Tales from the 10th: Introduction and Radiation, Responsibility and the Courts

In the debut episode of Tales from the 10th, hosts Leah Schwartz and Tina Howell introduce the podcast and the mission of the 10th Circuit Historical Society, sharing the stories, people, and pivotal moments that shaped the courts of the American West. They discuss the unique role of the Tenth Circuit, which serves Colorado, Kansas, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Utah and Wyoming, and explain how the podcast will highlight the individuals and cases that define the circuit’s legal history.The episode then features Senior U.S. District Judge Bruce S. Jenkins, who recounts the landmark case Allen v. United States. The case was brought by plaintiffs known as the “Downwinders,” residents who developed cancers and other illnesses after exposure to radioactive fallout from nuclear weapons testing in Nevada during the 1950s and 1960s. Judge Jenkins reflects on the enormous scale of the litigation, the scientific complexity of radiation exposure, and the human stories behind the case. Although his ruling in favor of the plaintiffs was later reversed on appeal, the case helped spark national attention and ultimately contributed to congressional compensation for thousands affected by nuclear testing.  Locally produced stories Tune in to 89.1 KHOL at 9 p.m. on Sundays for more episodes.