Afleveringen
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In Oslo, Norway, a cluster of concrete silos once stored grain for the cityâs food supply. But when the grain stopped flowing, the silos were given a surprising second life â as student housing. Known as the Siloen, these towering structures became one of Europeâs most unique dormitories.This episode dives into the strange and fascinating transformation of the Oslo grain silo into student apartments. Why did the city choose to repurpose it? What was it like to live there? And what does it reveal about urban renewal in post-war Europe? We explore the forgotten history behind this industrial oddity turned academic icon.
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Thereâs a 550-foot skyscraper in Lower Manhattan with no windows, no logos, and no obvious purpose. Officially, it was built in the 1970s as a telecom switching hubâbut behind its Brutalist facade lies a deeper, darker story of Cold War paranoia, surveillance infrastructure, and the quiet centralization of Americaâs communications empire.In this episode, we dig into the strange history of 33 Thomas Street: a nuclear-hardened structure built by AT&T to safeguard the long-distance phone networkâand possibly home to an NSA surveillance program known as TITANPOINTE. From the earliest party lines to the rise of mass wiretapping, discover how Americaâs phone system became a tool of both connection and control.
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Zijn er afleveringen die ontbreken?
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Miles off the Chicago shoreline, strange round structures rise from Lake Michigan. Most people think theyâre lighthousesâbut theyâre not. These are Chicagoâs water cribs: massive, abandoned intake towers once connected to the city by miles of underwater tunnels. They brought clean drinking water to millions⊠at a deadly cost.In this episode, we uncover the forgotten story of Chicagoâs offshore water cribs. Youâll discover how they were built, the brutal dangers faced by workers known as âsandhogs,â and the fires, storms, and disasters that struck these isolated bunkers. Today, theyâre rarely talked aboutâyet they remain hidden in plain sight on the lakeâs horizon.
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In a dramatic decision that sparked national debate, New York City voted to remove a statue of Thomas Jefferson from City Hall â a figure who helped write the Declaration of Independence. But why was this founding father, once revered, suddenly deemed too controversial to stand?This episode explores the real story behind Jeffersonâs fall from civic grace. We dive into the rise of âwokeâ politics, reckonings with Americaâs slaveholding past, and the behind-closed-doors vote that sealed his fate. Youâll learn what drove the decision, who pushed back, and how the meaning of history itself is being rewritten in real-time.
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Niagara Falls wasnât always a postcard-perfect tourist spot. In the early 1900s, it was ground zero for an industrial revolution powered by the falls themselves. What began as a sacred site for Indigenous nations transformed into one of North Americaâs most powerful industrial hubsâfueled by the worldâs first large-scale hydroelectric plants.In this episode, we dive into the forgotten rise and dramatic fall of Niagara Fallsâ mills district. Youâll learn how Tesla and Westinghouse turned it into an electrical powerhouse, why major industries like aluminum and chemicals flocked to its shores, and how environmental disasters like Love Canal left a permanent scar. Todayâs Niagara is a shadow of its roaring industrial pastâbut the ruins, tunnels, and power stations still tell a fascinating story.
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Once a booming roadside attraction along Americaâs highways, Wigwam Motels symbolized a golden era of postwar travel. With their iconic teepee-shaped rooms, these unique lodgings captured the imagination of Route 66 tourists during the rise of the automobile age. But how did something so bold, kitschy, and beloved become nearly extinct?In this episode, we explore the surprising history behind the Wigwam Motelsâfrom their invention in the 1930s by Frank Redford, to their rise in popularity across the country, and the cultural controversy that followed. Weâll visit what remains of these strange structures today, meet the people trying to preserve them, and uncover why their quirky charm couldnât stand up to the forces of modernization, franchising, and shifting cultural values.
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At one point in American history, the circus didnât just come to townâit rumbled in like a thunderstorm on steel wheels. These mile-long trains carried everything: elephants, big tops, lion cages, and hundreds of performers. They were logistical marvels, traveling from coast to coast and transforming empty lots into dazzling cities of wonder overnight. But over time, the spectacle faded, the animals disappeared, and the trains were left to rust.In this episode, we uncover the bizarre history and epic scale of circus trainsâwhy they existed, how they operated, and what brought the whole spectacle to an end. Were these the real-life Snowpiercers of showbiz? And could a spectacle this large ever return?
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For nearly a century, Mar-a-Lago has loomed large over Palm Beachâfirst as a palace of opulence, then as a flashpoint of politics. Originally built by cereal heiress Marjorie Merriweather Post, this 20th-century mega-mansion was once offered to the U.S. government as a presidential retreat⊠but they turned it down. Years later, Donald Trump made a stunning real estate power play that saved it from demolition and turned it into the Winter White House. This is the incredible true story of Americaâs most controversial estateâone of luxury, lawsuits, and legacy.
