Ridiculous History

Why is America so hesitant about the metric system? The tale dates back to a French scientist whose crucial artifacts were stolen by pirates, stalling its adoption. The hosts humorously explore how cultural influences and quirky anecdotes intertwine with historical facts, including Thomas Jefferson's ambitious push for uniform measurements. They also examine the societal myths surrounding measurements, mixing entertaining banter with a look at our absurd attachment to traditional units, all while pondering the curious legacy of piracy in shaping America's measurement choices.

Dive into the whimsical world of historical nicknames! Discover the absurdities behind figures like Ethelred the Unready and his tumultuous reign filled with questionable decisions. Learn about the duality of Charles II, juggling crowns while navigating familial rivalries. The conversation meanders through quirky honorifics, shares laughs over odd nicknames like 'Honey Bucket,' and even touches on the bizarre relics of history. It’s a delightful exploration of how titles reflect both history and human nature!

Dive into a bizarre tale where a dead pope is put on trial, revealing the scandal and intrigue of 9th-century Vatican politics. Discover the wild motivations behind this absurd event, including the chaotic landscape of papal power struggles. Marvel at the quirks of Catholic rituals and the cultural memories that shape them. This historical journey mixes humor with insightful commentary on the intersections of religion, law, and societal norms, proving that even the papacy has its share of wildly ridiculous moments!

AJ Jacobs, creator of "The Puzzler" and master of immersive journalism, returns to share hilarious insights into the world of absurd historical clothing. He discusses towering wigs, restrictive corsets, and their cultural implications leading up to the French Revolution. The conversation takes a whimsical turn with the connection between the ruff bird and fashion, alongside critiques of extravagant styles from King Louis XIV. Jacobs humorously explores nudism, societal clothing norms, and the delightful absurdity woven throughout fashion history.

It's no secret that history is filled with relatively arbitrary fashion rules, fads and faux pas -- and what may be hot stuff in one era often ends up being seen as cringeworthy in later years. But how ridiculous does clothing of yesteryear get? In part one of this week's special two-part series, Ben, Noel and Max welcome their returning guest, the legendary author and podcaster AJ "Bahamas" Jacobs as he breaks down some of history's most ridiculous fashion trends -- beginning, of course, with some of history's most bizarre hats.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Discover how a peculiar airdrop of Tootsie Rolls transformed the fortunes of U.S. Marines during the Korean War at Chosin Reservoir. Instead of ammunition, they received candy that surprisingly lifted spirits and provided sustenance. The show delves into the historical significance of Tootsie Rolls in wartime, showcasing their role in boosting morale. With a mix of humor and serious reflection, the anecdotes reveal the absurdity of war and highlight unexpected sources of resilience amid chaos.

Discover the surprisingly dramatic rise of Tupperware and its cultural impact in American kitchens. Learn about the brilliant marketing strategies of Brownie Wise, who turned Tupperware into a household name. Delve into the innovative solutions it provided during the Great Depression, and explore how Tupperware parties empowered women and created community connections. Reflect on its nostalgic significance and recent decline, and celebrate the legacy of a brand that revolutionized food preservation and storage.

Dive into the opulent world of the Mausoleum at Halicarnassus, a tomb so magnificent it birthed its own word! The hosts explore its architectural wonders and noteworthy history, comparing its grandeur to modern marvels in Las Vegas. Uncover quirky facts about characters like Mausolus and Artemisia I, while enjoying light-hearted banter on personal legacies and video games. Delve into the artistic contributions that made this wonder eternal, reflecting on why it continues to capture imaginations today.

Discover the intriguing tale of Boston Corbett, the man who took down Lincoln's assassin, John Wilkes Booth. Hear how Corbett’s intense faith and troubled past shaped his decisive action, balancing heroism with moral complexity. The discussion dives into the chaotic manhunt for Booth, complete with a dramatic standoff in a burning barn, and uncovers the personal struggles Corbett faced following his notoriety. Get ready for a blend of humor and history as the hosts bring these captivating moments to life!

The discussion kicks off with the hosts joking about food while diving into the 'Paul is dead' phenomenon. They decode the myth, revealing hidden messages in Beatles songs like 'Strawberry Fields Forever.' The episode unravels the complex lyrics and cultural implications tied to John Lennon’s playful style and obsessive fan theories. Conspiracy theories surrounding McCartney's supposed death are examined, alongside the alarming rise of identity theft in today's digital age. The origins of the myth are linked back to a satirical article, illustrating how satire can blur reality.