Great Moments in History
Ten Exciting Historical Events
(10 Programs 4+ Hours)
This dramatized sound series projects the past through the eyes of newscasters "covering" momentous events in American and World history. Much more than dramatized documents or the reading of famous speeches, these are "first hand" dramatizations enhanced by full-range, professional sound effects. These programs were marketed to schools (by Stockmyer Educational Materials) in the 1970s.
The Greek-Persian Wars
This recording allows you to charge with the Athenians at Marathon; die with the Spartan three hundred at Thermopylae; and thrill to the final Greek victory at Plataea. Important insights are also to be learned about the quarrelsome nature of the Greeks.
The Death of Socrates
More than anything else, we remember Socrates for insisting on his right to speak freely, even at the cost of his own life. Now, you can hear Socrates plead for the freedom to speak his mind and experience his wisdom and razor wit. Come to know that grand old man, and he will touch your mind and heart across thousands of years.
The Assassination of Caesar
Far from causing the fall of the Roman Republic as his enemies charged, it was Caesar's genius to attempt a solution to Rome's problems: poverty, unemployment, ignorance. It is all here, Caesar's program, his treacherous assassination, and the solemn speculation of shocked newspeople about the impact on Rome of Caesar's death.
The Battle of Hastings
From the first heroic charge to the bizarre victory, you are at Hastings, reliving that most famous of all battles. King Harold of England and William the Conqueror highlight the succession dispute which can only be settled on the field of combat. Don't miss the battle which changed England forever!
Defeat of the Spanish Armada
Philip II, Sir Francis Drake, Queen Elizabeth --- again they meet in this climactic struggle. Return to 1588, as Spanish ships sail out upon the ebb of empire!
King Philip's War
Although you may never have heard of this event in history, it is an excellent vehicle for teaching the era of Puritan Amercia in 1675. It was the most desperate and bloody Indian War ever fought in America. Here, both positions are presented against a background of savagery on both sides.
The Salem Witch Trials
Always current, the witch trials at Salem remind us of how easily men can become a mob. The roots of fear and hysteria have often branched forth from the poisoned tree of persecution.
Road to Revolution: 1775
Benjamin Franklin, a tory, a British official, and a member of the Sons of Liberty discuss law and order, political violence, and representation for minorities. We also hear the Boston Massacre, and march with the British Army to Lexington and Concord.
Yorktown: Victor and Vanquished
The American Revolution is reviewed, culminating in the Battle of Yorktown. We hear Washington, Burgoyne, Von Steuben, Clinton, DeGrasse, and Cornwallis. There is nothing as dramatic as a tiny nation struggling for national independence.
1812: Jackson at New Orleans
The War of 1812 is not one of the brighter spots in American history; our motives for declaring it were mixed at best, our capital was burned, our navy driven from the sea. This emotion-packed recording centers on the Battle of New Orleans. . . less an American triumph than a British blunder.
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