Boom Goes the History

Founding Feuds: Jefferson v. Adams

What happens when two of America’s biggest revolutionary minds become one of its most famous political rivalries? In this episode of Boom Goes the History, Kris White, Chris Mackowski, and Dan Davis dive into the fascinating feud between Thomas Jefferson and John Adams—friends, rivals, frenemies, and eventually something more. From politics and personality clashes to the legacy of their remarkable relationship, this is a lively look at one of the premier showdowns of the Revolutionary era. History, debate, and plenty of fun—boom!

Gettysburg Photography with Tim Smith & Garry Adelman

In this episode of Boom Goes the History, historians Tim Smith and Garry Adelman dive into the powerful world of Civil War photography at Gettysburg. This isn’t about how to take a better photo—it’s about the men behind the camera and the haunting, iconic images they left behind. From the work of Alexander Gardner to Mathew Brady, we explore how these early photographers documented the aftermath of battle, shaped public perception of the war, and created some of the most enduring images in American history. What’s real, what’s staged, and what stories do those famous photos actually tell? It’s a fascinating, sometimes surprising look at Gettysburg—not as you walk it, but as the world first saw it. History, storytelling, and a few myth-busting moments along the way… boom!

The Capital has Fallen! The Philadelphia Campaign from Brandywine to Valley Forge

What happens when the capital falls—but the fight is far from over? In this episode of Boom Goes the History, co-host Kris White is joined by historian Dan Davis and producer Andy Poulton to dive into the dramatic Philadelphia Campaign of 1777. From the shock of losing the American capital to the hard lessons learned on the road to Valley Forge, the crew unpacks how setbacks helped shape the Revolution’s resilience. It's one of the most trying chapters in George Washington's storied career.  It’s a fast-paced, fun, and insightful look at a pivotal moment—and a reminder that even in defeat, the story was far from finished.

REACTION! We React to a Voice from Beyond the Grave: Douglas Southall Freeman

What happens when modern historians react to historians of the past? In this episode of Boom Goes the History, Garry Adelman brings a wild idea to the table: watching and reacting to old clips of legendary historians. First up—Douglas Southall Freeman. We dive into Freeman’s thoughts on respecting the enemy, but the real surprise? Hearing his voice! Join us for a fun, slightly stunned, and occasionally irreverent look at how historians of yesterday sound to historians of today. History, reactions, and a few laughs—boom.

Why Gettysburg with Garry Adelman

Why Gettysburg? What makes one battle capture a lifetime of curiosity? On this episode of Boom Goes the History, we sit down with American Battlefield Trust Chief Historian Garry Adelman to talk about his lifelong obsession with the Battle of Gettysburg. From the dramatic three days of fighting to his love of Civil War photography, Garry shares how he became completely hooked on Gettysburg—and why this pivotal moment in the Civil War still matters today. Whether you’re a seasoned history buff or just Gettysburg-curious, this conversation will show you why the battle keeps pulling Garry back over and over again.