Legacy
Original Legacy Productions
Afua Hirsch and Peter Frankopan tell the wild stories of some of the most extraordinary men and women ever to have lived – and ask whether they have the rep they deserve. Should Nina Simone’s role in the civil rights movement be more celebrated than it is? When you find out what Picasso got up to in his studio, can you still admire his art? Was Napoleon a hero or a tyrant - or both? (And, while we’re at it, was he even short?) Legacy is the show that looks at big lives from the perspective of now – and doesn’t always like what it sees. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Nov 3, 2025 • 41min
Kwame Nkrumah | The Good Subject | 1
The podcast delves into the transformative life of Kwame Nkrumah, exploring his early years in a small Ghanaian village and the revolutionary ideas that shaped African freedom. Insights into his upbringing as an only child reveal influences that fueled his political drive. The discussion highlights the impact of colonial education on his worldview, alongside the racial ideologies that stoked his passion for independence. His mentorship and early activism are examined, along with his pioneering role in pan-African thought and the nascent nationalist movement.
Oct 30, 2025 • 35min
St George | This is England and Beyond - St George's Flag Today | 2
As the Cross of St George once again fills the streets, the complex meanings behind the flag come to light. From its historical ties to the Crusades and colonialism, to its rise in football culture, the conversation navigates the flag's divisive legacy. Afua and Peter explore how nostalgia shaped English identity abroad while addressing why some feel excluded by its modern representation. They ponder whether the flag can be reclaimed for inclusivity and question if true national solidarity can exist without addressing deep-rooted inequalities.
Oct 28, 2025 • 40min
St George | This is England - The Flag Of St George | 1
Peter and Afua dive into the fascinating origins of the flag of St George, uncovering its ties to a multicultural background. They explore St George's transformation from a Roman soldier to England's patron saint amid myth, martyrdom, and royal propaganda. The hosts discuss how dragon-slaying legends and Christian cults intertwined with pagan traditions, shaping the flag's modern symbolism. They also reflect on George's rise in Britain, his military associations during the Crusades, and how his image influenced English identity and imperialism.
Oct 23, 2025 • 45min
Martin Luther | A Man Who Changed The World | 2
Unpack the complex legacy of Martin Luther, from his firebrand personality to his unexpected influence on social media. Explore how his ideas ignited religious violence and shaped the Reformation, affecting figures like Henry VIII. Discover the dark appropriation of his work by Nazi ideology and the nuanced impact on gender roles. Dive into how Lutheranism transformed education and literacy across Europe, and reflect on the duality of Luther's courageous yet flawed character.
4 snips
Oct 21, 2025 • 51min
Martin Luther | Revolutionary, Hero and Villain | 1
Explore the life of Martin Luther, the rebel monk who shook the foundations of the Church. Discover his transformative experiences, from a thunderstorm that spurred his monastic vow to his shocking observations in Rome. Delve into the impact of his 95 Theses and the ensuing theological battles, including his stand at the Diet of Worms. Learn about his groundbreaking translation of the Bible into German and his personal life, including marriage. This discussion reveals both the heroic and troubling aspects of his legacy.
Oct 16, 2025 • 41min
The Humble Potato | The Famine and the Frontier | 2
Legacy is back with Part 2 of The Humble Potato. How a miracle crop turned to misery — fuelling famine, exile, and the fight for Irish independence. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
5 snips
Oct 14, 2025 • 46min
The Humble Potato | The Root Of Empires | 1
Discover the surprising history of the potato, a humble root that built empires and transformed economies. The hosts explore its Andean origins, diverse cultivation practices, and cultural significance. Learn how potatoes became entwined with European attitudes, from dismissal to essential food. They discuss the crop's nutritional advantages and its role in population growth and urbanization. Intriguingly, the conversation also touches on how this staple influenced gender roles and social reforms, hinting at the darker aspects of its legacy to come.
11 snips
Jun 18, 2025 • 41min
Joan of Arc | The Birth of a Saint | 4
Joan of Arc's tragic fate is explored, revealing her unyielding spirit even as she faced execution. The emotional weight of her martyrdom and its impact on witnesses is vividly portrayed. Despite attempts to diminish her legacy, her story transformed into one of faith and courage. The complex dynamics of her relationship with authority, especially King Charles, highlight her lasting influence on France. Joan’s canonization and her role as a symbol of empowerment for women are also discussed, showcasing her remarkable place in history.
10 snips
Jun 11, 2025 • 47min
Joan of Arc | Trial by Fire | 3
Joan of Arc faces disappointment as her march on Paris fails. Determined to drive the English out, she returns to battle but is captured during a fierce fight at Compiègne. The podcast recounts her harrowing captivity and the psychological trauma she endures. As she stands trial, Joan defies a hostile court, clinging to her faith despite relentless interrogation. The discussion highlights the social implications of her gender and the political motives behind her condemnation, preserving her legacy for future generations.
9 snips
Jun 4, 2025 • 46min
Joan of Arc | The Girl Who Made a King | 2
Joan of Arc's journey takes a dramatic turn as she successfully liberates Orléans and stands by Charles for his crowning. Her bold leadership inspires French troops in the turbulent Hundred Years' War. The spiritual implications of royal rituals are examined, alongside Joans's ambitious march on Paris amidst rising tensions. As she faces the chaotic challenges of battle and societal pressures, her unwavering courage shines through. The narrative highlights her transformation from military savior to a divine crusader, uniting France against the English threat.
