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
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.
14 snips
Dec 26, 2024 • 53min
History of the Self: Love
Maura Weigel, an assistant professor and author of "Labor of Love," joins Andrea Wolff, author of "Magnificent Rebels," to delve into the intricate evolution of modern romantic love. They discuss the historical context of dating, the impact of Romanticism on our understanding of love, and how digital platforms have changed the landscape of relationships, often leading to feelings of loneliness. The conversation flows from philosophical insights on self-love to the cultural narratives shaping our romantic ideals today.
24 snips
Dec 24, 2024 • 28min
Embedded: The Black Gate
Emily Feng, an NPR correspondent, provides a deep dive into the heartbreaking story of Abdullatif Kucar, a Uyghur man searching for his wife and children detained by Chinese authorities. She unravels the emotional upheaval that families endure amid government repression and surveillance. Feng's journey also reveals the dark reality of detention camps in Xinjiang, exploring the struggles for identity and cultural preservation within the Uyghur community. This narrative sheds light on the broader human rights violations faced by this marginalized group.
40 snips
Dec 19, 2024 • 51min
History of the Self: Smell and Memory
Christina Kim, a reporter and producer on the Throughline team, teams up with Rachel Herz, a neuroscientist and author specializing in the psychology of smell. Together, they explore the profound connection between scent and memory, showing how aromas evoke powerful personal narratives. They share fascinating insights on how smells shape identity and recall, discuss the impact of losing one’s sense of smell during COVID, and highlight historical significance by connecting olfactory experiences to cultural narratives and trauma.
6 snips
Dec 16, 2024 • 27min
Going to the Source of L.A.'s Water
Anya Steinberg, an associate producer at NPR, shares insights from her reporting trip to Owens Valley on the creation of the Los Angeles aqueduct. The conversation reveals the impact of the aqueduct on rural communities, particularly Indigenous rights and water management struggles. Anya explores the historical and emotional ramifications of this water infrastructure, touching on traditional irrigation practices of the Paiute and Shoshone tribes. She also raises moral questions about climate change and resource allocation, offering a rich perspective on sustainability.
25 snips
Dec 12, 2024 • 50min
When Christmas Went Viral
In this captivating discussion, Charles Dickens—renowned 19th-century writer and social commentator—reveals the transformative power of his classic *A Christmas Carol*. He delves into how the story reshaped Christmas celebrations, shifting from somber traditions to joyous festivities. Dickens shares his own childhood memories that inspired the novella and highlights the social issues faced by the working class. His reflections on themes of compassion and redemption remain relevant today, illuminating the true spirit of Christmas across generations.
61 snips
Dec 5, 2024 • 53min
Seeking Asylum in the U.S.
Ruth Wasson, a former immigration policy researcher, and Maria Cristina Garcia, a Cornell history professor, dive into the complexities of seeking asylum in the U.S. They highlight how historical crises shaped immigration policies, from Jewish refugees during the Holocaust to the Cuban and Haitian struggles during the Cold War. The discussion reveals the unequal treatment of asylum seekers and the urgent challenges they face in today's political climate, emphasizing the need for systemic reforms to uphold the nation’s promise of refuge.
13 snips
Nov 28, 2024 • 49min
The Lord Of Misrule (Throwback)
Explore the rebellious life of Thomas Morton, who faced exile from Puritan Massachusetts for his wild ways and alliances with Native people. Discover the vibrant tensions at Marymount, where festivities brazenly clashed with rigid Puritan values. Laughter arises as Morton's satire critiques the Pilgrims’ strict lifestyle. The narrative dives into his ambitious challenges against colonization and the chilling impact of the Pequot War, ultimately highlighting the importance of diverse perspectives in shaping America’s history.
24 snips
Nov 21, 2024 • 50min
The Mother of Thanksgiving
Sarah Josepha Hale, a 19th-century writer and editor, played a pivotal role in making Thanksgiving a national holiday while advocating for unity during the Civil War. David Silverman, a history professor, provides essential context about the contrasting narratives of Thanksgiving, particularly the implications for Indigenous peoples. They explore Hale's relentless campaign and shed light on what the traditional story leaves out, ultimately questioning the complexities of American identity and the often overlooked histories that shape the holiday.
