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
Dec 27, 2024 • 18min
966: J.M. Barrie’s “Peter Pan” Premieres in London
On December 27, 1904, J.M. Barrie's play Peter Pan premiered in London, sparking excitement and anxiety for its creator. Delve into Barrie's childhood loss and how it shaped his storytelling. Discover the challenges of casting, particularly the innovative flying rehearsals for Wendy. Learn about the groundbreaking stagecraft that brought magic to life and the enduring influence of Peter Pan across theater and animation. Finally, explore the lasting impact of the Davies family on Barrie’s work and legacy.
Dec 26, 2024 • 16min
965: The Murder of Dian Fossey
Dive into the life of Dr. Dian Fossey, a fearless primatologist working to protect mountain gorillas. Discover her deep connection to wildlife ignited by the death of Digit, a beloved gorilla. Learn about her resilience as she navigates the challenges of Rwandan jungles and her daring escape from imprisonment. Uncover the intense battles she faced against poachers and the emotional toll of her work, leading up to her tragic murder. Fossey's legacy in conservation continues to inspire and provoke change.
Dec 25, 2024 • 16min
964: The First Performance of “White Christmas” - Original
Dive into the heartfelt story behind the iconic song 'White Christmas,' born from a songwriter's longing for family during the holidays. Explore the life of a composer faced with personal tragedies yet determined to create joy through music. The performance by Bing Crosby in 1941 opens a window into Christmas amid the turmoil of war, blending holiday spirit with a nation in crisis. Witness how this song evolved into a timeless classic, shaping the heart of Christmas music and earning its place in history.
Dec 24, 2024 • 15min
963: The Christmas Truce
On December 24, 1914, British and German soldiers laid down their guns in the trenches of World War I to celebrate Christmas together. The extraordinary Christmas Truce reveals the power of the holiday spirit to unite even the fiercest of foes. Stories emerge of camaraderie and carols shared in No Man's Land, reminding us of the shared humanity in the darkest times. This brief ceasefire serves as a poignant reflection on compassion amidst chaos, illustrating how a moment of peace can shine through the brutality of war.
Dec 23, 2024 • 18min
962: George Washington Resigns
This discussion centers on George Washington's pivotal resignation as commander-in-chief in 1783, highlighting his steadfast commitment to democracy. The story captures his efforts to unite officers facing mutiny, showcasing his leadership under pressure. An emotional moment unfolds as he relinquishes power, casting aside potential dictatorship. Additionally, a daring act at a flag-raising ceremony symbolizes burgeoning American identity, setting the stage for Washington's legendary legacy and the future of American leadership.
Dec 21, 2024 • 39min
961: Saturday Matinee: American Scandal
The podcast dives deep into the emotional turmoil surrounding the Challenger disaster, highlighting how a mix of ambition and systemic failures led to tragedy. It explores the harrowing experiences of June Scobie on launch day, revealing a shift from joy to horror. Additionally, the discussion touches on the challenges faced by NASA in building the Columbia shuttle, emphasizing the critical inspections that could have prevented catastrophe. Illusions of safety clash with the harsh realities of space exploration, leaving an indelible mark on America's imagination.
Dec 20, 2024 • 18min
960: South Carolina Secedes From the Union
On December 20, 1860, South Carolina ignited tensions that would lead to the Civil War by becoming the first state to secede from the Union. The episode highlights key moments, from explosive debates in Charleston to Governor Gist's impassioned declaration. It also revisits critical historical events, such as the Compromise of 1820, that nurtured divisions between the North and South. The tension culminates in the dramatic standoff at Fort Sumter, marking the start of a profound conflict in American history.
Dec 19, 2024 • 16min
959: Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol - Original
Discover how Charles Dickens' tough childhood shaped his empathetic writing style. Explore his rise to literary fame, beginning with 'The Pickwick Papers,' and how his journey to America opened his eyes to the horrors of slavery. Uncover the challenges he faced while crafting 'A Christmas Carol,' and learn how he aimed to address social issues like poverty and child labor through this beloved tale, forever changing Christmas literature and inspiring social reform.
5 snips
Dec 18, 2024 • 19min
958: The “Christmas Bombing” of North Vietnam
On December 18, 1972, President Nixon launched a daring bombing campaign known as the 'Christmas Bombing' in North Vietnam. Dive into the intense experiences of military personnel, including a B-52 navigator caught in peril. Explore the perspective of North Vietnamese Army Commander Din Teh Van as he navigates the chaos of bombardments. The backlash against this controversial operation saw fierce protests in New York City, revealing deepening anti-war sentiments. Reflect on the campaign's significant military strategies, political fallout, and its lasting impact on peace negotiations.
Dec 17, 2024 • 15min
957: Emperor Timur Captures Delhi - Original
In a gripping historical tale, a relentless warlord named Timur launches a fierce campaign against Delhi, commanding an army of 90,000 warriors. His rise to power is marked by ruthless strategies and brutal tactics, resulting in widespread devastation and the deaths of 100,000 people. As he sieges the city, the narrative reveals the complexity of ambition intertwined with faith. Ultimately, Timur's conquests cast a shadow over his legacy, as illness disrupts his imperial plans, highlighting the fragile nature of power.
