We're back from our summer hiatus with a new season and we're kicking it off by talking with Craig Baird, the host of Canada History Ehx about his new book Canada's Main Street: The Epic Story of the Trans-Canada Highway. We talk about his motivation to write about the highway, why the highway doesn't have the same romanticized history as the railroad, and the contested circumstances of its origins. We also chat about the highway's route, how it shaped different regions, and its legacy in Canadian history.

Historical Headline of the Week

"Ontario is the weakest link in the Trans-Canada Highway, group says," Sootoday.com, August 25, 2025.

Sean Graham talks with Mary Frances Phillips, author of Black Panther Woman: The Political and Spiritual Life of Ericka Huggins. They talk about the process of writing a historical biography of a living person, tracking down new archival sources, and how Ericka Huggins ended up in prison. They also chat about COINTELPRO plots and how Ericka ended up in prison, her spiritual journey and self-car in prison, and how her story serves as an example for other activists.

Historical Headline of the Week

Amanda Font, "How the Black Panthers Shaped U.S. Schools," KQED, November 14, 2024.

Sean Graham talks with Paul Kahan, author of Philadelphia: A Narrative History. They talk about the city's origins, its connection to the American Revolution, and how the city's history is distinct from the national story. They also chat about community, Philadelphia's political history, and the local culture.

Historical Headline of the Week

Nancy Steinbach, "Philadelphia: A City Famous for its History," Voice of America, March 9, 2025.