History Ignited: The Kids History Podcast Inspired by Billy Joel's We Didn’t Start the Fire

"Teach kids history prevent repeats." It’s more than just a catchphrase to end the show—it’s the entire reason we do what we do. In this bonus episode, on this bonus episode we takes a step back to share the story behind our final five words.
Join us as we (attempt) to discuss the critical importance of historical literacy, and why empowering the next generation with the truth is the most important work we can do. 
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About History Ignited:
History Ignited is the award-winning kids and family history podcast inspired by Billy Joel’s We Didn’t Start the Fire. Each short episode explores the real stories behind the people, events, inventions, and cultural moments that shaped the world from the 1950s through the 1980s. Winner of the 2025 Webby People’s Voice Award for Best Kids & Family Podcast.

On November 22, 1963, a dark and sudden tragedy struck America that changed history forever. This week on History Ignited, Amy, Dave, Andrew, and Caroline step back into the 1960s to look at the life, presidency, and sudden loss of John F. Kennedy—the 35th President of the United States—and why Billy Joel included "JFK Blown Away" in We Didn't Start the Fire.
Despite his short time in office, President Kennedy inspired millions with his vision for space exploration, his call for public service, and his fight for civil rights. While the events of that day in Dallas brought deep sorrow, JFK's hopeful legacy lived on through his family, his nation, and the historic moments that followed.
In this episode, we discuss:
Life as the 35th President: From his famous "Ask not what your country can do for you" speech to launching the race to the Moon.
The Day in Dallas: A sensitive, child-friendly look at the tragic afternoon at Dealey Plaza and how news traveled before the internet age.
A Nation United in Hope: How Americans honored JFK's memory and carried his vision for the future forward.
Join us for kid-friendly history, engaging insights, and a look at how love and memory can outshine even the darkest moments in history!
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What is your favorite JFK quote, or what do you think was his biggest accomplishment? Share your thoughts with Amy, Dave, Andrew, and Caroline!
Send us Fan Mail
About History Ignited:
History Ignited is the award-winning kids and family history podcast inspired by Billy Joel’s We Didn’t Start the Fire. Each short episode explores the real stories behind the people, events, inventions, and cultural moments that shaped the world from the 1950s through the 1980s. Winner of the 2025 Webby People’s Voice Award for Best Kids & Family Podcast.

In 1963, a single line in the news changed the face of British politics forever. The  famous Profumo Affair—a high-stakes 1960s drama involving a cabinet minister, a model named Christine Keeler, a Soviet naval attache, and a whole lot of secrets. Join us on this episode of History Ignited as we break down how a Cold War breach of trust and a lie told to Parliament brought down a prime minister’s government, shifted public trust in the media, and earned its place in Billy Joel's We Didn't Start the Fire. 
Send us Fan Mail
About History Ignited:
History Ignited is the award-winning kids and family history podcast inspired by Billy Joel’s We Didn’t Start the Fire. Each short episode explores the real stories behind the people, events, inventions, and cultural moments that shaped the world from the 1950s through the 1980s. Winner of the 2025 Webby People’s Voice Award for Best Kids & Family Podcast.

When Billy Joel sang those words in We Didn't Start the Fire, he was pointing to one of the most powerful and influential figures in the Civil Rights Movement. But who was Malcolm X, and how did he fight for fairness and justice?
In this episode, we take a trip back to the mid-20th century to explore the story of Malcolm Little—a boy who grew up facing immense hardship and went on to become Malcolm X, a bold leader who urged Black Americans to stand tall, take pride in their heritage, and demand equal rights.
Join us as we discover how Malcolm’s powerful speeches challenged the country, how his ideas evolved over time, and why his legacy still inspires people around the world today to speak up for what’s right!

Send us Fan Mail
About History Ignited:
History Ignited is the award-winning kids and family history podcast inspired by Billy Joel’s We Didn’t Start the Fire. Each short episode explores the real stories behind the people, events, inventions, and cultural moments that shaped the world from the 1950s through the 1980s. Winner of the 2025 Webby People’s Voice Award for Best Kids & Family Podcast.

Step into the Vatican as we explore the life of Pope Paul VI—the leader of the Catholic Church who brought centuries-old traditions into the modern era!
When Pope Paul VI was elected in 1963, the world was changing fast. Cold War tensions were high, TV was everywhere, and young people were asking big questions about the future. Instead of staying inside the Vatican walls, Pope Paul VI did something unprecedented: he packed his bags and took to the skies! Known as the first "Pilgrim Pope," he flew to six continents, speaking to world leaders, promoting global peace, and becoming the first reigning pope to visit the United States and address the United Nations.
Join Amy, Dave, Andrew, and Caroline as we break down:
The Vatican II Revolution: How Pope Paul VI helped complete a massive project to modernize church traditions and connect with people across the globe.
The Flying Pope: How he used modern air travel to build bridges across different cultures, countries, and faiths during a turbulent decade.
A Message of Peace: His historic speech at the UN, calling on world leaders to end conflict during the height of the Cold War.
Plus, stick around until the end for our signature kid-approved joke and fun trivia! Whether you’re listening in the car or studying for history class, let's ignite the story behind Billy Joel's famous line!
Send us Fan Mail
About History Ignited:
History Ignited is the award-winning kids and family history podcast inspired by Billy Joel’s We Didn’t Start the Fire. Each short episode explores the real stories behind the people, events, inventions, and cultural moments that shaped the world from the 1950s through the 1980s. Winner of the 2025 Webby People’s Voice Award for Best Kids & Family Podcast.