The History Chicks : A Women's History Podcast

Martha Gellhorn was one of the most influential war correspondents of the 20th century. Over the course of a 60-year career, she reported from nearly every major global conflict - the Spanish Civil War, World War II, Vietnam, and more. In her work, she focused a compassionate eye on the lives of ordinary people caught up in turmoil beyond their control, and this made her coverage uniquely powerful. Her personal bravery and determination made her into a legend. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

As a tie-in to our coverage of Betsy Ambler and Ken Burns' American Revolution documentary we decided to revisit Martha. Some called her The Mother of the Country, some curtseyed and called her "Lady Washington," but no one could doubt that she was uniquely capable to shoulder the responsibilities and rigors of both war and diplomacy. Martha Washington's philosophy of "duty over inclination" became the template for future First Ladies in the newly-formed United States of America. This episode sponsored by: Hungryroot: Use code CHICKS at Hungryroot.com for 40% off your first box and a free item for life. Honeylove:Use code HISTORYCHICKS at Honeylove.com/HistoryChicks for 20% off your order. BLISSY: Use code HISTORYCHICKS at Blissy.com/HistoryChicks for 30% off and a 60-nights risk-free. Quince: Go to Quince.com/CHICKS for free shipping and 365-day returns. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

A young girl named Sarah Rector strikes it rich at just eleven when oil is discovered on her family's land. Facing greed and racial challenges, she navigates a turbulent life filled with public frenzy and legal struggles. Her guardianship experience reveals systemic issues as she fights for her rights. Despite economic downturns, Sarah becomes a Kansas City socialite, running businesses and giving back to her community. Her remarkable journey highlights resilience and the complexities of wealth in a racially charged America.

Laura Hart, founder of Like Minds Travel, shares her insights on organizing an unforgettable Italian adventure. From private tours of the Vatican to culinary delights like cacio e pepe and Tuscany's wine, the journey was rich in history and community. Travelers recount bonding experiences on a night bus tour and the stunning views from climbing the Duomo. Highlights include a magical dinner at Castello il Palagio and gondola rides in Venice, all woven together with tales of the Medici women and authentic local traditions.

The American Revolution changed the way the world worked; the principles of governance in the new country laid the foundation for movements all over the world. On November 16th, Ken Burns and his team premiere their 6-part documentary series on PBS called, as you might have guessed, "The American Revolution" We had the opportunity to sit down with co-director Sarah Botstein to talk about the inspiration and impact of this conflict. This is the interview that we previously posted at the end of our Betsy Ambler episode, and we thought it was important to post it again as a standalone bonus episode, for easier access. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Life during the Revolutionary War was more than military strategy; there were plenty of battles to be fought at home. Betsy Ambler was a young teenager during the turbulent years, and through her records and letters, we can see the conflict though a perspective that has been little examined. We also interview Sarah Botstein, the co-director (with Ken Burns) of the new documentary The American Revolution, premiering on PBS on November 16th, 2026. This series brings forward voices that have been under-represented - as well as those figures that we think we already know- giving us a more complete picture of American life during the birth of our nation. Our subject Betsy Ambler is voiced by Maya Hawke during this six-part series. Registration is now open for our June 3-7, 2026 Field Trip to Chicago! Visit Like Minds Travel for more information and to register! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Discover the harrowing story of Elizabeth Packard, who was unjustly committed to a mental institution by her husband in 1860 for daring to speak her mind. Explore her transformation from captive to powerful activist, championing rights for the mentally ill and married women. Hear about her daring escape, expose of asylum abuses, and the grassroots campaign that led to significant legal reforms. Her legacy endures today, inspiring modern conversations on women's rights and mental health.

Dive into the vibrant life of Frida Kahlo, the iconic artist whose unique outlook transformed her pain into extraordinary art. Discover her tumultuous childhood during the Mexican Revolution and the life-altering bus accident that shaped her path. Explore the dynamic relationship with Diego Rivera, from their passionate romance to their tumultuous divorce and reconciliation. Unpack the influence of her medical struggles on her poignant paintings and reflect on her lasting artistic legacy that continues to captivate the world.

Catherine de Medici lived in a century defined by the the contributions of remarkable women, and she distinguished herself as one of the most remarkable of them all. No longer an apprentice in the art of intrigue, she was sharp and strategic and brave in ways that defied cultural expectations Whatever her reputation became, her capacity for calculated action was matched by her courage in the face of adversity, all focused on one goal; to be the custodian of her family's legacy on the throne of France - against all opponents. Registration is now open for our April, 2026 Field Trip to London! For more information and to register, visit LIKE MINDS TRAVEL! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

As the last legitimate heir to a powerful family, Catherine de Medici was married at only 14 into one of the most powerful royal houses in Europe. The two halves of her story are VASTLY different, and here in Part 1, we are going to tell you about how she had no resources but INNER resources - and the character that developed from the circumstances in which she was placed. This episode is sponsored by: OSEA: Use code CHICKS at OSEAMALIBU.COM for 10% off your first order. HONEYLOVE: Use this link HONEYLOVE.COM/HISTORYCHICKS for 20% off WAYFAIR: Get organized and refresh your home for less at WAYFAIR.COM BLISSY: Better hair, skin, and sleep for 30% off with code HISTORYCHICKS at BLISSY.COM/HISTORYCHICKS And always, look fabulous while supporting the podcast at our shop: The History Chicks on Dashery Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices