Episodes

  • The Woman Who Took on New York's Public Transit: Elizabeth Jennings Graham's Legacy

    The Woman Who Took on New York's Public Transit: Elizabeth Jennings Graham's Legacy
    Nov 13 2023
    Prepare to journey back to 1800s New York, where we unfold the little-known story of Elizabeth Jennings Graham - a black teacher, civil rights figure, and pioneering force against racial discrimination. I'm peeling back the layers of history to shine the spotlight on Elizabeth’s brave stand against the city's public transportation system, a significant event that led to the desegregation of public transit in the city long before Rosa Parks. I'll walk you through the famous streetcar incident that shook the city and resulted in a pivotal lawsuit against the Third Avenue Railroad Company. You’ll hear how this brave woman's fight for justice was championed by Chester A. Arthur, future US President, and resulted in a landmark ruling that sent ripples through the transportation industry. This episode is a tribute to the unyielding spirit of a woman who dared to challenge the status quo, and in doing so, forever changed the course of history.Content Warnings: Discussion of racial discrimination and segregation. Mention of physical violence during the streetcar incident.Timestamps and Key Takeaways: 00:11 - Introduction to Elizabeth Jennings Graham 01:42 - Background of Elizabeth's family and her father's achievements. 02:41 - Elizabeth's education and career as a teacher. 03:32 - Context of New York City's transportation system in the 1850s. 04:04 - The streetcar incident of July 16, 1854. 05:11 - Legal and public response to the streetcar incident. 06:02 - Court ruling in Elizabeth's favor and its impact. 07:43 - Elizabeth's later life, including her establishment of the first kindergarten for black children. 08:59 - Elizabeth's legacy and recognition in modern times. 10:02 - Reflection on Elizabeth's impact and the continuous struggle for civil rights. Educate and Reflect: Learn about the struggles faced by African American women like Elizabeth in the 19th century. Consider the extraordinary courage and determination Elizabeth showed in challenging racial discrimination.Support and Advocate: Help preserve and promote the history of African American figures like Elizabeth by supporting local arts and heritage institutions. Encourage educational initiatives that focus on the contributions of African Americans in history.Read and Engage: Explore Elizabeth Jennings Graham's biography, "Street Car to Justice" by Amy Hill Hearth. Check out the Transit Museum in Brooklyn, New York City, for more about Elizabeth Jennings Graham.Feedback and Suggestions: If you have stories about figures like Elizabeth Jennings Graham or wish to know more about specific aspects of her life, please contact us at the Herstorically podcast. Your input helps us bring more enlightening stories to our audience. Rate and Review: If Elizabeth Jennings Graham's story inspired you, please rate and review the Herstorically podcast. Your feedback helps others discover these important historical narratives. Part of the Boundless Audio Podcast Network Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    13 mins
  • From St. Louis Slums to French Fame: The Story of Josephine Baker

    From St. Louis Slums to French Fame: The Story of Josephine Baker
    Nov 6 2023
    Let's get transported back in time as we unravel the riveting story of Josephine Baker. From her birth in the slums of St. Louis, Missouri to her reign as the most successful American entertainer in France, Josephine's life was nothing short of extraordinary. Her risqué performances, including the iconic banana dance, won the hearts of many, including Picasso, Jean Coutot, and Ernest Hemingway. However, beneath the allure of stardom, her life was punctuated by profound encounters with racism and an unwavering commitment to the fight for equality.I'm taking you on a journey through the many facets of Josephine's life. Her battles against segregation, her influential role in the civil rights movement, and her public activism that led to Josephine Baker Day, as crowned by the NAACP. I'me not just exploring her public life but also delving into her personal experiences, from her 12 adopted children to her son's tragic suicide. As we honor her legacy and celebrate the enduring impact she continues to have on modern culture and celebrities today, I hope you are as inspired by Josephine Baker's life as we are. Get ready for a historical journey into the life of a truly extraordinary woman!Content Warning: Mentions of racial violence, poverty, child labor, and abuse. Timestamps and Key Takeaways: 00:11 - Introduction to Josephine Baker 03:44 - Baker's foray into New York's thriving artistic scene 04:49 - Baker's relocation to Paris 07:45 - Her return to the U.S. 08:33 - Josephine turns spy during WWII 11:07 - Public and political backlash and The Civil Rights Movement 13:42 - Love & Family 16:18 - Her legacy in entertainment, activism, and cultural contributions Educate and Reflect: Understand the challenges faced by African American women in the early 20th century. Reflect on the resilience and determination shown by figures like Josephine in the face of adversity. Support and Advocate: Support local arts and heritage institutions that aim to preserve and share the stories of important figures in black history. Read and Engage: Delve deeper into the Harlem Renaissance and its impact on the arts and black culture. Engage with memoirs and autobiographies of figures from this era. Feedback and Suggestions: If you have more stories like Josephine's or want to learn about specific aspects of her life, reach out to the Herstoryically podcast. Rate and Review: If you enjoyed learning about Josephine Baker's story, please rate and review the Herstoryically podcast to help others discover these important stories. Part of the Boundless Audio Podcast Network Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    21 mins
  • Juliá De Burgos: The Poetic Voice of Puerto Rican Independence and Rights

