Plausibly Live! - The Official Podcast Of The Dave Bowman Show

Meet Arthur Lee: the overlooked diplomat, revolutionary thinker, and the man who helped secure France’s crucial support during America’s fight for independence. In this episode, we delve into the fascinating life of the youngest Lee sibling from Virginia—a fiery intellectual who took on British oppression with his pen and forged alliances with his grit. From his role in the 1778 Treaty of Alliance to his clashes with Benjamin Franklin, Arthur’s story is one of brilliance, suspicion, and unyielding dedication to liberty. Tune in as we explore the high-stakes diplomacy, bitter rivalries, and enduring legacy of a man who walked the fine line between hero and enigma. Perfect for history buffs and patriots alike!

In this episode, we uncover the extraordinary life of Mary Livermore—teacher, abolitionist, Civil War heroine, and trailblazer for women’s suffrage. From her early days witnessing the horrors of slavery to organizing monumental relief efforts during the war, Mary’s story is one of grit, determination, and boundless compassion. We’ll explore how this "strong-minded woman" raised millions for Union soldiers, wielded her pen and voice to fight for justice, and inspired a generation to demand equality. It’s history with heart, told through the lens of one woman’s unstoppable drive to leave the world better than she found it. Tune in for an inspiring ride through America’s past—where Mary Livermore’s work reminds us that conviction and action can change the course of history.

In this episode, we dive into one of the most haunting decisions in U.S. Supreme Court history: Korematsu v. United States. Against the backdrop of World War II and the attack on Pearl Harbor, fear gripped the American West Coast—and Japanese Americans became targets of suspicion, not for what they had done, but for who they were. This is the story of Fred Korematsu, a young man who refused to abandon his rights when the government ordered 120,000 Japanese Americans into internment camps. From his arrest to the Supreme Court’s controversial ruling upholding racial exclusion, we’ll unpack the motivations, the dissenting voices that warned of “legalized racism,” and the long shadow this case cast over American justice. How did wartime hysteria tip the scales against civil liberties? What can we learn today from Korematsu’s courageous stand? Join us for a riveting exploration of fear, prejudice, and the fight for freedom—where history reminds us that the greatest test of our values comes during our darkest hou

On this episode of Dave Does History, we delve into one of the most brutal episodes of World War II—the Malmedy Massacre, which occurred on December 17, 1944, during the Battle of the Bulge. Dave Bowman takes us through the chilling events when Joachim Peiper's Waffen-SS troops executed over 80 unarmed American soldiers at a crossroads near Malmedy, Belgium. While the massacre should be etched in history, it remains largely overshadowed by other World War II narratives. We explore the horrors of that day, the aftermath of the massacre, and the troubling political decisions that led to the eventual release of those responsible. This episode reflects on the harsh realities of war, the moral challenges of holding perpetrators accountable, and the lasting impact of forgetting such atrocities. Tune in for a deep dive into one of the most shocking war crimes of the conflict and the broader lessons it offers for today.

On December 16, 1944, the quiet Ardennes forest erupted into chaos as Hitler launched a desperate and audacious offensive to turn the tide of World War II. In this episode, we delve into the dramatic opening day of the Battle of the Bulge, exploring how German forces achieved complete surprise and shattered Allied lines. From the fierce resistance of the 99th Infantry Division at Elsenborn Ridge to the encirclement of Bastogne, we uncover the human stories of courage, chaos, and survival that defined this pivotal moment in history. Packed with vivid details and analytical insights, this episode brings the first day of the Ardennes Offensive to life.

On December 15, 1944, one of America’s most iconic bandleaders vanished without a trace. Glenn Miller, the king of swing and leader of the Army Air Forces Band, was en route to Paris to perform for Allied troops when his small plane disappeared over the English Channel. In this episode, we unravel the mystery of his disappearance, explore his profound contributions to music and the war effort, and reflect on his enduring legacy. From his rise as a big band legend with hits like “In the Mood” to his selfless decision to serve his country, this is the story of Glenn Miller: a man whose music brought hope to a world at war and whose fate remains one of history’s great unsolved mysteries. Tune in for a captivating blend of history, music, and intrigue.

Join Rabbi Dave and Friar Rod in this week’s episode of What the Frock?, where drones over New Jersey take center stage! Are they government experiments, foreign surveillance, or Princeton kids pulling a fast one? The duo dives into government denials, AI conspiracies, and Elon Musk’s comments on the F-35, sprinkling in some classic humor and offbeat theories. Plus, they tackle the Army-Navy game, holiday Hallmark parodies, and the eternal debate: Is Die Hard a Christmas movie or a Hanukkah movie? Tune in for a mix of wit, skepticism, and the occasional rabbit hole. Email us at WTF@whatthefrock.org with your thoughts!

