HISTORY This Week

Peter Ross Range, author of "1924: The Year That Made Hitler," delves into Adolf Hitler's early political journey during his infamous 1923 coup attempt. They explore the chaos and violence of that fateful night, showcasing how Hitler narrowly escaped death. The discussion highlights how his trial transformed him from a failed coup leader into a patriotic hero, shaping his public image. Range reveals the strategic exploitation of courtroom drama that launched Hitler's political ambitions, setting the stage for his rise to power.

In this discussion, Mark Seifer, author of "Wizard: The Life and Times of Nikola Tesla," shares captivating insights about Nikola Tesla's groundbreaking 1893 demonstration at the Franklin Institute, where he showcased wireless power. The podcast delves into Tesla's fierce rivalry with Thomas Edison and highlights his ambitious plans for wireless energy transmission. Seifer also explores Tesla's visionary ideas, such as remote-controlled technology and his belief in extraterrestrial signals, framing Tesla as a misunderstood genius whose impact is felt even today.

Kathleen Squires, a seasoned food and travel writer for top publications, joins to discuss the Michelin Guide's historic debut in New York City. She shares the electrifying atmosphere of the launch night, where chefs oscillated between hope and anxiety. The conversation delves into how Michelin stars have reshaped American dining culture, the intense pressure on chefs, and the complex emotions tied to accolades. Squires also touches on the impact of Michelin ratings on culinary tourism and the broader implications for the restaurant industry.

In this engaging discussion, Marcella Alsan, a Harvard professor specializing in public policy and health, delves into a pivotal moment in 1935 when the American Medical Association faced off against the prospect of universal healthcare proposed by FDR. Topics include the AMA's innovative tactics to combat government involvement in healthcare, the widespread public push for national insurance in the mid-20th century, and the long-lasting effects of the AMA's fear-based messaging on public perception and policy. A fascinating journey through America's healthcare history!

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.