    Juliá De Burgos: The Poetic Voice of Puerto Rican Independence and Rights
    Oct 30 2023
    Unearth the untold story of Juliá de Burgos, a fierce beacon of Puerto Rican poetry and a stalwart advocate for independence and civil rights. This journey will transport you to a time and place where a woman's voice and her verses became her weapon in the fight for justice. Discover how Julia's roots and early experiences in Carolina fuelled her activism, how teaching shaped her life, and how her association with the Puerto Rican Nationalist Party deepened her dedication to her cause. This isn't just the story of Julia de Burgos; it's the story of resilience, resistance, and the power of words.Timestamps & Key Takeaways: 00:12 - Introduction to Juliá de Burgos. 01:07 - Early life and background. 03:10 - Puerto Rican Nationalist Party and its significance. 05:24 - Julia's prominent works and writings. 07:26 - Personal life and relationships. 08:24 - Activism in New York. 09:29 - End of life and legacy. 13:02 - Additional insights post-episode. Educate and Reflect: Dive deeper into Puerto Rican history and literature to understand its rich culture and contributions. Read and Engage: Read Juliá de Burgos' works to explore her perspective on love, feminism, and nationalism. Understand the importance of Puerto Rican independence and the people who fought for it. Feedback and Suggestions: Share your insights about this episode with Sasha and the Herstoryically podcast team. Propose other groundbreaking historical figures worth highlighting.Rate and Review: If you enjoyed the episode, consider leaving a rating and review on your podcast platform to help others discover the show. Part of the Boundless Audio Podcast Network Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    18 mins
  • The Rule, Reign and Resistance of Razia Sultana: Delhi's Only Female Sultan

    The Rule, Reign and Resistance of Razia Sultana: Delhi's Only Female Sultan
    Oct 23 2023
    Prepare yourself for an exhilarating time-travel back to the 1200s as we unravel the tale of Razia Sultana, the first and only female Muslim ruler of Delhi, India. Despite her father's initial intent to name her his successor, Razia's rise was not without its twists and turns. From maneuvering through political plots to winning over the general public, she has a captivating journey to the throne.Razia Sultana's reign stands out as a shining example of female leadership in a time and place where it was rare. Her story serves as a testament to the resilience, intelligence, and determination of women throughout history. It also sheds light on the complexities of navigating power dynamics, especially as a woman in a male-dominated world. Razia’s reign, while short-lived, left an indelible mark on the annals of history, showcasing that leadership knows no gender. This episode touches upon issues of political intrigue, conflict, and power dynamics during Razia Sultana's reign. Timestamps and Key Takeaways: 00:10 - Introduction to Razia Sultana and her historical significance. 00:17 - Early life, upbringing, and initial experience in leadership. 01:25 - Rise to the throne, overcoming challenges, and handling rebellions. 03:15 - Razia's policy decisions, leadership style, and public support. 04:03 - Challenges with nobles, her assertiveness in leadership, and breaking societal norms. 05:08 - Political challenges, revolts, and managing the larger subcontinent. 06:27 - Internal challenges, dealing with rebellious governors, and solidifying her position. 07:34 - The fall from power, imprisonment, and a constantly shifting political landscape. 08:38 - Reflections on Razia’s legacy. Educate and Reflect: Explore more about the lives of powerful women in history. Understand the unique challenges they faced, and the legacies they left behind.Support and Advocate: Recognize the importance of female leadership throughout history. Highlight and celebrate powerful women who have changed the course of history.Read and Engage: Delve deeper into the history of Razia Sultana and other historical figures from the subcontinent. Learn more about her here. Discuss her leadership and its significance in today's world.Feedback and Suggestions: Share your insights about this episode with Sasha and the Herstoryically podcast team. Propose other groundbreaking historical figures worth highlighting.Rate and Review: If you enjoyed the episode, consider leaving a rating and review on your podcast platform to help others discover the show. Part of the Boundless Audio Podcast Network
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    13 mins
  • The Unsung Heroine of Tennis and Golf: Althea Gibson

