December 27, 2024 • 12 mins
In the episode of the Bell's Books and Blog Podcast, host Jane M. Bell explores historical narratives that shaped our world. She begins with the journey of Norse Vikings who established a settlement in North America, named L'Anse aux Meadows, around the year 1021. Shifting to a scientific context, Bell examines the contributions of Marie and Pierre Curie, pioneers in the study of radioactivity, whose findings revolutionized medicine. Marie Curie's awards, becoming the first woman to receive a Nobel Prize and later earning a second one, are also highlighted. Lastly, the podcast covers the strategic brilliance of General George Washington during the American Revolutionary War, particularly his daring crossing of the Delaware River that altered the course of the conflict. Throughout the episode, Bell underscores human courage, ambition, and monumental discoveries.
- Jane M. Bell, Author - Website
- jane@janembell.com
- Yesteryear's Ruin by Jane M. Bell
- Yesteryear's Echo by Jane M. Bell
- Mystery at Sea Edge by J. Margaret Bell
- Christmases of Long Ago
- Bell's Books and Blog Podcast on Amazon Music/Audible
- Bell's Books and Blog Podcast on Apple Podcasts
- Bell's Books and Blog Podcast on Castbox
- Bell's Books and Blog Podcast on Deezer
- Bell's Books and Blog Podcast on iHeart Radio
- Bell's Books and Blog Podcast on Jio Saavn
- Bell's Books and Blog Podcast on Podcast Addict
- Bell's Books and Blog Podcast on Podchaser
- Bell's Books and Blog Podcast on Spotify
- Bell's Books and Blog Podcast on Spreaker
- Jane M. Bell on Facebook
- Jane M. Bell on Instagram
- Jane M. Bell on Twitter/X
- Jane M. Bell on Goodreads
- Jane M. Bell on Bookbub
Mark as Played
Transcript
Episode Transcript
Available transcripts are automatically generated. Complete accuracy is not guaranteed.
Speaker 1 (00:04):
Welcome to The Bell's Books and blog podcast, the place
where history, mystery, and suspense converge. I'm your host, author
Jane M. Bell. Today we're diving into some fascinating historical
narratives that promise to captivate your imagination and provide a
refreshing perspective on the events that have shaped our world.
In this episode, we'll embark on a journey that spans
(00:25):
time and space, starting with the adventurous Norse Vikings and
their settlement at Lonso Meadows in North America. We'll then
delve into the groundbreaking scientific achievements of Marie and Pierre Curie,
whose discoveries in radioactivity opened new frontiers in science and medicine. Finally,
we'll recount the daring actions of George Washington during the
American Revolution, focusing on his legendary crossing of the Delaware River.
(00:50):
So sit back, relax, and prepare yourself for an enthralling
voyage through history's most intriguing tales. Let's get started. To
kick things off, let's talk about the fearless Norse Vikings
and their incredible journey led by Leif Ericsson around the
year ten twenty one. These seafaring warriors set their sites
(01:11):
beyond their greenland settlements, driven by tantalizing tales of rich
lands to the west. This courageous expedition led them to
the icy shores of North America, where they established a
settlement known as launce O Meadows. Now, archaeological excavations at
this site have unearthed a treasure trove of evidence pointing
to the Viking's presence. Imagine discovering Norse artifacts from tools
(01:35):
to remnants of Viking ships. It paints a vivid picture
of life in this remote outpost. Researchers identified structures like
longhouses typical of Viking architecture, and found evidence of iron production,
showcasing the settler's impressive metalworking skills. One of the most
fascinating aspects of this settlement was the extensive trade networks
(01:56):
the Vikings established. Analysis of archaeological finding indicates that Norse
settlers traded native wood species such as hemlock and jackpine,
which were sourced as far away as New England and Quebec.
This demonstrates their resourcefulness and remarkable ability to navigate and
connect with diverse landscapes. However, the Viking's time at Lanso
(02:17):
Meadows was not without its challenges. Their sagas recount encounters
with the indigenous peoples referred to as Scraalings. These interactions
were a mix of trade and conflict, leading to tensions
and skirmishes. These complex encounters ultimately contributed to the Vikings
abandoning the settlement. Today, Lanceo Meadows is recognized as a
(02:38):
UNESCO World Heritage Site, marking it as a significant chapter
in North American history. It challenges the traditional Eurocentric view
of exploration and colonization, reminding us that the Vikings were
among the first Europeans to set foot on this continent.
