History That Doesn't Suck

“To be hanged by the neck until he is dead.”This is the story of the US-Dakota War. The most eastern of the three major Sioux peoples, the Dakota are indigenous to Minnesota. They’ve lived beside trappers, fur traders, and the like, for quite a while (salut, les Canadiens-français). But now, more white settlers are showing up and setting up farms, and American officials are buying lands in exchange for long-term payments.But what happens when those payments are late? Shorted? Meanwhile, traditional hunting grounds are gone. Amid these tensions, four hungry Dakota men on a failed hunt kill two settler families. Other settlers only see a seemingly random act of murder; the Dakota see men pushed beyond their limits. A war ensues. The settlers win quickly but suffer hundreds of deaths in the process.Now questions arise: Are warriors guilty of murder? Are some guilty of massacring? Many Minnesotans say yes to both, and over 300 Dakota men are sentenced to death. Settlers are crying for blood as the final decision to approve or deny these sentences go all the way to the top. It’s your call, President Abraham Lincoln.____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. 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

Explore the chaotic end of Reconstruction as the political landscape of Louisiana descends into violence. Witness the bloody Battle of Liberty Place, where the White League clashes with state forces. Delve into the Mississippi Plan's dark tactics aimed at disenfranchising black voters. Discover how the Colfax Massacre marked a brutal turning point. As the 1876 election unfolds, the compromise reshapes the South, surrendering civil rights to Jim Crow. Amidst this turmoil, the resilience of African Americans shines through their quest for equality.

The discussion dives into the tumultuous era of Reconstruction, spotlighting the rise of the Ku Klux Klan as a violent reaction to progress. Remarkable stories unfold, including Robert Smalls' audacious escape and the election of pioneering Black politicians amid fierce opposition. As Black legislators secure significant roles, they also face intense challenges from secret societies determined to restore old norms. The pursuit of equality through landmark legislation showcases the courage and resilience of leaders fighting for civil rights.

Dive into the electrifying inauguration of Ulysses S. Grant as the youngest president ever, symbolizing hope for civil rights. Discover the challenges Grant faced with corruption and scams among his closest allies. Explore the significance of the 15th Amendment and how it aimed to empower African Americans. Delve into the Whiskey Ring scandal that threatened his administration and the moral dilemmas it posed. This period was marked by ambition, idealism, and the struggle for equality against a backdrop of political chaos.

Dive into the tumultuous aftermath of the Civil War and the fierce debates over Reconstruction. Explore Andrew Johnson's rocky presidency and his clash with Congress, especially regarding civil rights. Discover the dramatic events surrounding his impeachment for dismissing War Secretary Edwin Stanton. Uncover the violent confrontations that underline the struggle for racial equality in New Orleans. This riveting narrative raises critical questions about power, loyalty, and the true meaning of freedom in a divided nation.

“Sic semper tyrannis!”This is the story of deception. Conspiracy. Assassination.The handsome, 26-year-old successful actor John Wilkes Booth has sympathized with the Confederacy since the war began. So when Abraham Lincoln wins reelection as President of the United States amid several crucial late-1864 victories, John becomes enraged. He decides to kidnap President Lincoln.But as John’s attempts at kidnapping fail, things go worse for the CSA. By April 1865, it’s over for the Confederacy. Then Lincoln says something in a speech that throws John completely over the edge: the gangly president suggests that the United States enact limited, black male suffrage.John’s ready to go far further than kidnapping. And so, on the night of April 14, the famous actor will take on the biggest, most consequential role of his life … at Washington City’s Ford Theatre.____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. 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

Explore the dramatic duel between Alexander Hamilton and Aaron Burr, where deep-seated rivalries set the stage for tragedy. Dive into Hamilton's turbulent emotions as he faces his mortality and reflects on his life. Discover the aftermath, marked by sorrow and legacy-building efforts from Hamilton's widow, Eliza. Uncover how their intimate letters reveal a love story amid political chaos. This riveting narrative captures the essence of a pivotal moment in American history and its far-reaching consequences.

After nearly a full year of covering only four years of US history, we are done with the Civil War. It’s time for an epilogue! Greg and Cielle talk big picture and bring in some intriguing stories that just didn’t quite make the cut for regular episodes (including the Civil War origins of Coca-Cola, and the tale of Confederates who immigrate to Brazil, where slavery is still legal). Ready to decompress and gear up for Reconstruction? Here we go.____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. 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

Explore the dramatic moments leading up to the surrender at Appomattox on April 9, 1865. Witness the poignant meeting of Generals Grant and Lee filled with mutual respect and generosity. Delve into the emotional aftermath of the Civil War, highlighting struggles faced by veterans and the societal transformations that ensued. From the devastation in Richmond to the profound shifts in masculinity and political power in the South post-war, experience a powerful narrative of conflict, resolution, and rebuilding.

The podcast dives into Sherman's controversial March to the Sea, a strategic move that showcased the harsh realities of war and sparked debates on his legacy as a hero or villain. It also highlights President Lincoln's relentless push for the Thirteenth Amendment, aimed at abolishing slavery after decades of inaction. As battles raged on, intense discussions emerged surrounding civil rights and the creation of the Freedmen's Bureau, signaling a crucial shift in America's social landscape.