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This Day in History Class

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Aug 13, 2024 • 7min

German acrobat Otto Witte is allegedly crowned King of Albania - August 13th, 1913

On this day in 1913, according to German legend, a circus performer named Otto Witte conned his way onto the Albanian throne.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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Aug 12, 2024 • 8min

Joseph Lister performs the first antiseptic surgery - August 12th, 1865

On this day in 1865, British surgeon Joseph Lister introduced a new technique to help prevent surgical infections.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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Aug 9, 2024 • 9min

Henry David Thoreau's "Walden" is published - August 9th, 1854

Discover the fascinating journey of Henry David Thoreau and his transformative experience at Walden Pond. Delve into his quest for simplicity, self-reliance, and a deeper connection with nature. Learn about the societal influences that shaped his retreat and the challenges he faced in publishing his iconic work. Explore the enduring legacy of 'Walden' and how it has influenced American thought, education, and the environmental movement. Thoreau's philosophy continues to resonate today, inspiring a return to individuality and reflection.
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Aug 8, 2024 • 10min

Brian Hyland’s “Itsy Bitsy Teenie Weenie Yellow Polka Dot Bikini” tops the Billboard Hot 100 - August 8th, 1960

On this day in 1960, the novelty song “Itsy Bitsy Teenie Weenie Yellow Polka Dot Bikini” hit No. 1 on the U.S. singles chart.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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Aug 7, 2024 • 9min

Alice Ramsey becomes the first woman to drive across the United States - August 7th, 1909

On this day in 1909, New Jersey homemaker Alice Ramsey completed her historic cross-country road trip. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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Aug 6, 2024 • 10min

William Kemmler is executed by electric chair - August 6th, 1890

On this day in 1890, convicted killer William Kemmler became the first person to be executed by electrocution.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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Aug 5, 2024 • 8min

Ronald Reagan fires more than 11,000 air traffic controllers - August 5th, 1981

On this day in 1981, President Ronald Reagan fired more than 11,000 air traffic controllers.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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Aug 2, 2024 • 8min

Jackie Joyner-Kersee wins her second gold medal in the heptathlon - August 2nd, 1992

On this day in 1992, American athlete Jackie Joyner-Kersee became the first woman to win two consecutive Olympic gold medals in the heptathlon.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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Aug 1, 2024 • 8min

Vigdís Finnbogadóttir becomes president of Iceland - August 1st, 1980

On this day in 1980, Icelandic politician Vigdís Finnbogadóttir became the first woman in the world to be elected president.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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Jul 31, 2024 • 9min

MGM’s Leo the Lion roars for the first time - July 31st, 1928

On this day in 1928, MGM Studios’ mascot Leo the Lion roared for the first time on the big screen.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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