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
11 snips
Oct 1, 2024 • 16min
The First Bullet Train
Explore the pulse of post-war Japan as firefighters navigate the chaos of Tokyo's destruction. Witness the visionary journey of Shinji Sogo, who dreamed of a revolutionary train system during a challenging ride. Discover the political struggles that shaped the nation's recovery, culminating in the groundbreaking launch of the Shinkansen during the 1964 Olympics. This remarkable story highlights Japan's transformation from ashes to a high-speed future, marking a pivotal moment in both travel and economic resurgence.
Sep 30, 2024 • 18min
Suleiman the Magnificent
Suleiman the Magnificent, the legendary Sultan of the Ottoman Empire, shares his rise to power and military conquests in Europe. He reflects on his complex marriage with Roxalana, which reshaped court dynamics and stirred intrigue. The discussion reveals the dramatic downfall of Grand Vizier Ibrahim, highlighting the treacherous nature of loyalty in the empire. As rivalries within the court escalate, Suleiman’s later years are marked by psychological decline and unfulfilled ambitions, offering a poignant look at the cost of power.
Sep 28, 2024 • 1h 22min
Saturday Matinee: The Industrial Revolutions
Travel back to the mid-19th century and witness two Eastern powers racing to industrialize. Explore Emperor Alexander II's quest for peace after Russia's defeat in the Crimean War. Delve into the modernization efforts of Russia and Japan, battling serfdom and embracing industrial advancements. Discover Sergei Vitta's role in creating the Trans-Siberian Railway. Uncover Japan's transformation through foreign influence and the rise of Shinto nationalism, culminating in the Meiji Restoration. Finally, examine the geopolitical tensions that led to Japan's naval victory over Russia.
Sep 27, 2024 • 16min
Reading the Rosetta Stone
Jean-Francois Champollion, a renowned French scholar, takes us through his journey of deciphering the Rosetta Stone, a cornerstone in understanding ancient Egyptian hieroglyphs. He discusses the significance of the stone's discovery during Napoleon’s campaign and the laborious efforts by scholars over two decades to unlock its secrets. Champollion reveals how this breakthrough shifted our comprehension of ancient Egypt, sparking a widespread fascination with Egyptology that continues to this day.
Sep 26, 2024 • 17min
America’s First Televised Presidential Debate
On September 26, 1960, Richard M. Nixon, the 37th President, faced off against John F. Kennedy, the charismatic 35th President, in a historic televised debate that changed American politics. Nixon's health struggles and appearance contrasted sharply with Kennedy's poised demeanor, demonstrating the power of television in shaping public perception. The two leaders discussed the implications of Kennedy's Catholicism and the razor-thin electoral margin, showcasing how their performances set the stage for a new era in political campaigning.
Sep 25, 2024 • 17min
The Maze Prison Escape
In 1983, 38 IRA members executed the UK’s largest prison break from Maze Prison. The backdrop includes intense protests by prisoners demanding rights and the tragic hunger strike of Bobby Sands that galvanized public support. The narrative unveils the meticulous planning of the escape, revealing unexpected challenges along the way. This daring act not only shifted the dynamics within the prison system but also had lasting implications for Northern Ireland’s political climate.
Sep 24, 2024 • 17min
Ben Johnson’s Olympic Gold
Ben Johnson, an Olympic athlete who once clinched gold in the 100 meters final, reflects on his incredible yet tumultuous journey. He shares thrilling details of his shocking victory at the 1988 Seoul Olympics, only to have it marred by a doping scandal. The conversation dives into the intense rivalry with Carl Lewis, the emotional impacts of competition, and the ongoing battle against performance-enhancing drugs in sports. Through candid revelations, Johnson explores themes of redemption and the high stakes of athletic ambition.
Sep 23, 2024 • 20min
The Little Rock Nine Take on School Segregation
In 1957, nine African American students bravely attempted to integrate Central High School in Little Rock, facing intense hostility and armed police. The tension between cautious school leaders and determined civil rights activists shaped their journey. As federal intervention became necessary, the students demonstrated incredible resilience, becoming symbols in the fight against segregation. The personal struggles of the Little Rock Nine reflect the broader civil rights movement and the fierce clashes over desegregation during a pivotal era in American history.
Sep 21, 2024 • 1h 3min
Saturday Matinee: The Constant
On today’s Saturday Matinee, we examine the raging debate that gripped New York City in 1818: are whales fish?Link to The Constant: www.constantpodcast.comSupport the show! Join Into History for ad-free listening and more.History Daily is a co-production of Airship and Noiser.Go to HistoryDaily.com for more history, daily.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Sep 20, 2024 • 18min
Billie Jean King Wins the “Battle of the Sexes”
Tennis champion Billie Jean King, renowned for her advocacy for gender equality in sports, shares her experience of defeating Bobby Riggs in the iconic 'Battle of the Sexes.' The discussion explores the intense buildup to their historic match, highlighting the societal implications for women's rights in athletics. Bobby Riggs's struggles with fame and gambling are unveiled, while King reflects on the lasting legacy of her victory, including the founding of the Women's Sports Foundation and its role in promoting equality in sports.
