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
14 snips
Oct 23, 2024 • 18min
The Dubrovka Theater Hostage Crisis
In October 2002, chaos erupts at a Moscow theater as armed terrorists take hostages during a musical performance. A stark shift from entertainment to terror unfolds, with hostages grappling with panic and fear. The police's introduction of gas escalates the tension, leading to a desperate rescue attempt by special forces. This tragic event not only impacts the hostages and their families but also alters the political landscape in Russia, boosting support for military action in Chechnya and highlighting the horror of such crises.
Oct 22, 2024 • 16min
The Death of “Pretty Boy” Floyd
Dive into the gripping tale of Charles 'Pretty Boy' Floyd, a notorious outlaw whose life unfolded in a whirlwind of crime and daring escapes. Witness harrowing moments from a dramatic prison transport breakout to a chaotic gunfight that sealed his fate. Explore the landscape of 1930s crime through the violent tensions of the Kansas City Massacre and its repercussions for Floyd. As the manhunt intensifies, discover the complexities of his legacy amidst the rise of the Bureau of Investigation.
Oct 21, 2024 • 16min
Florence Nightingale’s Crimean War
Explore the brave charge of soldiers in the pivotal Battle of Alma during the Crimean War. Discover how Florence Nightingale rallied volunteer nurses to confront horrific medical conditions and societal opposition. Hear about her tireless work to improve hospital care at Scutari, where she earned the title 'Lady with the Lamp.' Finally, learn about her enduring legacy in nursing, despite facing health struggles after her monumental efforts to revolutionize healthcare.
Oct 19, 2024 • 1h
Saturday Matinee: I Know Dino
Join Roy Chapman Andrews, a real-life Indiana Jones, as he shares tales from his adventurous life as a zoologist and paleontologist. Discover his thrilling expeditions in the Gobi Desert, where he unveiled dinosaur eggs and fossils. Andrews reveals the challenges of fundraising for his missions and the ethical dilemmas of fossil commercialization. Hear about transporting fossils by camel and navigating complex cultural relationships in early 20th-century China. His daring adventures and remarkable legacy continue to impact paleontology today.
8 snips
Oct 18, 2024 • 16min
The United States Takes Control of Alaska
Discover the dramatic story of the U.S. purchase of Alaska from Russia in 1867 for $7.2 million. Explore the tragic Refuge Rock Massacre involving the Sukhpiaq people and the negotiations led by William Seward. Unveil the violent clashes that disrupted Tlingit sovereignty as American soldiers violated indigenous laws. Witness Seward's dismissive remarks toward Native Alaskans and the Tlingit's response through a symbolic totem pole. Reflect on the complex legacy of this territorial acquisition and its lasting impact on indigenous rights.
9 snips
Oct 17, 2024 • 17min
The Rise of President Perón
On October 17, 1945, a massive labor protest in Buenos Aires encapsulated the growing demand for the release of Juan Domingo Perón, ultimately paving his way to the presidency. The discussion highlights his strategic alliances, particularly with Eva Duarte, amidst the chaos of the 1944 earthquake relief efforts. Perón's populist policies transformed Argentina, while his resurgence from political sidelining to a beloved leader illustrates his dynamic role in shaping Peronism. The podcast dives into their legacies that still resonate in Argentine politics today.
Oct 16, 2024 • 16min
The Assassination of Journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia
Daphne Caruana Galizia's assassination sends shockwaves through Malta. The podcast explores her courageous investigative journalism that exposed political corruption, especially revealed through the Panama Papers. It delves into the protests against authorities and the personal impact of her tragic death on her family. The discussions reveal the ongoing fight against corruption sparked by her work, as well as the conspiracy surrounding her untimely demise, highlighting the continuing influence of her legacy on journalism and activism.
Oct 15, 2024 • 15min
The Torsåker Witch Trials
Delve into the grim atmosphere of 17th-century Sweden, where fear leads to a catastrophic witch hunt. A young girl's false accusation ignites a tragic series of events, manipulating an entire community. The local priest's coercion of children results in a wave of paranoia and wrongful condemnations. Discover the harrowing reality of nearly a hundred villagers facing execution, showcasing the dark legacy of the Torsåker witch trials and the lasting scars left on those who witnessed the horrors.
4 snips
Oct 14, 2024 • 16min
Breaking the Sound Barrier
On October 14, 1947, US Air Force Captain Chuck Yeager defies the odds to become the first person to break the sound barrier, overcoming broken ribs and technical challenges. The journey of another World War II pilot reveals his heroic escape with the help of the French resistance, elevating him to legendary status. The intense atmosphere of the X-1 Test Program showcases the relentless pursuit of supersonic flight among courageous test pilots. This thrilling narrative highlights resilience, ingenuity, and the spirit of aviation history.
Oct 12, 2024 • 40min
Saturday Matinee: American History Tellers
Discover the gripping tale of the first permanent English settlement in North America at Jamestown, Virginia. Journey through the clash of cultures as settlers assert dominance over Indigenous lands, led by Chief Powhatan. Delve into the internal struggles and leadership conflicts that define the colony's turbulent beginnings. Experience the hardships faced by the settlers, from disease to drought, and the political strife that threatened unity. This captivating narrative reveals the deceptive foundations of colonial ambitions and the perilous path to survival.
