The Invention of the Telephone

The Invention of the Telephone

Podcast Transcript The 19th century was one of rapid technological advancement.  Of all of the innovations to come out of this century, and there were many, perhaps none was more important than that of the telephone.  The telephone radically changed communications, allowing personal communications over long distances.  Despite what many people are often told, this …

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The History of Cyprus

The History of Cyprus

Podcast Transcript Strategically located in the Eastern Mediterranean Sea, with access to Europe, Asia, and Africa, is the island of Cyprus.  Cyprus has a history that goes back as far as civilization itself, and it has had a history with almost every major civilization and empire around the Mediterranean..  Its history isn’t just a relic …

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Rare Earth Elements

Rare Earth Elements

Podcast Transcript Modern society is completely dependent on a set of technologies that include computer chips, fiber optic cables, lasers, video screens, electric motors, and batteries.  All of those things are dependent on a small category of chemicals called rare earth elements.  Their importance in technology has made them a focal point of international trade …

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The Search for Life Outside the Solar System

The Search for Life Outside the Solar System

Podcast Transcript In 1995, the first planet outside our solar system was discovered.  Since then, with improved techniques and tools, over 5,000 exoplanets have been confirmed, and another 10,000 candidates are awaiting confirmation. With some of these exoplanets, astronomers can actually study their atmospheres and search for signs of life. Learn more about the search …

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The Medici Family and Renaissance Florence

The Medici Family and Renaissance Florence

Podcast Transcript One of the greatest periods of social and technological change in world history was the Renaissance.  At the heart of the Renaissance was the city-state of Florence. It was the home to some of the world’s greatest artists and thinkers.  At the heart of Florence was a family that ran the city for …

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The Battle of Vicksburg

The Battle of Vicksburg

Podcast Transcript The best-known battles of the American Civil War, such as Gettysburg, Antietam, Shiloh, and Bull Run, all occurred in the eastern theater.  However, one of the most important battles, from both a strategic and tactical standpoint, took place in the west.  It was one of the most brilliantly led battles of the entire …

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Origins of the Internet

Origins of the Internet

Podcast Transcript If you are listening to my words right now, then you are obviously an internet user.  The internet has arguably been the most transformative technology of the last fifty years.  But it wasn’t developed overnight or all at once. It was a gradual process to solve specific problems, and no one knew at …

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The War of 1812

The War of 1812

Podcast Transcript After the American War of Independence, Britain recognized the United States, but it didn’t necessarily make them close allies.  Each country had its own agenda, and a generation later, they were butting heads again over a host of issues.  The result was another war, but unlike the Revolutionary War, everyone claimed victory, and …

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The Bank of England

The Bank of England

Podcast Transcript In the late 17th century, King William III of England was facing a problem.  He was in the middle of a prolonged war with France, was in desperate need of money, and he had exhausted most of the traditional sources for funding a war. A proposal came forward for a new bank that …

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