Ridiculous History

Discover the fascinating journey of Dorothy's iconic ruby slippers from The Wizard of Oz, including their unexpected cultural significance. Learn how Kent Warner rescued these gems from destruction and how different pairs served various filming needs. Delve into the absurd theft by a mobster who mistakenly believed the shoes were encrusted with real rubies. Finally, hear about the dramatic recovery of the slippers through an FBI sting and why fake versions sold for a staggering $32.5 million at auction.

Explore the bizarre origins of North Korea, the so-called "Hermit Kingdom." Discover how the country split post-World War II and its strategic importance to China and the U.S. Unpack the cult of personality surrounding Kim Il-sung and the role of Juche ideology. Delve into the grim realities of human rights abuses, political prison camps, and harsh penalties for dissent. Learn what it's like to visit under strict state control and how the DMZ has unexpectedly become a wildlife refuge.

Explore the fascinating world of the Forty Elephants, London's notorious all-female jewel thief gang that thrived for over 200 years. Discover their clever organizational structure, led by a 'queen' and their innovative shoplifting tactics. Learn how poverty pushed women into crime and how they diversified their operations into blackmail and prostitution. The rise of Alice Diamond, their glamorous lifestyle, and eventual decline due to internal conflicts paint a vivid picture of a unique criminal legacy that still captures modern intrigue.

Discover the surprising history behind the beloved disco ball, tracing its origins to 1897 and the quirky patent details from Louis Woest. Learn how the mirrored marvel transformed nightlife in the 1920s, survived the Great Depression, and became a staple in clubs and theaters. The hosts explore its resurgence during the pandemic, how queer culture shaped its aesthetic, and the backlash it faced during Disco Demolition Night. With modern reinterpretations and a nod to its enduring legacy, the disco ball proves that some things are just meant to shine!

Dive into the chilling world of zombies, where the hosts unravel folklore and the powerful influence of Haitian culture. Discover the origins of the term 'zombie' and its link to colonial exploits. They explore the notorious bokor and the eerie practices of zombification, questioning if these tales hold any truth. Historical accounts of sensationalism, mental illness versus supernatural claims, and the misrepresentation of voodoo in Western media add depth to this haunting narrative. Could there be a real-life 'zombie powder'? Tune in for an intriguing Halloween-themed discussion!

Discover the chilling origins of the Malleus Maleficarum, a notorious witch-hunting manual from the 1480s. The hosts explore the motivations behind witch trials, revealing how personal gain often fueled persecution. Learn about the book's structure, its unsettling advocacy for torture, and the targeting of marginalized healers. With a surprising popularity in Europe, the text's influence was both profound and controversial. The discussion also touches on modern reassessments and cultural reflections, painting a vivid picture of a dark chapter in history.

Discover how the ambitious Colonel Meriwether Lewis Clark Jr. was inspired by European horse racing to create the iconic Kentucky Derby. The hosts delve into the intriguing history of Churchill Downs, from its founding to its struggles with bankruptcy. They explore the Derby's evolution into a grand social event filled with extravagant hats and the emergence of the Triple Crown. Alongside tales of scandals and doping controversies, enjoy some humorous insights into racehorse names and local culinary traditions associated with this celebrated race.

Ross Benes, an author and journalist known for his insights on 90s culture, dives into the chaotic yet captivating world of low culture in 1999. He explores the evolution of talk shows into reality TV, revealing production tactics that shaped our viewing habits. The discussion also touches on the intersection of pop culture and politics, highlighting how figures like Ventura and Trump emerged. Ross reflects on the digital shift with milestones like Napster, along with the cultural tensions present in events like Woodstock '99.

In 1814, a bizarre disaster struck a London neighborhood when a brewery's vat burst, unleashing a river of beer. This strange deluge left eight people dead and sent residents scrambling to drink the contaminated brew. The chaotic scene unfolded as locals reacted to the unexpected flood of porter. Curiously, an inquest deemed this tragedy an 'act of God,' leading to questions of corporate accountability. The hosts also draw parallels with other odd beverage-related catastrophes, showcasing a history filled with liquid mishaps.

Explore the intriguing origins of Pac-Man, a game that became a cultural phenomenon in 1980. Delve into wild fan theories, from the notion of Pac-Man as an immortal figure to bizarre interpretations suggesting he's a ghost or even indulging in drugs. Discover the philosophical readings that suggest a Sisyphean struggle, and see how gameplay mechanics might connect to deeper meanings. The creators' choices, from Pac-Man's design to ghost AI, are examined, revealing fascinating insights into one of gaming's greatest icons.