
Why do children around the world cuddle toys called "teddy bears" when real bears aren't named Teddy? This episode uncovers the surprising connection between a beloved childhood companion and a moment of presidential compassion in the Mississippi wilderness. We'll journey back to 1902 to discover how one man's ethical decision during a hunting expedition sparked a cultural phenomenon that transformed the toy industry forever. From political cartoons to immigrant entrepreneurs, learn how a simple act of kindness became the foundation for one of the world's most cherished toys. The story reveals how language, history, and human values intertwine in the most unexpected ways.