Did History (Actually) Teach Us Anything?

About Did History (Actually) Teach Us Anything?

Welcome to "Did History (Actually) Teach Us Anything" the podcast where we unravel the most well-known tales of calamity, mishap, and unforeseen consequences that have shaped the course of history, and consider whether we’ve actually learnt anything from them all these years later! In this podcast, we examine the historical events that you may think you know about already and the causes that lead to them, be they icebergs or baker’s ovens. We will consider whether these tragedies could have been avoided, and some of the surprising things we do differently now as a result. But this podcast isn't just about dates and events; it's about learning from the past, drawing insights from hindsight, and gaining a deeper appreciation for the complexities of what really happened in these events we think we know so well. So get ready to encounter remarkable individuals, pivotal moments, and fascinating insights that will make you appreciate health and safety, and environmental management as far more than just red tape…

Publisher

RRC International

Category

business · education · history

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

27 Nov 2024

Latest episode

2 Oct 2026

Latest episodes

26 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   2 Oct 2026

   The Great Chicago Fire - 1871

   Explore the infamous Great Chicago Fire of 1871, a disaster that has captivated imaginations for centuries. From the mythical tale of Mrs. O'Leary's cow to clandestine gambling, we unravel the mysteries behind its origin. Amidst hot, dry, and windy conditions, fuelled by the city's wooden construction, this devastating fire claimed the lives of 300 people and razed 3.3 square miles of Chicago. Join us on a journey through the haunting aftermath and enduring lessons of resilience that emerged from the ashes of this historic event.

2. 

   2 Sept 2026

   The Balvano Train Disaster - 1944

   In this episode, we revisit the tragic Balvano train disaster of 1944. Amidst the turmoil of World War II, a steam-hauled, coal-burning freight train travelled through the night to its destination of Potenza, Italy. After departing from Battipaglia station, the train stalled in a tunnel and while burning low-grade coal substitutes that emitted toxic, odourless carbon monoxide, asphyxiated 517 passengers on board. Join us as we uncover the perfect storm of factors that led to this heart-breaking tragedy, and reflect on the profound impact of war on the innocent lives of those travelling that day.

3. 

   2 Aug 2026

   The Great Fire of Rome - 64AD

   In this episode, we explore the Great Fire of Rome, which erupted on 18 July, 64AD. Thought to have started in the merchant area of the city, the blaze swept relentlessly through the capital, devastating 10 of its 14 districts and claiming countless lives. We’ll unravel the enduring mysteries and legends surrounding the disaster — from theories of accidental causes to rumours of intentional arson, and even to accusations that orders were given by the Emperor Nero himself. Join us as we uncover the truth behind one of the most devastating fires in ancient history, and explore how its legacy continues to influence the way we design and safeguard our cities today.

Reach and audience

Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.

Spotify

5.0 / 5

4 ratings

Podcast Authority Score: 20 / 100

A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.

Quality

41

Social presence

0

YouTube

0

Engagement

0

Contact Did History (Actually) Teach Us Anything?

Guest appearances

Does not typically book guests

Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.