In this episode of History You Didn’t Know But Should, we trace the remarkable journey of Booker T. Washington—from his enslaved childhood to becoming one of the most influential Black leaders of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. We discuss his rise through education, the founding of Tuskegee Institute, and his philosophy of self-help, vocational training, and racial uplift. But Washington’s approach wasn’t without controversy. His calls for economic progress over political activism sparked fierce debates with figures like W.E.B. Du Bois. Join us as we explore the legacy of this complex and sometimes misunderstood leader.

In this episode of History You Didn’t Know But Should, we explore the life and legacy of Marcus Garvey, the controversial yet visionary leader of the early 20th-century Black nationalist and Pan-African movements. From his founding of the Universal Negro Improvement Association (UNIA) to his ambitious Back-to-Africa movement, Garvey’s ideas shaped discussions on race, self-reliance, and Black empowerment. Join us as we break down Garvey’s impact and why his influence still resonates today.

In this episode of History You Didn't Know But Should, we take a dive into the Essex Junto, a radical wing of the Federalist Party that pushed for secession during the War of 1812. We explore the rise and fall of the Federalists, their opposition to Jeffersonian democracy, and how their resistance to war ultimately led to their political demise. What lessons can we learn from their story today? Tune in for a fascinating discussion—though bear with us through a few minor audio issues!