Stupiracy | Stupid History + Conspiracy

History
Comedy
Society & Culture

In a world where conspiracy and history meets stupidity, 'Stupiracy' takes you on a wild ride through the most bizarre tales ever told. Join hosts Scott Rizzuto and Tim McKernan for another 12 episode season of absurd, unbelievable, and downright hilarious stories you never learned in history class. This is the Stupiracy Podcast.

New episodes every Thursday.

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Stupiracy [TRAILER] | S1: E0

In a world where history and conspiracy collide, two hosts dare to dig deep into the archives of the absurd. Delve into stories so bizarre, they must be true. Uncover secrets hidden from the textbooks and reveal truths too strange to imagine. Join fearless explorers, Scott Rizzuto and Tim McKernan, as they navigate the outrageous and the unbelievable. Prepare for a season of revelations and ridiculous history. Strap on... I mean strap in... for STUPIRACY... the podcast where the past ISN'T what it seems.

New episodes every Monday starting June 24.

https://stupiracy.com/

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Napoleon’s Penis | S1: E1

Join Scott Rizzuto and Tim McKernan for a deep dive into one of the most important anecdotes of historical lore. In our very first episode, we explore a peculiar aspect of Napoleon Bonaparte's life that never made it to your history textbooks. We're talking about his most private part—yes, his penis. How did a part of a French emperor end up in New Jersey? Tune in to uncover this absurd journey from the battlefields of Europe to a collector’s bedroom in the Garden State.

Topics Discussed:

Introduction to "Stupiracy" and its focus on stupid history and conspiracy theories.
The historical figure of Napoleon Bonaparte: His rise and fall.
The peculiar story of Napoleon's penis:
How it was allegedly removed and preserved.
Its journey across the world from Corsica to New Jersey.
The various owners of this bizarre relic over the centuries.
Detailed discussion on the implications of Napoleon's height and how myths can overshadow historical facts.
The impact of the Napoleonic Wars on Europe and Napoleon’s strategies.
The Louisiana Purchase and its connection to Napoleon's financial needs.
Napoleon's exile and return, and his final defeat at Waterloo.
An overview of Napoleon's personal and romantic life.

Entities Mentioned:

Napoleon Bonaparte
Corsica
New Jersey
Museum of French Art, New York
Dr. John Lattimer
French Military Academy
Battle of Waterloo
Elba and Saint Helena
Louisiana Purchase
Josephine Bonaparte
Marie-Louise of Austria
Napoleon II
British and Prussian military forces
Louis XVIII of France

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Sickle’s Cucking | S1: E2

In this episode of "Stupiracy," Tim and Riz unravel the lascivious layers of General Daniel E. Sickles' life—from his scandalous sex parties across from the White House to a notorious murder that scandalized Washington. Dive deep into Civil War secrets and discover how Sickles' audacious antics connect to the Star-Spangled Banner. Strap in for a wild ride through history where legality, insanity, and high society mix with a dash of good old fashioned American scandal.

Show Notes:

Overview: Tim McKernan and Riz explore the tantalizing and tumultuous history of General Daniel E. Sickles, a man whose life was as controversial as it was colorful. From his dubious birthdate to his role in one of the most famous American songs, Sickles' story is anything but ordinary.

Topics Discussed:

The origins and implications of "Sickles Cocking"
The notorious Sickles sex parties in Washington D.C.
The murder of Philip Barton Key by Sickles in broad daylight
The first successful use of the temporary insanity defense by Sickles' attorney, future Secretary of War Edwin Stanton
Sickles' military career, including his dubious decisions and heroic actions during the Civil War
The post-war life of Sickles, including his contributions to military and public service

Entities Mentioned:

General Daniel E. Sickles
Philip Barton Key
Francis Scott Key
Edwin Stanton
Mariah Carey
Civil War battles such as the Battle of Gettysburg
Ken Burns (in reference to his Civil War documentary)

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The Disastrous 1904 Olympic Marathon | S1: E3

In this episode of Stupiracy, Rizz and Tim dive into the sweat-drenched saga of the 1904 Olympic Marathon—a tale so wild, it'll make modern marathons look like a walk in the park. Tune in as they recount how St. Louis' sweltering summer hosted a marathon that was more survival horror than sport, featuring wild dogs, rotten apples, and bizarre "performance enhancers." It's history, but not as you know it!

Show Notes:

Overview: "Stupiracy" Episode 3 unearths the chaotic story of the 1904 Olympic Marathon held in St. Louis. From hallucinating athletes to unscheduled car rides, Rizz and Tim unwrap the most bizarre marathon in Olympic history.

Topics Discussed:

The shift of the 1904 Olympics from Chicago to St. Louis due to the World's Fair.
The unusual and hazardous conditions of the marathon including extreme heat and minimal water stations.
Noteworthy competitors like Fred Lores, who famously "finished" by car, and Thomas Hicks, who crossed the finish line with the aid of strychnine and egg whites.
Other memorable incidents involving wild dogs, rotten apples, and unintended detours.

Entities Mentioned:

1904 St. Louis World's Fair
International Olympic Committee
Fred Lores
Thomas Hicks
Felix Carvajal
Len Tao

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Ivy League Nude Photo Scandal | S1: E4

Episode Description:

This episode of Stupiracy peels back the layers on one of the most eyebrow-raising chapters in Ivy League history—the nude photo scandal. Rizz and Tim explore how some of America’s future elites, from presidents to network execs, were part of an eyebrow-raising tradition that involved posing nude as part of college registration. Dive into the quirks, questions, and conspiracies surrounding these shocking snapshots!

