History Happened Today
History Happened Today is your daily five-minute journey into the moments that shaped our world. Each morning, we uncover a fascinating event that occurred on this exact date, sometimes famous, sometimes forgotten, always worth knowing. From breakthroughs and battles to inventions, discoveries, and the stories behind the people who made them, you’ll get a quick, engaging snapshot of history’s most interesting moments.
Perfect for your commute, your coffee break, or your daily dose of curiosity.
Listen on:
Episodes
Wednesday Jan 21, 2026
Wednesday Jan 21, 2026
On January 21, 1976, Concorde launched commercial supersonic travel. This episode explores the jet that made the future arrive early.
Tuesday Jan 20, 2026
Tuesday Jan 20, 2026
On January 20, 1937, the United States officially began inaugurating presidents earlier than ever before. This episode explores the odd delay that forced a change to the Constitution.
Monday Jan 19, 2026
Monday Jan 19, 2026
On January 19, 1783, a sheep, a duck, and a rooster became the first living creatures to fly in a hot air balloon. This episode explores the strange experiment that launched aviation.
Friday Jan 16, 2026
Friday Jan 16, 2026
On January 16, 1914, the first crossword puzzle appeared in a newspaper and sparked a global obsession. This episode explores how a simple game became a daily ritual.
Thursday Jan 15, 2026
Thursday Jan 15, 2026
On January 15, 1919, a massive molasses tank burst in Boston, unleashing one of the strangest disasters in American history. This episode explores the flood that changed safety laws forever.
Wednesday Jan 14, 2026
Wednesday Jan 14, 2026
On January 14, 1954, the TV dinner was introduced and forever changed how families eat. This episode explores the frozen meal that reshaped daily life.
Tuesday Jan 13, 2026
Tuesday Jan 13, 2026
On January 13, 1968, Johnny Cash recorded a live album at Folsom Prison that reshaped his career and music history. This episode explores the performance that made honesty louder than polish.
Monday Jan 12, 2026
Monday Jan 12, 2026
On January 12, 1954, Marilyn Monroe and Joe DiMaggio were married in a moment that captivated America. This episode explores the story behind one of the most famous weddings in history.
Friday Jan 09, 2026
Friday Jan 09, 2026
On January 9, 1493, Christopher Columbus reported seeing mermaids—then admitted they weren’t very impressive. This episode explores the moment myth met reality at sea.
Thursday Jan 08, 2026
Thursday Jan 08, 2026
On January 8, 1815, the Battle of New Orleans was fought—after the War of 1812 had already ended. This episode explores the strange timing and lasting impact of an unnecessary victory.