Bedtime History: Inspirational Stories for Kids and Families

Arlington National Cemetery is one of the most solemn and significant places in the United States, honoring those who have served in the nation's military. Established during the Civil War, it now holds the graves of over 400,000 service members, veterans, and their families. In this episode, explore its history, from its creation on the former estate of Robert E. Lee to its role today as a place of remembrance and national pride.

As the third U.S. president, Thomas Jefferson made bold moves like the Louisiana Purchase, which doubled the size of the nation. But his legacy is also full of contradictions—he wrote about freedom while owning enslaved people. This episode looks at his time as president, his accomplishments, and the difficult questions historians still ask about his life and values.

Thomas Jefferson helped shape the foundation of the United States. As the main author of the Declaration of Independence, he expressed ideas about liberty, equality, and human rights that echoed around the world. A statesman, writer, and thinker, Jefferson's influence can still be felt in the way American democracy works today.

The American West is a land of vast plains, towering mountains, and legendary frontiers. This episode traces its history—from Indigenous nations to the arrival of settlers, the Gold Rush, and the cowboy era. Explore the opportunities, challenges, and conflicts that defined the frontier and shaped America's identity.

In ancient Egypt, the chariot was a powerful weapon of war and a symbol of prestige. This episode explores how Egyptian chariot warriors fought, trained, and helped expand Egypt's power. Learn about their weapons, tactics, and the craftsmanship behind the chariots that sped across ancient battlefields.

Madam C.J. Walker started with almost nothing—but she had determination, creativity, and a smart plan. In this episode, kids will discover how she turned a homemade hair product into a booming business by working hard, saving her money, and investing in herself and others. She became one of America's first self-made millionaires and helped hundreds of women along the way.

We're excited to announce the newest addition to the Bedtime History family, ⁠Bedtime Safari⁠! Travel back thousands of years to a time when massive woolly mammoths roamed wide valleys and saber-toothed cats stalked their prey. Ancient North America was a land of giants and dramatic climate shifts. Learn about the earliest humans who crossed into the continent, the animals they hunted, and how the Ice Age shaped the land we know today. Click here to listen to more episodes and subscribe: ⁠Apple Podcasts⁠ ⁠Website

Theodore Roosevelt was a president, soldier, writer, explorer, and reformer who believed in action and courage. From leading the Rough Riders to breaking up corporate monopolies and creating national parks, Roosevelt reshaped the role of the presidency. Known for his big personality and bigger ideas, he helped make America a global power. This episode explores his life and the bold choices that defined his legacy.

Rising above the city of Athens, the Acropolis is one of the most iconic symbols of ancient Greece. Home to the Parthenon and other magnificent temples, it was the heart of religious and cultural life in the 5th century BCE. This episode explores its history, architecture, and the role it played in shaping Western art, politics, and philosophy.

Enzo Ferrari was more than just a car designer—he built one of the most iconic brands in automotive history. Starting as a race car driver, he founded Ferrari in 1947, creating fast, elegant cars that became symbols of speed and power. Enzo was driven by passion and precision, and his cars dominated the racing world. This episode looks at his life, the rise of Ferrari, and how he changed the auto industry forever.

After the Civil War, African American soldiers known as Buffalo Soldiers served in the U.S. Army, often in the western frontier. They built roads, guarded settlers, and fought in key battles—all while facing discrimination and harsh conditions. Their bravery and discipline helped shape the American West. This episode looks at their service, legacy, and why they remain a powerful symbol of strength and perseverance.

The Bronze Age was a turning point in human history, when people began using bronze tools and weapons, leading to advances in farming, trade, and city building. This episode explores how new technologies transformed societies across the world and gave rise to early civilizations.

Michelangelo was a Renaissance master whose work redefined art, sculpture, and architecture. Known for the Sistine Chapel ceiling, the statue of David, and The Last Judgment, his art combines technical brilliance with deep emotion and religious power. He saw himself as a sculptor first but left an impact in every medium he touched. This episode explores his life, his creative genius, and how his work continues to shape how we see beauty and human potential.

