History Daily
History Daily
On History Daily, we do history, daily. Every weekday, host Lindsay Graham (American Scandal, American History Tellers) takes you back in time to explore a momentous event that happened ‘on this day’ in history. Whether it’s to remember the tragedy of December 7th, 1941, the day “that will live in infamy,” or to celebrate that 20th day in July, 1969, when mankind reached the moon, History Daily is there to tell you the true stories of the people and events that shaped our world—one day at a time. So if you’re stuck in traffic, bored at work—wherever you are, listen to History Daily to remind yourself that something incredible happened to make that day historic.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Dec 13, 2025 • 47min
1267: Saturday Matinee: Charles Dickens Ghost Stories
Veteran actor David Suchet, renowned for voicing Hercule Poirot and captivating listeners through his narrations, brings to life Charles Dickens' A Christmas Carol. He sets the stage by recounting Dickens's celebrated 1843 Boxing Day party and the impactful debut of the story. Suchet vividly portrays Scrooge's bitter journey, encounters with Marley’s ghost, and the foreboding visit of three spirits. This enchanting narrative not only explores themes of redemption but also uncovers Scrooge's poignant past, stirring emotions and festive spirit alike.
Dec 12, 2025 • 16min
1266: The Battle of Tolvajärvi
On December 12, 1939, Finland scored its first significant victory in the Winter War with the Battle of Tolvajärvi. The podcast dives into the context of the conflict, highlighting the Soviet invasion and the strategic Finnish counterattack. It discusses the impact of the Molotov-Ribbentrop Pact on Finland, guerrilla tactics that bewildered enemy forces, and the broader consequences for both Finland and the USSR after the war. Listeners will discover how this pivotal moment shaped national pride and military strategy in the region.
Dec 11, 2025 • 16min
1265: Frank Sinatra Jr. Is Released by His Kidnappers
In December 1963, Frank Sinatra Jr. is kidnapped at gunpoint by Barry Keenan and Joe Amslin, who pose as deliverymen. The podcast delves into Keenan's troubled past and motivations for the crime, as well as the frantic ransom negotiations involving Frank Sinatra Sr. and the FBI. After a tense three days, Junior is released, leading to the subsequent unraveling of the kidnappers and their arrests. The aftermath includes trials and Frank Sinatra Sr.'s enduring vigilance, painting a gripping tale of celebrity, crime, and recovery.
Dec 10, 2025 • 16min
1264: America’s First Paper Money
In 1690, after a failed attack on Quebec, Massachusetts forged history by creating the first paper currency in the Western Hemisphere. Tensions were high due to the Dover raid and conflicts among English, French, and Native tribes. Governor Bradstreet proposed paper money when angry troops returned unpaid. What started as emergency currency became a lasting solution, reshaping financial practices. The drama of military failures and innovative solutions unfolds in a captivating tale of survival and commerce.
4 snips
Dec 9, 2025 • 18min
1263: Jim Morrison’s On-Stage Arrest
On December 9, 1967, Jim Morrison faced an unprecedented on-stage arrest during a concert in New Haven, becoming the first rock star to be detained mid-performance. Tensions flared after a backstage altercation with an off-duty officer. The podcast dives into Morrison's provocative antics, including an outrageous Oedipus monologue that shocked audiences. It also explores how controversy fueled The Doors' rise to fame, despite their struggles with censorship and Morrison's personal decline. A gripping tale of rebellion and rock history!
9 snips
Dec 8, 2025 • 17min
1262: The Opening of the Clifton Suspension Bridge
Discover the captivating tale of the Clifton Suspension Bridge's opening in 1864 and its legendary designer, Isambard Kingdom Brunel. Hear about Brunel's dramatic survival during the Thames Tunnel flood and how political unrest impacted the bridge's construction. Learn about his innovative steamship designs and the ambitious Great Western Railway project. The significance of the bridge to Bristol's identity is explored, highlighting how it stands as a lasting tribute to Brunel's genius.
Dec 7, 2025 • 1min
Special Update on Wondery+
A host reveals that the show has moved away from Wondery+, introducing new ad-free listening options. Alternatives like Into History and Noiser Plus are highlighted, emphasizing how subscribers can support creators. Listeners are encouraged to explore these options for an uninterrupted experience. The episode wraps up with sponsorship details to keep the audience engaged.
Dec 6, 2025 • 37min
1261: Saturday Matinee: Cautionary Tales
In this episode, economist and storyteller Tim Harford reveals the cautionary tale of Farepak, a Christmas savings club that collapsed, leaving many families in despair. He explains how social pressures led vulnerable customers to use the service, and details the unfortunate bankruptcy and its impact. The conversation also touches on holiday gift-giving problems, emphasizing that many gifts are worth less than their cost. Tim offers insights into better spending habits, urging a shift towards meaningful gifts and open communication about expectations.
Dec 5, 2025 • 16min
1260: Flight 19 Disappears in the Bermuda Triangle
On a fateful December day in 1945, five Navy bombers vanished over the Atlantic, sparking intrigue and anxiety. The podcast explores Lieutenant Taylor’s tense briefing and the mission's disastrous navigation issues. With failed compasses and eerie radio static, the crew became disoriented. An extensive search yielded no wreckage, deepening the mystery. The story takes a poignant turn with Taylor's mother, advocating for her son's legacy. The episode delves into the origins of Bermuda Triangle lore and sheds light on possible explanations behind the phenomenon.
5 snips
Dec 4, 2025 • 16min
1259: Boss Tweed Escapes Prison
Dive into the audacious escape of Boss Tweed, the infamous New York politician, who cunningly eludes his guards during a home visit in 1875. Explore how his corrupt influence was unveiled through investigative journalism, leading to his monumental conviction. The story takes a thrilling turn as Tweed orchestrates an escape plan, fleeing to New Jersey and beyond, only to be eventually recognized and captured abroad. It's a captivating tale of power, corruption, and the relentless pursuit of justice.
