Witness History
BBC World Service
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.
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.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Jun 25, 2025 • 10min
The funeral train for Robert Kennedy
In June 1968, the assassination of Senator Robert Kennedy sparked a nationwide outpouring of grief. The funeral train journeyed from New York to Washington D.C., with thousands of mourners lining the tracks to pay their respects. Eye-witness accounts reveal the emotional reactions of the public and personal stories from those close to him, such as his bodyguard and press secretary. A poignant moment at the Lincoln Memorial captured the collective sorrow and hope for change among diverse groups, creating a powerful memory still felt today.
Jun 24, 2025 • 11min
The Czech Freedom Train
In 1951, a daring hijacking turned a train from Prague into a lifeline to freedom in West Germany. The real-life escape was fraught with tension, featuring emotional farewells and encounters with border guards. While some found new lives across the Iron Curtain, many faced severe consequences back home. Eyewitness accounts and archived interviews bring the bravery and struggles of those escapees to life, showcasing a pivotal moment of hope against a backdrop of oppression.
Jun 23, 2025 • 11min
The Gratitude Train: France thanks America
June Cutchins shares her heartfelt memories of the Gratitude Train, a remarkable gift from France to America in 1949. As a child in Florida, she recounts the excitement of receiving unique treasures from the train, including precious artwork and handmade gifts. The train symbolizes the deep appreciation of the French for American aid after World War II. Cutchins' personal stories illuminate the emotional connections forged through acts of kindness during challenging times, making history feel vivid and relatable.
7 snips
Jun 20, 2025 • 10min
Making Jaws
Carl Gottlieb, co-writer of the iconic film 'Jaws,' shares behind-the-scenes stories from its chaotic production. He recalls how the film sparked a cultural phenomenon that left beachgoers terrified. The legendary line 'You're going to need a bigger boat' was an improvised gem that contributed to the movie's suspense. Gottlieb also discusses the innovative challenges posed by the mechanical shark and the captivating score, all of which transformed it into the first summer blockbuster that changed Hollywood forever.
10 snips
Jun 19, 2025 • 10min
The signing of the Treaty of Versailles
On June 28, 1919, the Treaty of Versailles was signed, marking the end of World War One. The podcast explores the conflicting visions of its signatories, with Wilson seeking peace and Clemenceau demanding retribution. A vivid first-hand account captures the somber atmosphere of the signing, revealing the emotions of the German delegates and the crowd's reaction. The aftermath paints a picture of disillusionment and concern about the treaty's long-term effects, particularly in Germany, raising questions about its legacy.
8 snips
Jun 18, 2025 • 11min
Civil rights swim-in
In June 1964, black and white activists made waves by jumping into a 'whites only' swimming pool in Florida, challenging racial segregation. The dramatic scene escalated when the motel's manager poured cleaning acid into the water to force them out. This bold protest not only attracted global media attention but also coincided with the passage of the Civil Rights Act. Through personal stories and reflections, the podcast highlights the courage of the protesters and the significance of their fight for equality.
Jun 17, 2025 • 9min
Charleston church shooting
A survivor recounts her chilling encounter with Dylann Roof during the Charleston church shooting. The unfolding chaos and fear in the historic church left a community in deep mourning. Emotional reflections reveal the extensive aftermath of grief and resilience as families honor those lost. A moving eulogy highlights themes of race and gun violence, while a memorial garden symbolizes hope and healing. This heartfelt tale showcases the strength of a community rising from tragedy.
Jun 16, 2025 • 10min
'Tripperburgen' the sexual health clinics that detained women
The harrowing saga of 'Tripperburgen' sheds light on the forcibly detained women in East Germany's sexual health clinics post-World War II. Personal stories reveal the traumatic encounters faced by individuals like Sabine, who experienced abuse under the guise of medical attention. The discussion highlights the grim realities of dehumanizing gynecological examinations and the deep psychological scars left by such experiences. This unsettling narrative serves as a wake-up call to recognize women's rights and the need for accountability.
29 snips
Jun 13, 2025 • 10min
The Schengen Agreement
Discover the fascinating origins of the Schengen Agreement, signed on a boat in Luxembourg in 1985 by five politicians. Learn how this lighthearted meeting led to the removal of border checks between multiple European nations, enhancing travel for over 450 million people. Explore the initial skepticism surrounding the agreement and how it gained public support, transforming the landscape of European unity and cooperation. The impact of the agreement continues to shape the lives of millions across 29 countries today.
8 snips
Jun 12, 2025 • 11min
Ronald Reagan’s ‘Tear down this wall’ speech
Peter Robinson, a speechwriter for Ronald Reagan and a research fellow at Stanford, shares insider stories about crafting the iconic 'Tear down this wall' speech. He reveals how that pivotal phrase almost didn't make it into the address and the pressure he felt in making history. The discussion dives into the Berlin Wall's significance during the Cold War and how Reagan's bold call resonated deeply, inspiring change across Eastern Europe. Robinson provides a unique perspective on a moment that changed the course of history.
