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
6 snips
Jun 18, 2025 • 16min
The Mysterious Death of “God’s Banker”
The discovery of Roberto Calvi’s body beneath Blackfriars Bridge raises immediate questions about foul play. The investigation uncovers a tangled web of banking corruption and organized crime linked to the Banco Ambrosiano scandal. As the narrative unfolds, connections to a secret society reveal deeper implications involving the Vatican Bank. Discussions also delve into forensic evidence suggesting murder rather than suicide, heightening the mystery that shrouds Calvi’s life and death. Ultimately, it’s a captivating blend of finance, crime, and ecclesiastical intrigue.
Jun 17, 2025 • 16min
The Smoot-Hawley Tariff Act
Explore the chaos of the 1929 stock market crash, as traders faced panic on the floor of the New York Stock Exchange. The Smoot-Hawley Tariff Act, enacted in 1930, was supposed to protect American jobs but ended up exacerbating the Great Depression and souring global trade. Delve into President Hoover's struggle with political pressures and the devastating consequences of protectionist policies. Learn how the 1934 Reciprocal Trade Agreements Act marked a pivotal shift towards cooperation in international trade, laying groundwork for economic stability.
5 snips
Jun 16, 2025 • 18min
The First Woman In Space
On June 16, 1963, Valentina Tereshkova made history as the first woman to orbit Earth. Her journey began from humble beginnings, fueled by a passion for flight. Despite facing intense challenges, Tereshkova's determination led her through rigorous training to break gender barriers in a male-dominated field. Her historic flight aboard Vostok 6 not only marked a personal triumph but also reshaped perceptions of women's roles in space exploration, cementing her legacy as a trailblazer and advocate for future generations.
Jun 14, 2025 • 41min
Saturday Matinee: American Scandal
Dive into the chilling world of Georgia Tann, who turned child adoption into a horrific scheme of trafficking in the early 20th century. The discussion unpacks the dark legacy of her manipulative tactics and explores the heartbreaking stories of families affected by her greed. It sheds light on the struggles of mothers fighting for their children and the ethical dilemmas surrounding adoption practices at the time. With a mix of personal narratives and historical context, the tale unfolds like a gripping thriller, revealing Tann's rise to power.
Jun 13, 2025 • 18min
The Mysterious Death of King Ludwig II
Explore the mysterious death of King Ludwig II of Bavaria, who drowned in Lake Starnberg amid whispers of conspiracy. Discover his eccentric reign filled with dreams of fairy tale castles and his obsession with Richard Wagner’s music. Delve into the political intrigue that led to his downfall and the tense moments leading to his tragic demise. The podcast unravels the enigma of his life and explores the dark theories surrounding his untimely end.
7 snips
Jun 12, 2025 • 15min
Retreat from Cold Harbor
On June 12, 1864, Union soldiers make a harrowing nighttime retreat, marking the end of the brutal Battle of Cold Harbor. A Confederate soldier's close encounter with death reveals the complex humanity within the chaos of war. General Hancock faces dire conditions and critical decisions as he navigates his weary troops. Meanwhile, the Confederates, under General Lee, strengthen their defenses, setting the stage for a disastrous Union assault that leads to staggering casualties. This moment in the Civil War exemplifies the tragedy and strategic blunders of armed conflict.
Jun 11, 2025 • 17min
Vietnam’s “Burning Monk” Protest
On June 11, 1963, a Buddhist monk set himself on fire in a bustling Saigon intersection, protesting the lack of religious freedom in South Vietnam. This shocking act sparked global attention and demonstrated the deep tensions between the Buddhist community and the oppressive South Vietnamese government. As violent clashes unfolded, the monk's sacrifice became a pivotal moment that highlighted the struggle for religious rights. The backdrop of these protests played a crucial role in the political turmoil that ultimately led to a military coup.
6 snips
Jun 10, 2025 • 16min
Benjamin Franklin’s Kite Experiment
Benjamin Franklin's daring kite experiment during a thunderstorm reveals the shocking connection between lightning and electricity. It all began with a mesmerizing static electricity demonstration that ignited Franklin's curiosity. As the story unfolds, we learn about his early fascination with scientific exploration and how his pivotal discoveries shaped his legacy. The podcast also touches on Franklin's life as a respected diplomat and his complex relationship with his son, adding depth to this legendary figure's story.
Jun 9, 2025 • 18min
Secretariat Wins the Triple Crown
The thrilling journey of Secretariat, who captured the Triple Crown, is explored in an engaging narrative. From humble beginnings to his iconic Belmont Stakes victory, the saga highlights his impact on horse racing and American culture. The emotional farewell to this legendary horse, facing laminitis, reveals the deep bond between him and his groom. Additionally, the struggles of his owner showcase resilience and determination in reviving a faltering breeding operation. Secretariat's triumphs continue to inspire and hold a special place in sports history.
Jun 7, 2025 • 53min
Saturday Matinee: D-Day: The Tide Turns
Explore the high-stakes espionage behind D-Day, where clever deception kept Allied plans secret. Discover the daring British torpedo boat's mission to gather crucial intelligence from occupied France. Learn about Operation Fortitude, a masterful ruse that misled German forces with fake military operations and double agents. Uncover the art of storytelling used by a British double agent to navigate the complexities of wartime misinformation. Dive into the intricate web of tactics that shaped one of history's most pivotal moments.
