Montjuïc Castle and the Bombardments of Barcelona

Montjuïc Castle is a fortress in Barcelona that dates back to the 17th century. And it has been involved in both the defense of Barcelona and its repression – repeatedly, over the course of centuries. Research:  "Catalonia." Britannica Library, Encyclopædia Britannica, 8 Jun. 2023. libraries.state…

Advent Calendars

The religious observation of Advent has shifted and changed through the years. But how did we get to a point where an Advent calendar is also a non-religious Christmas countdown with chocolates or other treats? Research: Allen, Scott. “A Brief History of Advent Calendars.” Mental Floss. Dec. 1, 20…

Behind the Scenes Minis: Blackouts and Funiculars

Holly and Tracy talk about the blackout that happened during the recording of their live show in Los Angeles. They then discuss their different activities during their time visiting Montserrat. 

Significant Moments in the History of Montserrat

Montserrat is a culturally important place with a lot of stories. This episode focuses on three to show its importance as a religious center, as a strategic military location, and finally, as a place that has been home to political protest. Research: Buttery, Helen. “The Dark Queen.” National Post…

SYMHC Live: Gin Cocktails and Jerry Thomas

This episode was recorded (mostly) live at the AC Hotel Los Angeles South Bay, where we talked about Collinses, the Bees Knees, and a man who is iconic in bartending history. Research: Brown, Jared, and Anistatia Miller. “Is the Bee’s Knees Cocktail Making a Comeback?” Imbibe Live. Feb. 22, 2022. …

SYMHC Classics: Mirabal Sisters

This 2018 episode covers the four Mirabal sisters, who are national heroes in the Dominican Republic. But they weren't very well-known elsewhere until 20 or so years ago when they became the subject of a historical novel.

Behind the Scenes Minis: Bertillon and Rebecca

Holly and Tracy discuss Bertillon's influence in the practice of people carrying ID cards. Tracy talks about how much she loves historical uprisings that include smashing things. 

The Rebecca Riots

The Rebecca Riots took place in Wales in the 1830s and 1840s. While these events are often described as a protest against heavy road tolls, that was only a small part of the story.  Research: Age of Revolution. “Rebecca and her daughters.” https://ageofrevolution.org/200-object/rebecca-and-her-dau…

Alphonse Bertillon

Bertillon developed a system of identification via body measurements that was designed to identify whether crime suspects had an existing criminal history. But his contributions to police work have been occluded by some terrible missteps.  Research:  Britannica, The Editors of Encyclopaedia. "Alph…

SYMHC Classics: Sarah Josepha Hale

This 2019 episode covers Sarah Josepha Hale's well-known poetry, and her publication Godey's Lady's Book, the most popular magazine in the U.S. in the middle of the 19th century,