Throughline

In this captivating discussion, legendary Muslim leader Saladin, famed for his military strategies and generosity, delves into the historic battle for Jerusalem. He reflects on the rise of the First Crusade and the contrasting leadership styles between himself and Baldwin IV, the leper king. The conversation highlights Saladin's tactical brilliance that led to reclaiming the city, examining how this pivotal clash reshaped relations between the Islamic world and Europe. The enduring significance of Jerusalem's loss resonates through modern conflicts, adding depth to this epic tale.

Discover the gripping history of Hezbollah, from its origins in the Lebanese Civil War to its role as a military and political force today. Hear personal accounts of the 1983 Marine Barrack bombing that shaped regional dynamics. Explore how Iranian influence and the 1979 revolution fueled Hezbollah's rise, while examining life under occupation and its impact on recruitment. Analyze the group's complex identity as both a symbol of resistance and a terrorist organization, and uncover the ideological roots driving its longstanding conflict with Israel.

Rutger Bregman, a Dutch historian and author, and Rebecca Solnit, a keen observer of social and political issues, engage in a thought-provoking conversation. They challenge the belief that civilization merely masks our brutal instincts, exploring the concept of veneer theory. The discussion delves into historical perspectives on human nature, emergency responses during crises like Hurricane Katrina, and the importance of hope and optimism in fostering resilience. Ultimately, they argue for a nuanced view of humanity's capacity for compassion amid chaos.

Dive into the fascinating world of conspiracy theories, from the emotional fallout of 9/11 to the eerie narratives surrounding UFOs. Discover how social media has fueled the rise of groups like QAnon and influenced perceptions of truth. The podcast examines the powerful figures profiting from public distrust, while also reflecting on the impact of misinformation during the COVID-19 pandemic. Can we untangle fact from fiction in this chaotic landscape? Join the exploration of authority, belief, and the quest for truth in modern society.

Explore the vibrant history of airline workers' unions and their fight for civil rights. Discover how the TWA strike of 1986 shaped collective action and the inspirational journey of a flight attendant in the LGBTQ+ rights movement. Witness the resurgence of labor activism in 2023, linking past struggles to present-day challenges. Uncover the pivotal protests for equality and the transformative role of women's leadership in unions. This fascinating narrative intertwines labor rights with broader social justice issues in America.

William Mulholland, the mastermind behind the Los Angeles Aqueduct, and former mayor Fred Eaton delve into the transformative impact of water on LA's growth. They explore the historical significance of Owens Valley and the cultural wisdom of Indigenous irrigation practices. The podcast reveals the ecological consequences of human intervention and the intense conflicts over water rights that ensued. Additionally, it examines Mulholland's rise from humble beginnings to a water visionary, culminating in the tragic failure of the St. Francis Dam, shaping water management's legacy.

The Third Amendment might sound outdated, but its implications are surprisingly relevant today. The podcast dives into its historical context and frequent violations by the government, often unnoticed. With stories from the American Revolution to World War II, it explores the tension between military presence and civilian rights. Recent crises like Hurricane Katrina and civil unrest challenge the relevance of the Third Amendment, highlighting the ongoing struggle for accountability and the protection of personal freedoms.

Delve into the life-changing impact of the Fourteenth Amendment, from its post-Civil War origins to its role in landmark court cases like Roe v. Wade and Brown v. Board of Education. Hear about Lincoln's vision for equality and the backlash faced by African Americans. Discover the significant contributions of Black voters in shaping democracy and the strategic legal battles led by the NAACP for educational equality. Reflect on the evolving meanings of liberty and equal protection in today's society, highlighting the ongoing fight for civil rights.

The Sixth Amendment guarantees the right to an attorney, but this wasn't always a reality. Clara Foltz's groundbreaking advocacy at the 1893 World's Fair highlights a pivotal moment for public defenders. The podcast dives into the historical evolution of legal representation, the significance of landmark cases like Gideon v. Wainwright, and systemic challenges faced by public defenders today. It also connects the issues of race and justice while emphasizing the urgent need for reforms to ensure fair legal representation for all.

Explore the harrowing history of women's participation in Olympic track and field. Discover the disturbing practice of 'nude parades' used for gender verification and its lasting impact on athletes. Delve into the struggles faced by women, including bans on events like the 800 meters, and the challenges of identity for athletes with differences in sex development. Uncover the complexities of gender dynamics during the 1936 Olympics and the journey of Zdenek Kobek, who reshaped policies around gender in sports.