In this captivating discussion, BJ Gooch, a retired librarian with a passion for rare books, and Eric Borsuk, one of the young masterminds behind a notorious book heist, share their unique perspectives. They delve into the audacious planning that led to the theft of $750,000 worth of rare manuscripts and the moral dilemmas they faced. Eric recaps the chaos of the FBI raid, while BJ reflects on the emotional impact of the crime on the preservation of cultural artifacts. Their stories intertwine, revealing the complexities of passion, crime, and consequence.

Adam Higginbotham, author of "Challenger: A True Story of Heroism and Disaster on the Edge of Space," dives deep into the tragic Challenger disaster of 1986. He highlights how engineers warned about the dangers of launching in frigid temperatures but were overridden by managerial pressure. The discussion sheds light on the flawed O-rings that failed under extreme cold, transforming what was meant to be a monumental flight into a devastating tragedy just seconds after liftoff. Higginbotham reveals both the heroism and culpability surrounding this pivotal moment in space history.

To further celebrate Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day, we're re-releasing our classic episode about the Children's Crusade, an effort to bring the youth of Birmingham, Alabama into the Civil Rights Movement in order to affect change across the country.April 20, 1963. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. walks out of Alabama’s Birmingham Jail after being held for a week for peacefully protesting. He spent most of that time writing a letter that passionately defends the civil rights movement’s nonviolent tactics. But despite King’s passion, the movement’s progress has stalled. King needs a major victory in Birmingham, but he’s running out of people willing to risk their livelihoods and safety for this cause. So a new tactic starts taking shape: recruiting young people to protest. After all, kids have the least to lose and the most to gain from a more equal future. But King says the risk is too high. So what changes his mind about putting kids on the front lines? And how did the Children’s March shift Americans’ support of civil rights?Special thanks to our guests: Children’s Crusade participants Jessie Shepherd, Janice Wesley Kelsey, and Charles Avery. And Ahmad Ward, former head of education at the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute and current Executive Director at Historic Mitchelville Freedom Park.To stay updated: historythisweekpodcast.com** This episode originally aired April 17, 2023. 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

The gathering at Ebenezer Baptist Church marked the 40th birthday of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., reflecting on his lasting legacy. The push for a national holiday faced significant challenges, particularly resistance in Congress. A renowned musician played a crucial role in shifting public sentiment. The podcast delves into the controversies surrounding King’s legacy, including his anti-Vietnam War stance. It also highlights grassroots efforts and political battles that ultimately led to the recognition of Martin Luther King Jr. Day amidst ongoing struggles for justice.

In the snowy landscape of Alta, Utah, the first ski lift in 1939 revolutionizes winter sports. But with this excitement comes the lurking danger of avalanches. The podcast delves into Alta's tragic history with these deadly snow events, highlighting the struggles of miners and the community's resilience. Innovations in avalanche control emerge, featuring explosives once used in warfare, showcasing how this unexpected approach keeps skiers safe amid the thrills of the slopes. It's a fascinating blend of adventure and history!

Doris Kearns Goodwin, a Pulitzer Prize-winning historian and author, teams up with Guian McKee, a UVA professor specializing in presidential history, to discuss Lyndon Johnson's bold declaration of a 'War on Poverty' in 1964. They explore Johnson's motivations behind this ambitious initiative and the socio-political context of the era. The conversation dives into the establishment of the Economic Opportunity Act and community action programs while reflecting on the mixed legacy of this endeavor in addressing economic disparities across the nation.

As 1958 drew to a close, tension filled the air at Batista's lavish New Year's Eve party in Havana. Unbeknownst to the elite, a revolution led by Fidel Castro was gaining momentum. The podcast delves into the audacious actions of Castro's 26th of July movement, sparking widespread dissent against the oppressive regime. With key military engagements leading to Batista's sudden resignation, the narrative explores the complex journey of a nation transforming under revolutionary fervor, only to face disillusionment in the years that followed.

Dive into the surprising origins of Christmas gift-giving, tracing its evolution from 19th-century traditions to modern consumerism. Discover how labor reformers sparked a movement encouraging early holiday shopping for better working conditions. Hear about the Society for the Prevention of Useless Giving, which championed heartfelt gifts over obligatory presents. Explore the darker sides of commercialization, child labor, and the ongoing tensions between sentimentality and consumerism during the festive season.

Robert Eggers, the visionary director behind the new Nosferatu, dives into the haunting legacy of Vlad the Impaler and how it shaped the Dracula mythos. He discusses the brutal history of medieval Romania and the psychological fears that influenced 19th-century vampire lore. Eggers reveals how he blends the supernatural with historical realism, making the blood-sucking monster feel relatable. The conversation also explores modern interpretations of vampires and the impact of historical events like cholera outbreaks on storytelling, linking past and present.

In a bizarre twist of history, Elvis Presley sought an audience with President Nixon at the White House, bringing a framed Colt .45 pistol as a gift. The King of Rock and Roll, at the height of his fame, aimed to become a federal agent, blending pop culture with politics. The discussion delves into Elvis's journey from gospel roots to rock stardom, spotlighting his battles with substance abuse and the complexities of fame. This unexpected meeting reveals an unusual bond between two cultural icons during a chaotic time in America.