In this gripping episode of Dave Does History, Dave Bowman takes listeners back to December 17, 1944, a day that saw both the brutality of war and the resilience of memory. Focusing on the Malmedy Massacre—a horrific war crime during the Battle of the Bulge—Dave delivers a masterful, unflinching account of how over 80 unarmed American soldiers were executed by Joachim Peiper’s Waffen-SS forces.

The episode is not just a retelling of the events but a reflective journey into how such tragedies often fade from collective memory. Dave balances the hard facts with an accessible, conversational tone, making the historical narrative both compelling and deeply personal. His exploration of the political maneuvering after the war, including the controversial commutation of Peiper’s sentence, raises important questions about justice, morality, and the selective nature of history.

What sets this episode apart is Dave’s ability to connect the past to the present. He challenges listeners to consider the cost of historical amnesia, reminding us why events like the Malmedy Massacre must be remembered—not only to honor the victims but to guard against repeating similar atrocities.

With vivid storytelling, thoughtful analysis, and a call to reflect on uncomfortable truths, this episode is both a powerful tribute and a stark warning. Dave Does History continues to shine as a must-listen for history enthusiasts and anyone seeking to understand the complexities of humanity in times of war.

On this episode of Dave Does History, titled "Pardon Moi?", Dave Bowman takes us deep into the fascinating and often controversial history of presidential pardons. Starting with George Washington’s groundbreaking decision to pardon rebels from the Whiskey Rebellion, Dave examines how this unique executive power—granted by Article II of the Constitution—has shaped American politics and justice.

From acts of mercy meant to heal a divided nation to instances that sparked outrage over perceived favoritism, the pardon power has been wielded by every president, often with profound consequences. We’ll discuss pivotal moments, such as Andrew Johnson’s pardons after the Civil War, Gerald Ford’s polarizing pardon of Richard Nixon, and more modern uses (and abuses) of clemency. Along the way, Dave explores the philosophical roots of pardons, the debates that raged in the Constitutional Convention of 1787, and whether the power has become too political—or was it always that way?

Join Dave and Bill Mick as they break down the historical context, legal foundations, and ongoing controversies surrounding one of the president’s most significant—and debated—powers. Tune in for an engaging journey through history that still resonates in today’s headlines!

What happens when the music swells, the soldiers snap to attention, and history pivots on a single decision? In this episode, we march into a world where leadership, accountability, and sacrifice collide—through the lens of Ulysses S. Grant, the Cold War, and the scars of modern warfare. Dave Bowman pulls no punches as he connects the dots between the past and the present, questioning what it truly means to honor the sacrifices of those who march forward while leaders play to prevent rather than win. With sharp insights and unflinching honesty, Dave dives into the enduring struggles of veterans across generations, culminating in a searing critique of accountability—or lack thereof—in today’s leadership.

This is not just history. It’s a challenge. A call to reflection. And maybe, just maybe, a path forward. Are we retreating behind the Rapidan again, or are we finally ready to turn south and face the fight? Stay tuned—you won’t want to miss this.

In this episode of Dave Does History on Bill Mick Live, Dave Bowman dives into one of the most transformative moments in American history: the Election of 1800. Known as the "Revolution of 1800," this pivotal event marked the first peaceful transfer of power between opposing political parties and tested the young republic's capacity to endure fierce ideological divides.

Dave unpacks the bitter campaign between Thomas Jefferson and John Adams, the key issues that polarized the nation—like the Alien and Sedition Acts, taxation, and foreign policy—and the unprecedented Electoral College tie that sent the election to the House of Representatives. Along the way, he explores the role of Aaron Burr, whose ambitions stirred additional controversy, and highlights the colorful insults hurled between candidates in what was perhaps the nastiest campaign in U.S. history.

With humor, insight, and historical analysis, Dave reveals how this contentious election reshaped the presidency, solidified the two-party system, and led to the creation of the 12th Amendment. Tune in for a gripping tale of political rivalries, constitutional crises, and the enduring lessons of 1800.

In this episode of Plausibly Live - The Dave Bowman Show, Dave dives into the controversial pardon of Hunter Biden. What does this decision mean in the context of presidential pardon power and political strategy? With his characteristic candor, Dave unpacks the historical use (and misuse) of pardons, media statements, and the political fallout of this polarizing move. He also explores the claim that the pardon was inevitable, breaking down the rationale behind the "you made us do it" defense being touted by the administration.

