Ah, American history, that subject you probably dozed through while your teacher droned on about the Cotton Gin or memorized just enough facts about to pass the test before promptly forgetting everything. Who knew that one day you’d actually want to learn about all those dead guys in wigs and the various ways Americans have been dramatically overreacting to taxes for centuries?
The following audio time machines have accomplished what your 10th-grade history teacher never could: making American history sound less like a punishment and more like a particularly chaotic reality show with muskets and questionable facial hair choices.
Want to know why Hamilton tickets cost more than your monthly rent, or just want to impress your insufferable brother-in-law at Thanksgiving dinner with random facts about Teddy Roosevelt’s pet badger, I’ve got you covered. Here are some of the top American history podcasts that transform the nation’s past into stories you’ll actually remember, complete with all the scandalous affairs, terrible decisions, and bizarre personalities.
So grab your earbuds and prepare to discover that American history is basically just a 250-year-long episode of a dramedy where nobody knows what they’re doing, everyone’s making it up as they go along, as is now abundantly obvious.
American Scandal
Lindsay Graham hosts “American Scandal,” a podcast exploring how corruption, deceit, and ambition have toppled prominent figures throughout American history. The series examines scandals across business, politics, sports, and society, investigating how these events unfold, where things went wrong, and who bears responsibility. Created by the team behind “American History Tellers,” “Business Wars,” and “Tides of History,” the podcast delves into America’s darker side to understand why people break rules and the consequences they face.
Lost at the Smithsonian with Aasif Mandvi
Listen to Lost at the Smithsonian Aasif Mandvi
Aasif Mandvi, comedian and pop culture enthusiast, takes an intimate look at iconic treasures housed in the National Museum of American History. Follow Aasif and his companions as they discover how everyday items like worn-out jackets, shabby chairs, and mismatched footwear evolved into cultural landmarks: Fonzie’s leather jacket, Archie Bunker’s chair, and Dorothy’s ruby slippers, objects that became powerful symbols of America’s shared cultural identity.
1865
April 15, 1865—Lincoln is dead, the nation in chaos. Secretary of War Edwin Stanton hunts John Wilkes Booth while battling to protect Lincoln’s legacy from Andrew Johnson’s southern sympathies. Determined to secure justice for freed slaves, Stanton sacrifices friendships, honour, and even the Constitution itself.
More Perfect
The Supreme Court is meant to rise above politics, but in today’s deeply divided America, is it fulfilling that role? “More Perfect” explores the Court’s impact on our lives, revealing the human stories behind its decisions, from religious freedom to democracy, reproductive rights to artistic expression. We bring the highest court down to earth.
American Revolution Podcast
Listen to American Revolution Podcast
“American Revolution Podcast” delves into the full story of the American Revolution, covering its events from start to finish in weekly episodes.
Ben Franklin’s World
Listen to Ben Franklin’s World
This acclaimed podcast delves into the rich history of early America, offering fascinating insights for history enthusiasts eager to deepen their knowledge. Each episode brings engaging discussions with expert historians who explore the influential figures and pivotal moments that have shaped the world we live in today. Created by the Colonial Williamsburg Foundation, this show brings the past to life through expert storytelling and in-depth analysis.
American History Hit
Listen to American History Hit
Discover how codebreakers exposed Japan’s secret strategy at the Battle of Midway, step into Chief Powhatan’s world as he braces for conflict with the British, witness Walt Disney leveling accusations of communism against his former coworkers, and reveal the hidden, darker stories beneath Central Park. From the days before colonization to the fight for independence, from slavery to the civil rights movement, and from the gold rush to the space race, Don sits down with top historians to explore the defining moments of America’s past.
Black History for Real
Listen to Black History for Real
Wondery’s “Black History, For Real:” dives into history’s overlooked moments with hosts Franchesca Ramsey and Conscious Lee. From the first woman on the FBI’s Most Wanted Terrorist List, a Black Panther, to the African king who crashed Cairo’s economy with his gold, they uncover the real stories beyond the headlines.
The American History Podcast
Listen to The American History Podcast
Experience the chronicle of the United States with ‘The American History Podcast,’ a captivating, educational, and amusing journey. Every season, we concentrate on a particular subject within American history, thoroughly examining its foundations and delivering a wealth of unfamiliar historical knowledge to our audience.
Legends of the Old West
Listen to Legends of the Old West
Wyatt Earp, Jesse James, and Butch and Sundance. Lakota, Comanche, and Apache. Battles, shootouts, and heists. This show delves into the fiercest lawmen, the most notorious criminals, and the most dangerous towns, bringing to life the people and events that defined the American West.
A History of the United States
Listen to A History of the United States
A History of the United States. This podcast traces America’s journey from the founding of Jamestown to the conclusion of the Cold War, exploring its political, military, economic, social, and cultural evolution along the way.
Your Most Obedient & Humble Servant: A Women’s History
Listen to Your Most Obedient & Humble Servant
“Your Most Obedient & Humble Servant” is a podcast that brings to light the letters of 18th- and early 19th-century women, correspondence often overlooked in history books. Historian Kathryn Gehred and her guests delve into these writings, uncovering the stories of the women who wrote them and the world they lived in.