This site offers a unique window into the past, inviting
us to explore and reflect on the inter connectedness of
(03:00):
cultures and the intricate dance of human history. Next up,
let's delve into the life and incredible achievements of Marie
and Pierre Curie, the pioneering couple who forever changed our
understanding of radioactivity. Their work centered around radium, an alkaline
earth metal that glows faintly in the dark due to
its radioactivity. Through meticulous research, they uncovered that radium emits
(03:24):
alpha particles, beta particles, and gamma rays, revealing a potent
source of energy and radically advancing our knowledge of atomic structures.
The implications of their discoveries were profound, sparking interest in
the applications of radioactivity across various fields, most notably medicine.
Radium soon found its place in the treatment of cancer,
(03:46):
as well as in sterilization processes. This groundbreaking research laid
the foundation for future scientific inquiries into the nature of radioactivity,
leading to significant advancements in medical technology. Mari Kuurie's contributions
to science were monumental and recognized on the global stage.
In nineteen o three, Marie and Pierre were awarded the
(04:08):
Nobel Prize in Physics for their work on radioactivity. This
achievement was historic, as Marie became the first woman to
receive a Nobel Prize, breaking barriers in what was then
a predominantly male field. Her relentless pursuit of knowledge and
dedication to scientific inquiry inspired countless individuals, particularly women, to
(04:28):
pursue careers in stem science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. In
nineteen eleven, Marie Curie made history once again by winning
her second Nobel Prize, this time in chemistry for her
continued research on radium and the discovery of polonium. These
accolades immortalized her legacy and cemented her place as a
(04:49):
trailblazer in scientific advancement. The early twentieth century saw an
explosion of societal fascination with radium. The discovery captivated popular culture,
with radium being marketed in a myriad of products from
cosmetics to beverages, under the belief that it possessed health benefits. Unfortunately,
(05:10):
this craze often overshadowed the dangers of radiation exposure, leading
to tragic consequences for many who use these products unaware
of the risks involved. Despite the controversies, radium's impact on
medicine remains undeniable. It played a crucial role in the
development of radiation therapy, which is still a cornerstone in
the treatment of cancer today. The discoveries made by the
(05:33):
Curies opened new frontiers and provided hope to countless patients
battling life threatening diseases. Their legacy continues to influence and
inspire modern science, proving that the pursuit of knowledge can
lead to monumental changes in how we understand and treat
the world around us. Let's now turn our attention to
a pivotal moment in American history, General George Washington's daring
(05:56):
crossing of the Delaware River. By late seventeen seventy six,
the American Revolutionary War was in a precarious state. The
Continental Army had endured significant defeats, and morale was dangerously
low among the troops in the general public. With British forces,
bolstered by Hessian mercenaries pushing deeper into the colonies, the
(06:17):
revolutionary spirit was flickering and many were ready to give
up the fight for independence. Against this bleak backdrop, Washington
made a strategic decision that would change the course of
the war. On Christmas Day, Washington saw an opportunity when
the Hessian forces, who were celebrating in likely off guard,
were stationed in Trenton, New Jersey. He gathered his officers
(06:39):
and planned a surprise attack, recognizing that the element of
surprise was crucial. As night fell on December twenty fifth,
Washington and his men began their arduous journey across the
icy Delaware River. The crossing was fraught with peril. Freezing temperatures,
strong currents, and gusting winds posed formidable challenges, yet Washington's
(07:00):
resolve never wavered. He led his men through the night,
navigating the treacherous waters in a fleet of small boats.
The crossing took several grueling hours, with many soldiers enduring
the biting cold and harsh conditions. Despite these hardships, Washington's
leadership shone brightly as he rallied his troops, reminding them
of the importance of their mission and the stakes involved
(07:23):
in their struggle for independence. By the early hours of
December twenty sixth, Washington and his army had successfully crossed
the river and made their way to Trenton. The Hessian forces,
still in a celebratory haze, were caught completely off guard.
