A Florida man was arrested for credit card fraud and throwing Molotov cocktails at a rival insurance agency. Another man was arrested for torturing an iguana to death. A couple was arrested for leaving their baby alone in a running car while they went to a bar. The host discusses defensive gun usage and how it's over three times more common than criminal usage. He also talks about a woman who went on a tirade on a plane because she wanted to get off before others, and how people should be more considerate of others when getting off a plane. [... more]

Barack Obama says young boys need a gay man in their life for guidance and that having only a father around isn't enough Trump is asked whether he would let Rosie O'Donnell back into the country Chip and Joanna Gaines have responded to criticism from some evangelical groups after their new Magnolia Network series Back to the Frontier featured a same-sex couple with two sons A city-funded grocery store trial in Kansas City has already failed after shelves are completely empty with food rotten and theft Dana reacts to Pedro Pascal feeling up his pregnant co-star on his Fantastic Four [... more]

Wild Bill Hickok's life was a tale of danger, adventure, and heroism. Born in Illinois, he grew up in the American West, where he became a skilled gunfighter and lawman. He served as a scout in the Union Army during the Civil War and later became a deputy marshal. Hickok's legend grew as he faced down outlaws and defended the innocent, earning him a reputation as one of the fastest and most accurate shooters in the West. His life was cut short in a shootout in Deadwood, South Dakota, but his legacy lives on as a symbol of the American frontier spirit. [... more]

Nellie Cashman, a courageous woman, helped make America's conquest of the frontier our Homeric era. She ranged far and wide on every mining frontier, establishing boarding houses, restaurants, and nursing injured miners back to health. Her determination and selflessness earned her the nickname 'The Angel of the Cassiars'. [... more]

In the 1870s, the American West was a refuge for outcasts, where a legend was forged in the harsh and lawless place. Billy the Kid, a young cowboy and gunfighter, became the leader of the regulators in the Lincoln County War, a conflict that raged for two years and left many dead. The kid's exploits defy the imagination, and his story continues to captivate historians and the public alike. [... more]

A Florida man faces $3.6 million in fines for allegedly posing as his dead father to perform building inspections. Meanwhile, Chip and Joanna Gaines are under fire for featuring a same-sex couple in their new series, raising questions about their commitment to Christian values and authenticity. Additionally, identity theft is a growing concern, and experts recommend taking steps to protect personal information. [... more]

President Trump hosts NATO officials in the Oval Office Dana reflects on the one year anniversary of the assassination attempt on Donald Trump Trump posts on Truth Social blaming Obama for the Epstein Files and tells his base to move on Joe Biden defends the frequent autopen use at the end of term including a pardon of Dr Fauci Debbie Wasserman-Schultz says that illegal alien detainees are forced to brush their teeth where they poop Trump is asked whether he would let Rosie O'Donnell back into the country Chip and Joanna Gaines have responded to criticism from some evangelical groups [... more]

George O'Brien's remarkable story of public service and heroism spans two World Wars and the Korean War. From his early days as a silent film star to his service as a beach master in the invasion of Saipan, O'Brien's bravery and dedication to his country are an inspiration to us all. [... more]

John B Stetson, a child born in 1830 in Orange, New Jersey, went on to create the iconic Stetson hat, a symbol of the American West. With a humble beginning, Stetson's ingenuity and innovative spirit led him to build a brand that became a household name, producing over 2 million hats each year, and cementing its place in American history. [... more]

William Wellman, a young man from Massachusetts, joins the French Foreign Legion to fly in World War I, earning the nickname 'Wild Bill' for his daring stunts and bravery in combat. He becomes a decorated fighter pilot and later transitions to a career in Hollywood, winning an Oscar for Best Writing and directing several classic films. [... more]

Belinda Mulroney, a determined and resourceful woman, rose to fame during the Klondike Gold Rush, becoming the richest woman in the Klondike and a legendary figure in the region's history. She navigated the challenges of the gold rush with her wit, business acumen, and bravery, building a vast fortune and earning the respect of her peers. [... more]

The American West was not as wild and woolly as often thought, with people figuring out ways to cooperate and establish rule of law, including property rights, in the face of scarce resources and limited government presence. [... more]

Laura Ingalls Wilder's life and writing are explored in depth, from her childhood on the frontier to her creation of the beloved Little House books. Her experiences as a pioneer woman, her relationships with her family, and her struggles to make a living as a writer are all examined in this engaging and informative story. [... more]

