Our Ancestors Were Messy

In the summer of 1932, Anna and Percy learn that their scandalous love affair has been exposed on the front page of the most popular Black newspaper in DC. They were on their way to breaking barriers and making history but now that Anna’s husband has discovered their secret, their futures hang in the balance. This is the love story of one of America's first Black power couples Drs. Anna and Percy Julian.

To learn more about the show visit https://ourancestorsweremessy.com

Episode sources

1. NOVA - Forgotten Genius
2. "Chemistry Dept. Shake-Up Set for June 30" (The Afro American, pg. 13)  
3. "Sues Julian for $75,000" (The Afro American, pg. 13)
4. "Julian Is Asked To Resign" (The Afro American, pg. 13)
5. "Six Vote to Keep Julian at HU" (The Afro American, pg. 1)
6. "Julian Tells of Hot Date with Germansweetie" (The Afro American, pg. 13)
7. "Julian Writes on Efficiency of Dr. Scott" (The Afro American, pg. 13)
8. "Reclaiming a Black Research Scientist’s Forgotten Legacy" by Felicia R. Lee (The New York Times, February 6, 2007) 
9. "DuSable exhibit highlights Julian 'Power Couple'" by Robert Felton (Wednesday Journal of Oak Park and River Forest, February 11, 2021)

The team

• Sound design and editing: JOHN DELORE
• Story editing: MARTINA ABRAHAMS ILUNGA, ASELOKA SMITH, KIA MIAKKA NATISSE 
• Guest: NYGEL TURNER
• Host, producer, creator: NICHOLE HILL