In a swift and decisive engagement, the Continental Army overwhelmed
the Hessians and captured nearly nine hundred soldiers. This victory
(07:46):
at Trenton was not merely a tactical win. It was
a critical turning point in the American Revolutionary War. News
of the surprise attack in Washington's bold maneuver spread rapidly,
rekindling hope and enthusiasm among the American populace. The morale
boost was significant, demonstrating that the Continental Army could achieve
major victories against the British and their allies. Washington's daring
(08:10):
and strategic brilliance at the Delaware Crossing exemplified his unwavering leadership.
It invigorated the revolutionary cause and paved the way for
future successes, ultimately contributing to the eventual American victory in
the war. Let's take a moment to reflect on the
topics of this week's podcast with some whispers of wisdom
from the past. John F. Kennedy once said, we are
(08:33):
all explorers discovering new worlds. Indeed, the sense of adventure, discovery,
and wonder are great motivators that resonate through history across
the globe. Another wonderful reflection comes from Peter Drucker, who
once said, the greatest danger in times of turbulence is
not the turbulence, it is to act with yesterday's logic.
(08:54):
These quotes remind us to stay engaged with history and
our lessons it still has to teach us and on
to future generations. And now, dear listeners, I'd love to
hear from you. What do you think about Washington's daring
move across the Delaware How does this moment resonate with
you today. Let's discuss the impact of leadership and courage
throughout history. Please drop me a note at news at
(09:17):
Janembell dot com. I look forward to reading your thoughts. Now,
let's turn our focus to some sweet book recommendations and
exciting announcements. If you've been craving a good mystery or
a gripping psychological thriller, you're in for a treat. Yesteryear's
Ruin is a mesmerizing tale of love, despair, and the
quest for redemption, and it is available for free download
(09:40):
when you sign up for my weekly blog. This story
dives into the essence of human resilience in the face
of unimaginable loss. Don't miss your chance to add this
riveting chapter to your ebook collection. The Story of Yesteryear's
Echo is the first in a heart pounding series where
history and madness collide. The story is the sequel to
Yesteryear's Ruin. As Bower digs deeper into the dark mystery,
(10:04):
he uncovers disturbing truths about his family's involvement and a
cryptic project known as Case forty seven. Bower finds himself
and his family showing strange and unexplainable symptoms which thrust
him into a race against time. It's a roller coaster
that will keep you questioning what's real until the very
last page. If you enjoyed The Silent Patient and Shutter Island,
(10:26):
Yesteryear's Echo will be right up your alley. For our
younger listeners or those young at heart, Mystery at Sea Edge,
a Monterey Adventure is a delightful historical mystery aimed at
fourth grade level readers. This book follows siblings Wick, Rindy,
and their cousin Less as they navigate personal prejudices and
uncover clues from a mysterious figure in the fog to
(10:47):
a golden locket. Set in Monterey, California, this adventure is
both educational and engaging, making it a perfect addition to
any child's reading list. Before we wrap up, don't forget
the Christmas Books promotion. This special offer ends on January second,
so you have a little time left to snag some
great reads at fantastic prices. Check the show notes for
(11:11):
details and links to all the books mentioned today. Because
there's no better time than the holiday season to curl
up with a good book. As we come to the
end of this episode. Let's take a moment to recap
our explorations of these historic moments that have reshaped our
world today. We journeyed with the fearless Norse Vikings to
their North American settlement at Lonso Meadows. We marveled at
(11:33):
the pioneering scientific achievements of Marie and Pierre Currie, whose
discoveries in radioactivity opened new doors in both science and medicine.
And we learned about the strategic genius of General George
Washington as he led his troops across the icy Delaware River,
turning the tide in the American Revolutionary War. Each story
highlights a common thread of courage, ambition, and monumental discoveries.
(11:57):
Through these historic events, we see the endoma human spirit
shining through. I invite you to reflect on how these
legacies have shaped our understanding of history and their lasting
impact on our present and future. What lessons can we
learn from their courage, and how do their stories inspire
us to face our own challenges. Don't forget to check
(12:18):
the show notes for any additional information or links mentioned
in today's episode. If you want to dive deeper into
any of these topics, all the resources will be there
for you. Thank you for joining me on this fun
voyage through history. This has been the Bell's Books and
Blog podcast and I've been your hostess, author Jane M. Bell.
