Witness History

In 1907, key figures of the Russian Revolution met in London, facing financial woes that nearly left them stranded. Lenin's compelling speech deepened the divide between the Bolsheviks and Mensheviks. A crucial £500 loan ultimately facilitated their return to Russia, serving as a financial spark for the upcoming revolution. Tensions ran high as these revolutionaries navigated uncertainty, revealing their fears and aspirations that would shape the future of Russia.

Baayork Lee, who originated the role of Connie Wong in A Chorus Line, shares her journey from dancer to Broadway star. She reveals how her real-life experiences contributed to the musical's groundbreaking narrative. The buzz surrounding its opening night attracted legends like Diana Ross and Jackie Kennedy Onassis. Lee discusses the unique audition process and how the show overcame initial doubts to win nine Tony Awards. Her insights illuminate the lasting legacy of A Chorus Line, showcasing its profound impact on the theater world.

Stephanie Kwolek, a Polish-American scientist, made history in 1965 by inventing Kevlar, a fiber five times stronger than steel. She shares her inspiring journey through the male-dominated field of chemistry at DuPont and the serendipitous discovery that led to a breakthrough in high-performance fibers. Kwolek discusses the diverse applications of Kevlar, from bulletproof vests to motorcycle gear, and emphasizes her passion for encouraging women and girls to pursue careers in science, leaving a lasting legacy in the industry.

In a historic night in Prague, Bill Clinton and Vaclav Havel bonded over jazz, bridging East and West. The duo surprised the audience with an impromptu performance at a famous club, symbolizing a new transatlantic alliance. The podcast also delves into Havel's remarkable journey from imprisoned playwright to president. Personal stories intertwine with the music, capturing the spirit of a post-communist cultural renaissance. Archive audio enhances the emotional depth of diplomatic connections, reflecting a pivotal moment in history.

On 22 July 2005, an unarmed Brazilian man was shot dead by anti-terrorism police at Stockwell Tube station, in London.Jean Charles de Menezes was shot seven times in the head because he was mistaken for a terror suspect. The killing made headlines all over the world and his family demanded justice.Matt Pintus spoke to Jean Charles’ cousin and best friend, Patricia da Silva, in 2022. Eye-witness accounts brought to life by archive. Witness History is for those fascinated by the past. We take you to the events that have shaped our world through the eyes of the people who were there. For nine minutes every day, we take you back in time and all over the world, to examine wars, coups, scientific discoveries, cultural moments and much more. Recent episodes explore everything from football in Brazil, the history of the ‘Indian Titanic’ and the invention of air fryers, to Public Enemy’s Fight The Power, subway art and the political crisis in Georgia. We look at the lives of some of the most famous leaders, artists, scientists and personalities in history, including: visionary architect Antoni Gaudi and the design of the Sagrada Familia; Michael Jordan and his bespoke Nike trainers; Princess Diana at the Taj Mahal; and Görel Hanser, manager of legendary Swedish pop band Abba on the influence they’ve had on the music industry. You can learn all about fascinating and surprising stories, such as the time an Iraqi journalist hurled his shoes at the President of the United States in protest of America’s occupation of Iraq; the creation of the Hollywood commercial that changed advertising forever; and the ascent of the first Aboriginal MP.(Photo: A memorial for Jean Charles de Menezes outside Stockwell Tube station. Credit: Oli Scarff / Getty Images)

Urmilla Deshpande, granddaughter of Irawati Karve, shares the incredible journey of India's first female anthropologist. She discusses Irawati's groundbreaking research on unstudied tribes, where she ventured deep into rainforests even with her children. Urmilla elaborates on Irawati's bold challenge against racial theories during her PhD in Germany, emphasizing integrity in the face of prejudice. The conversation highlights her rich legacy and the impact of her pioneering spirit on future generations, inspiring a reexamination of women’s contributions to anthropology.

Ryan Paris, the Italian singer behind the iconic hit 'Dolce Vita,' shares his experiences from the Italo disco movement of the 1980s. He discusses how the genre emerged from the ashes of American disco, driven by innovative Italian producers. Paris humorously recounts the hunt for his stage name and the thrill of his song's rise to fame on 'Top of the Pops.' He also reflects on the current resurgence of Italo disco and its nostalgic appeal, capturing the hearts of a new generation.

Brian Tobin, Canada's Minister for Fisheries and Oceans in 1995, vividly recounts the Turbot War, a dramatic clash over fishing rights with Spain. He describes a tense standoff at sea that began with gunfire, as Canadian authorities sought to protect depleted fish stocks. Tobin shares how accusations of illegal fishing sparked outrage and political turmoil, leading to high-stakes negotiations. The importance of sustainable fishing practices and the lasting legacy of this maritime dispute are highlighted, providing a captivating insight into international relations and environmental conservation.

Euclid Tsakalotos, former finance minister of Greece and economics professor, offers an insider's perspective on the country's 2015 debt crisis. He shares gripping details from a make-or-break 17-hour summit in Brussels, where tensions ran high as Greece faced potential exit from the Eurozone. Tsakalotos recounts how European leaders, including Angela Merkel, reacted under pressure and the dramatic moment when a door was locked to ensure negotiation continuity. His reflections illuminate the dire straits the Greek populace endured during this tumultuous time.

Cathy Ashton, a notable figure in international diplomacy and former EU High Representative, recounts her role in the groundbreaking Iran nuclear deal of 2015. She shares insights on the delicate balancing act faced by negotiators amid high stakes and skepticism. From unconventional distractions like doodling to the complexities of cultural respect, the journey of reaching an agreement is vividly portrayed. Ashton also reflects on the consequences of the U.S. withdrawal in 2018, highlighting its impact on global security and diplomatic relations.