Ridiculous History

Discover the quirky origins of the Slinky and Post-it Note, two iconic inventions born from happy accidents. Uncover how military coil research led to an invention that defines childhood play. Learn about the tenacity of a 3M employee who turned a weak adhesive into an office essential. With nostalgia and fascinating anecdotes, the hosts highlight the surprising impact of these creations on culture and daily life, all wrapped in humor and camaraderie.

Curiosity can lead to groundbreaking accidents! Discover the surprising origins of penicillin, born from a moldy petri dish. Learn how culinary mishaps have inspired delightful dishes and even the microwave's creation. X-rays, initially a quirky discovery, transformed medical diagnostics. The stories blend humor with amazing innovation, showcasing how mistakes have sparked incredible advancements that shape our everyday lives.

Discover the fascinating life of Alfred Lawson, from his days as a mediocre baseball player to becoming the father of modern airlines. His passion for aviation sparked not only innovations in air travel but also led him to establish his own peculiar religion. Explore the intersection of economic theory and spirituality, and delve into his controversial philosophies like Lawsonomy. The hosts share light-hearted anecdotes while reflecting on Lawson's eccentricities and the lasting impact of his unconventional ideas.

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.