Until next time, stay curious, keep exploring, let the stories
(12:41):
of the history continue to ignite your imagination, and as always,
keep the past alive.
Welcome to The Bell's Books and blog podcast, the place
where history, mystery, and suspense converge. I'm your host, author
Jane M. Bell. Today we're diving into some fascinating historical
narratives that promise to captivate your imagination and provide a
refreshing perspective on the events that have shaped our world.
In this episode, we'll embark on a journey that spans
(00:25):
time and space, starting with the adventurous Norse Vikings and
their settlement at Lonso Meadows in North America. We'll then
delve into the groundbreaking scientific achievements of Marie and Pierre Curie,
whose discoveries in radioactivity opened new frontiers in science and medicine. Finally,
we'll recount the daring actions of George Washington during the
American Revolution, focusing on his legendary crossing of the Delaware River.
(00:50):
So sit back, relax, and prepare yourself for an enthralling
voyage through history's most intriguing tales. Let's get started. To
kick things off, let's talk about the fearless Norse Vikings
and their incredible journey led by Leif Ericsson around the
year ten twenty one. These seafaring warriors set their sites
(01:11):
beyond their greenland settlements, driven by tantalizing tales of rich
lands to the west. This courageous expedition led them to
the icy shores of North America, where they established a
settlement known as launce O Meadows. Now, archaeological excavations at
this site have unearthed a treasure trove of evidence pointing
to the Viking's presence. Imagine discovering Norse artifacts from tools
(01:35):
to remnants of Viking ships. It paints a vivid picture
of life in this remote outpost. Researchers identified structures like
longhouses typical of Viking architecture, and found evidence of iron production,
showcasing the settler's impressive metalworking skills. One of the most
fascinating aspects of this settlement was the extensive trade networks
(01:56):
the Vikings established. Analysis of archaeological finding indicates that Norse
settlers traded native wood species such as hemlock and jackpine,
which were sourced as far away as New England and Quebec.
This demonstrates their resourcefulness and remarkable ability to navigate and
connect with diverse landscapes. However, the Viking's time at Lanso
(02:17):
Meadows was not without its challenges. Their sagas recount encounters
with the indigenous peoples referred to as Scraalings. These interactions
were a mix of trade and conflict, leading to tensions
and skirmishes. These complex encounters ultimately contributed to the Vikings
abandoning the settlement. Today, Lanceo Meadows is recognized as a
(02:38):
UNESCO World Heritage Site, marking it as a significant chapter
in North American history. It challenges the traditional Eurocentric view
of exploration and colonization, reminding us that the Vikings were
among the first Europeans to set foot on this continent.
This site offers a unique window into the past, inviting
us to explore and reflect on the inter connectedness of
(03:00):
cultures and the intricate dance of human history. Next up,
let's delve into the life and incredible achievements of Marie
and Pierre Curie, the pioneering couple who forever changed our
understanding of radioactivity. Their work centered around radium, an alkaline
earth metal that glows faintly in the dark due to
its radioactivity. Through meticulous research, they uncovered that radium emits
(03:24):
alpha particles, beta particles, and gamma rays, revealing a potent
source of energy and radically advancing our knowledge of atomic structures.
The implications of their discoveries were profound, sparking interest in
the applications of radioactivity across various fields, most notably medicine.
Radium soon found its place in the treatment of cancer,
(03:46):
as well as in sterilization processes. This groundbreaking research laid
the foundation for future scientific inquiries into the nature of radioactivity,
leading to significant advancements in medical technology. Mari Kuurie's contributions
to science were monumental and recognized on the global stage.
