American History Tellers
Audible
The Cold War, Prohibition, the Gold Rush, the Space Race. Every part of your life - the words you speak, the ideas you share - can be traced to our history, but how well do you really know the stories that made America? We'll take you to the events, the times and the people that shaped our nation. And we'll show you how our history affected them, their families and affects you today. Hosted by Lindsay Graham (not the Senator). From Wondery, the network behind American Scandal, Tides of History, American Innovations and more.Audible subscribers can listen to all episodes of American History Tellers ad-free right now. Join Audible today by downloading the Audible app.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Jun 16, 2025 • 18min
History Daily: The First Woman In Space
On June 16, 1963, Valentina Tereshkova made history as the first woman in space, orbiting Earth for nearly three days. Her journey from factory worker to cosmonaut against a backdrop of skepticism and the Cold War space race is truly inspiring. The podcast delves into the immense challenges she faced, including intense training and societal barriers. It also highlights the legacy of women in space, featuring other pioneers like Dr. Sally Ride, and emphasizes the ongoing significance of female representation in exploration.
29 snips
Jun 11, 2025 • 38min
The Progressive Era | In the Arena | 6
In this engaging discussion, Edward O’Keefe, CEO of the Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library Foundation and author of 'The Loves of Theodore Roosevelt', delves into the transformative presidency of Theodore Roosevelt. He reveals how Roosevelt championed progressive reforms, tackled monopolies, and prioritized food safety and conservation. O’Keefe emphasizes the significant yet often overlooked role women played in shaping Roosevelt’s ideals, highlighting their influence on his political journey. The conversation connects Roosevelt's legacy of activism to today's leadership challenges.
27 snips
Jun 4, 2025 • 38min
The Progressive Era | Wilson's War on Tariffs | 5
In 1913, Woodrow Wilson aimed to implement his vision of a 'New Freedom' through aggressive domestic reforms. He faced significant challenges balancing lower tariffs and banking reform with racial segregation issues. As World War I loomed, the tensions between progressive ideals and national conflict intensified. The war's outbreak threatened to derail Wilson's agenda, raising questions about the future of social movements like women's suffrage. Ultimately, the post-war backlash would complicate the legacy of progressivism in America.
6 snips
Jun 2, 2025 • 15min
History Daily: The Killing of Benno Ohnesorg
On June 2, 1967, a protest in West Berlin turns tragic when police officer shoots student Benno Ohnesorg, sparking outrage and radicalization among German youth. The aftermath sees intense public outcry and a trial that questions state actions. As political tensions rise, politician Peter Lawrence prepares for a crucial election while facing threats from a radical group. The narrative deepens with the discovery of links between the retired officer and East Germany's Stasi, reshaping debates on democracy and human rights.
30 snips
May 28, 2025 • 38min
The Progressive Era | A Bruising Fight | 4
In the early 1900s, tensions flared between Theodore Roosevelt and William Howard Taft, igniting a fierce battle within the Republican Party. Roosevelt's return to politics highlighted his ambitious 'New Nationalism,' while Taft grappled with internal divisions and tariff controversies. Amidst rising socialist movements and labor unrest, the 1912 election emerged as a pivotal moment for progressivism. The rise of the Bull Moose Party showcased new political dynamics and challenges as competing visions shaped America's future.
46 snips
May 21, 2025 • 37min
The Progressive Era | The Crisis | 3
Delve into the racial tensions of the Progressive Era, examining Teddy Roosevelt's controversial discharge of Black soldiers after the Brownsville shooting. Discover the formation of the NAACP in response to the Springfield race riots and the enduring fight against racial prejudice. Explore how segregation in schools impacted U.S.-Japan relations and the struggles for voting rights faced by marginalized communities. Uncover the complexities of women's rights and labor reform against the backdrop of evolving political landscapes.
May 19, 2025 • 16min
History Daily: England Becomes a Republic
Discover the dramatic aftermath of the English Civil War as England transitions from monarchy to republic. Explore Oliver Cromwell’s tactical brilliance at the Battle of Naseby and his enduring struggles for control post-republicanism. Uncover the societal upheaval and chaos that followed Charles I's execution, as Cromwell navigates a tumultuous political landscape. Witness a pivotal coup that reshaped English governance and set the stage for future conflicts between military power and political authority.
24 snips
May 14, 2025 • 39min
The Progressive Era | The Shame of Cities | 2
Delve into the transformative world of early 1900s muckrakers, the bold journalists exposing corruption in business and government. Discover Upton Sinclair's shocking revelations about the meatpacking industry and Ida Tarbell's takedown of Rockefeller's Standard Oil. Explore Theodore Roosevelt's fierce battle for reform, clashing with conservatives while championing labor rights. This captivating narrative highlights how fearless reporting ignited public outrage and ushered in significant changes during a pivotal era in American history.
29 snips
May 7, 2025 • 40min
The Progressive Era | Power to the People | 1
Dive into the compelling world of the Progressive Era, where activists and politicians united to combat corruption and improve societal conditions. Discover Theodore Roosevelt's rise to prominence and his vital role in reforming urban living standards. The struggles of immigrants and the fight for social justice against powerful industrial interests emerge vividly. Unpack the tensions of the coal strike crisis and Roosevelt's groundbreaking presidency that aimed to balance corporate power with public welfare. A dynamic narrative unfolds amid a time of significant change.
6 snips
May 5, 2025 • 19min
History Daily: The Battle of Puebla on Cinco de Mayo
Delve into the heroic events of May 5, 1862, when Mexican forces triumphed against the French in the Battle of Puebla, shifting the tide of foreign intervention. Discover the intense political backdrop of pre-reform Mexico, marked by battles between liberal and conservative factions. Learn about the ambitious goals of Napoleon III and how international tensions shaped the course of history. Finally, explore the decline of French influence in Mexico and the legacy of this remarkable victory that inspired a national holiday.
