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12.9.15: History Through the Postage Stamp & From Mankind to Saint Mick

Milly via flickr Creative Commons
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flic.kr/p/8QM5Sg

Since they were first introduced in 1847, postage stamps have become a staple of American life and taste. On today’s show,  a look at America’s most memorable stamps, and why some were beloved, while others were surprisingly contentious. Plus, what happens when a pro-wrestler abandons the ring for Santa’s sleigh?

Listen to the full show:

America in 36 Stamps

Postage Stamps tell a deeper story of American history, preferences, creativity and self-image. Chris West explores all of those layers of narrative in his book  A History of America in 36 Postage Stamps.

WOM12092015A.mp3
America in 36 Stamps

St. Mick

In late November, they begin to arrive. In malls, outside stores, at company parties across the country. A huge deluge of Santas. We don't often stop to wonder who the men are beneath the red stocking caps. And as Sean Hurley recently discovered, Santa sometimes has a secret he wants to keep.

Listen to this story again at this link: From Mankind to Saint Mick

The Allure of Adult Coloring Books

Adrienne Raphel wrote about adult coloring books and what’s being called the “Peter Pan” market for the New Yorker.

WOM12092015C.mp3
The Allure of Adult Coloring Books

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