Show Notes:

Overview: Episode 4 of "Stupiracy" delves into the bizarre world of the Ivy League nude photo scandal, uncovering the strange and scandalous practice that once was a rite of passage for incoming freshmen at prestigious universities like Harvard, Yale, and Princeton.

Topics Discussed:

The historical context and initiation of the nude photo practice in the Ivy League from the 1940s through the 1970s.
High-profile individuals who were involved, including U.S. Presidents and famous actors.
The controversial purpose behind these photos, linked to eugenic studies and body type theories.
The ultimate fate of these photos and the ethical and legal controversies they sparked.

Entities Mentioned:

Harvard University
Yale University
Princeton University
William Sheldon (Researcher behind the photo practice)
Notable alumni who may have been photographed

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Finland Doesn't Exist | S1: E5

In this exhilarating episode of Stupiracy, hosts Rizz and Tim McKernan dive deep into a fringe conspiracy theory that claims—hold onto your hats—Finland doesn't exist! Yes, you heard that right. The nation of saunas, Santa, and Sibelius is supposedly a figment of the global imagination. Strap in as they dissect this wild theory and explore how a whole country could be an elaborate geopolitical sham.

Topics Discussed:

Introduction to the Finland Doesn’t Exist conspiracy theory
Overview of Finland’s alleged geographic and demographic details
Famous Finnish exports and cultural notes (Nokia, metal bands, supposedly Helsinki)
Historical context and the supposed origin of the conspiracy during the Cold War
Details of the supposed conspiracy involving Japan, Russia, fishing rights, and Nokia phones
Discussion on satellite images, GPS data, and the general disbelief surrounding the existence of Finland

Entities Mentioned:

Finland (or the lack thereof)
Japan and Russia (key players in the conspiracy)
Nokia (the tech giant supposedly from the non-existent Finland)
Famous Finnish bands like Nightwish and Hanoi Rocks
Reddit (where the conspiracy theory gained traction)

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Kings Sleeping Together to Show Unity | S1: E6

In this episode of Stupiracy, dive into a curious slice of medieval diplomacy where kings shared more than just their realms—they shared their beds! Join Rizz and Tim as they unpack the tradition of monarchs sleeping together to seal alliances and foster unity. It's history with a twist, exploring how powerful rulers once cuddled up to resolve conflicts!

Show Notes:

Overview: Episode 6 of "Stupiracy" explores a fascinating medieval practice where kings would literally share a bed to symbolize and celebrate peace agreements. This episode digs into the historical context, the personal dynamics involved, and how these actions were perceived then and now.

Topics Discussed:

The tradition of kings sleeping together as a peace gesture, with a focus on Richard the Lionheart and Philip II of France.
Cultural and historical perspectives on the practice, including its implications and symbolism.
How this seemingly strange tradition compares to modern diplomatic practices.
Examination of how personal relationships between rulers influenced political decisions and historical narratives.

Entities Mentioned:

Richard the Lionheart
Philip II of France
Medieval European monarchies

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The History of the Middle Finger | S1: E7

In this episode of Stupiracy, Scott and Tim dive into the surprising and fascinating history of the middle finger. From its origins in ancient Greece and Rome to its status as a powerful symbol of displeasure today, learn how this simple gesture has evolved over millennia. Discover the cultural significance, historical anecdotes, and unexpected moments in pop culture that have kept this gesture relevant and controversial.

Key Points:

Introduction to the middle finger and its impact as a gesture.
Ancient Greek and Roman origins of the middle finger.
How the gesture was perceived and used in different eras.
The Catholic Church's role in shaping the middle finger's modern meaning.
How the middle finger made its way to America.
Famous instances of the middle finger in pop culture and media.

Resources Mentioned:

Historical records from ancient Greece and Rome.
Anthropological studies on gestures.
Articles on the cultural evolution of offensive gestures.

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The Trial of the Papal Cadaver | S1: E8

In this episode of Stupiracy, Scott and Tim explore one of the most bizarre episodes in medieval history: the trial of Pope Formosus' corpse. Discover how this 9th-century pope was exhumed, dressed in papal robes, and put on trial by his successor. Learn about the political intrigue, the strange customs of the time, and the ultimate fate of the cadaver. This episode delves into the strange and dark world of medieval papal politics.

Key Points:

Introduction to the trial of Pope Formosus.
The political context of the 9th-century papacy.
Details of the trial, including the role of Pope Stephen VI.
The aftermath and legacy of this bizarre event.
The significance of relics and their impact on medieval religious practices.

Resources Mentioned:

Historical accounts of Pope Formosus and Pope Stephen VI.
Articles and books on medieval papal history.
Academic research on relics and medieval justice.

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Queen Elizabeth Was A Cannibal | S1: E9

In this episode of Stupiracy, Scott and Tim dive into one of the wildest conspiracy theories about the British royal family: the claim that Queen Elizabeth II was a cannibal. From bizarre stories about her private freezer to tales of corpse medicine, discover the strange rumors that have swirled around the late queen. Learn about the historical context of these claims and why some people believe that the British royals have a taste for human flesh.

Key Points:

Introduction to the conspiracy theory about Queen Elizabeth II.
Historical context of medicinal cannibalism and its use by royalty.
The story of an electrician's shocking discovery in the queen's freezer.
Analysis of why these rumors persist and their impact on public perception.
Broader discussion on conspiracy theories involving the British royal family.

Resources Mentioned:

"Mummies, Cannibals, and Vampires" by Richard Sugg.
Articles and interviews about royal family conspiracy theories.
Historical records on medicinal cannibalism.

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