It’s History

It’s History

By Ryan SocashHistory
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It’s History episodes

  • When Germany Attacked New Jersey - The Black Tom Explosion

    In this podcast episode, we explore the little-known story of the Black Tom Explosion, a devastating act of sabotage by German agents during World War I that occurred in Jersey City, New Jersey. We delve into the events leading up to the explosion, including Germany's attempt to prevent American supplies from reaching Allied forces, and the impact the explosion had on American sentiment towards Germany. We also discuss the aftermath of the explosion, the legal battles that followed, and its lasting impact on American national security measures.

    9 min
  • The World's Tallest Train Station was Abandoned - The Story Michigan Central

    In this podcast, we explore the history of Michigan Central Station, once the tallest train station in the world, located in Detroit, Michigan. We delve into the station's past, including its construction during the early 20th century, and its heyday during the height of train travel. However, we also explore the station's eventual decline and abandonment, as train travel fell out of favor and the city of Detroit itself struggled. Finally, we discuss recent efforts to restore the station, and what the future holds for this iconic piece of American history.

    13 min
  • Why Illinois Built a Leaning Tower | The Leaning Tower of Niles

    Welcome to our video about the Leaning Tower of Niles. In this video, we will take a closer look at one of the most unique and fascinating landmarks in Illinois.

    We'll start by exploring what the Leaning Tower of Niles is and its significance to the history of Niles, Illinois. You'll learn who built the tower, why it was built, and how it was constructed.
    Then, we'll delve into the mystery behind the leaning tower phenomenon and compare it to its more famous counterpart, the Leaning Tower of Pisa in Italy. You'll discover what the Leaning Tower of Niles was used for and why it was almost demolished.
    You'll also learn how the people of Pisa came to the rescue of the tower and saved it from destruction. And we'll tell you the story of how the YMCA sold the tower to the township and how it eventually became a National Historic Landmark.
    Finally, we'll take you on a virtual tour of the inside of the tower and reveal what's inside this iconic structure.

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    13 min
  • How the World's Tallest Train Station was Abandoned

    In this podcast episode, we will be exploring the intriguing story of the Beaux-Arts masterpiece known as the Michigan Central Station in Detroit, Michigan. Built in 1913, the station was once the tallest train station in the world and a symbol of the city's economic and cultural prominence. However, following the decline of the auto industry in the mid-20th century, the station fell into disrepair and was eventually abandoned in 1988. We will delve into the history and architecture of the station, including its unique design and significance in the development of American transportation. We will also examine the economic and social impact of the station's decline and abandonment on the city of Detroit, as well as the efforts to restore and repurpose the building in recent years. Join us for a captivating discussion on How the World's Tallest Train Station was Abandoned, and the important lessons it holds for our understanding of the past, present, and future of American cities and infrastructure.

    13 min
  • Detroit’s Border Tunnel | Detroit-Windsor Tunnel: A Historic Engineering Marvel

    In this video, we explore the history of the Detroit-Windsor Tunnel, a remarkable engineering feat that connects the United States and Canada. Built in 1930, the tunnel was a groundbreaking project that overcame significant technical and political challenges to create an important transportation link between two nations. From its inception to the present day, the Detroit-Windsor Tunnel has played a critical role in trade, travel, and cultural exchange, serving as a testament to the ingenuity and cooperation of two nations. Join us as we take a journey through time and discover the fascinating story of this iconic tunnel.

    14 min
  • Why America's Underwater Border Tunnel is in Trouble

    In this episode, we explore the history of the Detroit-Windsor Tunnel, a remarkable engineering feat that connects the United States and Canada. Built in 1930, the tunnel was a groundbreaking project that overcame significant technical and political challenges to create an important transportation link between two nations. From its inception to the present day, the Detroit-Windsor Tunnel has played a critical role in trade, travel, and cultural exchange, serving as a testament to the ingenuity and cooperation of two nations. Join us as we take a journey through time and discover the fascinating story of this iconic tunnel.

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    16 min
  • How the New Jersey Turnpike Changed America Forever

    In this podcast episode, we will be exploring the fascinating history and impact of the New Jersey Turnpike on American transportation and culture. The Turnpike, which stretches over 118 miles from the Delaware Memorial Bridge to the George Washington Bridge, was completed in 1952 and quickly became an iconic symbol of American mobility and progress. We will delve into the history and engineering of the Turnpike, including the unique challenges and opportunities posed by its construction. We will also examine the economic and social impact of the Turnpike, including its role in shaping American tourism, culture, and commerce. Additionally, we will explore the challenges and opportunities facing the Turnpike today, including efforts to modernize and improve this important piece of American infrastructure. Join us for a captivating discussion on How the New Jersey Turnpike Changed America Forever, and the important lessons it holds for our understanding of the past, present, and future of transportation and mobility.

    22 min
  • How the Erie Canal Transformed America

    In this podcast episode, we will be exploring the incredible impact of the Erie Canal on the growth and development of the United States. The Erie Canal, which stretches over 360 miles from Albany to Buffalo, was completed in 1825 and revolutionized transportation and commerce in the young nation. We will delve into the history and engineering of the canal, including the unique challenges and opportunities posed by its construction. We will also examine the economic and social impact of the canal, including its role in spurring the growth of cities and industries across the Midwest and East Coast. Additionally, we will explore the challenges and opportunities facing the Erie Canal today, including efforts to preserve and protect this important piece of American history and heritage. Join us for a captivating discussion on How the Erie Canal Transformed America, and the important lessons it holds for our understanding of the past and the future.0

    22 min
  • The Lost Street Cars of New York City - The Story of American Trolleys

    In this podcast, we explore the fascinating history of streetcars in New York City, which once boasted one of the largest trolley systems in the world. From the first horse-drawn trolleys to the electrified streetcars that crisscrossed the city in the early 20th century, we delve into the evolution of this iconic form of transportation and its eventual decline. Join us as we uncover the story of American trolleys and the lost streetcars of New York City.

    13 min
  • Chicago's Lost Rock n' Roll McDonald's (What Happened?)

    In this episode, we take a journey through the iconic history of Rock 'n Roll McDonald's in Chicago, from its legendary opening to its tragic downfall and ultimate demolition in 2017. We'll explore the 2004 remodeling, witness the grand opening in 2005, and delve into the reasons behind its eventual closure. Along the way, we'll also delve into the fascinating legacy of this unique fast-food establishment and the eccentric musician Wesley Willis's connection to it. Join us for an unforgettable tour of one of America's most famous restaurants.

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    17 min

About It’s History

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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.