
This Day in History Class
From the desk of “Stuff You Missed in History Class,” “This Day in History Class” quickly recounts a tidbit from today’s events in history.
Latest episodes

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.