Boom Goes the History

Historians React: Lee's Failed Maryland Campaign

In this episode of Boom Goes the History, hosts Garry Adelman and Kris White dive into Lee's critical decision-making during the failed Maryland Campaign. They explore the context surrounding Lee's actions, the strategic options he considered, and the outcomes of his campaign. What do you think? Was Lee's gamble worth it? Listen in!

Boom Goes the Little Bighorn: Custer’s Last Stand Revisited

What really happened at the Little Bighorn? In this special episode of Boom Goes the History, hosts Garry Adelman and Kris White saddle up with in-house Custer expert Dan Davis to tackle one of the most famous—and debated—battles in American history: The Battle of the Little Bighorn—on its 150th anniversary. From big personalities and battlefield blunders to myths, legends, and last stands, the crew dives into the drama surrounding George Armstrong Custer and the fight along the Little Bighorn River. Along the way, they also show off incredible resources that let history fans virtually explore the battlefield from anywhere. It’s history, humor, battlefield exploration, and plenty of lively discussion packed into one fast-moving episode. Saddle up—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.