Witness History

On 9 August 1945, the United States dropped an atomic bomb on Nagasaki, Japan, killing at least 74,000 people. It led to the end of World War Two in Asia, with Japan surrendering to the Allies six days later. The Nagasaki bomb, alongside the Hiroshima bomb on 6 August, remain the only times nuclear weapons have been used in a war.In an interview he gave to the BBC in 1980, British prisoner of war Geoff Sherring describes how he survived the explosion. Produced and presented by Rachel Naylor. This programme was made in collaboration with BBC Archives. 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 the death of Adolf Hitler, the first spacewalk and the making of the movie Jaws, to celebrity tortoise Lonesome George, the Kobe earthquake and the invention of superglue. We look at the lives of some of the most famous leaders, artists, scientists and personalities in history, including: Eva Peron – Argentina’s Evita; President Ronald Reagan and his famous ‘tear down this wall’ speech; Thomas Keneally on why he wrote Schindler’s List; and Jacques Derrida, France’s ‘rock star’ philosopher. You can learn all about fascinating and surprising stories, such as the civil rights swimming protest; the disastrous D-Day rehearsal; and the death of one of the world’s oldest languages.(Photo: The Nagasaki bomb on 9 August 1945. Credit: Universal History Archive/Universal Images Group/Getty Images)

Explore the historic launch of the Space Shuttle, a pivotal moment that transformed space exploration. Discover the innovative technology and the bravery of the astronauts who ventured into the unknown. Dive into the dreams and realities behind its development, capturing the emotional highs and lows experienced by mission control. This fascinating story reveals the triumphs and tragedies that marked a revolution in modern space travel.

Steve Okamoto, the designer of the Steel Dragon 2000, shares his thrilling journey in the world of amusement rides. He recounts the unique challenges of creating the world’s longest roller coaster, clocking in at nearly 2.5 km. From engineering hurdles to negotiating with amusement parks, delve into the intricate process behind this record-breaking ride. Okamoto's passion shines through as he describes the electrifying grand opening and the cultural significance of the Steel Dragon 2000 in Japan's amusement history.

Explore the haunting tale of Chuquicamata, a once-thriving mining town in Chile now left deserted. Hear poignant stories from former residents about life in the town and the pollution that forced them to leave. Feel the nostalgia as they return annually to celebrate their past, singing happy birthday to their ghostly home. Vivid imagery captures the eerie remnants of the town while highlighting efforts to preserve its rich history as a World Heritage Site.

In 1986, Cleveland attempted to break a world record with a jaw-dropping release of 1.5 million balloons. What started as a dazzling spectacle quickly turned into chaos as strong winds prevented the balloons from floating away. Eyewitness accounts reveal the excitement and subsequent environmental concerns that arose from this grand event. Listen as the project manager recounts the ambitious hopes and unforeseen challenges of Cleveland Balloonfest, a day that became unforgettable for both its triumphs and missteps.

Maixabel Lasa, widow of the assassinated politician Juan Mari Jáuregui, shares her poignant journey from grief to activism. Following her husband's death by ETA, she dedicated herself to helping victims of violence. The conversation delves into the personal impact of political turmoil in the Basque region and the remarkable relationship she formed with one of her husband's killers. This powerful dialogue explores themes of forgiveness, healing, and the struggle for peace, showcasing the human capacity for empathy amidst tragedy.

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.