In nineteen o three, Marie and Pierre were awarded the
(04:08):
Nobel Prize in Physics for their work on radioactivity. This
achievement was historic, as Marie became the first woman to
receive a Nobel Prize, breaking barriers in what was then
a predominantly male field. Her relentless pursuit of knowledge and
dedication to scientific inquiry inspired countless individuals, particularly women, to
(04:28):
pursue careers in stem science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. In
nineteen eleven, Marie Curie made history once again by winning
her second Nobel Prize, this time in chemistry for her
continued research on radium and the discovery of polonium. These
accolades immortalized her legacy and cemented her place as a
(04:49):
trailblazer in scientific advancement. The early twentieth century saw an
explosion of societal fascination with radium. The discovery captivated popular culture,
with radium being marketed in a myriad of products from
cosmetics to beverages, under the belief that it possessed health benefits. Unfortunately,
(05:10):
this craze often overshadowed the dangers of radiation exposure, leading
to tragic consequences for many who use these products unaware
of the risks involved. Despite the controversies, radium's impact on
medicine remains undeniable. It played a crucial role in the
development of radiation therapy, which is still a cornerstone in
the treatment of cancer today. The discoveries made by the
(05:33):
Curies opened new frontiers and provided hope to countless patients
battling life threatening diseases. Their legacy continues to influence and
inspire modern science, proving that the pursuit of knowledge can
lead to monumental changes in how we understand and treat
the world around us. Let's now turn our attention to
a pivotal moment in American history, General George Washington's daring
(05:56):
crossing of the Delaware River. By late seventeen seventy six,
the American Revolutionary War was in a precarious state. The
Continental Army had endured significant defeats, and morale was dangerously
low among the troops in the general public. With British forces,
bolstered by Hessian mercenaries pushing deeper into the colonies, the
(06:17):
revolutionary spirit was flickering and many were ready to give
up the fight for independence. Against this bleak backdrop, Washington
made a strategic decision that would change the course of
the war. On Christmas Day, Washington saw an opportunity when
the Hessian forces, who were celebrating in likely off guard,
were stationed in Trenton, New Jersey. He gathered his officers
(06:39):
and planned a surprise attack, recognizing that the element of
surprise was crucial. As night fell on December twenty fifth,
Washington and his men began their arduous journey across the
icy Delaware River. The crossing was fraught with peril. Freezing temperatures,
strong currents, and gusting winds posed formidable challenges, yet Washington's
(07:00):
resolve never wavered. He led his men through the night,
navigating the treacherous waters in a fleet of small boats.
The crossing took several grueling hours, with many soldiers enduring
the biting cold and harsh conditions. Despite these hardships, Washington's
leadership shone brightly as he rallied his troops, reminding them
of the importance of their mission and the stakes involved
(07:23):
in their struggle for independence. By the early hours of
December twenty sixth, Washington and his army had successfully crossed
the river and made their way to Trenton. The Hessian forces,
still in a celebratory haze, were caught completely off guard.
In a swift and decisive engagement, the Continental Army overwhelmed
the Hessians and captured nearly nine hundred soldiers. This victory
(07:46):
at Trenton was not merely a tactical win. It was
a critical turning point in the American Revolutionary War. News
of the surprise attack in Washington's bold maneuver spread rapidly,
rekindling hope and enthusiasm among the American populace. The morale
boost was significant, demonstrating that the Continental Army could achieve
major victories against the British and their allies. Washington's daring
(08:10):
and strategic brilliance at the Delaware Crossing exemplified his unwavering leadership.
It invigorated the revolutionary cause and paved the way for
future successes, ultimately contributing to the eventual American victory in
the war. Let's take a moment to reflect on the
topics of this week's podcast with some whispers of wisdom
from the past. John F. Kennedy once said, we are
(08:33):
all explorers discovering new worlds. Indeed, the sense of adventure, discovery,
and wonder are great motivators that resonate through history across
the globe. Another wonderful reflection comes from Peter Drucker, who
once said, the greatest danger in times of turbulence is
not the turbulence, it is to act with yesterday's logic.
