Revisionist History: The Alabama Murders
Pushkin Industries
Florence, Alabama. 1988. A preacher has an affair. A woman is murdered. One death cascades into more, stretching across decades and leaving no one untouched — victims, bystanders, perpetrators, and those just trying to help. Eventually, the consequences lead to the center of a hot national debate on who should be allowed to live, who should die, and how the state should kill them.
On The Alabama Murders, Malcolm Gladwell asks: why, in our efforts to alleviate suffering, do we so often make it worse?
Revisionist History is Malcolm Gladwell's journey through the overlooked and the misunderstood. Every episode re-examines something from the past—an event, a person, an idea, even a song—and asks whether we got it right the first time. From Pushkin Industries. Because sometimes the past deserves a second chance.
To get early access to ad-free episodes and extra content, subscribe to Pushkin+ in Apple Podcasts are pushkin.fm/plus.
iHeartMedia is the exclusive podcast partner of Pushkin Industries.
On The Alabama Murders, Malcolm Gladwell asks: why, in our efforts to alleviate suffering, do we so often make it worse?
Revisionist History is Malcolm Gladwell's journey through the overlooked and the misunderstood. Every episode re-examines something from the past—an event, a person, an idea, even a song—and asks whether we got it right the first time. From Pushkin Industries. Because sometimes the past deserves a second chance.
To get early access to ad-free episodes and extra content, subscribe to Pushkin+ in Apple Podcasts are pushkin.fm/plus.
iHeartMedia is the exclusive podcast partner of Pushkin Industries.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Jun 4, 2020 • 3min
Introducing Revisionist History Season Five
Dive into the fascinating interplay between joy and suffering as the new season unfolds. Explore the complexities of art with discussions surrounding iconic figures like Howard Hughes and Vincent van Gogh. Delve into the thought-provoking nature of beauty and the nuances of hoarding. Engage with historical narratives through a lens of revisionism, encouraging a fresh perspective on accepted stories. Get ready for a season filled with exciting insights and deep reflections!
6 snips
Jun 2, 2020 • 45min
Revisionist History Presents: The Limits of Power
The podcast digs deep into the societal impact following George Floyd's death, contrasting public outcry with governmental silence. It explores the historical unrest of 1969 Belfast through personal stories, revealing community resilience amid chaos. By unpacking military miscalculations in Northern Ireland, it addresses how power can exacerbate conflict. The speaker shares reflections on personal disillusionment, emphasizing the emotional toll of navigating authority and community struggles. The parallels with contemporary issues of race and policing resonate throughout the discussion.
6 snips
Aug 29, 2019 • 59min
The Queen of Cuba
In a gripping tale of espionage, the struggles of Cuban refugees are highlighted, revealing their desperate journeys for freedom. The shocking story of Ana Montes, who betrayed her colleagues while masquerading as a loyal analyst, unveils deep tension and trust issues within intelligence circles. The podcast explores complex themes of honesty and deception through psychological experiments, showcasing how our innate trust can lead to dangerous choices. A riveting examination of loyalty, betrayal, and the intricate web of human relationships unfolds against a backdrop of political intrigue.
Aug 22, 2019 • 36min
The Obscure Virus Club
Dive into the tumultuous journey of Howard Temin and his colleagues as they challenge scientific norms in their exploration of viruses. Discover how their pioneering research reshaped our understanding of cancer and led to groundbreaking discoveries. The podcast also delves into the dynamics of the scientific community, where innovation can be met with skepticism. Personal stories highlight resilience in the face of rejection, ultimately revealing how these struggles paved the way for advancements in virology and the fight against AIDS.
Aug 15, 2019 • 37min
Chutzpah vs. Chutzpah
Discover the fascinating dual meanings of 'chutzpah' and its rich cultural significance. Hear how Joe Colombo fought to reshape Italian American identity in media and the audacity behind creating 'The Godfather.' Delve into the societal implications of indifference and shame while exploring the challenges of authentic communication in a world favoring politeness. This episode is filled with compelling stories of resilience and boldness in the face of opposition, showcasing the true power of chutzpah across various contexts.
Aug 8, 2019 • 39min
In a Metal Mood
Uncover the quirky intersection of pop and metal as a 1950s star dives into heavy metal, surprising fans with covers of iconic bands. Explore the playful take on cultural appropriation through Taco Bell's culinary innovations. Delve into the contrasting legacies of Elvis Presley and Pat Boone, highlighting their roles in rock and R&B. With humor and insights, the discussion navigates the challenges of creating appealing fast food and the intricate dynamics of musical ownership.
Aug 1, 2019 • 41min
Descend into the Particular
Ron Martinelli, a seasoned forensic criminologist, offers a compelling analysis of the police shooting of Angel Navarro. He delves into the concept of 'disordered attachments' to shed light on the complexities surrounding this tragic incident. The conversation navigates the intricate dynamics of officer decision-making under pressure, examining how biases can distort perceptions in law enforcement. Martinelli also emphasizes the emotional turmoil experienced by families in the aftermath, providing insights into the challenges of crime, justice, and human behavior during crises.
Jul 25, 2019 • 37min
Dr. Rock’s Taxonomy
Dive into the life of John Rock, the co-inventor of the birth control pill, who wrestled with his faith as a devoted Catholic. Explore his moral dilemmas in advancing reproductive rights, and the stark contrast between science and tradition. Hear personal stories of workers facing ethical awakenings and the historical debate within the Catholic Church about contraception. This compelling narrative highlights the emotional struggle for acceptance amidst criticism and the impact of individual conscience on women's health.
12 snips
Jul 18, 2019 • 37min
The Standard Case
Dive into the moral maze of baseball's PED scandal through the lens of Jesuit philosophy. The emotional apology from Andy Pettit raises questions of sincerity and accountability. Discover how 16th-century Jesuit casuistry uniquely addresses modern ethical dilemmas. Watch the debate on whether surgeries and performance enhancers are fair play in sports. Explore humor and emotion tied to our bond with dogs, and reflect on the church's silence surrounding the Pulse shooting, raising tough questions about inclusivity and faith.
Jul 11, 2019 • 39min
Good Old Boys
Jim Brown, former professional football player and civil rights activist, shares his insightful reflections on race and equality. The conversation highlights the contrast between perspectives featured on The Dick Cavett Show, particularly with segregationist Lester Maddox. They explore Randy Newman's provocative song 'Rednecks' and its satirical take on Southern identity, alongside the complexities of civil rights struggles in the 1970s. Tension-filled moments on air challenge the moral responsibilities of media in addressing controversial views.
