In 1981, a gunman fired six shots at Ronald Reagan after the president gave a speech at a Washington D.C. hotel. Over the next several hours, split-second decisions made by Secret Service agents and D.C. hospital staff would determine whether Reagan would live or die. Amidst Cold War tensions, as Reagan lay unconscious in an operating room, questions would emerge over the presidential line of succession and who was actually running the government.Order your copy of the new American History Tellers book, The Hidden History of the White House, for behind-the-scenes stories of some of the most dramatic events in American history—set right inside the house where it happened.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.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Great Fire of London ignited on September 2nd, 1666, starting in a bakery and spreading rapidly, engulfing a third of the city. Chaos ensued as baker Thomas Fariner fought to save his family while Samuel Pepys rushed to alert the king. King Charles II took charge, leading firefighting efforts amidst the devastation. The fire destroyed iconic landmarks and prompted heroic acts, followed by a significant challenge: rebuilding the city, which ultimately led to advancements in urban design, including the creation of the famous St. Paul's Cathedral.

Join John F. Kennedy, the 35th President, and his brother Bobby Kennedy as they reflect on that tragic day in Dallas in 1963. Hear insights from Lee Harvey Oswald and Vice President Lyndon Johnson. They discuss the chaos and controversy surrounding JFK’s assassination, the fierce political battle over his legacy, and Johnson's urgent push for civil rights. The conversations capture the tumultuous atmosphere of that era and the profound impact of these pivotal moments on American history.

Leon Czolgosz, an embittered Polish-American laborer and anarchist, discusses his radicalized journey leading to the assassination attempt on President William McKinley in 1901. The podcast highlights the tense environment at the Pan-American Exposition and the urgent efforts of surgeons to save McKinley's life. Czolgosz's transformation from despair to defiance reflects the struggles of the working class amidst economic unrest. The episode also examines the widespread crackdown on the anarchist movement following the assassination attempt.

Mikhail Gorbachev, the last leader of the Soviet Union, shares his firsthand experiences during the dramatic coup attempt in 1991. He discusses the crucial reforms of perestroika that aimed to modernize the USSR but sparked fierce opposition from hardliners. Gorbachev recounts the urgent tension in Moscow and the pivotal role Boris Yeltsin played in rallying citizens against the coup. This gripping narrative highlights the conflict between duty and conscience among soldiers, ultimately leading to Gorbachev's resignation and the rise of a new political era in Russia.

Explore the chilling aftermath of Lincoln's assassination and the desperate escape of John Wilkes Booth. Discover the tumultuous political climate surrounding James Garfield's presidency and the tragic events that led to his assassination. Uncover the emotional struggles of Garfield's family and the shift towards civil service reform following his death. Learn how Garfield's murder spurred national mourning and important political changes, all while highlighting ongoing vulnerabilities in presidential security.

Pulitzer Prize-winning reporter Carol Leonnig from the Washington Post shares insights into the history of the Secret Service and its evolution. She discusses the agency's response to high-profile assassination attempts, including JFK's, and highlights significant failures and reforms over the years. Leonnig delves into security breaches and challenges faced during recent political rallies, as well as the need for reforms in a changing landscape of threats. Her book, 'Zero Fail,' provides a deeper look into the agency's rise and fall.

On August 5, 1969, a hidden screening of Andy Warhol's 'Lonesome Cowboys' in Atlanta turns into a flashpoint for the gay rights movement after a police raid disrupts the event. The show's discussion highlights the stark contrast between the growing activism in the North and the struggles in the Deep South. It also examines the chilling effects of Cold War rhetoric and McCarthyism on LGBTQ lives. Personal stories, such as that of Abby, illuminate the courage of those fighting for freedom, setting the stage for the transformative Stonewall Riots and beyond.

Kate Andersen Brower, a journalist renowned for her insights into the role of First Ladies, dives into the untold stories and challenges they face. She discusses the tight-knit community among First Ladies, revealing how they navigate public scrutiny and support each other through shared experiences. Brower highlights the unique ways each First Lady personalizes the White House while balancing family and political duties. The conversation also touches on the evolving roles of modern First Ladies, showcasing their impact on society and culture.

Michelle Obama's journey from a Chicago lawyer to the iconic First Lady is explored, including her support for her husband's presidential bid and her impactful initiatives promoting health and education. The podcast delves into the challenges faced as the first Black First Lady and the public scrutiny endured, highlighting Michelle's resilience, advocacy for girls' education, and popularity as one of the most beloved First Ladies.