00:00 Fireworks are based on black powder, which consists of potassium nitrate, charcoal, and sulfur, and when ignited, the potassium nitrate releases oxygen that feeds the charcoal and creates the light and heat seen in fireworks.

04:54 Fireworks are made up of black powder that reacts with oxygen and sulfur to create an explosive force, and sparklers are essentially the same thing but with added sugar, water, and metal.

10:04 Fireworks can be extremely dangerous, as evidenced by numerous accidents and incidents involving fireworks factories and personal use of fireworks resulting in injuries and even deaths.

15:53 A game involving smoke bombs went wrong and caused a fire that destroyed two trees, two roofs, and a car.

21:05 The American Dream has fluctuated over time and is influenced by the state of the economy, but it originated from John Winthrop's vision of a society where everyone could prosper and succeed through hard work.

25:54 The American Dream originated from John Winthrop's vision of a society where everyone could prosper and succeed through hard work, and it became embodied in the 19th century with the belief in American exceptionalism, and later, with the writings of Henry David Thoreau and the westward push of immigrants.

30:46 The American Dream has evolved over time, with MLK redefining it to focus on equal rights and rebuilding decaying inner cities, and critics arguing that it has become too focused on material possessions rather than opportunity.

35:38 The hosts are joined by Joe Randazzo, editor of The Onion, who shares headlines from their 1783 edition, including the top-selling books and the controversial addition of snuff to the tobacco pyramid.

41:40 Snuff was once considered more important than pipe smoke, but it was removed from the tobacco pyramid in the 70s; a woman caused a stir when she wandered outside her house for no apparent reason and was later reprimanded, disowned, and hanged; there was a giant man who stood at 5 feet 11 inches and was known for his colossal size and appetite.

46:25 The hosts discuss various inventions attributed to Benjamin Franklin, including the death kite, carton device for eggs, and the whoopee cushion, as well as other news and concerns from the 18th century, such as an Indian being taught to wear a hat and worries about overpopulation in New York City.

51:55 The hosts thank their fans and various people who helped with the podcast episode, and encourage listeners to check out their new video podcast.