In this episode of Dave Does History, we explore the final moonwalk of the Apollo 17 mission, the last crewed mission to the Moon, launched on December 7, 1972. After over 22 hours of scientific exploration, astronaut Eugene Cernan, the last man to walk on the Moon, made his poignant final steps as the crew completed their final EVA. We’ll uncover the significance of Apollo 17’s discoveries, including Harrison Schmitt’s famous orange soil find, and the challenges faced by the astronauts as they braved the lunar surface. As we reflect on this pivotal moment in history, we’ll also dive into the cultural shifts and political factors that led to the end of the Apollo missions and explore what’s next for lunar exploration. Tune in for a gripping, in-depth look at the historic conclusion of the Apollo program.

What happens when a people are torn from their homeland and thrust into the chaos of exile? In this episode, we recount the tragic voyage of the Duke William, a deportation ship that sank on December 13, 1758, with over 360 Acadians aboard. Through vivid storytelling, we delve into the larger context of the Expulsion of the Acadians, the fateful final days at sea, and the remarkable selflessness of Noel Doiron, whose legacy endures as a testament to human dignity. Don’t miss this moving exploration of a chapter in history that continues to resonate today.

Step into the world of George Mason, a Founding Father whose ideas shaped the very fabric of American liberty—yet whose name often lingers in the shadows of history. In this episode, we uncover the fascinating life of a man who championed the rights we hold dear, from free speech to a fair trial, while refusing to sign the Constitution he helped craft. Why would a man so integral to America’s founding stand apart at its defining moment? Join us as we explore Mason's journey from a reserved Virginia planter to a revolutionary thinker, his role in drafting the Virginia Declaration of Rights, his fiery debates at the Constitutional Convention, and his enduring legacy in the Bill of Rights. If you've ever wondered about the unsung architects of freedom, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.

On this episode of Dave Does History on Bill Mick Live, titled Pardon Moi?", Dave Bowman takes us deep into the fascinating and often controversial history of presidential pardons. Starting with George Washington’s groundbreaking decision to pardon rebels from the Whiskey Rebellion, Dave examines how this unique executive power—granted by Article II of the Constitution—has shaped American politics and justice. From acts of mercy meant to heal a divided nation to instances that sparked outrage over perceived favoritism, the pardon power has been wielded by every president, often with profound consequences. We’ll discuss pivotal moments, such as Andrew Johnson’s pardons after the Civil War, Gerald Ford’s polarizing pardon of Richard Nixon, and more modern uses (and abuses) of clemency. Along the way, Dave explores the philosophical roots of pardons, the debates that raged in the Constitutional Convention of 1787, and whether the power has become too political—or was it always that way? Join Dave and Bill Mick

On a cold December evening in 1935, a fearless journalist stepped out of his car, groceries in hand, and into a storm of bullets that would end his life in an instant. Walter Liggett wasn’t just any journalist—he was a muckraker, a truth-teller, and a relentless critic of corruption in the highest echelons of power. From exposing mobsters to taking on a sitting governor, Liggett made enemies in both the criminal underworld and political elite. But who pulled the trigger that night? Was it a notorious gangster with a grudge or something more sinister, sanctioned by the very system he sought to expose? This is the story of Walter Liggett: his life, his crusade for truth, and the chilling legacy of his unsolved murder.

In this gripping episode of *Dave Does History*, we set sail for the South Atlantic to recount the dramatic events of December 8, 1914—the Battle of the Falkland Islands. After a humiliating defeat at Coronel, the British Royal Navy was out for revenge, and Admiral Doveton Sturdee’s squadron wasn’t about to let Germany’s Maximilian von Spee escape unscathed. Join us as we dive into the chaos and courage of this naval clash, a tale of towering battleships, roaring cannons, and the unforgiving power of the open ocean. We’ll explore the strategic moves, personal stakes, and devastating consequences that made this battle a turning point in World War I. How did this remote archipelago become the site of one of the war’s most decisive naval engagements? And what does the Falklands’ story tell us about the human cost of modern warfare? Tune in for an episode packed with vivid storytelling, historical insight, and reflections on legacy. Available now on Spotify, iTunes, and wherever you get your podcasts.

