
Throughline
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
Latest episodes

Nov 9, 2023 • 58min
Grenada: Nobody's Backyard (2021)
Explore the forgotten history and lasting impact of the 1983 US invasion of Grenada. Discover the revolution, resistance, and Black power in Grenada, as well as the influence of Grenada's vision on Black Americans. Dive into the government takeover, shocking executions, aftermath of the invasion, and the unresolved history surrounding the event.

Nov 2, 2023 • 50min
The Supreme Court's Shadow Docket
Explore the Supreme Court's hidden power on the shadow docket and its impact on significant rulings, such as federal death penalty cases, COVID-era voting procedures, and the gutting of the Voting Rights Act. Learn about the court's decision-making process, its role in granting emergency relief, and how it has gained more control over American policy. Delve into the case of James Meredith and the repercussions of a Supreme Court ruling in his favor. Examine a major abortion rights ruling in Texas and the unchecked power of the Supreme Court.

8 snips
Oct 26, 2023 • 53min
The Three Faces of Ataturk
Explore Mustafa Kemal Ataturk's vision for Turkey's future, the rise of a new nation, and the complex relationship with Turkey's minorities, including the Armenian genocide. Uncover hidden truths about Ataturk's life and the aftermath of World War I. Discover Ataturk's reforms, including the calendar change, and the legacy of Mesovkamal in the 21st century.

Oct 19, 2023 • 50min
The Dance of the Dead (2021)
Discover the origins and transformation of Halloween, from ancient Celtic beliefs in Samhain to the impact of counter-cultural movements and corporate America. Learn about the connection between Halloween and creepy elements like ghosts, demons, and witches. Explore the folklore of Jack O' Lantern and the resistance to British rule in Ireland. Dive into the evolution of Halloween as a holiday for both children and adults. Uncover Elvira's personal journey and the cultural fascination with Halloween.

Oct 12, 2023 • 49min
The Contradictions of Abraham Lincoln
Explore the contradictions and compromises of Abraham Lincoln as a politician, including his approach to ending slavery through collaboration and compromise. Analyze his tactical approach and contrasting views on racism and political equality. Discuss his priorities and actions as president, including his limited concern for Native American rights. Examine the risks taken by Lincoln and politician Liz Cheney for speaking out against their own parties. Delve into the complex relationship between Lincoln and General McLaughlin during the Civil War.

6 snips
Oct 5, 2023 • 55min
Two Miles Down The Road
In this podcast, the focus is on a group of citizens in a poor, rural, majority Black community who come together to fight for environmental justice. It explores the dumping of toxic waste in their county, the controversial decision to build a toxic waste landfill, and the opposition they faced. The podcast also touches on early activism, voter registration efforts, and the unity achieved in addressing environmental racism. It culminates with a powerful march to the landfill and discusses ongoing issues of targeting poor and minority communities.

7 snips
Sep 28, 2023 • 53min
Tenochtitlán: A Retelling of the Conquest (2021)
Explore the fall of Tenochtitlán from multiple perspectives, challenging the dominant European narrative. Learn about the vibrant civilization of Tenochtitlán, the brutal massacre during the conquest, and the devastating impact of infectious diseases. Discover the importance of revising history and understanding the consequences of European imperialism.

16 snips
Sep 21, 2023 • 52min
David v Goliath
In the year 1258, the Mongol Army destroyed the great Islamic city of Baghdad. They continued to push West, conquering Muslim cities until there was just one left in their way: Cairo. The Battle of Ayn Jalut was a monumental battle that decided the fate of the Islamic world. This battle is as important to world history as D-Day or Gettysburg. The podcast explores the rise of Genghis Khan, the challenges faced by the Mongols in conquering Cairo, and the fierce battle between the Mamluks and the Mongols in 1260.

5 snips
Sep 14, 2023 • 51min
A Tale of Two Tribal Nations
Explore the contrasting experiences of Red Lake and Leech Lake Native American communities in Minnesota and the gradual erosion of their land and independence. Learn about the history and migration of the Ojibwe people and the impact of the allotment act of 1887. Discover the negotiations at Red Lake in 1889 and the efforts of Red Lake leaders to preserve their unallotted reservation land. Delve into the conflicts over fishing rights, the concept of tribal sovereignty, and the importance of preserving the Ojibwe language and culture through the Indagini-Tawi-Ging School.

24 snips
Sep 7, 2023 • 49min
Silicon Island (2022)
Explore Taiwan's journey from a quiet agrarian island to a global tech powerhouse, with a focus on its role as the leader in semiconductor production and its economic miracle. Learn about the challenges faced by companies like Nintendo due to the global chip shortage and the complex political situation between China and Taiwan. Follow the stories of Taiwanese engineering graduates and their impact on Taiwan's transformation, as well as the determination and risk involved in starting a company. Discover how Taiwan became a key dealer for high-tech parts and established its own Silicon Valley.