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
10 snips
Oct 21, 2025 • 16min
1221: The “Bubble Boy’s” Experimental Transplant
In October 1983, a 12-year-old boy named David Vetter, who lived in a sterile isolation bubble, received an experimental bone marrow transplant. His life was marked by a severe immune deficiency, leading to his unique upbringing and media attention. The podcast explores the intense procedure and David's initial recovery, but soon reveals a tragic twist as a dormant virus in the transplant overwhelms his system. Following his brief experience outside isolation, the discussion highlights the medical advancements inspired by David's case, particularly in SCID gene identification.
8 snips
Oct 20, 2025 • 17min
1220: The Sydney Opera House Opens
Discover the fascinating story behind the Sydney Opera House opening on October 20, 1973. Learn how Jan Utzon won the design competition and the numerous engineering challenges he faced. Explore the political motivations that led to construction starting without finalized plans. Uncover the drama of Utzon's resignation and his subsequent omission from the opening ceremony. Despite controversies, the Opera House stands as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a celebrated cultural icon, fully recognized years later.
Oct 18, 2025 • 41min
1219: Saturday Matinee: Jane Austen Stories
Julie Andrews, the beloved actor and singer, lends her iconic voice to narrate the classic tale of "Pride and Prejudice". She dives into the rich themes of love, class, and the complexities of family dynamics in Regency England. Andrews introduces key characters like the charming Mr. Bingley and the proud Mr. Darcy, setting the stage for romantic tensions and social intrigue. As the story unfolds, listeners experience the excitement of dances and local gossip, all beautifully captured in Austen’s wit and wisdom.
14 snips
Oct 17, 2025 • 16min
1218: The Assassination of the Emperor of Haiti
Dive into the tumultuous life of Jean-Jacques Dessalines, the former leader of the Haitian Revolution turned oppressive emperor. Explore his cunning betrayal of French forces and the bloody path to Haiti's independence. Witness his rise to power, marked by brutal campaigns and forced labor, leading to domestic strife. The plot thickens with conspirators strategizing his assassination. Experience the dramatic ambush that leads to Dessalines' death and the chaotic aftermath, sealing his legacy as both a liberator and a dictator.
9 snips
Oct 16, 2025 • 17min
1217: The Assassination of Journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia
Delve into the tragic assassination of journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia, who was killed by a car bomb in Malta. Discover how her courageous reporting on political corruption shook the foundations of Maltese governance. Explore her early activism and the intense threats she faced while running her independent blog, which gave her the freedom to expose powerful figures. The podcast also highlights the aftermath of her murder, including arrests and the continuing legacy of her investigative work, sparking global outrage and sustained support for justice.
8 snips
Oct 15, 2025 • 16min
1216: Charlie Chaplin Premieres The Great Dictator
On October 15, 1940, Charlie Chaplin premiered a groundbreaking satire that took aim at Adolf Hitler. It all began with a shocking viewing of Triumph of the Will, inspiring Chaplin to use comedy as a weapon against tyranny. The film's dual characters represented contrasting ideals, while Chaplin's decision to self-finance reflected his commitment. Amidst World War II, he modified the ending to advocate for peace. The premiere elicited a standing ovation, solidifying the film's status as a monumental box office success in cinematic history.
Oct 14, 2025 • 17min
1215: The Battle of Old Byland
Travel back to October 14, 1322, as the Scots deliver a stunning blow against the English at the Battle of Old Byland. Discover the tragic fate of William Wallace and how his execution fueled the fight for independence. Explore Robert the Bruce's rise to power and the decisive impact of the Battle of Bannockburn. Uncover the chaos of Edward II's ill-fated invasion and his army's desperate retreat. Relive the drama as the Scots claim victory, reshaping the course of Scottish history.
Oct 13, 2025 • 18min
1214: The Miracle of the Andes
On October 13, 1972, a plane crash in the Andes leaves a rugby team stranded, battling for survival. With failed rescue attempts and dwindling supplies, the group faces harrowing decisions about food. Nando Parado awakens from a coma and, alongside others, tackles the challenges of rationing and desperation. An avalanche complicates their plight, burying some survivors, while resourcefulness leads them on a treacherous trek across the mountains in search of help. Their incredible journey culminates in a rescue that becomes a legacy of resilience.
Oct 11, 2025 • 42min
1213: Saturday Matinee: Conspiracy Theories, Cults, & Crimes
Dive into a web of intrigue as the JFK assassination is unraveled from multiple angles. Discover the chilling details of Kennedy's Texas trip and the chaos of Dealey Plaza. Explore Lee Harvey Oswald's tumultuous background and infamous courtroom proclamation, 'I'm just a patsy.' Unpack the findings of the Warren Commission and the contentious single-bullet theory. Plus, ponder conspiracy theories involving Cuba, the CIA, and even the Mafia, highlighting public skepticism that lingers to this day.
8 snips
Oct 10, 2025 • 17min
1212: Malala’s Nobel Peace Prize
Discover the harrowing story of Malala Yousafzai, a young activist targeted for her fight for girls' education. Learn about the chilling event when she was shot on a school bus and the subsequent international reaction. Delve into her remarkable recovery and the evolution of her advocacy on the world stage. The highlight comes with the announcement of her Nobel Peace Prize, making her the youngest laureate ever, as she inspires millions to pursue education despite adversity.
