Summary of "Introducing: SNAFU Season 3: Formula 6"

Podcast Information:

• Title: Stuff You Missed in History Class
• Host/Author: iHeartPodcasts
• Episode: Introducing: SNAFU Season 3: Formula 6
• Release Date: March 14, 2025

Introduction to the Episode

In the premiere episode of Season 3 titled "Formula 6," "Stuff You Missed in History Class" delves into one of the most tumultuous periods in American history: Prohibition. Hosts Holly and Tracy set the stage by highlighting Prohibition's association with speakeasies, jazz flappers, and notable legislative failures. They introduce listeners to a hidden narrative within this era, focusing on a series of mysterious deaths linked to poisoned liquor and the unlikely duo who endeavored to uncover the truth.

The Prohibition Era and Its Challenges

Prohibition, enacted in the 1920s, was intended to curb the consumption of alcohol in the United States. However, instead of eliminating alcohol use, it led to the rise of illegal speakeasies and a surge in organized crime. Holly and Tracy describe this period as "synonymous with speakeasies, jazz flappers, and failure," emphasizing the widespread public resistance and unintended consequences of the law.

Charles Norris and Alexander Gettler: Pioneers of Forensic Toxicology

At the heart of the episode is the story of Charles Norris and Alexander Gettler, New York City's first medical examiner and his diligent partner. The episode paints a vivid picture of these two men:

• Charles Norris: Described by the historian as having "a big, booming voice and a Yale football player's presence" (00:33), Norris was a formidable figure in his field. His authoritative demeanor and physical presence made him a natural leader in the grim task of investigating deaths.

• Alexander Gettler: Often seen "chomping on a cigar all the time" (00:38), Gettler complemented Norris's robust personality with his meticulous and methodical approach to forensic science.

Together, Norris and Gettler were responsible for examining every death in New York City, a monumental task that positioned them at the forefront of pioneering forensic toxicology. The historian likens their partnership to "a buddy cop movie of... these two scientists in the trenches together" (00:54), highlighting the dynamic and collaborative nature of their work.

The Poisoning Conspiracy

As Norris and Gettler meticulously cataloged the city's dead, they began to detect a disturbing pattern: an unusual number of deaths were linked to poisoning. Their investigations revealed that something or someone was systematically poisoning individuals through the adulterated liquor prevalent during Prohibition. The historian underscores the daily toll with the stark statement, "Did people die? They died daily." (01:21)

The duo's relentless pursuit involved transporting gurneys to the city morgue, extracting samples of lethal poisons from the deceased, and meticulously analyzing the data to connect the dots. This investigative process unveiled a terrifying narrative of widespread poisoning, suggesting that the culprits were significant players in the illegal alcohol market, possibly implicating government entities themselves.

Government Involvement and Consequences

The episode takes a darker turn as it implicates the government in the poisoning scandal. The narrative suggests that Prohibition's aggressive stance on alcohol consumption may have backfired, leading to the government inadvertently poisoning its own citizens. The historian poignantly remarks, "The last thing you want is for your people to be called murdering chemists in a congressional hearing." (01:42) This statement hints at the ethical and legal repercussions faced by those involved in the adulteration of alcohol, reflecting the moral ambiguities and unintended consequences of Prohibition.

Conclusion and Impact

"Formula 6" serves as a poignant exploration of Prohibition's darker side, shedding light on the complex interplay between law enforcement, public health, and government responsibility. By chronicling the efforts of Norris and Gettler, the episode underscores the importance of forensic science in uncovering truth and administering justice. It also serves as a cautionary tale about the potential for well-intentioned laws to lead to unforeseen and tragic outcomes.

Notable Quotes:

• Historian: "He had a big, booming voice and a Yale football player's presence." (00:33)
• Historian: "Like a buddy cop movie of, like, these two scientists in the trenches together." (00:54)
• Historian: "Did people die? They died daily." (01:21)
• Historian: "The last thing you want is for your people to be called murdering chemists in a congressional hearing." (01:42)

Final Thoughts

This episode of "Stuff You Missed in History Class" not only recounts a gripping historical mystery but also invites listeners to reflect on the broader implications of legislative actions and their impact on society. By weaving together historical facts with engaging storytelling, Holly and Tracy offer a compelling narrative that is both informative and thought-provoking, making history accessible and relevant to contemporary audiences.