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Buried Cadillacs in the middle of nowhere? Welcome to Cadillac Ranch, one of the most bizarre and iconic landmarks along Route 66. Originally installed in 1974 by a group of artists and funded by a Texas millionaire, this half-buried fleet of classic Cadillacs has become a symbol of roadside Americana. But after decades of graffiti, vandalism, and weathering, whatâs left of this legendary site today? Join us as we uncover the strange history of Cadillac Ranch, its impact on pop culture, and why thousands still visit this decaying masterpiece every year.
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In 1628, Sweden launched what was meant to be the most powerful warship of its timeâthe Vasa. But within 20 minutes of setting sail, it tragically sank right in Stockholmâs harbor. Now, nearly 400 years later, the Vasa Museum holds one of the best-preserved shipwrecks in history, offering an unparalleled look into 17th-century naval warfare and engineering failure.We traveled to Stockholm, Sweden, to explore the Vasa Museum, uncover the fascinating story behind the ship's doomed voyage, and speak with Dr. Fred Hocker, the leading expert on the Vasaâs recovery and restoration. Why did this state-of-the-art warship fail so spectacularly? What secrets does it hold about Swedenâs ambitions during the Thirty Years' War? And how did it become one of the greatest archaeological discoveries of all time?Join us as we step inside the Vasa Ship, explore its centuries-old remains, and uncover the shocking truth behind Swedenâs greatest maritime disaster.
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In the heart of Maricopa County, Arizona, stands Towers Jailâa facility that was never meant to last but became a permanent fixture in the U.S. incarceration system. Originally built in 1982 as a temporary solution to overcrowding, the 720-bed detention center soon became part of a larger crisis in mass incarceration. Towers Jail was designed for pretrial detainees, but over the years, it has been plagued by outdated infrastructure, extreme heat, and overcrowding. Critics argue it represents the failures of Arizonaâs justice system, while supporters claim it still serves a vital purpose. With poor living conditions, increasing maintenance costs, and growing legal challenges, the future of Towers Jail is now in question. Will it be shut down, modernized, or replaced? And what does its story say about the larger issue of mass incarceration in America? Join us as we explore the rise, controversy, and uncertain future of Towers Jail in this episode of Itâs History.
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Deep beneath the city of RzeszĂłw, Poland, lies a relic of the Cold Warâthe MarysieĆka Shelter. Once a secret refuge designed to protect against nuclear fallout, this underground bunker remains largely unknown to the outside world. In this ON-LOCATION episode of It's History, we tour the eerie corridors and abandoned rooms of this historic shelter to uncover what still remains. Join us as we explore the bunkerâs past, from its construction during the Cold War to its present-day condition. We examine the architecture, survival provisions, and Cold War technology left behind. What was this place built to withstand? And why has it been forgotten? Step inside Polandâs hidden history and discover the secrets beneath RzeszĂłw.
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The Lake Michigan Triangle has captivated the imagination of explorers and historians alike with its eerie tales of disappearing ships, missing planes, and strange phenomena. Often compared to the infamous Bermuda Triangle, this enigmatic area of Lake Michigan has been the site of countless mysteries, from the lost ship Le Griffon in 1679 to the tragic disappearance of Northwest Orient Airlines Flight 2501 in 1950. In this episode of It's History, we delve into the truth behind the Lake Michigan Triangle, exploring not only the sensational stories but also the historical, geological, and environmental factors that contribute to this region's dangerous reputation. Join us as we investigate the myths and legends surrounding the Lake Michigan Triangle, separating fact from fiction while uncovering hidden stories of the treacherous lake. From unpredictable weather patterns and powerful currents to tales of UFO sightings and compass malfunctions, we explore why this area continues to baffle experts and thrill conspiracy enthusiasts. Whether you believe in the mystery or not, the Lake Michigan Triangle offers a fascinating glimpse into America's rich history and enduring folklore. Hit subscribe and journey with us into the unknown!
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Imagine a place where sunlight barely penetrates, and walls don't just separate bodiesâthey isolate souls. ADX Florence, known as "The Alcatraz of the Rockies," is America's most secure and mysterious prison. Home to the nation's most dangerous criminals, including terrorists, cartel leaders, and serial killers, this supermax facility is designed for total isolation. But what makes ADX Florence so forbidden? In this episode of It's History, we uncover the secrets behind its impenetrable walls. Discover the history of ADX Florence, from its inception in 1994 to its current role as a model of extreme incarceration. Learn about the notorious inmates held here, including Theodore Kaczynski, Ramzi Yousef, and JoaquĂn "El Chapo" GuzmĂĄn. We also explore the psychological impact of total isolation on inmates, the ethical debates surrounding its operation, and why this prison remains off-limits to the public. Join us for a deep dive into the prison America wants you to forget.
