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History That Doesn't Suck

Latest episodes

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Mar 10, 2025 • 1h 11min

175: The Dirty Thirties (The New Deal pt. 2): Dust, Doubts, and the “Second” New Deal

“I saw and approached the hungry and desperate mother, as if drawn by a magnet.”This is the story of FDR’s first term after facing down the initial emergency. 100 days down, about 1,300 more to go—for this term at least. After the whirlwind of new bills and “alphabet agencies” (AAA, CCC, etc.), the nation is adjusting to and examining FDR’s New Deal. As they do, the NIRA is upsetting both ends of the spectrum: company owners don’t love the Blue Eagle and regulations while workers are frustrated that their employers aren’t eager to see unionization in accordance with section 7(a). Meanwhile, back at the farm, devastating dust storms like “Black Sunday” are hammering the Great Plains and forcing many to flee to other states. Some migrants end up in California, where unionized dock workers and police are duking it out in San Francisco's “Bloody Thursday.” The president tries to set an example as a “Good Neighbor” in the Caribbean even as people erect signs that read, “Okie, go back. We don’t want you.” More time and a “Second” New Deal that is more progressive and Keynesian raises more serious questions: Is this really the correct economic course for recovery? And are some of these presidential actions even Constitutional? But despite the detractors, the decisive 1936 election proves that FDR is here to stay. ____Connect with us on HTDSpodcast.com and go deep into episode bibliographies and book recommendations join discussions in our Facebook community get news and discounts from The HTDS Gazette  come see a live show get HTDS merch or become an HTDS premium member for bonus episodes and other perks. HTDS is part of the Airwave Media Network. Interested in advertising on the History That Doesn't Suck? Email us at advertising@airwavemedia.com To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
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Feb 24, 2025 • 1h 7min

174: The First “First Hundred Days:” FDR Kicks Off the New Deal

Discover the whirlwind of Franklin D. Roosevelt's first 100 days in office during the Great Depression. From a dramatic banking holiday to crucial legislation like the Emergency Banking Act, FDR navigates immense challenges with innovative strategies. The establishment of the Civilian Conservation Corps showcases his commitment to recovery and environmental needs. Eleonore's compassionate outreach to veterans emphasizes the social fabric of the era. Dive into the power struggles and bold moves that shaped America's path back to stability.
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Feb 10, 2025 • 1h 11min

173: From Hyde Park to the White House: The Early Life and Election of Franklin Delano Roosevelt

Explore the remarkable journey of Franklin Delano Roosevelt from his privileged upbringing to his political ambitions. Discover how personal challenges, including polio and a troubled marriage, shaped his resilience. Witness his evolution into a promising leader through his impactful speeches and strategic campaigning. The podcast highlights his efforts during the Great Depression and the emergence of his 'New Deal' agenda, emphasizing a powerful message of courage and unity in the face of adversity.
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Jan 27, 2025 • 1h 9min

14 (Second Edition): The Newburgh Conspiracy and The Peace of Paris

Discover the turmoil facing Continental Army officers as they grapple with unfulfilled promises in a tense atmosphere. Explore Benjamin Franklin's pivotal role in negotiating peace in Paris and the strategic challenges he faced with British diplomats. Learn about the potential coup that almost jeopardized the young republic due to military frustrations. Delve into the early American diplomatic tactics and media manipulation that helped shape the nation’s independence narrative. It's a riveting tale of loyalty, ambition, and the quest for peace.
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Jan 13, 2025 • 1h 12min

13 (Second Edition): The Battle of the Chesapeake & the World Turns Upside Down at Yorktown

Dive into the thrilling turmoil of the American Revolution as we follow Jack Jouett's daring midnight ride to warn Governor Jefferson of an impending British attack. Experience the strategic naval battles of the Chesapeake and the crucial French-American alliance that pushed the British to the brink. Witness George Washington's leadership amid mutiny and resource shortages, as he unites with French forces to deliver a decisive blow at Yorktown. The chaos, bravery, and camaraderie create a gripping narrative of a pivotal moment in history.
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Dec 30, 2024 • 1h 8min

12 (Second Edition): An American Judas Betrays & Nathanael Greene Saves!

In a tale of ultimate betrayal, Benedict Arnold becomes synonymous with treachery, trading loyalty for a British commission. The podcast dives into the chaotic Battle of Camden, revealing dire conditions and faltering leadership. Meanwhile, Nathanael Greene emerges as a hero, using clever tactics to turn the tides against Lord Cornwallis. The intense personal struggles of soldiers during the Revolutionary War highlight how loyalty and betrayal could split families apart. It’s a gripping narrative of ambition, misfortune, and the fight for justice!
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Dec 16, 2024 • 1h 7min

172: Breadlines, Bank Failures, & the Bonus Army: Hoover & the Early Great Depression

Explore Herbert Hoover's initial responses to the Great Depression and his collaboration with industry leaders in a bid to stabilize the economy. The discussion reveals the devastating bank failures that shook public confidence and led to widespread panic. Hear how immigration policies intertwine with the narrative of resilience, and the emotional protest of the Bonus Army sheds light on the struggles of veterans. The rising discontent culminates in Hoovervilles, reflecting the deeper societal unrest that paved the way for Roosevelt's promise of hope.
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Dec 2, 2024 • 34min

171: Christmas Special VIII: Festivities in the Jazz Age

Explore the vibrant Christmas celebrations of the 1920s, from the lavish Hotel Commodore to impactful charity efforts like Herbert Hoover's Invisible Guest dinners. Discover how Calvin Coolidge inaugurated the National Christmas Tree lighting, marking a shift from candlelight to electric cheer. Relive the festive music of the Mount Holyoke Carol Choir and Knoxville's first Santa Claus parade, capturing the spirit of generosity during a time of great change. As America enjoyed prosperity, it also began to navigate a more economical festive season after the Crash.
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Nov 18, 2024 • 1h 6min

170: The Crash of 1929 & Meeting President Herbert Hoover

Dive into the chaos of the 1929 Wall Street Crash, where panic took hold and stock prices plummeted. Discover the intricate workings of the stock market and the economic factors that set the stage for disaster. Meet Herbert Hoover, the man hailed as the 'Great Humanitarian,' as he faces unprecedented challenges. Explore his tumultuous rise to political prominence amid financial turmoil and the personal stories of those swept up in the crisis. This narrative reveals not just history, but the resilience of a nation in the face of calamity.
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Nov 4, 2024 • 45min

169: An Epilogue to the 1920s: Youth culture, The Great Gatsby, and more with Professor Sarah Churchwell

Join Professor Sarah Churchwell, an expert in 1920s American culture, as she explores the vibrant youth culture and the emergence of Hollywood during the Roaring Twenties. Delve into the themes of F. Scott Fitzgerald’s 'The Great Gatsby,' and discover how its explorations of illusion versus reality remain relevant today. Churchwell connects historical shifts to modern consumerism, shedding light on the generational divide and the evolution of media that shaped cultural landscapes then and now.

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