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
Jan 20, 2025 • 16min
986: Franklin D. Roosevelt’s Fourth Inauguration
January 20, 1945, marks a poignant moment as Franklin D. Roosevelt is sworn in for his unprecedented fourth term while grappling with declining health. The looming Yalta Conference underscores tense U.S.-Soviet relations, highlighting Roosevelt's diplomatic finesse amidst global turmoil. A tense interaction with Stalin illustrates power dynamics and the aftermath of the Battle of Stalingrad. The podcast captures Roosevelt's vulnerability as he navigates post-war peace efforts, ultimately culminating in his sudden passing, marking a significant historical turning point.
Jan 18, 2025 • 54min
985: Saturday Matinee: Face the Attack: The Three Battles of Sailor Malan
A.G. ‘Sailor’ Malan, a prominent South African fighter pilot and ace of WWII, shares his journey from farm boy to aviation legend. He discusses his battlefield tactics, including his renowned 10 rules of air combat, particularly during pivotal moments like the Battle of Dunkirk. Sailor reveals the emotional toll of war and his struggles with both leadership and personal life post-conflict, set against the backdrop of apartheid's rise. His legacy is one of valor, skill, and the psychological burdens faced by fighter pilots.
Jan 17, 2025 • 15min
984: Roald Dahl’s “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory” Hits Bookshelves
Discover the extraordinary journey of a British pilot who became a beloved children's author after surviving a harrowing crash in the desert. Delve into the emotional turmoil he faced after the heartbreaking loss of his daughter, which inspired him to write a timeless classic. Explore how his grief transformed into creativity, resulting in the iconic 'Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.' Plus, learn about his struggles with Hollywood adaptations that strayed from his vision and his determination to preserve the magic of his literary creation.
Jan 16, 2025 • 17min
983: The End of the Roman Republic
Dive into the political chaos of Rome during the twilight of the Republic. Witness Octavian's calculated maneuvering after Caesar's assassination and the formation of the Triumvirate amid fierce rivalries. Explore betrayal and tactical conflicts, culminating in a naval showdown that seals Antony's fate. Discover how Octavian masterfully balances public ideals with personal ambition, leading to his historic rise as Augustus on January 16, 27 BCE—a moment that forever changed the course of history.
Jan 15, 2025 • 16min
982: The Miracle On The Hudson
On January 15, 2009, a U.S. Airways flight faced a dire situation when both engines failed. Pilot Chesley Sullenberger executed a remarkable emergency landing on the Hudson River, saving all on board. The podcast dives into Sully's early experiences as a young pilot, the personal challenges he encountered, and how he navigated through a turbulent time in American history. It also reflects on the crew's journey from heroism to the economic struggles that followed, blending themes of courage, perseverance, and the fragility of life.
Jan 14, 2025 • 17min
981: The Beginning of the Summer of Love
In January 1967, a monumental gathering in San Francisco marked the start of the Summer of Love, uniting music and spirituality under the counterculture banner. The influence of psychedelics and figures like Ken Kesey fueled a transformative movement focused on peace and love. The vibrant Haight-Ashbury scene witnessed events that united diverse groups amidst challenges. However, the commercialization led to a poignant mock funeral for the movement, highlighting the importance of preserving its authentic spirit, echoing its ideals in today’s activism.
Jan 13, 2025 • 16min
980: The Sole Survivor of the Retreat from Kabul
On January 13, 1842, a disastrous retreat unfolds during the First Anglo-Afghan War. The harrowing tale of William Brydon, the sole survivor, unfolds as he navigates relentless attacks from Afghan guerrillas. The podcast delves into the chaotic backdrop of British actions, the rise of rebellion in Kabul, and the grim realization of impending defeat. It captures the dramatic moment Brydon proclaims, 'I am the army,' symbolizing not just survival but the larger ramifications of this military debacle. An intriguing exploration of resilience amidst catastrophe.
Jan 11, 2025 • 32min
979: Saturday Matinee: Avenger
Miriam Lewin, an Argentinian journalist who survived torture during the 1977 dictatorship, shares her harrowing journey of resilience and justice. She discusses the chilling legacy of the 'death flights' and her relentless pursuit to confront those responsible. Alongside Andres Caballero, she reveals the emotional and psychological impact of her experiences. Their conversation explores the depths of fear and bravery faced by activists in a repressive regime, highlighting the importance of uncovering the shadows of Argentina's past.
16 snips
Jan 10, 2025 • 15min
978: The First Underground Train
Dive into the bustling streets of Victorian London and meet Charles Pearson, the visionary behind the world's first underground railway. Discover the challenges he faced in securing funding amidst skepticism and congestion. Experience the excitement as his persistence pays off, leading to the historic opening of the Metropolitan Railway in 1863. The journey from an innovative idea to a groundbreaking construction project reshapes urban transportation forever.
Jan 9, 2025 • 16min
977: Steve Jobs Unveils the iPhone
On January 9, 2007, Steve Jobs introduced a groundbreaking device that transformed technology. The intense buildup revealed the challenges faced by Apple's team and Jobs' personal struggles leading up to the launch. Listeners are taken through the device's innovative design evolution from plastic to Gorilla Glass, highlighting its game-changing features. The excitement surrounding this iconic moment illustrates the iPhone's monumental impact on mobile communication and the future of the Apple brand.