    The Unsung Heroine of Tennis and Golf: Althea Gibson
    Oct 16 2023
    Althea Gibson's journey from the streets of Harlem to the world's grandest tennis stages is more than just a tale of athletic prowess; it’s a story of breaking barriers, facing down racism, and setting the stage for future generations of black athletes. Her resilience, talent, and determination provide a blueprint for those seeking to change the narrative, irrespective of the challenges faced. Content Warning: This episode touches upon issues of racism, racial discrimination, and the challenges faced by black athletes during Althea Gibson's time. Listener discretion is advised. Timestamps and Key Takeaways: 00:11 - Introduction to Althea Gibson and her pioneering achievements. 00:17 - Early life, upbringing, and introduction to tennis. 03:02 - Professional career kick-off, challenges faced, and breaking racial barriers. 05:09 - Althea's Grand Slam victories and her recognition on the world stage. 10:07 - Aspirations in the entertainment world. 11:14 - Breaking barriers in the LGPA. 13:06 - Life after tennis. 15:44 - Legacy, accolades, and her significance to future generations. Educate and Reflect: Explore the lives and careers of black athletes during Althea's time. Understand the challenges they faced and appreciate their contributions to sports.Support and Advocate: Champion the importance of representation in all fields, including sports. Recognize and uplift underrepresented voices to ensure a fair and equitable playing field for all. For tennis specifically, consider supporting the Black Girls Tennis Club. Read and Engage: Dive deeper into Althea Gibson's biography and life. Engage in conversations about her legacy and the impact she had on tennis and beyond. Learn more here. Feedback and Suggestions: Share your insights about this episode with Sasha and the Herstoryically podcast team. Propose other groundbreaking stories worth sharing.Rate and Review: If you enjoyed the episode, consider leaving a rating and review on your podcast platform to help others discover the show. Part of the Boundless Audio Podcast Network Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    22 mins
  • Gwen Ifill: A Revolutionary in Journalism

    Gwen Ifill: A Revolutionary in Journalism
    Oct 9 2023
    Get ready to be inspired by the indomitable Gwendolyn Ifill, an extraordinary journalist whose trailblazing journey shattered glass ceilings and carved out a new path for black women in the sphere of journalism. This episode brings you her powerful story from humble beginnings to her monumental achievements, such as becoming the first black woman to host a nationally televised US Public Affairs program and moderating vice presidential debates. Her story is not just a testament to her unwavering spirit but also a reminder of the power of journalism to shape narratives and drive social transformation.Content Warning: This episode contains mentions of the N-word and highlights issues of racism. Listener discretion is advised. Timestamps and Key Takeaways: 00:10 - Introduction to the topic of Gwen Ifill. 00:17 - Early life and education of Gwen Ifill. 02:14 - Gwen’s professional journey in print and television journalism. 05:02 - Gwen's groundbreaking moderation of vice-presidential debates and the controversies that arose. 06:31 - Recognitions and awards for Gwen's exemplary work in journalism. 08:29 - Gwen's tragic passing and the tributes that followed. Educate and Reflect: Learn more about the challenges faced by journalists of color, especially women, in the historically male-dominated and predominantly white field of journalism. Reflect on how diverse voices are essential for a holistic understanding of world events. Support Journalism: Champion diverse voices in journalism and media by actively seeking and supporting news outlets and programs that prioritize representation or organizations like the Alliance for Women in Media.Read and Engage: Dive into Gwen Ifill’s work and legacy to gain a deeper understanding of her contributions. Engage in conversations about the importance of representation in the media. You can learn more about Gwen Ifill here: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gwen_Ifill https://www.thehistorymakers.org/biography/gwen-ifill-6 Feedback and Suggestions: Share your thoughts on this episode with Sasha and the Herstoryically podcast team at herstoryicallypodcast.com. If you have more groundbreaking stories to share, let them know.Rate and Review: If you appreciate the episode, leave a rating and review on your podcast platform to help others find the show. Part of the Boundless Audio Podcast Network Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    12 mins
  • Renee Richards: The Trailblazer of Transgender Rights in Sports

