What is in a name? Major Deegan

Join us on a journey through the bustling streets of New York City, where CUNY Law Professor Rebecca Bratspies found herself stuck in the labyrinthine traffic of the Major Deegan Expressway, a notorious thoroughfare. As the vehicles idled, her curiosity stirred—just who was this Major Deegan? A war hero, a distinguished military figure? Surely, there must be an intriguing story behind the namesake of this prominent roadway.

In this episode, we delve into the captivating story of Professor Bratspies' quest, which led to her fascinating book, 'Naming Gotham.' Within its pages, she unravels the secrets behind the names adorning the city's infrastructure projects and delves into the methodology of naming them. Discover the tales of the figures who have left their mark on New York's landscape, and gain insights into the intricate art of naming that weaves the tapestry of our urban environments.

Guest: Prof. Rebecca Bratspies

NAMING GOTHAM

Music and sound effects: Pixabay

Season 4 is wrapping up so there won't be any episodes in December. But Season 5 will be launched in January 2024, where we will talk to the man who found Saddam Hussein, and the lawyer who defended 9/11 Mastermind Khalid Sheikh Mohammed. We also travel to the other end of the world -- Antarctica -- to speak with New Zealand government researchers protecting historic sites on the continent. Plus, astronaut Jim Wetherbee is back, as is popular guest Prof. Margaret Schwartz will be back to discuss Lady Diana.