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.

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.

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.

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.

Lindsey Graham, host of the Wondery Plus podcast on Dracula's real history, dives into the eerie origins of Bram Stoker's iconic novel. They discuss how ancient folklore and Victorian anxieties shaped the tale, resulting in a profound cultural impact that still resonates today. The conversation also touches on the tension of Jonathan Harker's eerie encounter with Count Dracula and explores the haunting legacy of the vampire genre initiated by Stoker. Expect chilling insights and fascinating connections to modern tales!

Dive into the eerie world of silent horror cinema with a deep dive into 'Nosferatu.' Discover how this iconic 1922 film not only reimagined vampire lore but also shaped the horror genre with innovative techniques. Journey back to the haunting premiere and see how the Great War influenced German expressionism, enhancing the film's chill-inducing atmosphere. Explore the terrifying dynamic between Hutter and Count Orlok, leading to tragic consequences and themes of loss. It's a captivating look at the blend of history and horror!

Dive into the thrilling Golden Age of Sports, where horse racing, boxing, basketball, and football battled for dominance. Discover how James Naismith invented basketball to keep students engaged during harsh winters. Explore the ruthless world of boxing, marked by racial tensions and legendary fighters. Hear about the pivotal reforms in football, thanks to Theodore Roosevelt's intervention for safety. Marvel at the incredible journey of Jim Thorpe, hailed as the greatest athlete of his time, navigating the challenges of a rapidly evolving sports landscape.

Bob Kendrick, the President of the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum, dives into the rich and often overlooked history of African-American baseball. He shares personal anecdotes and discusses the recent recognition of over 2,300 Negro Leagues players in Major League Baseball records. The conversation explores the impact of segregation on the sport, the transition to integration with pioneers like Jackie Robinson, and the museum's plans to expand and educate future generations about this vital chapter in American history.

Dive into the captivating world of baseball, exploring its transformation from colonial roots to a roaring pastime in America. Unravel the drama of the 1919 World Series scandal and its lasting impact on the sport. Discover the rise of the Negro Leagues and key figures like Rube Foster, who challenged segregation. Learn about Babe Ruth's legendary journey from the Red Sox to the Yankees, and how he reshaped the game. This exploration celebrates baseball's rich legacy and cultural significance in shaping American history.

“Harlem is the queen of the black belts, drawing Aframericans together in a vast humming hive . . . from the different states, from the islands of the Caribbean, and from Africa . . . It is the Negro capital of the world.” This is the story of the Harlem Renaissance. In the early twentieth century, many Black families and individuals down South are finding that the only way out is up—to the North. Driven by Jim Crow discrimination and harsh economic realities, hundreds of thousands of African Americans head to cities like Chicago (the “promised land”) or Harlem (“Black Mecca”). This Great Migration fosters communities of gifted artists, and eventually, the rest of the country takes notice. By the 1920s, Black culture is truly blooming. Up-and-coming writers including Zora Neal Hurston and Langston Hughes are crafting literature we still consume some 100 years later. Master musicians like Cab Calloway and Ella Fitzgerald are scattin’ up a storm in New York clubs. And let’s not forget the visual arts! The Harlem Renaissance features countless artists that contribute mightily to American culture and Black identity: let’s meet just a few. (Audio of Cab Calloway was recorded in 1982 at the White Plains Public Library in White Plains, NY, and used with their permission. We are grateful to the library and encourage listeners to support their local public library for the services they provide.)____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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices