Ridiculous History

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.

Explore the wild conspiracy theory that Paul McCartney died in 1966 and was secretly replaced by a body double. Discover how The Beatles allegedly hid clues about this shocking tale within their music and albums. The hosts delve into clever wordplay, fan theories, and the cultural impact of these rumors. They discuss the dark humor surrounding the saga, creative tensions within the band, and the ongoing mystery that keeps fans intrigued. Buckle up for a ride through rock history's quirkiest narrative!

In 1762, crowds from across London gathered in hopes of seeing something the papers called "The Cock Lane Ghost". This alleged spirit was known to communicate in knocks and scratches, reacting to yes or no questions and, according to some observers, seeking justice from beyond the grave. But who was this spirit, exactly? What did this poltergeist have to do with William Kent and his ongoing dispute with landlord Richard Parsons? In today's classic episode, join the guys as they delve into the strange, strange story of the Cock Lane ghost.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Regardless of what polite societies often want us to believe, everyone farts. And we fart often! And, believe it or not, a few rare individuals have been able to turn this embarrassing bodily function into a full-time job. Join Ben and Noel as they explore the weird, weird world of professional flatulence.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When His Serene Highness Gregor the First, Sovereign Prince of the State of Poyais and its Dependencies, and Cacique of the Poyer nation visited London, he made a huge impression. Hundreds of people jumped at the chance to buy land in his remote, Central American paradise. There was only one problem -- the Cacique, whose real name was Gregor Macgregor, made the entire nation up out of thin air in one of history's largest, most audacious (and most ridiculous) scams. This is the Classic episode so ridiculous we made a t-shirt out of it.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

From 1920 to 1933, the U.S. government attempted to ban (recreational) alcohol throughout the nation. In a stunning -- we're being sarcastic here -- turn of events, people circumvented the law and found ways to keep drinking and organized crime blossomed in cities across the country. Listen in to learn just how far Uncle Sam was willing to go to stem the flood of illegal booze in this week's Classic episode.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Have you ever fallen for an April Fools' Day gag? Across the world, millions of people pull (hopefully wholesome) pranks on each other every April 1st in a celebration of practical jokes and trickery. But where did this holiday actually come from? In today's episode, Ben, Noel and Max dive into this surprisingly murky history of April Fools' Day.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Vending machines have a surprisingly ancient history! From ancient Egyptian dispensers of holy water to quirky modern counterparts, they’ve evolved in fascinating ways. The hosts share funny anecdotes about the odd items found in machines, from snacks to miniature versions of themselves. They also explore the peculiar vending habits in Japan, including bizarre products and nostalgic toys. This lighthearted journey shows how these machines have become cultural icons and continues to shape our convenience culture.

Dive into the audacious tale of Fanny and Stella, two men arrested for cross-dressing in Victorian England. Their sensational trial in 1870 sparked a moral panic and shone a light on gender identity issues of the time. Discover how their theatrical endeavors challenged societal norms and the deep bond they shared amidst adversity. The podcast also delves into the absurdities of the legal system and the media frenzy surrounding their case, revealing a captivating glimpse into LGBTQ+ history.

Join Ben Thompson, creator of the Badass of the Week podcast, as he dives into the absurdity of the Battle of Karánsebes, a military mishap where a panicked army turned on itself. They discuss the chaos of friendly fire among 172,000 disorganized troops and the hilarity that ensued despite the grim backdrop of war. Ben shares insights on ambition in leadership and the unforeseen consequences of miscommunication during conflicts. Humor and hidden histories intertwine, making this a captivating exploration of one of history's most ridiculous moments.