When it comes to Civil War History it is hard to find two authors more prolific than Bruce Catton and Shelby Foote. Today on Boom, we react to the words of the men themselves - and debate what is more important when trying to get people interested in history, facts or a good story?

Join Garry Adelman, Kris White and Dr. Chris Mackowski. This is episode 11 of Boom Goes the History.

Today's episode features host, Chris Mackowski, alongside Kate Egner and Dan Davis of the American Battlefield Trust as they explore how the Liberty Trail is transforming the way we experience Revolutionary War history. From overlooked battlefields in South Carolina to immersive apps, virtual tours, and layered storytelling across more than 25 states, the conversation reveals how technology and preservation are making the past more accessible, engaging, and relevant for today’s listeners. Visit thelibertytrail.org to learn more!

Welcome back for Part 2 of our special LIVE bonus episode of Boom Goes the History, recorded before a packed audience at Gettysburg History, home of the Adams County Historical Society!

Co-hosts Kris White and Garry Adelman return with an all-star panel of Gettysburg experts, including Wayne Motts, Jim Hessler, Tim Smith, Sarah Kay Bierle, and Chris Mackowski, for another fast-paced, unpredictable, and delightfully irreverent conversation about America's most famous battlefield.

In this episode, the panel explores some of Gettysburg's most overlooked July 2 battle sites, remembers long-lost tourist attractions that once dotted the battlefield, and dives into the thunderous Confederate bombardment that preceded Pickett's Charge. Along the way, they tackle one of Gettysburg's most enduring topics—Jennie Wade—in a lively discussion that is sure to spark conversation among history buffs.

As always, the conversation wanders into unexpected territory, filled with battlefield stories, historical debates, behind-the-scenes insights, plenty of laughs, and the kind of Gettysburg nerdery that Boom Goes the History is known for.

Whether you're a first-time visitor, a lifelong Gettysburg enthusiast, or just love hearing historians argue over fascinating details, this is an episode you won't want to miss.

The American Battlefield Trust preserves America's hallowed battlegrounds and educates the public about what happened there and why it matters. We permanently protect these battlefields for future generations as a lasting and tangible memorial to the brave soldiers who fought in the American Revolution, the War of 1812, and the Civil War.