Stuff You Missed in History Class

Guest Horace Wells, dentist and nitrous oxide advocate in 1844, revolutionizing medicine. Podcast explores his challenges demonstrating gas, unpredictable effects, and gas war competition with Morton and Jackson.

Tracy and Holly discuss Sir Humphry Davy's less than spectacular poems, Mary Shelley's 'Frankenstein,' and the end of Davy's career and life. They also explore the risks and addiction of nitrous oxide, the impact of substance use on historical figures, and reflections on academia and health concerns.

Learn about Sir Humphry Davy's controversial invention of the miner's lamp and his career after nitrous oxide research. Explore his innovative contributions to mine safety lamps, scientific rivalries, and his quest for recognition in the scientific community.

Chemist Sir Humphry Davy's early career focuses on his experiments with nitrous oxide, challenging existing beliefs. His groundbreaking self-experimentation and connections with the scientific community are explored. Davy's contributions to medical treatment using gases, including inhalation therapy, are highlighted. The effects of nitrous oxide inhalation range from giddiness to altered states of consciousness. His experiments with test subjects like Coleridge and Roge show the recreational and scientific uses of nitrous oxide, leading to its popularity in English Romanticism.

Uncover the little-known S.S. Sultana maritime disaster of 1865, revealing corruption and tragedy. Explore the overloaded ship's tragic outcome, boiler explosions, rescue efforts, and investigations. Sponsorship ads lead into chilling historical accounts of this devastating event.

Meet Ward McAllister, the ultimate historical mean girl, as Holly and Tracy discuss the intricacies of high society. They explore extravagant events, unique dining services, and the consequences of indulgence. Dive into emotional impacts, educational challenges, and compelling scientific readings in this entertaining podcast miniseries.

Dr. Rachel Lance, an expert in WWII research and underwater science, discusses her new book 'Chamber Divers' on a podcast. The episode covers the challenges of accessing classified information, unexpected historical discoveries, diverse characters in scientific research, the critical role of funding in advancing science, the radicalization of a scientist in wartime, and a gripping tale of a researcher surviving a collapsed lung during a deep-sea dive.

Bradley Martin, known for hosting the extravagant event of the Gilded Age, is discussed in this podcast. The Bradley Martin Ball, deemed the last big moment of the Gilded Age, sparked debate and played a role in the decline of New York's Victorian-era society. It delves into the extravagant costs, lavish decorations, scandalous incidents, luxurious attire, and the societal impact of the controversial event.

The podcast delves into the legendary wealth and power of Croesus, a cautionary tale about pride and hubris. It explores ancient rituals, military strategies, and alliances, leading to Croesus' downfall at the hands of the Persians. The meeting between Croesus and Solon highlights the transient nature of material success and challenges conventional notions of happiness.

Tracy and Holly discuss frustration over a historical find being called a piggy bank and the Van Gogh Pokémon. They explore quirky historical discoveries like mummies with golden tongues and John Shakespeare sounding fake. The podcast also delves into the future of AI technology and ethical concerns in research within indigenous communities.