Join us as we explore the fascinating life of Maria Montessori, the amazing woman who transformed the way children learn. Discover how her unique approach made learning exciting and fun by encouraging kids to explore, play, and discover the world around them. We'll dive into the Montessori Method, understand why it's so special, and see how it's still used in schools today to help kids everywhere become confident and curious learners!

Levi Strauss didn't dig for gold—he built something even better. In this episode, kids will learn how Levi used smart thinking, frugality, and hard work to grow a tiny dry goods business into one of the most famous clothing companies in the world.

We're excited to announce the newest addition to the Bedtime History family, ⁠Bedtime Safari⁠! Step into the cobblestone streets of Bruges, a beautifully preserved medieval city in Belgium. With winding canals, Gothic architecture, and centuries-old market squares, Bruges feels like stepping back in time. This episode explores the city's rise as a trading power, its stunning art and architecture, and why it remains one of Europe's most enchanting destinations. Click here to listen to more episodes and subscribe: Apple Podcasts Website

Crazy Horse was a Lakota war leader who fought to protect his people and their land during the 19th century. He played a major role in resisting U.S. expansion, including at the Battle of the Little Bighorn. Known for his courage and quiet strength, he remains a symbol of Native resistance and pride. This episode explores his life, legacy, and the world he fought to defend.

Today we use letters every day, but the alphabet had to be invented. Ancient peoples like the Phoenicians and Greeks created systems to represent sounds with symbols, making reading and writing faster and more accessible. This episode traces the alphabet's journey from pictures and symbols to the ABCs we know today—and explains how it transformed human communication.

Ashurbanipal was one of the last great kings of the Assyrian Empire, ruling in the 7th century BCE. He is known for creating one of the world's first libraries in Nineveh and for his military victories that expanded Assyria's power. This episode explores how Ashurbanipal combined knowledge and force to shape the ancient world—and how his library helped preserve history.

In this episode, we explore how money can grow when it's invested wisely, just like an acorn becomes an oak tree. We'll hear stories about famous people like Warren Buffett, Oprah, Beyoncé, and Walt Disney, who started small and grew something amazing by saving, working hard, and making smart choices. This episode will help kids understand how money works and why learning about investing early can lead to big things later in life.

Anne Frank was a young Jewish girl who hid from the Nazis in Amsterdam during World War II. While in hiding, she wrote a diary that became one of the most famous books of the 20th century. Her words capture the fear, hope, and strength of someone growing up in the darkest of times. This episode explores Anne's life, her legacy, and the lessons her story still teaches today.

The Taj Mahal is one of the most famous and beautiful buildings in the world. Built in the 1600s by Mughal emperor Shah Jahan as a tomb for his wife, it's a masterpiece of white marble and Islamic architecture. This episode explores the love story, artistry, and engineering behind this iconic structure—and why the Taj Mahal still stands as a symbol of eternal love.

Raphael was one of the greatest painters of the Italian Renaissance. Known for his soft, balanced style and graceful figures, he created famous works like The School of Athens and beautiful portraits of the Madonna. Working in Rome, he became a favorite of popes and helped design parts of the Vatican. This episode looks at his short but brilliant life and the art that still inspires people today.

In the mid-20th century, the United States and the Soviet Union competed to control the future of space. This was the Space Race—an intense rivalry that led to amazing scientific advances, including the first satellite, the first human in space, and the Apollo 11 moon landing. This episode explores how politics, fear, and ambition launched humanity into space—and why the Space Race changed the world forever.

Amelia Edwards was a 19th-century British writer, traveler, and pioneering Egyptologist. After a trip to Egypt changed her life, she dedicated herself to preserving ancient monuments and studying the history of the Nile. Her work helped spark global interest in ancient Egypt and led to the founding of the Egypt Exploration Fund. This episode explores how Edwards combined her love of storytelling and science to leave a lasting legacy in archaeology.

