Throughline

Comedian Roy Wood, Jr. talks about Rickwood Field, the oldest baseball stadium in the US, hosting Negro League baseball, Klan rallies, and the first integrated sports team in Alabama. Exploring the historical significance of Rickwood, the challenges of maintaining its legacy, and its connection to black baseball history and women's suffrage. Delving into the impact of segregation in Birmingham's baseball scene, iconic baseball personalities, and the resilience of black players in creating a separate league. Highlighting the fascinating journey of radio announcer Theophilus 'Bull' Conner and discussing racism in broadcasting and baseball in Birmingham during the 1930s. Acknowledging the legacy of a baseball icon and teasing the next installment in the series.

Exploring the roots of Black musicians in American music, George Johnson, Ernest Hogan, and Mamie Smith made a lasting impact by pushing back against racist systems. From Blackface Minstrelsy to viral sensations, their work reshaped the music industry and laid the foundation for future musicians.

Explore the dark history of the Lavender Scare in the U.S., the intense interrogation of Madeleine Tress, and the LGBTQ+ resistance during this period. Learn about the impact of the Lavender Scare on individuals, the fight against discrimination, and the eventual end to official discrimination against homosexuals in government jobs.

Michael Brenner, a professor at American University and author, Derek Penslar, a Harvard Jewish history professor, and Anita Shapira, a Holocaust survivor and retired professor, dive into the origins of Zionism. They discuss the pivotal 1897 Basel Congress and Theodor Herzl's vision for a Jewish homeland amid rising anti-Semitism. The complexity of Zionism is explored, highlighting its emotional resonance and historical interpretations. The guests also reflect on diverse Jewish responses to the movement and its implications for Arab communities.

Indian American Bhagat Singh Thind argued for US citizenship based on his Aryan identity and caste, sparking a debate on defining whiteness. The podcast explores the myths of the Indo-European language theory, Sir William Jones's discoveries, racist theories of white supremacy, and the tragic consequences of Nazi ideologies. It delves into the origins of Indo-European languages, the Yamnaya culture's migrations, and the misinterpretation of symbols like the swastika. Thind's story of overcoming discrimination and achieving citizenship amidst the backdrop of Nazi Germany's influence on immigration policies is highlighted.

From ancient Egyptian myths to modern international courts, this podcast explores the evolution of defining and prosecuting war crimes. It delves into the complexities of holding officials like Putin and Netanyahu accountable, traces the history of the Hague, and reflects on the challenges faced by the International Criminal Court in pursuing justice.

A captivating exploration of the Marcos dynasty in the Philippines, delving into the drama, betrayal, and thirst for power that shaped their authoritarian rule. From the rise of Ferdinand Marcos to the downfall of the regime amidst a storm of public outrage, this tale unravels the myths and melodrama that propelled a nation into chaos and sparked a democratic revolution.

The podcast delves into Nelson Mandela's transformation from a labeled terrorist to South Africa's first Black president, exploring his defiance against apartheid laws, imprisonment, and strategic use of reconciliation post-apartheid. It also discusses the complexities of post-apartheid South Africa, Mandela's international allies, and the ongoing struggle for justice in the country.

Exploring the mythical ideal mother in American society and the impact on policies. Stories of real-life individuals challenging the motherhood myths. Critiques on societal expectations and the fight for a more generous vision of family and care.

The podcast explores the evolution of the Fourth Amendment, delving into court rulings that have expanded police powers. It discusses the historical context of search and seizure laws, the landmark Supreme Court case of Terry versus Ohio, and the consequences of police discretion in communities of color. The narrative also highlights the complexities of traffic stops, racial profiling, and the importance of asserting constitutional rights for equality.