

History That Doesn't Suck
Prof. Greg Jackson
HTDS is a bi-weekly podcast, delivering a legit, seriously researched, hard-hitting survey of American history through entertaining stories. To keep up with History That Doesn’t Suck news, check us out htdspodcast.com or follow on Facebook and Instagram: @Historythatdoesntsuck. Become a premium member to support our work, receive ad-free episodes and bonus episodes.
Take a special VIP cruise with Prof. Jackson May 18-22, 2026
Pre-order Prof. Jackson's new book Been There Done That: How Our History Shows What We Can Overcome
Take a special VIP cruise with Prof. Jackson May 18-22, 2026
Pre-order Prof. Jackson's new book Been There Done That: How Our History Shows What We Can Overcome
Episodes
Mentioned books

Aug 17, 2020 • 1h 2min
71: Revisiting the Hamilton/Burr Duel: An Affair of Honor
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.

Aug 3, 2020 • 1h 24min
70: Epilogue: The Civil War Comes to a Close
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
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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

Jul 20, 2020 • 53min
69: Surrender at Appomattox: The Last Days of the Civil War
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.

Jul 6, 2020 • 54min
68: Sherman's March to the Sea and the Thirteenth Amendment
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.

Jun 22, 2020 • 51min
67: Ending 1864: The Battles of the Crater, Mobile Bay, Centralia, and Franklin
In the closing months of 1864, battles across the nation take center stage with unique strategies. Pennsylvania miners dig tunnels to surprise Confederate forces, while Admiral Farragut leads a daring naval assault in Mobile Bay. The chaos of guerrilla warfare unfolds in Missouri, highlighting the brutal tactics of 'Bloody Bill' Anderson. Meanwhile, General Hood's bold but disastrous maneuvers in Tennessee set the stage for a dramatic shift in the conflict. It's a whirlwind of innovation, violence, and pivotal moments.

Jun 8, 2020 • 59min
66: The Election of 1864: Lincoln's Bid for Reelection
Dive into the tumultuous political landscape of 1864 as Abraham Lincoln vies for reelection amid the chaos of the Civil War. Discover the fierce rivalry between radical and moderate Republicans, and the challenge posed by General George B. McClellan. The tensions peak with critical peace talks and a historic meeting between Lincoln and Frederick Douglass, where pivotal conversations about emancipation and unity unfold. Explore how Lincoln's second inauguration highlighted the urgent need for national healing and the ongoing struggle for equality.

May 25, 2020 • 41min
65: Sherman’s Atlanta Campaign & The Free State of Jones
William Tecumseh Sherman grapples with personal grief while leading a formidable campaign for Atlanta. The intense clashes reveal the emotional toll of war on soldiers and families, illustrated through heartfelt letters. Meanwhile, in Mississippi, a unique rebellion against the Confederacy emerges, showcasing personal resistance intertwined with larger political battles. The podcast dives into Sherman's unconventional strategies and the brutal realities faced during the campaign, all while highlighting significant military tactics and their consequences.

May 18, 2020 • 28min
Bonus: A New Sound for HTDS (Farewell to Josh, Hello to Lindsay Graham & Airship)
After more than two years of putting his blood, sweat, and tears into HTDS, Sound Designer Josh Beatty is moving on. We'll miss him! But we're also excited to have history podcasting legend Lindsay Graham and his audio production company Airship (https://airship.fm/) stepping in.Why is Josh leaving? In what ways will this change the sound of HTDS? Join Greg, Josh, Cielle, and Lindsay as they discuss those dynamics, reflect on Josh's time at HTDS, and explain how the four of them met through Podcast Movement.____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

May 11, 2020 • 59min
64: Grant's Overland Campaign: The Battles of the Wilderness, Spotsylvania, Cold Harbor, & Petersburg
The podcast dives deep into Ulysses S. Grant's ambitious Overland Campaign in early 1864. Listeners learn about the brutal battles, including the pivotal confrontations at the Wilderness and Spotsylvania, showcasing relentless tactics and staggering losses. The tale unfolds as Grant faces fierce resistance from Robert E. Lee's forces, influenced by the tragic fate of Jeb Stuart. The discussion captures the harsh realities of Civil War strategy, shedding light on the determined perseverance amid chaos and miscommunication.

May 6, 2020 • 1h 10min
Bonus: A Chat about Southern Accents w/ Jeremy Collins from "Podcasts We Listen To"
History can touch on present-day issues, and rather than duck away from such discomforts, Greg has always been stupid enough to try to hit them straight on. Indulging that stupidity today, Greg sat down with born-and-bred Southerner Jeremy Collins from the podcast, "Podcasts We Listen To," to discuss the South; particularly, Southern accents. Whether you've never been south of the Mason-Dixon Line or are as Southern as Jeremy, we hope you learn from and enjoy this honest, candid, and jovial chat.____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


