American History Tellers
Wondery
The Cold War, Prohibition, the Gold Rush, the Space Race. Every part of your life - the words you speak, the ideas you share - can be traced to our history, but how well do you really know the stories that made America? We'll take you to the events, the times and the people that shaped our nation. And we'll show you how our history affected them, their families and affects you today. Hosted by Lindsay Graham (not the Senator). From Wondery, the network behind American Scandal, Tides of History, American Innovations and more.Listen to American History Tellers on the Wondery App or wherever you get your podcasts. Experience all episodes ad-free and be the first to binge the newest season. Unlock exclusive early access by joining Wondery+ in the Wondery App, Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Start your free trial today by visiting wondery.com/links/american-history-tellers/ now.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Nov 19, 2025 • 35min
The Mayflower | The First Thanksgiving | 3
The harsh winter of 1620-21 devastated Plymouth Colony, with illness claiming many lives and the Mayflower doubling as a hospital. Fear of Native attacks gripped the settlers, prompting defensive measures. The arrival of Samoset, who spoke English, marked a turning point, followed by Squanto's consequential return. A formal peace treaty with Massasoit was negotiated, leading to alliances that proved vital for survival. The successful autumn harvest led to a celebratory feast with Native allies, though tension grew with new arrivals and internal conflicts.
Nov 12, 2025 • 36min
The Mayflower | A Sea of Troubles | 2
In the fall of 1620, the Mayflower's perilous journey presented fierce storms and dwindling supplies. Tensions ran high between the Puritan Separatists and the 'Strangers' onboard, threatening unity. The discovery of buried corn sparked moral debates about survival. As they navigated Cape Cod, tempers flared, leading to the creation of the Mayflower Compact for self-governance. The harsh winter loomed ahead, with early tragedies and health crises setting the stage for a challenging settlement. The Pilgrims' resolve faced dire tests right from the start.
Nov 5, 2025 • 34min
The Mayflower | Saints and Strangers | 1
Discover the turbulent journey of William Bradford and the Pilgrims as they flee religious persecution in England. Experience the dramatic sea voyage aboard the Mayflower, filled with peril and rising tensions. Learn about the deep convictions of the Separatists and their struggle for a new life in Holland before setting their sights on the New World. The complex negotiations with merchant adventurers add another layer of intrigue, leading to a fateful decision that sets the course for establishing Plymouth Colony.
Nov 4, 2025 • 5min
Listen Now: Against The Odds | Tsunami In Thailand
Experience the harrowing morning of December 26, 2004, as a woman prepares a quiet beachside meal with her daughters. Suddenly, the horizon shifts ominously, revealing a monstrous tsunami wave racing toward their village. Witness her desperate race against time to save her children from the impending disaster. This gripping tale of resilience amidst chaos highlights human strength in the face of unimaginable odds.
Oct 29, 2025 • 38min
Shootout at the O.K. Corral | Vendetta | 4
Tombstone is on edge after the O.K. Corral shootout, splitting locals over justice for the Earp brothers. Wyatt Earp's quest for vengeance ignites a dramatic vendetta, leading to deadly confrontations and ambushes. As tensions escalate, the law struggles to maintain order while Wyatt steps deeper into outlaw territory. The fallout from Morgan Earp's murder pushes Wyatt to organize a ruthless retaliation. The community is torn between supporting him and fearing the consequences, as his legendary status begins to form in the chaos.
Oct 22, 2025 • 38min
Shootout at the O.K. Corral | Thirty Seconds | 3
In Tombstone, Arizona, tensions escalate as the Earp brothers confront the outlaw Clanton gang, culminating in a chaotic 30-second shootout. The lawless town is divided over the controversial actions of the Earps, who face a barrage of assassination attempts. As the bodies pile up, public opinion shifts, with some supporting the Earps while others rally behind the cowboys. With heightened paranoia and danger looming, the battle for order in the Wild West intensifies, leading to an explosive clash that changes everything.
Oct 15, 2025 • 35min
Shootout at the O.K. Corral | Law and Disorder | 2
Tensions in Tombstone reach a boiling point as election fraud stirs conflict between the Earps and the Clantons. Virgil Earp's defeat in the marshal race highlights the political divide, while Curly Bill's provocations deepen hostilities. The fear of stagecoach robberies escalates, culminating in violence that shocks the town. Wyatt Earp attempts to restore order but faces obstacles as public outrage grows. Ike Clanton's descent into paranoia sets the stage for an inevitable showdown, leaving the community on edge.
6 snips
Oct 8, 2025 • 38min
Shootout at the O.K. Corral | The Road to Tombstone | 1
Step back into the tumultuous streets of 1881 Tombstone, where Wyatt Earp and his brothers clash with outlaw gangs. Discover how the town’s silver boom attracted both fortune seekers and lawlessness. Wyatt's complex journey from gambler to lawman unfolds, alongside his intriguing friendship with Doc Holliday. Tensions escalate amidst strict gun laws and rampant violence, setting the stage for a legendary showdown. As rivalries deepen, the path to the infamous O.K. Corral shootout begins to take shape.
10 snips
Oct 1, 2025 • 41min
Daring Prison Escapes | Escape from Libby Prison | 5
Join historian Dr. Robert P. Watson, an expert onLibby Prison, as he dives into the gripping tale of the 1864 Union escape from one of the Confederacy's most notorious jails. Watson shares why he was drawn to this story, detailing the brutal conditions prisoners faced, including hunger and lice. Learn about intrepid leaders like Colonel Rose, their ingenious tunneling methods, and the vital role of spy Elizabeth Van Lew in the audacious plan. Discover the aftermath of the escape and the chaotic manhunt that followed.
24 snips
Sep 24, 2025 • 37min
Daring Prison Escapes | Nazis in the Arizona Desert | 4
Discover the incredible story of Camp Papago Park, where German POWs ingeniously escaped from a seemingly secure facility in the Arizona desert. Learn about Captain Jürgen Wartenberg, a determined leader who orchestrated a tunnel escape involving over 20 soldiers. From the meticulous planning to the dramatic manhunt that followed, the podcast captures the tension and intrigue of one of the largest manhunts in American history. Explore the aftermath of their daring escape and how the war impacted their lives.
