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Episode5 min
Lissin · Jul 2, 2026
Hidden Histories Uncovered

How One Pig Sparked a War: The San Juan Island Standoff of 1859

Discover the bizarre story of the Pig War, when a single farm animal nearly ignited conflict between the US and Britain.

How One Pig Sparked a War: The San Juan Island Standoff of 1859Lissin
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About this episode

Discover the unexpected origins of the 1859 San Juan Island standoff, a tense maritime dispute that nearly ignited war between Britain and the United States. This briefing uncovers how a single pig's death escalated tensions, revealing the quirky yet pivotal moments that shaped international history. Tune in to see how one small animal became a symbol of bigger geopolitical conflicts and gain insight into the fascinating blunders behind historic diplomacy.

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