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
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.
Nov 14, 2024 • 51min
Behind the Scenes of Throughline
In this engaging discussion, producers Lawrence Wu, Anya Steinberg, and Christina Kim take listeners behind the curtain of their creative process. They explore the origins of the podcast and the challenges faced in delivering compelling narratives. The trio discusses the importance of sound design and music, as well as the impact of storytelling in addressing contemporary issues like environmental justice and political history. Personal anecdotes and the collaborative spirit at NPR add depth to their reflections, making this a must-listen for aspiring podcasters.
14 snips
Nov 7, 2024 • 47min
The Electoral College (Throwback)
Akhil Reed Amar, a Yale Law professor and author, and Carol Anderson, an expert in African American Studies at Emory, explore the Electoral College's origins and significance. They dive into its historical roots, revealing how compromises over slavery influenced its creation. The discussion highlights the Electoral College's role in balancing state power and the ongoing debates surrounding its impact on democracy. Listeners gain insights into the complexities of electoral representation and the challenges of reforming a deeply entrenched system.