On the night of December 25, 1776, General George Washington led a daring and risky crossing of the icy Delaware River during the American Revolution. Facing defeat and low morale, Washington's surprise attack on Hessian forces in Trenton, New Jersey, became a turning point in the war. With harsh winter weather, dangerous river conditions, and exhausted troops, the crossing was a bold gamble—and it worked. This episode explores the strategy, conditions, and impact of the crossing, and how Washington's leadership helped revive the revolutionary cause at a crucial moment.

Cowboys are often shown in movies, but what was their real life like? Find out what cowboys did every day, where they worked, and how they became symbols of adventure and the American West.

While the American Revolution is often told through the actions of soldiers and founding fathers, women played vital and often overlooked roles in the fight for independence. From spies and messengers to nurses, fundraisers, and even battlefield participants, women supported the cause in powerful ways. Figures like Deborah Sampson, who disguised herself as a soldier, and Molly Pitcher, who brought water to troops under fire, showed courage and commitment. Others, like Abigail Adams, pushed for ideas of equality and rights that would echo into the future. This episode explores the diverse and essential contributions of women during the Revolutionary War.

We're excited to announce the newest addition to the Bedtime History family, Bedtime Safari! In each episode, we'll journey to a different corner of the world where we'll learn about he ecosystems, animals, cultures, and the fascinating history that makes each place unique. Don't worry about Bedtime History, it will keep releasing weekly. But if you enjoy Bedtime History, I think you're going to love Bedtime Safari! Click here to listen to more episodes and subscribe: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/bedtime-safari/id1808461544 Website: https://rss.com/podcasts/bedtime-safari/

LeBron James is one of the greatest basketball players of all time—but his story goes way beyond the court. From growing up in Akron, Ohio, to winning championships and starting schools, LeBron has used his talent and voice to make a big impact. In this episode, we'll follow his journey, learn what makes him a leader, and see how hard work and heart helped him rise to the top.

Long ago, King Hammurabi of Babylon wrote down a set of laws to keep order in his kingdom. Some were fair, others surprising! Travel back 4,000 years to learn what people thought was right and wrong back then.

Nelson Mandela spent 27 years in prison for standing up to unfair laws in South Africa. When he was finally free, he helped bring peace to a divided country. Hear how one man's bravery helped change the world.

Juneteenth is a celebration of freedom and a powerful moment in American history. On June 19, 1865, two years after the Emancipation Proclamation, enslaved people in Texas finally learned they were free. That day became known as Juneteenth, short for “June Nineteenth.” Families and communities began celebrating with music, food, and joy. Today, Juneteenth is a national holiday that honors the end of slavery and reminds us to keep working for equality and justice.

Picasso didn't just paint—he changed how people saw the world. From strange shapes to powerful pictures, discover how he used art to express ideas and feelings in bold, new ways.

For millions of immigrants, Ellis Island was the first stop on their journey to a new life in America. Explore what they experienced, why they came, and how Ellis Island helped shape the country we know today.

Laura Ingalls Wilder wrote about her life in a log cabin on the American frontier. In this episode, step into her world of prairie life, hard work, and adventure, and learn how her stories became classics.

We're excited to announce the newest addition to the Bedtime History family, Bedtime Safari! In each episode, we'll journey to a different corner of the world where we'll learn about he ecosystems, animals, cultures, and the fascinating history that makes each place unique. Don't worry about Bedtime History, it will keep releasing weekly. But if you enjoy Bedtime History, I think you're going to love Bedtime Safari! Click here to listen to more episodes and subscribe: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/bedtime-safari/id1808461544 Website: https://rss.com/podcasts/bedtime-safari/

Ludwig van Beethoven wrote some of the most famous music in the world—even after he went deaf. Hear the story of this determined composer who never gave up on his passion, and why his music is still played today.

