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
23 snips
Mar 6, 2025 • 48min
We the People: Succession of Power
In this enlightening discussion, John Feerick, a Fordham Law School professor known for his pivotal role in drafting the 25th Amendment, dives deep into the challenges of presidential succession. He shares the urgency for constitutional reform following JFK's assassination and how it inspired the creation of the amendment. Feerick highlights historical precedents of presidential incapacity and the legal ambiguity they created, underscoring the importance of clear protocols for maintaining national stability during crises.
136 snips
Feb 27, 2025 • 53min
Health Insurance in America
Join Paul Starr, a Princeton sociology professor with expertise in American healthcare's history, and Jim Marone, a political science professor at Brown University, as they unravel America's complex health insurance saga. They discuss how the shift from universal coverage to employer-based insurance created a system that often leaves many vulnerable. The conversation touches on President Truman's push for universal health insurance, the impact of World War II on healthcare access, and how political resistance shaped today's health landscape.
57 snips
Feb 20, 2025 • 52min
The Evolution of Presidential Power
In this engaging discussion, Andy Rudalevich, a Bowdoin College professor specializing in the executive branch, unpacks the evolving nature of presidential power. He explores the ambiguous powers outlined by the Constitution and traces their expansion through historical crises. Notably, Rudalevich delves into the impact of the Cold War, the 9/11 attacks, and recent unilateral actions like student loan forgiveness. He emphasizes the delicate balance between executive authority and democratic oversight, shedding light on the complexities of the presidency today.
67 snips
Feb 13, 2025 • 49min
The Anti-Vaccine Movement
Explore the origins and evolution of the anti-vaccine movement, rooted in distrust and misinformation. Discover the consequences of the controversial 1998 paper linking vaccines to autism and its lasting impact on public perception. Dive into historical vaccine crises like the Cutter Incident that fueled skepticism. Examine how emotional narratives clash with scientific evidence, revealing societal factors that contribute to the modern rise in vaccine misconceptions. The podcast highlights ongoing struggles in the dialogue around vaccine safety and public health.
150 snips
Feb 6, 2025 • 58min
The History of Birthright Citizenship
In this engaging discussion, attorney Julie Su, a fourth-generation San Franciscan, highlights the historical significance of the Wong Kim Ark case. She explores how Ark's fight for citizenship amid racial discrimination led to a landmark Supreme Court decision affirming birthright citizenship. The conversation dives into contemporary challenges surrounding the issue, discussing President Trump's controversial executive order and its legal implications. Su's insights provide a poignant reflection on identity, heritage, and the ongoing struggle for rights among immigrants in America.
39 snips
Jan 30, 2025 • 48min
The Kingdom Behind Glass
Wando Achebe, a West African history expert at Michigan State University, dives into the tumultuous legacy of the Benin Kingdom and its treasures. The conversation reveals the gripping journey of looted Benin Bronzes to prestigious Cambridge. Achebe elaborates on the clash of empires, the complexity of colonial legacies, and the moral dilemmas surrounding the art's restitution. This narrative intertwines personal identity and history, igniting a deeper understanding of imperialism's impacts.
35 snips
Jan 23, 2025 • 48min
We The People: Cruel and Unusual Punishment
Delve into the meaning of cruel and unusual punishment as defined by the Eighth Amendment. Discover the historical roots of this principle, from King James II's reign to Enlightenment thinkers. Explore the complex legacy of landmark cases like Furman v. Georgia, which reshaped the conversation around the death penalty. Engage with debates on evolving standards of decency and the impact of societal changes on justice. The podcast challenges listeners to rethink the boundaries of human rights and the political landscape of punishment.
12 snips
Jan 16, 2025 • 47min
Ralph Nader, Consumer Crusader (Throwback)
Ralph Nader, a legendary consumer advocate and activist, takes us back to the roots of the consumer movement. He discusses the perilous landscape of automotive safety and the corporate negligence he fought against, notably with General Motors. Nader sheds light on his collaborative work with Nader's Raiders, which inspired major consumer protections. He also reflects on the rising political power of business and the intersection of consumer rights with political advocacy during the Carter administration. This conversation reveals how organized citizenry can drive meaningful change.
35 snips
Jan 9, 2025 • 50min
History of the Self: Dreams
Join neuroscientist Siddhartha Ribeiro, author of "The Oracle of Night," as he dives into the enigmatic world of dreams. He discusses the healing power of dreams in coping with grief and loneliness, supported by neuroscience's insights into memory and creativity. Ribeiro unpacks the integral role dreams have played throughout history, from influencing personal identity to prehistoric art. He also traces the evolution of dream interpretation, from mysticism to modern psychology, revealing their profound impacts on our consciousness and self-awareness.
25 snips
Jan 2, 2025 • 50min
History of the Self: Aging
Elie Metchnikoff, a Nobel Prize-winning scientist known for his groundbreaking work on the immune system, delves into humanity's obsession with aging. He believed aging was a disease and conducted fascinating research, including interviews with centenarians and exploring the health benefits of yogurt. The discussion touches on his meeting with Leo Tolstoy, contrasting views on aging, and the societal implications of extending life. Metchnikoff's relentless curiosity led him to advocate for longevity and challenge perceptions of aging, sparking a yogurt revolution that changed dietary habits.