Abraham Lincoln, the 16th President of the United States, was born on the same day as Charles Darwin, a renowned English scientist. Despite being born into poverty, Lincoln went on to become a learned man through self-study and hands-on experience. He developed a passion for science and technology, which influenced his decisions as President, including the use of ironclads and the Spencer repeating rifle in the Civil War. Lincoln's commitment to lifelong learning and his understanding of science and technology played a significant role in shaping his presidency and the course of American history. [... more]

Abraham Lincoln's early life in New Salem, Illinois, is marked by his involvement in wrestling, a sport that played a significant role in his development as a young man. Lincoln's wrestling prowess earned him respect and admiration from the community, and it is often cited as a turning point in his life, influencing his future career as a politician and leader. [... more]

Kit Carson, a legendary figure in American history, lived a life of adventure and danger as a mountain man, explorer, and Indian fighter. He played a key role in the expansion of the United States, particularly in the Mexican-American War, and was a complex figure who both fought against and worked with Native American tribes. [... more]

Jack London's classic tale of survival in the harsh Klondike wilderness, where a man must build a fire to stay alive after a treacherous accident. The story explores themes of human resilience, the importance of preparation, and the dangers of underestimating the power of nature. [... more]

Doc Holliday was a dentist turned gambler and gunslinger who became a legendary figure in the Wild West. He was known for his skill with a six-shooter and his bravery in the face of danger. Doc's life was marked by his struggles with tuberculosis, which forced him to leave his comfortable life in Georgia and head west in search of a drier climate. He eventually settled in Tombstone, Arizona, where he became embroiled in a bitter feud with the Clanton gang. The famous Gunfight at the OK Corral was a pivotal moment in Doc's life, and he played a key role in the subsequent vendetta ride against the Cowboys. Despite his rough exterior, Doc was a complex and multifaceted individual who was also a philosopher, a wit, and a gentleman. [... more]

Samuel Clemons, later known as Mark Twain, spent years in the American West, working as a typesetter, steamboat pilot, and journalist, before becoming a celebrated author. His experiences in Nevada Territory and the Gold Rush shaped his writing style and provided material for a lifetime of stories. [... more]

The story of Josephine Marcus Earp, the wife of the famous lawman Wyatt Earp, is a fascinating tale of adventure, love, and identity. Born in 1860 to a Jewish family in New York, Josephine's life took a dramatic turn when she met Wyatt Earp in the Arizona Territory. The couple's adventures together spanned decades, taking them to boomtowns and frontier outposts. But Josephine's story is also one of struggle and secrecy, as she navigated the complexities of her Jewish heritage and the societal expectations placed upon her. Through her experiences, Josephine's story sheds light on the often-overlooked history of Jewish Americans in the Old West. [... more]

The rowdy inauguration of Andrew Jackson, the people's president, marked a turning point in American history, as a large crowd gathered to meet and greet their new leader, breaking the mold of traditional presidential norms. [... more]

Born in 1786, Davy Crockett rose from a humble frontiersman to a congressman, fighting in the Creek War and the Battle of the Alamo, where he died defending Texas and its people, becoming a legendary figure in American history. [... more]

Sterling Hayden was a Marine officer who served in World War II, working for the OSS on clandestine missions. He later became a successful actor in Hollywood, starring in films like Dr. Strangelove and The Asphalt Jungle. Hayden's life was marked by his love of sailing and his commitment to serving his country. [... more]

The Lone Ranger, a legendary masked hero, has been a staple of American folklore, but was he based on real-life lawmen? The story of Bass Reeves, a black deputy U.S. Marshal, and John Reynolds Hughes, a Texas Ranger, sheds light on the intersection of fact and fiction in the Wild West. [... more]

The Comstock Lode in Nevada was a boomtown that changed the destiny of the United States. Four Irishmen, known as the Silver Kings, rose from rags to riches through their mining ventures, challenging the control of the Comstock and amassing vast fortunes. Their story is a testament to the entrepreneurial spirit and determination of the American pioneers. [... more]

Nellie Cashman, a courageous and determined woman, defied conventions and became one of the greatest women of the Old West, establishing businesses, raising money for churches and schools, and even prospecting for gold in the Klondike. [... more]

Jedediah Smith, a devout Christian and skilled trapper, embarks on a series of perilous journeys through the American West, establishing new trade routes and pushing the boundaries of exploration. His unwavering ambition and courage in the face of danger earn him respect from his peers and a place in history. [... more]

Wild Bill Hickok was a legendary gunfighter and lawman of the American West, known for his bravery and quick draw. Born in Illinois in 1837, Hickok grew up in a family of abolitionists and was influenced by his parents' values of justice and compassion. He became a scout for the Union Army during the Civil War and later served as a deputy marshal, earning a reputation as one of the fastest and most accurate shooters in the West. Hickok's life was marked by violence and danger, but he was also a complex and multifaceted figure, driven by a strong sense of justice and a desire to protect the innocent. [... more]

