In this episode of Beyond Mount Rushmore, we dive into the life of Dolly Madison, the wife of our fourth president, James Madison. While many might assume that Martha Washington holds the title of America's first First Lady, it was Dolly who defined the role and set the standard for future presidential wives.

We explore Dolly's early life, her marriage to James Madison, and her significant contributions to social life in Washington, D.C., during a politically divided era. Known for her convivial gatherings, Dolly broke down barriers between political parties, fostering communication and camaraderie among politicians and foreign dignitaries alike.

The episode also covers the tumultuous period of the War of 1812, during which Dolly famously ordered the saving of important artifacts from the White House as British forces were burning it. However, we discuss the complexities of her legacy, including her ownership of slaves and the financial struggles she faced after her husband's death.

Join us next time as we explore the fascinating friendship between Ulysses S. Grant and Mark Twain, where both men supported and inspired each other in remarkable ways. Thank you for tuning in to Beyond Mount Rushmore, where we uncover the history you never knew you needed!

Beyond Mount Rushmore dives into the stories your history teacher definitely skipped. Each week, we explore forgotten presidents and their sketchy scandals, bizarre executive orders, and historic near-misses. Plus, facts so weird you'll think we made them up.

From FDR's final words, "I have a terrific headache," to Eleanor Roosevelt's lifelong "companion" in the White House, we're here to prove that history is anything but boring. Whether you're a hardcore history nerd or just love laughing at old dead guys' dumb decisions, buckle up for a wild ride through America's lesser-known past. New episodes drop every week—perfect for fans of dark humor, surprising trivia, and stories that Netflix wouldn't dare touch. Hosted by self-proclaimed presidential historian Stan Nawalaniec (owner of three Warren G. Harding bobbleheads) and co-host Jeff Hickcox (the voice of reason).

In this episode of Beyond Mount Rushmore, we explore the fascinating life of the first U.S. president to serve two non-consecutive terms. Known for his reformist spirit and his reputation as a "veto machine," this president also guarded a significant secret that he kept literally under wraps. While he appeared stern and unshakeable publicly, we reveal the layers of power and secrecy that shaped his private life. Join us as we examine one of the boldest cover-ups in presidential history and uncover the complexities of this historical figure. Tune in to discover the real faces of history, only on Beyond Mount Rushmore, available wherever you get your podcasts.

In this upcoming episode of Beyond Mount Rushmore, we'll be exploring the fascinating life of the first U.S. president to serve two non-consecutive terms. Known for his reformist spirit and his reputation as a "veto machine," this president also guarded a significant secret that he kept literally under wraps. While he appeared stern and unshakeable publicly, we reveal the layers of power and secrecy that shaped his private life. Join us as we examine one of the boldest cover-ups in presidential history and uncover the complexities of this historical figure. Tune in to discover the real faces of history, only on Beyond Mount Rushmore, available wherever you get your podcasts.

In this special bonus episode of Beyond Mount Rushmore, we celebrate the 4th of July by exploring the intriguing connection between our founding fathers and this significant date in American history. We kick off the episode by discussing how the Declaration of Independence was actually presented on July 2nd, but July 4th became the date we celebrate due to its catchy ring.

We talk about the remarkable fact that three of the first five U.S. presidents, John Adams, Thomas Jefferson, and James Monroe, died on July 4th. Adams and Jefferson both passed away on the 50th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence in 1826, with their last words reflecting the significance of the day. Adams, unaware of Jefferson's death, famously said, "Jefferson lives," while Jefferson's final words were a poignant acknowledgment of the date.

We also touch on James Madison, the fourth president, who, despite being the last surviving signer of the Constitution, passed away six days before the 60th anniversary of the Declaration.

Throughout the episode, we reflect on the significance of the 4th of July to these leaders and the idea of divine intervention in their deaths. We wrap up by teasing our next episode, which will feature Grover Cleveland and his intriguing history. Enjoy your 4th of July celebrations, and we look forward to connecting with you again soon!

In this upcoming special bonus episode of Beyond Mount Rushmore, we celebrate the 4th of July by exploring the intriguing connection between our founding fathers and this significant date in American history.

In this episode of Beyond Mount Rushmore, we dive into the lesser-known aspects of the assassination of Abraham Lincoln. We explore the intriguing story of Colonel Henry Rathbone, who was present in the presidential box during the tragic event.

We discuss how the assassination was initially intended to be a kidnapping, and how it evolved into a conspiracy involving multiple targets, including Vice President Andrew Johnson and Secretary of State William Seward. Rathbone, who was a Union Army officer, reacted heroically during the assassination attempt, attempting to apprehend John Wilkes Booth after he shot Lincoln. However, Rathbone was severely injured in the process.

As we unravel Rathbone's life post-assassination, we reveal the toll that the traumatic event took on his mental health, leading to paranoia and ultimately a tragic incident where he fatally harmed his wife, Clara. We touch on the complexities of his trial, where he was deemed insane, and his subsequent life in an asylum in Germany.

This episode not only sheds light on the assassination itself but also highlights the ripple effects it had on the lives of those involved, particularly Rathbone, whose story is often overshadowed by Lincoln's legacy. Join us next week as we tease an upcoming episode about Grover Cleveland and a bizarre mystery involving a "rubber face."

Thank you for tuning in to Beyond Mount Rushmore, where we uncover the history you never knew you needed!

In this upcoming episode of Beyond Mount Rushmore, we delve into a lesser-known aspect of the assassination of Abraham Lincoln. While most people are aware that Lincoln was shot at Ford's Theater, few know about Colonel Henry Rathbone, who was present in the presidential box that fateful night. Rathbone not only witnessed the assassination but also bravely attempted to stop John Wilkes Booth, resulting in a struggle that left him wounded and traumatized. We explore the question of whether Booth could have been stopped and examine the fate of Rathbone, a man who ultimately faded into obscurity despite his courageous actions. Join us as we uncover this gripping historical narrative and reflect on the night the curtain fell. Tune in wherever you get your podcasts!

In this episode of Beyond Mount Rushmore, the complex legacy of Woodrow Wilson, the 28th President of the United States, is examined. We discuss how Wilson, often rated highly in presidential surveys, was a deeply flawed individual with a troubling history, including his role in the segregation of the federal government and his blatant racism.

Stan expresses his disdain for Wilson, highlighting his deceptive political tactics, particularly regarding World War I, where he campaigned on keeping America neutral but ultimately led the nation into the conflict. We also explore Wilson's personal life, including the tragic death of his first wife, Ellen, and his quick remarriage to Edith Galt, who would later play a significant role in his presidency.

The episode takes a dramatic turn as we reveal how Edith effectively ran the country during Wilson's incapacitation following a series of strokes. For 17 months, she managed his correspondence and decision-making, keeping Congress and the public in the dark about her husband's condition. This raises questions about the constitutional implications of her actions and the lack of accountability in the government at that time.

As we wrap up, we tease our next episode, which will focus on the lesser-known tragedies that occurred during the Lincoln assassination night at Ford's Theater. Join us for another deep dive into history that you didn't know you needed! 

Beyond Mount Rushmore

Coming up on the next episode of Beyond Mount Rushmore, we dish up some Tea on Thomas Woodrow Wilson. "Thomas" was an American politician and academic who served as the 28th president of the United States from 1913 to 1921. A member of the Democratic Party, Wilson served as the president of Princeton University and as the governor of New Jersey before winning the 1912 presidential election.

Beyond Mount Rushmore