As always, Dave brings the big picture into focus, weaving in sharp insights, some humor, and a nod to the wisdom of Mickey Rivers: control what you can, and don’t sweat the rest. Tune in for a thought-provoking take on a moment defining our political landscape.

Listen now on Spotify, iTunes, or wherever you get your podcasts!

On this special Thanksgiving edition of The Florida Roundtable, Bill Mick sits down with historian Dave Bowman for a fascinating dive into the origins of Thanksgiving as we know it today. Discover the incredible story of Sarah Josepha Hale, the determined writer and editor who campaigned tirelessly for decades to transform Thanksgiving from a regional harvest festival into a unifying national holiday.

Dave Bowman shares the historical context of Hale’s mission, her groundbreaking influence in the 19th century, and the moment her vision finally reached Abraham Lincoln during the Civil War. Through compelling anecdotes, rich historical insights, and a touch of humor, Dave and Bill explore how this remarkable woman’s advocacy shaped one of America’s most cherished traditions.

Celebrate the spirit of gratitude, unity, and pecan pie as Dave Bowman connects the past to the present in this captivating discussion. Perfect listening for Thanksgiving weekend or anytime you want to reflect on the power of persistence and the origins of a beloved holiday. Tune in now to learn why Sarah Hale truly is 'The Mother of Thanksgiving.

In this special episode of Dave Does History on Bill Mick Live, Dave Bowman takes us on a journey to Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, revisiting the battlefield, the dedication of the Soldiers’ National Cemetery, and the timeless significance of Abraham Lincoln’s Gettysburg Address. Through vivid storytelling, personal anecdotes, and deep historical insight, Dave brings to life the events of July and November 1863, exploring the profound sacrifices made during the Civil War and Lincoln’s unparalleled ability to redefine the purpose of the conflict in just 272 words.

Join Dave as he reflects on his own visits to Gettysburg, shares lessons passed down to his son, and examines the cultural and political challenges of preserving this history. From Edward Everett’s marathon oration to Lincoln’s concise brilliance, this episode captures the emotional and historical weight of a moment that shaped the nation.

Listen to Lincoln at Gettysburg: The Legacy of Lincoln’s Address now, and reconnect with one of America’s defining moments in just under an hour.

In today’s riveting segment of Dave Does History on Bill Mick Live, Dave Bowman takes us on a journey exploring the chilling implications of Nazi ideology and why historical memory is vital. Using Adolf Hitler’s calculated policies in 1938 and his fascination with Napoleon’s mistakes as a starting point, Dave discusses why merely “knowing” history isn’t enough. Bowman argues that it’s our failure to *remember* history that leads us to make the same errors—mistakes like Hitler’s ill-fated Russian campaign, made with full knowledge of Napoleon’s blunders but without any real lessons learned.

The discussion also tackles the casual use of terms like “Nazi” and “fascist” in modern politics. Bowman explains how using these words as casual insults, detached from their historical weight, diminishes our grasp on what these ideologies truly represent. Together with Bill Mick, Dave sheds light on how historical narratives shape societal values and warns against the perils of forgetting these lessons. With calls from listeners and powerful anecdotes, this episode reminds us that misusing historical terms not only disrespects the past but also endangers the moral foundation they teach us to uphold.

Tune in as Dave Bowman and Bill Mick delve into a thoughtful conversation on why history matters now more than ever.

In this episode of Plausibly Live – The Dave Bowman Show, "The Buford Vision," we delve into the pivotal moments leading up to the Battle of Gettysburg through the eyes of Union Brigadier General John Buford.

Dave dissects the scene from the film Gettysburg, capturing Buford's gritty determination and his understanding of the high stakes at play if the

With historical insight and contemporary commentary, Dave challenges listeners to consider what it takes to hold the "high ground" in their own lives and in today’s political climate. Tune in for a blend of Civil War history,

In this episode of Dave Does History on Bill Mick Live, Dave Bowman takes listeners back to one of the most pivotal elections in U.S. history—the election of 1912. It wasn’t just a contest between candidates; it was a clash of ideologies that would shape the nation for decades to come. With four influential contenders—incumbent William Howard Taft, former president Theodore Roosevelt, Democrat Woodrow Wilson, and Socialist Eugene V. Debs—each presenting a unique vision for America's future, this election marked a turning point.

Dave explores the key issues that divided these candidates, from labor rights and corporate power to women’s suffrage and social justice, and examines how Roosevelt’s dramatic split from the Republican Party set the stage for lasting changes in American politics. Tune in to understand why this “Battle of Titans” still resonates, and discover the lessons it holds for today’s political landscape.