It’s History

It’s History

By Ryan SocashHistory
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It’s History episodes

  • The History of Credit Cards

    In this podcast, we explore the fascinating history of credit cards. From their humble beginnings as cardboard charge plates to today's sleek, high-tech credit cards, we delve into the evolution of credit cards and their impact on our daily lives. We look at the pioneers of credit cards, the controversies and scandals surrounding their usage, and the future of credit cards in an increasingly digital world. Join us as we journey through the history of credit cards and discover how they have shaped our financial landscape.

    18 min
  • Why Did St. Louis Build the Gateway Arch

    In this podcast episode, we explore the fascinating story of the Gateway Arch in St. Louis, Missouri. Why did the city build this iconic monument, and what challenges did they face during its construction? From the early 20th-century dreams of a bold architect to the mid-century political maneuvering that finally brought the arch to life, we uncover the secrets behind this symbol of American ingenuity and perseverance. Join us as we delve into the history and mystery of the Gateway Arch.

    21 min
  • Chicago's Forgotten Moving Sidewalk over Lake Michigan

    Today we delve into the fascinating history of Chicago's Lost Moving Walkway from the World's Fair. Join us as we uncover the remnants of this forgotten marvel of engineering that once mesmerized visitors during the 1893 Chicago World's Fair. Discover the incredible technological advancements of the time and the grandeur of this forgotten transportation system.

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    9 min
  • The Golden Gate Was a Military Fort

    In this podcast, we delve into the little-known history of the Golden Gate in San Francisco. While it's now known as an iconic bridge, the Golden Gate was once a vital military fortification during both World Wars. Join us as we explore the role that the Golden Gate played in protecting the West Coast of the United States, and learn about the fascinating history of the fortifications, the soldiers who manned them, and the efforts to preserve this important piece of American history.

    22 min
  • Why Coney Island is Totally Corrupt

    Step into the twisted past of Coney Island, New York, as we uncover the shocking corruption and fascinating tales that have plagued this legendary amusement hub for centuries. From its early beginnings under Native American control to its rise as a playground for thrill-seekers, this video delves deep into the dark underbelly of Coney Island's history.

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    21 min
  • The Ghost Fleet of Mallows Bay

    In this podcast, we explore the forgotten and mysterious shipwrecks of Mallows Bay, located on the Potomac River in Maryland. These nearly 200 abandoned vessels, most of which date back to World War I, have become a unique habitat for wildlife and an eerie sight for visitors. Join us as we uncover the history of how these ships ended up in Mallows Bay and the efforts to preserve this ghost fleet.

    16 min
  • The Dangerous History of Transatlantic Steamship Travel

    Before the age of commercial air travel, transatlantic steamships were the primary mode of transportation between Europe and America. While these massive vessels represented the pinnacle of modern engineering and luxury, they were not without their dangers. In this episode, we explore the fascinating and often harrowing history of transatlantic steamship travel, from the early days of sail-powered ships to the advent of steam power and the race to build the fastest, most opulent liners. We examine the risks and challenges faced by passengers and crew, from rough seas and shipwrecks to deadly fires and disease outbreaks. Join us as we journey back in time to the golden age of ocean liners, and discover the hidden dangers that lurked beneath the glamour and romance of transatlantic travel.

    36 min
  • Chicago's Forgotten L Lines - The History of Chicago Elevated Trains

    In this podcast, we explore Chicago's forgotten L lines - the elevated train lines that once crisscrossed the city's neighborhoods. From the early days of the Union Loop to the shuttered tracks of the Garfield Park "L," we delve into the history and significance of these transportation routes and the impact they had on Chicago's growth and development. Join us as we uncover the forgotten stories of the L lines and their place in Chicago's urban landscape.

    24 min
  • Why Fort Knox is Totally Forbidden

    Today we explore the #history of Fort Knox, America's most important gold depository and occasional archive of vital historical documents.

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    12 min
  • The Dancing Plague of 1518

    In the summer of 1518, a mysterious illness struck the residents of Strasbourg, a city in what is now France. Women and men began dancing uncontrollably, some for hours or even days on end. The bizarre phenomenon quickly spread throughout the city, with hundreds of people taking to the streets in a frenzied dance. But what caused this outbreak of dancing, and why did it last so long? In this episode, we delve into the strange and fascinating history of the dancing plague of 1518, exploring the various theories behind its origins and its lasting impact on medicine, culture, and folklore.

    12 min

About It’s History

From the publisher's feed

IT’S HISTORY is a ride through history – join us in discovering the world’s most important eras, the minds that changed everything, and the most important inventions of our time through weekly tales of Urban Decay.