History Daily
Airship | Noiser | Wondery
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
Oct 11, 2025 • 42min
Saturday Matinee: Conspiracy Theories, Cults, & Crimes
Dive into a web of intrigue as the JFK assassination is unraveled from multiple angles. Discover the chilling details of Kennedy's Texas trip and the chaos of Dealey Plaza. Explore Lee Harvey Oswald's tumultuous background and infamous courtroom proclamation, 'I'm just a patsy.' Unpack the findings of the Warren Commission and the contentious single-bullet theory. Plus, ponder conspiracy theories involving Cuba, the CIA, and even the Mafia, highlighting public skepticism that lingers to this day.
8 snips
Oct 10, 2025 • 17min
Malala’s Nobel Peace Prize
Discover the harrowing story of Malala Yousafzai, a young activist targeted for her fight for girls' education. Learn about the chilling event when she was shot on a school bus and the subsequent international reaction. Delve into her remarkable recovery and the evolution of her advocacy on the world stage. The highlight comes with the announcement of her Nobel Peace Prize, making her the youngest laureate ever, as she inspires millions to pursue education despite adversity.
Oct 9, 2025 • 17min
The Vajont Dam Disaster
On October 9, 1963, a catastrophic landslide at the Vajont Dam unleashed a tsunami-like wave, claiming over 2,000 lives. Tensions within the Coletti family hinted at looming danger as rumors spread. Engineers ignored early warnings about potential landslides, leading to disastrous decisions about the dam's water level. The night of the disaster saw a seismic shock followed by unimaginable destruction in Longarone. Post-tragedy, the dam stands as a haunting memorial, reflecting on the consequences of negligence.
Oct 8, 2025 • 15min
Chicago’s Days of Rage
In October 1969, Chicago became a battleground as the Weathermen, a radical left-wing group, organized violent protests. Led by figures like Mark Rudd, they aimed to recruit students for their revolutionary cause. Despite a low turnout, chaos ensued with riots in the Gold Coast, resulting in injuries and numerous arrests. The toll on the movement grew heavy, leading to its decline and eventual transition to the underground. The escalation and ideological shift of the Weathermen reflect a turbulent chapter in America's history.
Oct 7, 2025 • 16min
The Battle of Lepanto
On October 7, 1571, a fierce naval clash unfolds between the Ottoman Empire and the Holy League. Pope Pius V ambitiously unites Christian forces, fueling tension and rivalry. Don John of Austria leads the charge, resulting in chaotic, close-quarters combat. Despite the Holy League's victory, internal fractures emerge, leaving the gains uncapitalized. A 1573 treaty between Venice and the Ottomans signals a shift, solidifying a long-lasting division in the Mediterranean landscape.
Oct 6, 2025 • 17min
Opening Night at the Moulin Rouge
Travel back to October 6, 1889, when the iconic Moulin Rouge opened its doors in Paris. Experience the buzz from the moment young artists arrived at the vibrant venue. Meet Louise Weber, the dazzling star of the can-can, whose audacious performance captivated royalty and launched the club's fame. Discover the escalating scandals, including a riot in 1907 that rocked the Moulin Rouge's reputation. Learn about its legacy and influence on art and culture, cementing the club's legendary status in history.
Oct 4, 2025 • 41min
Saturday Matinee: American Shrapnel
In a gripping conversation, Chris Edson, a survivor of the Birmingham clinic bombing, shares his harrowing firsthand account of the January 29, 1998, attack. He vividly describes the chaos and injuries inflicted by the blast, providing a unique perspective on the tragedy. The discussion also covers the complexities of investigating such bombings, highlighting the challenges faced by law enforcement in tracing the elusive serial bomber, Eric Robert Rudolph. Edson's insights bring an emotional depth to the chilling narrative of political violence during this turbulent time.
Oct 3, 2025 • 15min
The Execution of the Last Prince of Wales
Dive into the dramatic tale of Dafydd ap Gruffydd, the last native Prince of Wales. Discover his audacious midnight attack on Hawarden Castle, igniting Edward I's fury and invasion plans. Unpack the complexities of Welsh resistance against Norman rule and Dafydd's shifting allegiances. The podcast details a thrilling ambush that invigorated Welsh spirits and the tragic deception that led to Llewellyn's downfall. Conclude with the harrowing fate of Dafydd and the consolidation of English power in Wales.
Oct 2, 2025 • 17min
The End of the Warsaw Uprising
On October 2, 1944, the Warsaw Uprising comes to a tragic end after two months of fierce fighting. The harrowing story features Teresa Wielska leading fighters through the perilous sewers. It explores the Home Army's courageous yet ambitious decision to rise and their early successes in urban warfare. However, a dire shortage of supplies and failed Allied air drops lead to devastating losses. The aftermath reveals the grim fate of POWs, civilian deportations, and the destruction of Warsaw, setting the stage for decades of communist rule.
Oct 1, 2025 • 17min
The First Bullet Train
On October 1, 1964, Japan launched the revolutionary Shinkansen, connecting Tokyo and Osaka. The episode dives into the post-war economic miracle, highlighting Shigeru Yoshida's influence in stabilizing Japan. It explores the radical idea of building a new main line amidst overcrowded trains and the bold innovations that defined the bullet train. Early tests boasted speeds of 130 mph, and public reaction was overwhelmingly positive. The Shinkansen's debut coincided with the Tokyo Olympics, forever transforming transportation in Japan.
