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Ups and Downs: Charles Dow

 

Have you ever wondered how people invest in stocks? Part of that answer comes from a story more than 130 years old. It’s the story of Charles Henry Dow. Join host Kenny Malone and let’s dive into the story of Dow and his famous creation, the Dow Jones Industrial Average. Dow started his career as a journalist and through his work, he discovered the fascinating world of Wall Street and stock investments. He decided to create an average that people still use today to gauge the performance of the stock market. But, he didn’t stop there. Ever heard of the Wall Street Journal? Yep, Dow started that too. So, let’s go learn more about these creations that people are still using today to make money.

About the Host

Kenny Malone is a correspondent for NPR's Planet Money podcast. Before that, he was a reporter for WNYC's Only Human podcast. Before that, he was a reporter for Miami's WLRN. And before that, he was a reporter for his friend T.C.'s homemade newspaper, Neighborhood News.

Kenny's stories have investigated everything from abuse in Florida's assisted living facilities to health hackers building their own pancreas to the origins of seemingly made-up holidays like National Raisin Day. Or National Golf Day. Or National Splurge Day.

About Honest History

Honest History creates award-winning books, magazines, and this show for young historians across the world. Our mission is to inspire kids to create a positive impact on history themselves. Learn more at honesthistory.co and @honesthistory.

Credits

This episode was written by Heidi Coburn and produced by Randall Lawrence. Original theme music was written and recorded by Luke Messimer.