In this episode of History You Didn’t Know But Should, Chris and Ray dive into the epic story of the 1916 flood that tore through North Carolina’s mountains destroying bridges, railroads, and entire communities. We also trace the legacy of later storms like Hazel, Matthew, and Hurricane Helene (2024) to show how hurricanes and floods continue to reshape the region and remind us of its ongoing vulnerability to inland flooding.

Tune in for a mix of history, storytelling, and connections to the storms we still face today.

In this episode of History You Didn’t Know But Should, Ray and Chris take a look at the chaotic and transformative year of 1968. From the Vietnam War and civil rights struggles to assassinations and protests in the streets, the presidential election unfolded against a backdrop of division and unrest. We unpack how Richard Nixon’s campaign capitalized on themes of “law and order,” why Hubert Humphrey struggled to unify his party, and the surprising impact of third-party candidate George Wallace.

Most importantly, we connect the lessons of 1968 to our current political environment asking how issues of polarization, protest, and shifting voter coalitions still shape American politics today.

If you think history doesn’t echo itself, 1968 might just prove otherwise.

On this episode of History You Didn’t Know But Should, Chris and Ray dive into America’s long, unsettling history with political violence. From presidential assassinations to modern tragedies like the killing of Charlie Kirk, we ask: is political violence woven into our nation’s story and if so, can it ever be stopped?

🎧 Tune in now and join the conversation!

In this episode of History You Didn't Know But Should, Chris and Ray talk about why history isn’t just about memorizing dates and names. It’s about perspective. Too often, we focus on the same stories and the same people. But when we broaden our view, looking at events and individuals from fresh angles, we begin to see connections, consequences, and hidden details that change everything. Whether it’s rethinking a well-known figure or uncovering overlooked voices, history becomes more alive when we see it through different lenses.

If you love discovering stories that make you think, this is an episode you don’t want to miss.

Listen now and let’s look at history in a whole new way!

In this episode of History You Didn’t Know But Should, Chris and Ray explore the remarkable life of Harriet Jacobs. Born into slavery in Edenton, North Carolina, Jacobs endured unimaginable hardship yet refused to surrender her spirit. Her story highlights the struggles enslaved people faced and the many ways they resisted bondage, holding onto hope and determination in the face of oppression.

In this episode of History You Didn’t Know But Should, Chris and Ray dive into one of the most colorful and modern-feeling elections in American history, the 1840 contest between President Martin Van Buren and the log cabin war hero William Henry Harrison. We unpack the over-the-top campaign strategies, the use of catchy slogans and mass political marketing, and why this election set the stage for future presidential image making. What made “Old Kinderhook” struggle while “Tippecanoe” triumphed? You’ll learn the backstory behind the hard cider barrels, parades, and the birth of political spectacle.

The Lost Colony has never been more intriguing. In this episode of History You Didn’t Know But Should, Chris and Ray dive into the enduring mystery of Roanoke: what really happened to the settlers, why the story still captivates us, and what recent archaeological findings could finally give weight to one of the most debated theories. This isn't just a history lesson, it's a detective story centuries in the making. Don't miss it.

In this episode of History You Didn’t Know But Should, Chris and Ray dive into the story behind Juneteenth, what it really commemorates, how it became a national holiday, and why it matters. From its origins in Galveston, Texas to its broader significance in the long struggle for civil rights, this conversation reminds us that progress is worth celebrating, even when the road is long.

Whether you're new to Juneteenth or want a deeper look at its meaning, this episode is for you. Tune in and discover the history you didn’t know, but definitely should.