Dan Snow's History Hit The Great Train Robbery
Aug 7, 2025
Join Nick Russell-Pavier, a BBC producer and author who spent years uncovering the truth behind the audacious Great Train Robbery, alongside Colin Mackenzie, a Fleet Street journalist known for tracking down Ronnie Biggs in Brazil. They discuss the meticulous planning of the heist, the chaotic escape, and the ensuing manhunt that captivated the public. From betrayals to bizarre twists in their lives, the duo reveals the reality behind the glamorous portrayals of these infamous criminals, making for a thrilling recounting of one of Britain's most notorious crimes.
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Robbers' Background and Flaws
- The robbers were ordinary South London criminals with limited planning and ambition.
- Their poor understanding of money and lack of alibis led to their downfall.
Postwar Environment Fuels Crime
- The post-war crime wave created blurred moral boundaries and a sense of lawlessness.
- American culture gave young men aspirations for a better life, influencing their turn to crime.
Heist Plan From Informant Insight
- The idea to rob the train originated from a solicitor clerk matching criminals with information.
- They exploited train logistics, targeting the third carriage carrying the cash, and a location to unload it.