Abraham Lincoln's wrestling match with Jack Armstrong in New Salem, Illinois, marked a turning point in his life, showcasing his strength, determination, and fearless nature, which would become defining characteristics of his leadership and personal growth. [... more]

George Custer, a complex figure in American history, is reexamined by Pulitzer Prize-winning author T.J. Stiles in his biography, Custer's Trials. Custer's life, marked by controversy and crisis, is revealed through his experiences in the Civil War and his subsequent struggles with institutional processes. Stiles sheds light on Custer's multifaceted personality, from his charismatic leadership to his difficulties with authority, and explores the significance of his story in understanding the evolution of America. [... more]

Sterling Hayden, a Marine officer and OSS agent, served his country in combat and counterintelligence missions during World War II. He went on to become a successful Hollywood actor, starring in films like Dr. Strangelove and The Asphalt Jungle, but always remained true to his love of sailing and his sense of duty to his country. [... more]

A 23-year-old Florida man was critically wounded in a police shooting after running from a mental health clinic. Meanwhile, a woman was arrested on a flight after refusing to comply with exit row instructions, and a HIV-positive sex worker in Ohio had contact with over 200 people. In other news, a moose killed a man in Alaska who was trying to take photos of its calves, and a group of people in Texas tried to set a world record for the largest number of people with the same name. Additionally, Joe Biden was criticized for his handling of the Hamas hostage situation, and Hunter Biden's gun trial is set to begin on June 3. [... more]

The International Criminal Court's request for Israeli warrants has sparked controversy, with some countries defending the move, while others have expressed discomfort. Meanwhile, the Biden administration is facing criticism for its handling of aid distribution in Gaza, where aid is being stolen and sold on the black market. In other news, a Florida man was arrested for stealing a school bus and going on a joyride, while a British man was caught on camera having a romantic time with a Tesla. Additionally, a college in Vermont has awarded an honorary doctorate to a cat, and a luxury pineapple is being sold for $395 in California. [... more]

The American West was not as wild and woolly as often thought, but rather a place of rule of law where people figured out ways to cooperate and establish property rights. P.J. Hill, co-author of The Not So Wild Wild West, shares stories of wagon trains and mining camps that developed unique rules to solve complex problems and maintain order without the need for a strong federal government presence. [... more]

On this episode of Our American Stories in our st episode of our series with Dr Bill McClay author of Land of Hope Bill tells the story of how a dueler and brawler from the frontier upended American political life and formed a new political party the Democratic Party by the sheer force of his will alone We're of course talking about Andrew Jackson Support the show https www ouramericanstories com donate See omnystudio com listener for privacy information [... more]

Belinda Mulroney, a determined and resourceful woman, rose to become the richest woman in the Klondike during the Gold Rush era. Born in Ireland, she was left in the care of her grandparents and later sent to America, where she developed her business acumen and entrepreneurial spirit. Mulroney's journey took her to the Yukon, where she built a successful hotel, restaurant, and mining empire, earning her the nickname 'Queen of Grand Forks'. Her story is a testament to her strength, resilience, and determination in the face of adversity. [... more]

The story of the Big Four, Leland Stanford, Collis Huntington, Mark Hopkins, and Charles Crocker, who rose from humble beginnings to power and wealth by building the Transcontinental Railroad, connecting California to the rest of the United States, and transforming the country's landscape and economy. [... more]

William Wellman, a U.S. Marine and former history professor, joins the French Foreign Legion to fly in World War I, earning the nickname Wild Bill for his daring stunts and bravery in the skies. He later becomes a renowned Hollywood director, winning an Oscar for Best Writing Original Story for A Star Is Born. [... more]

In the 1860s, a small section of dirt in Nevada changed the destiny of the United States. The Comstock Lode, a couple of square miles of rich ore, drew thousands of prospectors and miners, including four Irishmen who would become known as the Silver Kings. Their rags-to-riches story is a testament to the power of hard work, determination, and innovation in the face of adversity. [... more]

Bass Reeves, the first African American deputy U.S. marshal west of the Mississippi River, was a legendary lawman who served for 32 years, arresting over 4,000 people and earning a reputation as the greatest frontier hero in U.S. history. Born into slavery, Reeves escaped and joined the Union forces during the Civil War, later becoming a scout and guide for the federal court in Arkansas. He was known for his exceptional tracking skills, bravery, and ability to work in disguise, earning the respect of both white and Native American communities. [... more]