Talking Texas History

In this episode, we trace the Texas origins of Juneteenth from Galveston to a holiday now recognized across the United States and beyond. Juneteenth didn’t become powerful because the paperwork was poetic. It became powerful because people made it a public declaration that freedom had to mean something real. We walk through the moment General Gordon Granger issues General Order No. 3 on June 19, 1865 and we read it the way historians do, line by line. We look at how history opens the d...

From department stores to frontier towns, the Jewish experience in Texas reveals a fascinating but often overlooked dimension of the state's cultural landscape. In this conversation with Dr. Bryan E. Stone, professor at Del Mar College and author of The Chosen Folks: Jews on the Frontiers of Texas, we'll learn about Jewish Texans as an often overlooked story. Despite their small numbers, Jewish Texans wielded remarkable influence, Stone's explains that Jews are a "quintessential frontier peo...

Award-winning author and storyteller Joe Lansdale -- screenwriter (Bubba Ho-Tep) and novelist (Hap and Leonard series), discusses his East Texas roots and eclectic influences in our latest episode. Joe discuss growing up, and his life and literary influences. This episode offers a rich tapestry of narratives that are both personal and universal. Tune in to hear Joe reflect the art of storytelling, and how his Texas roots have helped shape Joe's distinctive voice in the literary world.

What does it take to start your own podcast? We're pulling back the curtain in the third season of Talking Texas History to share our own rollercoaster ride of surprises and successes in the world of podcasting. Whether it's picking your unique niche or understanding the magic connection between podcasting and traditional radio, we're here to light the path for aspiring podcasters eager to leave their mark in the vast podcasting world.

Charles Waite, who teaches Texas History at UT-RGV, joins Gene and Scott to survey the fascinating landscape of teaching Texas history, academia, and personal anecdotes. Our conversation is steeped in nostalgia, as we reminisce about our shared experiences at Texas State University - San Marcos (Southwest Texas State) left an indelible mark on our academic journeys. Our conversation with Chuck demonstrates the trials and triumphs of pursuing an academic career. Together, we discuss the evolv...

How have hurricanes shaped the history, culture, and political landscape of Texas? Join us as we continue the discussion on the profound effects these powerful storms have had on the Lone Star State.

Discover the untold stories and harsh realities of Texas history in our captivating conversation with John Lundberg, a history professor at Tarrant County College. From a Civil War reenactor to his book on Granbury’s Texas Brigade, John explains what he's learned about plantation life and slavery in Texas in his recent book, The Texas Low Country: Slavery and Freedom on the Gulf Coast 1822 to 1895, and sheds light on this critical yet underexplored aspects of Texas history. Join us for ...