(08:54):
These quotes remind us to stay engaged with history and
our lessons it still has to teach us and on
to future generations. And now, dear listeners, I'd love to
hear from you. What do you think about Washington's daring
move across the Delaware How does this moment resonate with
you today. Let's discuss the impact of leadership and courage
throughout history. Please drop me a note at news at
(09:17):
Janembell dot com. I look forward to reading your thoughts. Now,
let's turn our focus to some sweet book recommendations and
exciting announcements. If you've been craving a good mystery or
a gripping psychological thriller, you're in for a treat. Yesteryear's
Ruin is a mesmerizing tale of love, despair, and the
quest for redemption, and it is available for free download
(09:40):
when you sign up for my weekly blog. This story
dives into the essence of human resilience in the face
of unimaginable loss. Don't miss your chance to add this
riveting chapter to your ebook collection. The Story of Yesteryear's
Echo is the first in a heart pounding series where
history and madness collide. The story is the sequel to
Yesteryear's Ruin. As Bower digs deeper into the dark mystery,
(10:04):
he uncovers disturbing truths about his family's involvement and a
cryptic project known as Case forty seven. Bower finds himself
and his family showing strange and unexplainable symptoms which thrust
him into a race against time. It's a roller coaster
that will keep you questioning what's real until the very
last page. If you enjoyed The Silent Patient and Shutter Island,
(10:26):
Yesteryear's Echo will be right up your alley. For our
younger listeners or those young at heart, Mystery at Sea Edge,
a Monterey Adventure is a delightful historical mystery aimed at
fourth grade level readers. This book follows siblings Wick, Rindy,
and their cousin Less as they navigate personal prejudices and
uncover clues from a mysterious figure in the fog to
(10:47):
a golden locket. Set in Monterey, California, this adventure is
both educational and engaging, making it a perfect addition to
any child's reading list. Before we wrap up, don't forget
the Christmas Books promotion. This special offer ends on January second,
so you have a little time left to snag some
great reads at fantastic prices. Check the show notes for
(11:11):
details and links to all the books mentioned today. Because
there's no better time than the holiday season to curl
up with a good book. As we come to the
end of this episode. Let's take a moment to recap
our explorations of these historic moments that have reshaped our
world today. We journeyed with the fearless Norse Vikings to
their North American settlement at Lonso Meadows. We marveled at
(11:33):
the pioneering scientific achievements of Marie and Pierre Currie, whose
discoveries in radioactivity opened new doors in both science and medicine.
And we learned about the strategic genius of General George
Washington as he led his troops across the icy Delaware River,
turning the tide in the American Revolutionary War. Each story
highlights a common thread of courage, ambition, and monumental discoveries.
(11:57):
Through these historic events, we see the endoma human spirit
shining through. I invite you to reflect on how these
legacies have shaped our understanding of history and their lasting
impact on our present and future. What lessons can we
learn from their courage, and how do their stories inspire
us to face our own challenges. Don't forget to check
(12:18):
the show notes for any additional information or links mentioned
in today's episode. If you want to dive deeper into
any of these topics, all the resources will be there
for you. Thank you for joining me on this fun
voyage through history. This has been the Bell's Books and
Blog podcast and I've been your hostess, author Jane M. Bell.
Until next time, stay curious, keep exploring, let the stories
(12:41):
of the history continue to ignite your imagination, and as always,
keep the past alive.
Popular Podcasts
CrimeLess: Hillbilly Heist
It’s 1996 in rural North Carolina, and an oddball crew makes history when they pull off America’s third largest cash heist. But it’s all downhill from there. Join host Johnny Knoxville as he unspools a wild and woolly tale about a group of regular ‘ol folks who risked it all for a chance at a better life. CrimeLess: Hillbilly Heist answers the question: what would you do with 17.3 million dollars? The answer includes diamond rings, mansions, velvet Elvis paintings, plus a run for the border, murder-for-hire-plots, and FBI busts.
Crime Junkie
Does hearing about a true crime case always leave you scouring the internet for the truth behind the story? Dive into your next mystery with Crime Junkie. Every Monday, join your host Ashley Flowers as she unravels all the details of infamous and underreported true crime cases with her best friend Brit Prawat. From cold cases to missing persons and heroes in our community who seek justice, Crime Junkie is your destination for theories and stories you won’t hear anywhere else. Whether you're a seasoned true crime enthusiast or new to the genre, you'll find yourself on the edge of your seat awaiting a new episode every Monday. If you can never get enough true crime... Congratulations, you’ve found your people. Follow to join a community of Crime Junkies! Crime Junkie is presented by audiochuck Media Company.
Stuff You Should Know
If you've ever wanted to know about champagne, satanism, the Stonewall Uprising, chaos theory, LSD, El Nino, true crime and Rosa Parks, then look no further. Josh and Chuck have you covered.