Throughline
NPR
Throughline is a time machine. Each episode, we travel beyond the headlines to answer the question, "How did we get here?" We use sound and stories to bring history to life and put you into the middle of it. From ancient civilizations to forgotten figures, we take you directly to the moments that shaped our world. Throughline is hosted by Peabody Award-winning journalists Rund Abdelfatah and Ramtin Arablouei.Subscribe to Throughline+. You'll be supporting the history-reframing, perspective-shifting, time-warping stories you can't get enough of - and you'll unlock access bonus episodes and sponsor-free listening. Learn more at plus.npr.org/throughline
Episodes
Mentioned books
28 snips
Nov 13, 2025 • 51min
The Creeping Coup
In this conversation, Khulud Khair, a Sudanese commentator and former think tank director, provides a firsthand perspective on the ongoing conflict in Sudan. She shares her harrowing escape from Khartoum amidst chaos and highlights the staggering humanitarian crisis facing millions. The discussion extends to the international stakes involved, revealing how countries like the U.S., China, and the UAE are entangled in Sudan's turmoil, with civilians tragically caught in the crossfire of power struggles between rival military factions.
71 snips
Nov 6, 2025 • 52min
Winter is Coming
David Sepkoski, a historian of science and author, joins for an intriguing exploration of how the discovery of the dinosaur extinction event during the Cold War shifted our understanding of catastrophic risks. The discussion weaves through Walter Alvarez's groundbreaking research linking iridium to an asteroid impact. Sepkoski reveals how these insights paralleled nuclear winter models championed by Carl Sagan, ultimately influencing public perception and policy against nuclear war. The conversation highlights the intertwined fates of dinosaurs and humanity through the lens of scientific advocacy.
28 snips
Oct 30, 2025 • 51min
Prosecuting Genocide
Delve into the legal evolution of the term 'genocide' from its origins in World War II to its first applications in the Bosnian War. Explore how investigative journalism unveiled horrific ethnic cleansing. Learn about the complexities of the International Criminal Tribunal and the challenges it faced in prosecuting war crimes. Discover the significance of the Srebrenica tragedy and how it shaped international law. The podcast also discusses ongoing implications for contemporary cases, making it a powerful reflection on justice and accountability.
12 snips
Oct 29, 2025 • 30min
Throughline Dances
Get ready to groove as Ramtin Arablouei takes you on a musical journey! Discover how house music feels like a sacred celebration, fostering joy and community on the dance floor. Explore the clashes between rave culture and authorities, and dive into the rich history of DIY electronic scenes. Marvel at the marathon parties of Chicago that electrified the early house sound. Experience the powerful emotions tied to non-stop music and learn how dance floors can unite people across divisions. It's a rhythmic escape you won't want to miss!
72 snips
Oct 23, 2025 • 51min
The Internet Under the Sea
Ben Roberts, an expert in subsea cable engineering, shares insights on the fragility of undersea cables and their pivotal role in carrying most internet traffic. Cyrus Field IV, a descendant of the visionary behind the first transatlantic cable, discusses his ancestor’s determination to connect the world across oceans. They explore the challenges of cable construction, including storms and mechanical failures, as well as the modern implications of recent cable disruptions, raising concerns about sabotage in today’s interconnected world.
32 snips
Oct 16, 2025 • 52min
The Rise of the Right Wing in Israel
The podcast delves into the rise of right-wing politics in Israel, highlighting Benjamin Netanyahu’s political journey. It examines the historical backdrop of significant events, like Yitzhak Rabin's assassination and the impact of militant activism. The discussion includes figures like Meir Kahane and Itamar Ben-Gvir, whose radical ideologies reshaped Israeli politics. It also explores Netanyahu’s strategic alliances and the normalization of extremist rhetoric in political discourse, while reflecting on societal divisions and civil conflict concerns.
117 snips
Oct 9, 2025 • 50min
A History of Hamas
Martin Keir, a lecturer at the University of Sydney and author on Hamas, and Khalid El-Gindi, an expert on Palestinian affairs, dive deep into the origins and evolution of Hamas. They discuss how grassroots protests during the First Intifada fueled its emergence and the defining aims in its 1988 charter. The conversation highlights Hamas's identity as an Islamist movement, the impact of historical events on its formation, and the shifting dynamics of Israeli-Palestinian relations over the decades.
31 snips
Oct 2, 2025 • 52min
From the Frontlines
Enes Baba, a courageous Gaza-based journalist for NPR, shares harrowing firsthand accounts of life under bombardment and the heavy toll on local reporters. Walter Rogers, a seasoned war correspondent, reflects on the evolution of wartime journalism, revealing the complexities of embedding with troops. Both guests highlight the critical role of local journalists in conflict zones and the escalating risks they face. Their poignant narratives shed light on the ethical burdens and operational challenges of uncovering truths amid chaos.
Sep 30, 2025 • 30min
Throughline Sleeps
Explore the soothing world of sleep with a calming audio journey designed to help you drift off. Experience a serene guided induction that eases you into relaxation. Delve into deeper imagery as the narration slows, inviting you to embrace dreamlike states. Complete your transition to sleep with gentle encouragement towards restful immersion. This serene experience is perfect for unwinding after a challenging day.
90 snips
Sep 25, 2025 • 49min
The Anti-Vaccine Movement
Join Paul Offit, a leading vaccine expert from the Vaccine Education Center, and historian Elena Conis as they delve into the roots of the anti-vaccine movement. They discuss pivotal moments like the botched polio vaccine and the origins of vaccine skepticism. Hear about the infamous Wakefield study, the media's role in public perception, and how celebrity influence has shaped vaccine debates. They also explore the consequences of declining vaccination rates and the erosion of public trust in health authorities, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.
