min
Mandela Released From Prison (1990)
Nelson Mandela, South African leader, emerged from prison after 27 years. They discuss Mandela's harsh imprisonment, global symbolism, and the efforts of Winnie Mandela and the anti-apartheid movement. They also explore his release, adjustment, and historical events on February 13th.
Feb 11, 2024 • 19min
The First Execution By Gas Chamber (1924)
In this episode, the podcast explores the adoption of gas chambers for capital punishment during the Progressive Era and its connection to marginalized communities. They discuss the efficiency vs. humanity debate surrounding gas chambers and the challenges and effectiveness of the first execution by gas chamber in 1924. The podcast also covers different execution methods, the emotional experience of being on death row, flaws in capital punishment, and historical events such as the Yalta agreement and the Cheney hunting incident.
Feb 8, 2024 • 19min
Lockheed Caught Bribing The Japanese Government (1976)
Explore the infamous Lockheed bribes scandal of 1976 and the corrupt practices of multinational corporations. Learn about Lockeeds bribery of the Japanese government, the pattern of US corporate involvement in global affairs, and the prevalence of corporate bribes in global politics. Discover historical events and the lack of justice surrounding them, including a controversial payment made by Lockheed executives.
Feb 6, 2024 • 22min
FDR's Court-Packing Plan Backfires (1937)
Explore FDR's failed court-packing plan to reform the judiciary and expand the number of Supreme Court justices. Learn about FDR's motivations, the consequences of the plan, and the challenges and critiques he faced. Discover the impact on FDR's team and party, the Supreme Court's independence, and the lasting legacy of his New Deal reforms. Also, delve into the history of the Supreme Court's composition and the arguments for expanding the court.
Feb 4, 2024 • 23min
The Sketchy Deal That Makes Hayes President (1877)
The podcast explores the aftermath of the 1876 election and how a deal with southerners handed the presidency to Rutherford B. Hayes, effectively ending reconstruction. Topics include the close election, rogue states holding the process hostage, and the implications for the South. It also covers historical events like the confirmation of John Marshall, OJ Simpson trial, and the founding of Facebook.
Feb 1, 2024 • 16min
Groundhog Day's Very Weird Origins (1877)
Explore the weird origins of Groundhog Day in 1877, from elixirs of everlasting life to secret societies pulling the strings. Discuss the reliability of groundhogs as meteorological forecasters and the peculiar customs surrounding the event. Dive into the quirky traditions, lifespan of Phil the groundhog, and weather predictions based on gestures. Examine the groundhog's inconsistency and wet bias in meteorology. Touch on the disappearance of Zika virus and potential shift in focus to animals with hairless tails.
Jan 30, 2024 • 22min
A Brawl In Congress (1798) w/ Joanne Freeman
Joanne Freeman, a Yale history professor, joins the hosts to discuss a violent brawl that took place in Congress in 1798. They explore the party divisions, philosophical differences, and class dynamics that fueled the violence. The episode also explores the abnormal existence of political parties in 1798 and the relationship between violence and partisanship in American politics throughout history. The guest shares the story of Matthew Lyon, who was charged with violating the Sedition Act and later achieved an electoral victory.
