Stuff You Missed in History Class

Discover the fascinating stories behind three diseases named after individuals. Learn about the dramatic outbreak of Legionnaires' in 1976 and the challenges health officials faced. Uncover the infectious nature of norovirus, its historical roots, and the complexities of its identification. Dive into the tragic stories of the 1976 Ebola outbreaks, highlighting community impacts and response efforts. Explore the stigma surrounding disease names and their influence on public perception and healthcare.

Gene Stratton-Porter was a best-selling writer, illustrator, nature photographer, naturalist, and film producer. She shares her childhood experiences on a Wabash County farm, which ignited her passion for nature and writing. The conversation covers her resilience as a female naturalist facing societal challenges and her contributions to environmental preservation. Listeners are treated to stories of her literary success, activism against harmful practices, and the legacy of her nature preserves in Indiana.

Discover the fascinating history of Teatro alla Scala, a cornerstone of Italian culture since 1778. Learn about the restoration efforts that revived Milan's cultural heritage and the role of notable figures like Empress Maria Teresa. Explore the opera house's evolution through the influence of legendary composers such as Verdi and Puccini. Delve into the tumultuous premieres and enduring legacy of iconic works like 'Madama Butterfly.' This journey through art highlights La Scala's resilience and importance in the world of opera.

Holly shares intriguing tales from Henri Charpentier's life, shedding light on the sweet origins of pralines. Tracy dives into the Domesday Book and reflects on whimsical stories of time travel. Together, they discuss the quirks of food debates, like what really makes a sandwich. The duo also humorously navigates the complexities of bureaucracy, revealing how communication mishaps can hinder our culinary experiences. Their entertaining anecdotes highlight the quirky relationship between food culture and governance.

Discover the fascinating history behind the Domesday Book, a pivotal 11th-century record commissioned by William the Conqueror. This groundbreaking data-gathering project reveals intricate details of land ownership and resources in medieval England. Learn about the rise of Norman governance, the significance of the Battle of Hastings, and the meticulous methods used to compile this monumental survey. Delve into its lasting legacy on English administration and modern efforts to decode its mysteries.

Dive into the rich history behind iconic snacks and sweets, as fascinating tales unfold. Discover the buttery origins of Crepe Suzette linked to Henri Charpentier, and the royal acclaim it garnered. Unravel myths about John Montagu, the Earl of Sandwich, and his culinary legacy. Learn how pralines evolved from elite delicacies to popular treats, and explore the cultural significance of snacks named after prominent figures. These stories celebrate the delicious connections between food and identity.

Jeanne Baret, the first woman to circumnavigate the globe, shares her groundbreaking journey in the 18th century. She discusses her role in scientific exploration while breaking gender norms. Jeanne cleverly disguised herself as a man to join a male-dominated expedition, facing societal challenges at sea. The podcast highlights her struggles with identity, relationships among the crew, and her significant contributions to botany. Baret’s inspiring story reshapes our understanding of women's history and explores themes of resilience and adventure.

Harriet Strong, an influential figure in agriculture, navigated a life filled with complexities and controversies. The conversation dives into her contributions and the societal issues surrounding women's health at the time. The hosts reflect on the emotional ties to the Olympic Games, emphasizing personal stories that resonate with audiences, as well as the challenges faced by athletes. They also discuss how the Olympics transformed cities like Atlanta and the larger implications of sports on society and culture.

Dive into the world of defunct Olympic sports with tales of tug of war controversies, unique obstacle course swimming events, and the oddity of live pigeon shooting. Learn about the selection process for Olympic sports and the intriguing history of sports like painting and town planning in the games.

Discover the life of Harriet Williams Russell Strong, an inventor and water conservation advocate. From her struggles with adversity to pioneering water management patents, Strong's entrepreneurial journey and advocacy for women are highlighted. Learn about her innovative flood management methods and her legacy in advocating for women's agency and water management solutions.