A kind of mini- Junior Theme. Click HERE to listen.
In 1883, the a coalition of railroad officials carved the continental U.S. into five time zones, introducing Americans to the idea of “standard time.” Twenty five years later, the revolutionary idea was codified into law, with the 1918 Standard Time Act.
In this episode, we’ll look at the changing ways Americans have experienced the 24-hour day — from pre-industrial times right on up through today’s era of time-shifted media. We’ll explore the impact of those powerful Gilded Age railroads, and look the role of economic forces in shaping America’s relationship with the clock. We’ll also explore how people have experienced the rhythm of night and day — and why the advent of electric lighting changed that rhythm forever. Finally, is unlimited time always a good thing? We take a loving look at basketball’s shot clock.
Guests Include:
- Roger Ekirch, Virginia Tech, on 19th century Americans’ changing relationship with night
- Michael O’Malley, George Mason University, on how Gilded Age railroad officials standardized time across the country
Further Exploration
Have a look at our list of outside sources, and check out a rundown of the works we consulted while making this show. If you have enough time, that is.
Even More
Read the listener discussion that helped to shape the show.
Check out the music used in this show. [Available Monday.]
