Stuff You Missed in History Class

Dive into the fascinating world of the Jelling stones, pivotal artifacts marking Denmark's shift from paganism to Christianity. Discover how these stones reflect the origins of the Danish monarchy and King Harald Blátand's motivations to reshape history. Uncover the legacy of Gorm the Old and Queen Tira, examining their roles in early royal lineage and the intriguing recognition of women in Viking culture. Finally, learn about the surprising origins of the Bluetooth name and its connection to Denmark's rich historical tapestry.

Discover the quirks of Icelandic naming conventions and the challenges of learning the language. Explore how one leader's obstinance can lead to international turmoil. Enjoy lighthearted travel tales intertwined with thoughtful discussions on health. Reflect on stunning adventures in Iceland, including a quest for the Northern Lights. Dive into the absurdity of historical conflicts and uncover the resilience and unique cultural identity of the Icelandic people, showcasing their rich history and natural beauty.

Delve into the quirky tale of the Isles of Scilly and their bizarre 335-Year War, primarily fueled by stubborn paperwork. Discover odd customs, like paying rent with puffins, and the scandalous life of Thomas Seymour, whose ambitions led to his downfall. Explore the Isles' strategic importance during the English Civil War and how Charles I's missteps shaped history. Unravel the absurdity of a conflict that involved no significant battles and examine the intriguing transformation of these islands into a tourist haven.

Explore the intriguing life of Jón Arason, the last Catholic bishop of Iceland, and his fierce resistance during the nation’s religious transformation. Delve into the tensions between Catholicism and Lutheranism, marked by intriguing rivalries and cultural shifts. Discover the darker facets of his story, including his grisly execution, and ponder the impact of his legacy on Iceland’s identity. The narrative also touches on Iceland’s early Christian struggles and the political backdrop of this tumultuous era, topped with tales from historical true crime.

Explore the fascinating life of Christine de Pizan, a pioneering figure in women's literature and feminism from the late Middle Ages. Discover her influential works, like 'The Book of the City of Ladies,' which challenged social norms and advocated for women's rights. Delve into her critiques of misogynistic literature and her strong stance on education and empowerment for women. Learn about her role as an official biographer of King Charles V and her reflections on Joan of Arc, all set against the backdrop of a tumultuous historical landscape.

Listen in as Holly and Tracy explore the artistic complexities of Tamara de Lempicka's life, from her claims of being a pioneer for women in art to her tumultuous relationships. They also unravel the intriguing story of Isaac Pitman, touching on his innovative phonetic writing system and challenges in personal life after loss. The discussion blends themes of resilience, societal influence, and the historical nuances of crime, all while celebrating the power of written communication in a modern context.

Discover the fascinating world of shorthand as pioneered by Isaac Pitman in the 19th century. Delve into how his system found a unique place in Bram Stoker's 'Dracula.' Explore Pitman's life, his shift towards Swedenborgian beliefs, and the resilience that led to his educational innovations. Learn about his phonetic rewriting revolution and the clever marketing strategies that propelled his shorthand into the spotlight. Uncover the lasting legacy of his work and its continued significance in today's communication landscape.

Discover the captivating life of Tamara de Lempicka, a pioneering Art Deco artist known for her bold style and vibrant personality. Explore her tumultuous early years, marked by loss and revolution, which shaped her artistic journey. Delve into her glamorous rise in the 1920s and the influence of her complex relationships on her work. The podcast also highlights her resilience amid personal struggles and the impact of societal changes, culminating in her legacy as a symbol of modern femininity.

Discover the intriguing life of Peter Roget, a doctor and scientist with a passion for classification. His journey spans dramatic personal losses and professional triumphs, including his innovative contributions to physiology and optics. Explore Roget's emotional struggles, especially after his wife's death, and his rise from grief to mentorship. Learn how he created the first thesaurus, reshaping language forever, while navigating controversies and redefining boundaries in science. His story is one of resilience, intellect, and lasting influence.

Tracy expresses her frustrations with media coverage of a significant archaeological find. She shares her process for selecting delightful topics for Unearthed! Meanwhile, Holly recounts a personal story connected to discoveries. The conversation shifts to witty challenges in crafting engaging headlines while exploring the cultural significance of Petra and its Indiana Jones connections. They also dive into nostalgic anecdotes, reflecting on life's unpredictability and the emotional weight of personal projects as they look ahead to the new year.