About this episode

Jim Hagy discusses his unique approach to chronicling magic's past, focusing on social history and audience relationships.

Jim Hagy began publishing magic history at age 11 and never stopped. Now a distinguished historian and author, he discusses his unique approach to magic's past - focusing on social history and audience relationships rather than methods. From his childhood correspondence with Milbourne Christopher to his latest books about animals in 19th-century magic, Jim reveals how conjuring reflects broader cultural attitudes and why the magic community's welcoming nature opened doors to its greatest minds.

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