The History of American Food
Listen to The History of American Food
Beginning with the earliest English colonies in the 1600s, this podcast follows the journey from preserved meats and dried peas to modern flavors like Korean BBQ tacos and the vast, unprecedented variety found in today’s supermarkets.
The Cold War: Prelude To The Present
Listen to The Cold War: Prelude To The Present
Though the Cold War has ended, the rivalry between Russia and the West persists. In this gripping series, Bill Whittle guides us through the clash of two opposing worldviews, locked in a struggle for dominance amid the ruins of World War II.
Throughline
Throughline is your gateway to the past. Every episode transports you behind the news to uncover the roots of today’s biggest questions. With immersive storytelling and rich soundscapes, they don’t just tell history, they make you feel it. Whether exploring lost empires or overlooked pioneers, we drop you into the pivotal events that changed everything.
American Hysteria
“American Hysteria” explores how imagination and fear have molded our society, from conspiracy theories and mass delusions to bizarre fads and cultural myths. Host Chelsey Weber-Smith, a poet turned storyteller, uncovers America’s most extraordinary tales while investigating what shapes our collective reality… and the alternate realities we sometimes invent.
American Shadows
“American Shadows” uncovers America’s hidden dark history, from Lincoln’s body snatchers to San Diego’s accidental rainmaker. Host Lauren Vogelbaum reveals forgotten stories that never made the history books.
Presidencies of the United States
Listen to Presidencies of the United States
This podcast looks at the history of America’s highest office from its creation in 1789 to today. Through careful examination of leaders and pivotal moments, they explore how each administration transformed the presidency itself.
The Bowery Boys: New York City History
Listen to The Bowery Boys: New York City History
The unfolding narrative of the United States meanders through New York City’s thoroughfares, encompassing everything from the immigrant influx at Ellis Island to the gritty entertainment venues of Times Square in the 1970s. From the rise of the elevated train to the clandestine routes of the Underground Railroad, and from the legacy of Hamilton to that of Hammerstein, Greg and Tom reveal over four centuries of dynamic tales, showcasing both renowned and overlooked individuals who influenced global events.
The JuntoCast: A Podcast on Early American History
Listen to The JuntoCast: A Podcast on Early American History
Dedicated to early American history, ‘The JuntoCast’ provides listeners with a monthly exploration of the past. Ken Owen, Michael Hattem, Roy Rogers, and their guest historians engage in a comprehensive roundtable discussion, focusing on a particular element of early American history. The JuntoCast aims to bridge the gap between academic research and public understanding, delivering current historical knowledge in a casual, conversational style that is simultaneously thought-provoking, instructional, and entertaining.
Hollywood Exiles
The time period of the Red Scare, a time of ideological conflict that pulled in prominent hollywood figures, including her grandfather, Charlie, is navigated for listeners by the host Oona Chaplin.
Medal of Honor: Stories of Courage
Listen to Medal of Honor: Stories of Courage
Hear stories of Medal of Honor recipients, from the Civil War to Iraq, and the incredible acts of valor that earned them the nation’s highest military honor. We look at heroism and sacrifice.
Inward Empire
Inward Empire investigates the influence of ideas on American history, showing how belief systems impacted events. Each episode, carefully researched, offers a look into a past that resonates with our present.
Long Shadow
LONG SHADOW: IN GUNS WE TRUST, hosted by Garrett Graff, analyzes the evolution of American gun violence since Columbine. It details how ordinary firearms became a symbol of defiance, exploring the individuals and forces behind this transformation.
Founding Son: John Quincy’s America
Listen to Founding Son: John Quincy’s America
John Quincy Adams’s later political career, beyond his single term, is explored by Bob Crawford. Founding Son, featuring Patrick Warburton as Adams, Nick Offerman as Andrew Jackson, and Grey DeLisle as Louisa Adams, highlights his fight against slavery.
The American Story
The American Story, weekly, explores how Americans define life, showcasing diverse experiences across the nation. It aims to reveal the beauty and goodness of America, inspiring positive action.
American History Tellers
Listen to American History Tellers
Discover the true stories behind America’s defining eras, the Cold War, Prohibition, and more, with Lindsay Graham (not the Senator). This Wondery podcast connects past events to present-day realities.
You’re Wrong About
Sarah, a chronicler of bygone days, offers weekly reinterpretations of individuals and events that have been misrepresented. Read our review of You’re Wrong About, and discover the best episodes of You’re Wrong About.
Slow Burn
Slow Burn clarifies crucial periods in American history, drawing connections to contemporary society. Employing recorded archives and direct testimonies, the series exposes hidden stories and individuals that influenced landmark events.
My History Can Beat Up Your Politics
Listen to My History Can Beat Up Your Politics
Beginning in 2006, this podcast has employed historical analysis to enhance modern political discourse. ‘My History’ provides a considered, subtle, and compelling perspective, a welcome contrast to bombastic pundits,” according to the Columbia Journalism Review.
American Filth
Focusing on the less reputable elements of American history, AMERICAN FILTH presents weekly tales of scandalous people and events, highlighting the drama and ‘filth’ often excluded from mainstream narratives.
