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
Sep 5, 2024 • 46min
How U.S. Unions Took Flight (Throwback)
Explore the vibrant history of airline workers' unions and their fight for civil rights. Discover how the TWA strike of 1986 shaped collective action and the inspirational journey of a flight attendant in the LGBTQ+ rights movement. Witness the resurgence of labor activism in 2023, linking past struggles to present-day challenges. Uncover the pivotal protests for equality and the transformative role of women's leadership in unions. This fascinating narrative intertwines labor rights with broader social justice issues in America.
Aug 29, 2024 • 50min
Water in the West
William Mulholland, the mastermind behind the Los Angeles Aqueduct, and former mayor Fred Eaton delve into the transformative impact of water on LA's growth. They explore the historical significance of Owens Valley and the cultural wisdom of Indigenous irrigation practices. The podcast reveals the ecological consequences of human intervention and the intense conflicts over water rights that ensued. Additionally, it examines Mulholland's rise from humble beginnings to a water visionary, culminating in the tragic failure of the St. Francis Dam, shaping water management's legacy.
Aug 22, 2024 • 47min
We The People: Canary in the Coal Mine
The Third Amendment might sound outdated, but its implications are surprisingly relevant today. The podcast dives into its historical context and frequent violations by the government, often unnoticed. With stories from the American Revolution to World War II, it explores the tension between military presence and civilian rights. Recent crises like Hurricane Katrina and civil unrest challenge the relevance of the Third Amendment, highlighting the ongoing struggle for accountability and the protection of personal freedoms.
Aug 15, 2024 • 50min
We The People: Equal Protection
Delve into the life-changing impact of the Fourteenth Amendment, from its post-Civil War origins to its role in landmark court cases like Roe v. Wade and Brown v. Board of Education. Hear about Lincoln's vision for equality and the backlash faced by African Americans. Discover the significant contributions of Black voters in shaping democracy and the strategic legal battles led by the NAACP for educational equality. Reflect on the evolving meanings of liberty and equal protection in today's society, highlighting the ongoing fight for civil rights.
4 snips
Aug 8, 2024 • 50min
We The People: Legal Representation
The Sixth Amendment guarantees the right to an attorney, but this wasn't always a reality. Clara Foltz's groundbreaking advocacy at the 1893 World's Fair highlights a pivotal moment for public defenders. The podcast dives into the historical evolution of legal representation, the significance of landmark cases like Gideon v. Wainwright, and systemic challenges faced by public defenders today. It also connects the issues of race and justice while emphasizing the urgent need for reforms to ensure fair legal representation for all.
Aug 6, 2024 • 35min
Tested: Questions of a Physical Nature
Explore the harrowing history of women's participation in Olympic track and field. Discover the disturbing practice of 'nude parades' used for gender verification and its lasting impact on athletes. Delve into the struggles faced by women, including bans on events like the 800 meters, and the challenges of identity for athletes with differences in sex development. Uncover the complexities of gender dynamics during the 1936 Olympics and the journey of Zdenek Kobek, who reshaped policies around gender in sports.
8 snips
Aug 1, 2024 • 48min
We the People: Gun Rights
Jack Miller, a pivotal figure in U.S. gun rights history, sparked debates around the Second Amendment after his arrest with an unregistered shotgun. The discussion delves into how his court case shifted the dynamics of gun law interpretations. Topics include the historical context of the Second Amendment, ongoing controversies over individual versus militia rights, and the Supreme Court's influence on current gun rights debates. The conversation also touches on the impact of landmark legislation and pivotal events that have shaped America's complex relationship with gun ownership.
24 snips
Jul 25, 2024 • 49min
We The People: Free Speech
Delve into the evolution of free speech, exploring controversies like hate speech and harmful speech. Learn about landmark cases such as Schenck v. United States and Brandenburg v. Ohio. Understand the impact of technology on free speech and media responsibility. Explore complexities of the First Amendment and upcoming discussion on the Second Amendment.
16 snips
Jul 18, 2024 • 50min
The Creeping Coup
The podcast explores Sudan's long history of political turmoil, power struggles, and economic challenges. It delves into the country's geopolitical importance, ties to terrorism, and cycles of conflict between military leaders and civilians. The narrative discusses Sudan's revolution, military coup, and ongoing war, highlighting the complex web of global interests involved in the region.
77 snips
Jul 11, 2024 • 50min
The Roots of Poverty in America
Exploring the roots of poverty in America, the podcast delves into the impact of rising costs, medical bills, and layoffs on families. It discusses the historical evolution of anti-poverty measures, challenges in funding programs, and recommendations for addressing poverty. The episode also highlights the Mount Laurel Doctrine's role in advocating for affordable housing solutions.
