Amelia Earhart: Founder of the Modern Travel Industry? Plus a Look at Why She Disappeared

Laurie Gwen Shapiro, author of the new book "The Aviator and the Showman: Amelia Earhart, George Putnam and the Marriage That Made an American Icon" was today's guest. She discussed how Earhart shaped how we travel today, why she is still such a potent role model, and what happened to her on her final flight.

Takeaways:

• The contemporary travel industry owes much of its development to the pioneering efforts of early aviators, particularly Amelia Earhart, who significantly influenced public perception of air travel.
• Laurie Gwen Shapiro's book, 'The Aviator and the Amelia Earhart,' delves into the intricate relationship between Amelia Earhart and her husband, George Putnam, showcasing their collaborative efforts.
• Amelia Earhart's role as an ambassador for aviation was crucial in promoting air travel to women, thereby helping to establish the industry as a viable mode of transportation.
• The podcast highlights the complexities surrounding Amelia Earhart's legacy, suggesting that her ambitious nature and calculated risks played a significant role in her untimely demise.
• Listeners are encouraged to explore the nuances of Amelia Earhart's final flight by listening to tapes of those who know her, available on the Smithsonian website.