From towering stone walls to secret passages, castles are full of surprises! Find out why people built them, how they defended them, and what life was like inside during the Middle Ages.

Caitlin Clark is changing the game of women's basketball with record-breaking shots and fearless leadership. In this episode, hear how she rose from a high school star to a college basketball icon, inspiring fans everywhere.

Jiu Jitsu is a martial art that's all about skill, strategy, and using your opponent's moves against them. Learn where it came from, how it works, and why it's become one of the most popular martial arts in the world today.

Jesse Owens was a track star who became a legend at the 1936 Olympics in Nazi Germany. He won four gold medals, breaking records and proving that talent knows no color. Discover how his courage and speed made history on and off the track.

Memorial Day is more than just a day off from school or the start of summer—it's a time to remember and honor those who gave their lives while serving in the U.S. military. In this episode, we'll explore how Memorial Day began, why we celebrate it, and how people across the country show their respect and gratitude.

We're excited to announce the newest addition to the Bedtime History family, Bedtime Safari! In each episode, we'll journey to a different corner of the world where we'll learn about he ecosystems, animals, cultures, and the fascinating history that makes each place unique. Don't worry about Bedtime History, it will keep releasing weekly. But if you enjoy Bedtime History, I think you're going to love Bedtime Safari! Click here to listen to more episodes and subscribe: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/bedtime-safari/id1808461544 Website: https://rss.com/podcasts/bedtime-safari/

Long before Hawaii became a U.S. state, it was home to a rich and vibrant culture. In this episode, we journey back to ancient Hawaii to learn how early Hawaiians crossed the ocean in canoes, cared for the land and sea, and lived by values like aloha and respect. Discover their amazing knowledge of stars, farming, fishing, and the deep connection they had to nature and each other.

We're excited to announce the newest addition to the Bedtime History family, Bedtime Safari! In each episode, we'll journey to a different corner of the world where we'll learn about he ecosystems, animals, cultures, and the fascinating history that makes each place unique. Don't worry about Bedtime History, it will keep releasing weekly. But if you enjoy Bedtime History, I think you're going to love Bedtime Safari! Click here to listen to more episodes and subscribe: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/bedtime-safari/id1808461544 Website: https://rss.com/podcasts/bedtime-safari/

Before there were letters, there were pictures! In this episode, we explore Egyptian hieroglyphs—how they worked, who used them, and how they were carved into tombs, temples, and scrolls. Plus, we'll discover how a lost language was finally decoded with the help of the Rosetta Stone.

Long before the United States was formed, Native nations in the northeast joined together to keep peace and solve problems. They called it the Iroquois Confederacy. In this episode, we'll explore how these six nations worked as one, using wisdom, councils, and something called the Great Law of Peace. Learn how this powerful idea of unity shaped their world—and even inspired others around the globe.

Deep in the jungles of Mexico, a great Mayan city once stood. In this episode, we visit Chichen Itza to uncover its towering pyramid, its ancient ball court, and the clever ways its people used the stars and the sun. Learn how this city tells the story of a brilliant civilization.

The ocean is more than water—it's full of life! In this episode, we dive into the amazing ecosystems beneath the waves. From colorful coral reefs to the darkest depths of the sea, we'll learn how ocean animals and plants work together to survive. Find out who eats what, who helps who, and why a healthy ocean matters for the whole planet—even for people who live far from the shore!

We're excited to announce the newest addition to the Bedtime History family, Bedtime Safari! In each episode, we'll journey to a different corner of the world where we'll learn about he ecosystems, animals, cultures, and the fascinating history that makes each place unique. Don't worry about Bedtime History, it will keep releasing weekly. But if you enjoy Bedtime History, I think you're going to love Bedtime Safari! Click here to listen to more episodes and subscribe: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/bedtime-safari/id1808461544 Website: https://rss.com/podcasts/bedtime-safari/