Infamous America
Dive into the grim realities of America’s past with Infamous America, which recounts stories of notorious criminals, scandals, and strange occurrences.
The Dollop
Dave Anthony and Gareth Reynolds, using their comedic perspectives, analyze chosen historical themes. Read our review of The Dollop here, and discover the best episodes of The Dollop.
Black Washed History
Listen to Black Washed History
Uncover the concealed narratives of Black culture and the stories that have impacted the world with Black Washed History. This podcast, which was formerly called The Coin: Black History on the Other Side, shines a light on the neglected parts of Black history that should be celebrated.
Bag Man
Imagine a Vice President running a criminal operation inside the White House, yet fading from public consciousness. Or a blatant political bribery scandal unfolding without widespread notice. Rachel Maddow’s ‘Bag Man’ podcast, produced by MSNBC, journeys back 45 years to uncover this overlooked story. It features a tale of hidden agendas, corruption, and money exchanged in the White House. This Peabody Award-nominated series reveals a story that should be more widely known, particularly in the present.
Dispatches: The Podcast of the Journal of the American Revolution
Listen to Dispatches: The Podcast of the Journal of the American Revolution
Every week, Dispatches: The Podcast of the Journal of the American Revolution offers conversations that explore the newest insights, developments, and viewpoints concerning the era of the American Revolution.
American Election: Wicked Game
Listen to American Election: Wicked Game
Tracing every presidential election, from George Washington’s to Donald Trump’s, American Elections: Wicked Game shows that political discord is not new, echoing John Adams’s complaints to Abigail about the ‘wicked Game.
Uncivil
Gimlet Media’s Uncivil, with Jack Hitt and Chenjerai Kumanyika, revisits the historical moment when America’s divisions erupted into war. The podcast questions traditional Civil War narratives, presenting forgotten stories of clandestine activities, corruption, and defiance, and establishing connections to today’s political landscape.
History Daily
Every weekday, Lindsay Graham presents a historical event on History Daily, showcasing significant ‘on this day’ stories.
The Political History of the United States
Listen to The Political History of the United States
Listeners can trace the historical path of the United States’ political systems, from their beginnings to their ongoing development.
Master Plan
David Sirota’s Master Plan exposes a decades-long effort to allow the wealthy to buy political power, connecting events from Richard Nixon’s era to Mitch McConnell and Roger Ailes’ influence.
Field Trip
Through The Washington Post, Lillian Cunningham examines the intricate history and precarious future of America’s national parks. Traveling to five celebrated sites, she delves into the critical narratives unfolding within and around these landscapes, and meets the individuals working to ensure their continued existence.
Key Battles of the Revolutionary War
Listen to Key Battles of the Revolutionary War
Against the formidable British Empire, a handful of colonists ignited the Revolutionary War with musket fire. Improbably, they triumphed, creating an independent America and spreading concepts of freedom and self-rule worldwide. This victory hinged on successful major battles, each of which this podcast thoroughly examines.
Wilder
Laura Ingalls Wilder, a pioneer similar to a sexless, braided Carrie Bradshaw, crafted an enduring American narrative. Her life, spanning a century, mirrors America’s turbulent history.
Seizing Freedom
Seizing Freedom presents authentic narratives of Black individuals pursuing liberation, advancement, and happiness, spanning from the Civil War era to the Civil Rights Movement and continuing forward. It showcases the diverse methods employed by Black people to achieve and define their own freedom, in the face of immense opposition.
The Wild West Extravaganza
Listen to The Wild West Extravaganza
Hear authentic accounts from the Old West! This podcast explores the actual individuals and happenings, including gunmen, criminals, sheriffs, pioneers, and Native Americans, that defined this legendary era of American history. Mount your steed and explore the genuine story of the Wild West: its virtues, vices, and harsh realities.
An Old Timey Podcast
Listen to An Old Timey Podcast
History education takes a comedic turn with Kristin Caruso, from the popular true crime podcast Let’s Go To Court, and Norman Caruso, of the Gaming Historian YouTube channel. Together, they offer a thoroughly researched, diverse, and playfully absurd history podcast. Essentially, it’s for those with a refined mind, who also appreciate juvenile humor.
History on Trial
Encompassing events from the Salem Witch Trials to the O.J. Simpson trial, legal proceedings have consistently brought to light concealed aspects of our society. History on Trial scrutinizes well-known American legal battles, revealing the genuine stories that existed beyond the headlines, and analyzing the significant cultural backgrounds that shaped the verdicts, and their enduring impact. Those who are drawn to true crime, legal narratives, and historical exploration will be captivated by the incredible trials that took place in history’s courtrooms.
Plodding Through The Presidents
Listen to Plodding Through The Presidents
Connect with historical enthusiasts Howard Dorre and his spouse Jessica Dorre as they explore obscure tales about America’s initial commanders-in-chief. This entertaining pair examines the folklore, unsolved questions, controversies, and interpersonal conflicts surrounding the nation’s architects and their households, all seasoned with playful spousal repartee.
Do you know of another American History podcast that you think should be on this list? Let me know.
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