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The Rock Island Line was more than just a railroadâit was the backbone of American industry. From its roots in Chicago to its sprawling tracks across the Midwest, the Rock Island Line helped shape towns and support the economy. However, as the industry changed, the once-proud railway fell into decline, eventually leading to a tragic end. In this episode, we dive into the rise and fall of the Rock Island Line, exploring how its demise reflects the broader struggles of American public transportation. Join us as we uncover the full story of this legendary railway, the battles it faced, and why its loss still impacts America today. From the ambitious expansion and the devastating court battles to the failed merger attempts and eventual bankruptcy, discover why the Rock Island Lineâs story is a cautionary tale for American infrastructure.
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USS Pampanito (SS-383) is a World War II-era Balao-class submarine that served in the Pacific Theater as part of the U.S. Navyâs submarine fleet. Commissioned in 1943, Pampanito completed six war patrols, playing a crucial role in disrupting Japanese shipping lanes and rescuing survivors of torpedoed Allied vessels. The submarine famously rescued 73 British and Australian POWs who had been stranded at sea after their transport ship was sunk. After the war, Pampanito was decommissioned in 1945, later becoming a museum ship in San Francisco in 1976. Today, it remains docked at Fishermanâs Wharf, offering visitors a glimpse into wartime naval history and the secret operations of U.S. submarines during WWII.
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Fort I "Salis Soglio" is a key part of the PrzemyĆl Fortress, one of the largest fortification systems in Europe, located near PrzemyĆl, Poland. Built in the late 19th century, the fort was named after Swiss engineer Baron Daniel Salis-Soglio, who played a major role in expanding the fortress between 1878 and 1883. During World War I, it was initially captured by the Russian Army but later retaken by German forces in mid-1915. After the war, the fortifications lost their military significance and gradually fell into disrepair. Today, the remains of Fort I "Salis Soglio" serve as a historical site, offering insight into the regionâs military past and attracting visitors interested in historical fortifications.
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The New York State Barge Canal, originally known as the Erie Canal, was first completed in 1825 to provide a navigable water route between the Hudson River and the Great Lakes. It played a crucial role in the economic development of New York State and the Midwest, facilitating trade and migration. By the late 19th century, the original canal had become outdated due to the rise of larger boats and increasing freight demands. In response, the state initiated a major modernization project in 1905, resulting in the New York State Barge Canal, which was officially completed in 1918. This newly expanded system incorporated the Erie, Champlain, Oswego, and Cayuga-Seneca Canals, utilizing a series of locks and dams to accommodate larger vessels.Throughout the 20th century, the Barge Canal continued to serve as a vital transportation link but faced competition from railroads and highways. While commercial use declined significantly by the mid-1900s, the canal system found new life as a recreational waterway, attracting boaters, tourists, and history enthusiasts. In 2017, the New York State Barge Canal was designated a National Historic Landmark in recognition of its engineering significance and impact on American commerce. Today, the canal remains an integral part of New Yorkâs heritage, with ongoing preservation efforts ensuring its historical and recreational value for future generations.
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In 1869, a catastrophic engineering failure nearly erased St. Anthony Falls, a crucial water source for Minneapolis, Minnesota. The disaster began when the Eastman Tunnel, an ambitious underground waterway designed to power local mills, collapsed beneath the Mississippi River. As water surged through the breach, the falls began to erode, threatening to destroy the regionâs primary economic driver. Engineers scrambled to contain the damage, using timber, rocks, and clay to prevent the total collapse of the falls. Their emergency efforts saved St. Anthony Falls from disappearing forever, preserving the city's future. Today, remnants of this near-catastrophe remain hidden beneath the river, a forgotten tale of hubris and survival.
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Devilâs Island, the northernmost of Wisconsinâs Apostle Islands in Lake Superior, has long been shrouded in mystery and danger. Named for its treacherous waters and eerie sea caves, the island has challenged sailors for centuries, with jagged sandstone cliffs and unpredictable storms turning it into a feared landmark. Native American legends spoke of spirits haunting its shores, while early European explorers and fur traders learned to respect its unforgiving nature.In the late 19th century, the Devilâs Island Lighthouse was constructed to guide ships safely through the perilous waters of Lake Superior. First lit in 1891, the lighthouse stood as a beacon of hope in one of the most dangerous maritime corridors in the Great Lakes. Keepers braved the harsh, isolated conditions, battling brutal winters and relentless winds to keep the light burning. Today, Devilâs Island remains uninhabited, with only the historic lighthouse standing as a silent witness to the many shipwrecks and lost souls claimed by its unforgiving shores.
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