    Renee Richards: The Trailblazer of Transgender Rights in Sports
    Oct 2 2023
    In this gripping episode, we bring you the extraordinary journey of Renee Richards, the first transgender athlete in professional sports. From her early life to her transition and subsequent legal battles, Renee's story is a testament to strength and resilience. We're shedding light on the adversity she faced, the groundbreaking lawsuit against the US Tennis Association, and the controversy that ensued. Renee's actions ignited a discourse on gender and sports, paving the way for future transgender athletes. Content Warning: This episode contains mentions of outdated terms used historically to describe transgender individuals, such as "transsexualism." For historical accuracy, these terms will be used contextually. Listener discretion is advised. Guest Information: N/A - This episode is a solo episode presented by Sasha, the host. Timestamps and Key Takeaways: 00:12 - Introduction to the topic of Renee Richards 00:47 - Early life of Renee Richards as Richard Raskind. 02:27 - Renee's personal struggle with gender identity and the beginnings of her transition. 03:41 - Renee's decision to undergo sexual reassignment surgery and the challenges she faced in her tennis career as a result. 06:12 - The landmark court case that allowed Renee to compete in the US Open. 08:37 - Renee's life post-retirement from professional tennis. 09:29 - Renee's perspective on the transgender movement. Educate and Reflect: Dive deeper into the lives of transgender individuals throughout history and their impact on society. Reflect on how societal perceptions have evolved over time. Support Transgender Athletes: Recognize and support transgender athletes in various sports who are breaking barriers and setting precedents. Learn more at Athlete Ally.Watch and Read: Check out the documentary Renee from 2011 and the TV biopic Second Serve from 1986 to gain more insight into Renee Richards' life or find more information here:https://www.si.com/tennis/2019/06/28/renee-richards-gender-identity-politics-transgender-where-are-they-nowFeedback and Suggestions: Share your thoughts on this episode with Sasha and the Hearstoryically podcast team at herstoryicallypodcast.com. If you have more untold stories to share, let them know.Rate and Review: Enjoyed the episode? Leave a rating and review on your podcast platform to help others find the show. Part of the Boundless Audio Podcast Network Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    13 mins
  • Jovita Idar: An Unsung Heroine's Fight for Mexican-American Civil Rights

    Jovita Idar: An Unsung Heroine's Fight for Mexican-American Civil Rights
    Oct 2 2023
    Get ready to be inspired by the fiery determination and trailblazing spirit of Jovita Idar, a Mexican-American journalist, activist, and suffragist who used the power of her pen to advocate for civil rights. Born in a turbulent era following the Mexican-American War, Jovita breaks the mold, daring to dream and act beyond the societal limitations of her time. Together, we'll traverse her transformation from a disillusioned teacher battling a system that marginalizes Mexican history and culture, to an impassioned journalist fearlessly championing the cause of justice. We unwrap her pivotal roles in the establishment of the first Mexican Congress and La Liga Femenil Mexicanista, two cornerstones in the fight for fairness and equality. Prepare to be moved by Jovita's relentless spirit, her unwavering commitment to justice, and her profound respect for her cultural roots. Content Warning: This episode contains mentions of lynchings which may be distressing for some listeners. Timestamps and Key Takeaways: 00:12 - Introduction to the Herstorically podcast by Sasha 01:43 - Introduction to Jovita Idar and her early life. 02:57 - The socio-political backdrop of Jovita's time. 04:11 - Jovita's career as a teacher and her realization of the unequal treatment of Mexican children in education. 05:01 - Jovita's entry into journalism and her advocacy. 06:11 - Jovita's journalistic ventures and her fight for women's suffrage. 07:26 - Formation of La Liga Feminil Mexicaista. 08:56 - Jovita's acts of service during the Mexican Revolution. Research More: If Jovita Idar's story resonated with you, delve deeper into her life, her writings, and her advocacy efforts. You can find more information here: https://sites.uw.edu/twomn347/2022/03/01/jovita-idar/ https://www.museodelwestside.org/women-activism/jovita-idar https://wams.nyhistory.org/modernizing-america/xenophobia-and-racism/jovita-idar-juarez/ https://www.womenshistory.org/education-resources/biographies/jovita-idar https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jovita_Idar Support Bilingual Education: Inspired by Jovita's passion? Consider supporting or volunteering at bilingual education institutions in your community or supporting the National Association for Bilingual Education. Share the Story: Jovita Idar's story is just one of many that have been overlooked in mainstream history. Share this episode with friends and family to spread her legacy.Feedback and Suggestions: If you have other untold stories of remarkable women from history, reach out to Sasha and the Herstoryically podcast team with your suggestions at herstoryicallypodcast.com.herstoryicallypodcast.com.Rate and Review: If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a rating and review on your podcast platform. It helps others discover the show. Part of the Boundless Audio Podcast Network Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    14 mins