Hosts Sophia and Maia revisit a lecture on Serena Zabin's The Boston Massacre, A Family History, exploring how personal relationships between Bostonians and stationed British soldiers complicate the familiar story of the March 5, 1770 event. Rather than a straightforward massacre, the episode examines propaganda, local ties, trials, and the gray areas behind historical narratives.

Through anecdotes, historical context, and reflections on how history is taught, the hosts unpack how this pivotal incident was shaped by neighbors, families, and political motives — and why human stories matter in understanding the past and the importance of looking at the past when planning for the future.

Hosts Sophia and Maia return after a long break to catch listeners up on busy summers, college majors, campus jobs, and hobbies—from kayaking and camp counseling to Lego builds and book nooks. They discuss changes to their podcast format, upcoming campus recordings and events, and tease a future episode on the Boston Massacre lecture.

Join them for casual conversation, behind-the-scenes updates, and a preview of what’s coming next on Our Grim Past.

Explore the intriguing life of Marie Antoinette, one of history's most misunderstood figures. This episode delves into the many myths surrounding her, including the infamous "Let them eat cake" story, and uncovers the truth behind her life in the court of France. Join hosts Sophia and Maia as they navigate the complexities of Marie's political marriage, her personal struggles, and her role in the events leading up to the French Revolution. Was she really to blame? Tune in to unravel the mysteries of Marie Antoinette's legacy.

Welcome to this unique episode of Our Grim Past. Today, hosts Sophia and Maia take an unexpected detour from their planned discussion on the Winchester House to explore diverse and intriguing topics ranging from religious history and the role of giants to historical misconceptions and the Black Death. Join them as they hop into their Morbid Time Machine, taking listeners on a journey through complex layers of history. Along the way, they delve into religious texts and share stories that highlight how history is often stranger than fiction. Don't miss this fascinating adventure filled with tangents, laughs, and learning opportunities.

Join Sophia and Maia on an enthralling journey through history as they unravel the mysteries surrounding London's most infamous serial killer, Jack the Ripper. In this episode, they explore the recent breakthrough in the 200-year-old case with new DNA evidence that finally points to his true identity. Dive into the chilling details of the murders, the infamous letters to the police, and the societal uproar that captivated Victorian London.

As they venture into the past, Sophia and Maia discuss notable suspects, including the now-identified Aaron Kosminski, and ponder over the intriguing theories that have persisted over the years. The episode, sprinkled with pop culture references to Sherlock Holmes and depictions in media, offers a fascinating look at how Jack the Ripper's story has permeated history and culture. Whether you're a newcomer or a morbid history enthusiast, this episode promises to engage and enlighten. Stay curious, for the past holds secrets waiting to be discovered!

In 1892, the quiet town of Exeter, Rhode Island, was shaken by the mysterious death of Mercy Brown. Her untimely end sparked fears of the supernatural. What role did she play in the spread of a deadly illness? Explore the eerie events that gripped a community as we dive into the story of Mercy Brown.

In this episode, join Sophia and Maia as they journey into the rich mythology surrounding Cupid, moving beyond his popular depictions on Valentine's Day. The duo explores Cupid's intricate love story with Psyche, his mysterious origins, and the differences between Cupid and his Greek counterpart, Eros. Through captivating storytelling and intriguing historical insights, discover why Cupid's tale is one of the most enchanting and enduring myths in history.

Imagine living in the shadow of a mountain, unaware that beneath the surface, a cataclysm was brewing. Mount Vesuvius, a dormant giant, awakened in 79 AD, sending destructive flows racing towards Pompeii, Herculaneum, and beyond. Although the eruption instantly erased thousands of lives, it also sparked the discovery of remarkable archaeological treasures centuries later.

Join Sophia and Maia in their Morbid Time Machine as they delve into the eruption's historical impact and unearth the morbid curiosities of these ancient cities buried under volcanic ash. Listen in for a blend of vivid storytelling and fascinating insights into one of history's most catastrophic natural events.