What happens when the music swells, the soldiers snap to attention, and history pivots on a single decision? In this episode, we march into a world where leadership, accountability, and sacrifice collide—through the lens of Ulysses S. Grant, the Cold War, and the scars of modern warfare. Dave Bowman pulls no punches as he connects the dots between the past and the present, questioning what it truly means to honor the sacrifices of those who march forward while leaders play to prevent rather than win. With sharp insights and unflinching honesty, Dave dives into the enduring struggles of veterans across generations, culminating in a searing critique of accountability—or lack thereof—in today’s leadership. This is not just history. It’s a challenge. A call to reflection. And maybe, just maybe, a path forward. Are we retreating behind the Rapidan again, or are we finally ready to turn south and face the fight? Stay tuned—you won’t want to miss this.

Born into one of America’s most storied families, Hamilton Fish III carved his own legacy through military valor, political service, and a relentless dedication to honoring veterans. In this episode, we dive into Fish’s remarkable life, from leading the Harlem Hellfighters during World War I to his pivotal role in establishing the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. Explore how his advocacy helped shape Veterans Day and solidified his place in American history. Along the way, we’ll examine the controversies of his later political career, his isolationist stance before World War II, and his enduring impact on how America remembers its heroes. Whether you're a history buff or just curious about the people behind our national traditions, this episode will leave you with a deeper appreciation for the legacy of service and sacrifice.

In this electrifying episode of Dave Does History, we step into the tense and turbulent world of Ancient Rome as Cicero delivers his Fourth Catiline Oration. With the Republic hanging by a thread and conspiracy in the air, Cicero’s masterful rhetoric rallies the Senate to decisive action. What was at stake? Who were the players? And how did this moment shape Rome’s history—and its downfall? Join Dave as he unpacks the drama, the intrigue, and the legacy of one of history’s most famous speeches. Insightful, gripping, and packed with historical detail, this episode proves that words really can change the course of history.

On December 6, 1917, the USS *Jacob Jones* became the first American destroyer sunk by enemy action during World War I, torpedoed by the German submarine U-53. In this gripping episode, we dive into the harrowing story of the ship’s final moments, the heroic actions of her crew, and the surprising humanity displayed by the German commander, Hans Rose. From the icy waters of the North Atlantic to the lessons learned that shaped future naval strategy, this episode honors the bravery and sacrifice of those who served aboard the *Jacob Jones*. Tune in for an unforgettable story of courage, resilience, and the enduring spirit of those who defend freedom.

In this episode of Dave Does History, we dive into the dramatic impeachment trial of Supreme Court Justice Samuel Chase. It’s 1804, and the young American republic is grappling with questions of power, partisanship, and the independence of its judiciary. Chase, a brash Federalist with a sharp tongue, finds himself targeted by Thomas Jefferson and his Democratic-Republican allies. Was his trial a justified response to judicial overreach, or a dangerous political power play? Join us as we explore the courtroom drama, the political stakes, and the lasting legacy of Chase’s acquittal—a pivotal moment that shaped the future of American justice. Perfect for history buffs and conservative thinkers, this episode highlights the timeless battle over the balance of power and why judicial independence remains vital today.

In this episode of Dave Does History on Bill Mick Live, Dave Bowman dives into one of the most transformative moments in American history: the Election of 1800. Known as the “Revolution of 1800,” this pivotal event marked the first peaceful transfer of power between opposing political parties and tested the young republic’s capacity to endure fierce ideological divides. Dave unpacks the bitter campaign between Thomas Jefferson and John Adams, the key issues that polarized the nation—like the Alien and Sedition Acts, taxation, and foreign policy—and the unprecedented Electoral College tie that sent the election to the House of Representatives. Along the way, he explores the role of Aaron Burr, whose ambitions stirred additional controversy, and highlights the colorful insults hurled between candidates in what was perhaps the nastiest campaign in U.S. history. With humor, insight, and historical analysis, Dave reveals how this contentious election reshaped the presidency, solidified the two-party system, and

In this episode of Dave Does History, we dive into the bold proclamation that shaped the destiny of the Americas: the Monroe Doctrine. Delivered by President James Monroe on December 2, 1823, this policy warned European powers to keep their hands off the Western Hemisphere. But what drove the United States—a young nation still finding its footing—to make such a daring statement? We explore the historical backdrop of revolutionary fervor in Latin America, the geopolitical chessboard of post-Napoleonic Europe, and the strategic genius of Secretary of State John Quincy Adams. Along the way, we uncover the contradictions of a doctrine that championed liberty while the U.S. itself was grappling with expansionism and inequality. From its original intent to its reinterpretation during the Cold War, the Monroe Doctrine has been a cornerstone of American foreign policy. Join us as we unpack its legacy, discuss key figures, and reflect on its relevance in shaping modern international relations. This is history with