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
Feb 7, 2025 • 10min
Heathers: The making of a cult classic
Lisanne Falk, known for her role as Heather McNamara in the cult classic film, shares her insights on the making of Heathers. She discusses the film's unexpected journey from box office flop to beloved classic, highlighting its unique blend of dark humor and serious themes. Falk reveals the challenges faced during filming, including its bold take on teenage struggles, and reflects on the film's lasting influence on pop culture. Her anecdotes paint a vivid picture of how a misunderstood movie resonated across generations, transforming audiences' perspectives.
Feb 6, 2025 • 10min
The first global case of coral bleaching
Clive Wilkinson, a marine ecologist and co-ordinator for the Global Coral Reef Monitoring Network, shares insights into the first global coral bleaching event in 1998. He discusses the shockwaves this unprecedented phenomenon sent through the scientific community as rising ocean temperatures led to widespread coral death. The intricate relationship between coral and the algae they depend on is explained, highlighting the impacts of climate change on marine ecosystems and coastal livelihoods. Despite dire prospects, Clive offers a glimpse of hope for coral recovery.
Feb 5, 2025 • 10min
Cuban blindness
Dr. Alfredo Sadun, one of America's top eye specialists, investigates a mysterious blindness epidemic in 1990s Cuba, where 50,000 people lost their sight during a severe economic crisis. Dr. Sadun recounts his urgent mission, facing potential dangers while collaborating with Fidel Castro. Initial fears of a viral cause shift to uncover that methanol poisoning from bootleg rum was to blame. The findings led to crucial health interventions, showcasing the struggles and resilience of Cuban society during this difficult period.
Feb 4, 2025 • 9min
Oradour massacre
Agathe Hébras, granddaughter of Robert Hébras, shares the harrowing tale of her grandfather's survival during the Oradour massacre in June 1944, where 642 villagers lost their lives. She recounts the chilling moments as German soldiers rounded up the population, leading to unimaginable tragedy. Agathe highlights her grandfather's miraculous escape and the heavy burden of silence he carried as a survivor. Through her commitment to preserving this painful history, she emphasizes the importance of remembrance and the impact of storytelling.
Feb 3, 2025 • 10min
Jacques Derrida: ‘Rock star’ philosopher
Discover the fascinating journey of Jacques Derrida, whose bold arguments shattered conventional philosophy at the 1966 talk. Explore the origins of his revolutionary theory of deconstruction, which continues to challenge Western thought. Hear about his cultural impact, from calls for curriculum decolonization to experimental art forms. His lasting influence extends into feminist literature and beyond. Witness the legacy of a thinker whose ideas still inspire critical conversations around truth and historical narratives.
Jan 31, 2025 • 10min
English TV lessons in China go primetime
Kathy Flower, the presenter of the groundbreaking English program 'Follow Me' on Chinese TV during the 1980s, shares her incredible journey as one of China's most famous foreign figures. She discusses how her show, airing at primetime, captivated 500 million viewers during a pivotal cultural shift under Deng Xiaoping. Kathy reveals how humor played a key role in teaching language and culture, fostering connections in remote areas, and highlights her unforgettable experiences living in a rapidly changing China.
Jan 30, 2025 • 10min
1968 New York City teachers' strike
In 1968, New York City was rocked by a teachers' strike sparked by a fierce battle over school control. The tension between predominantly white educators and the Black and Latino community seeking influence in their schools brought significant unrest. Eyewitness accounts reveal the chaos and challenges faced by participants, alongside grassroots efforts for educational reform. This conflict highlighted systemic inequities and empowered local parents to advocate for community-controlled education, shaping future discussions on racial equality and accountability in the schooling system.
Jan 29, 2025 • 10min
Lithuania's 'wolf children'
Luise Quietsch, an 84-year-old 'wolf child', shares her heart-wrenching journey of fleeing East Prussia during World War II. She recounts the grim realities of life as an orphan, navigating dangerous forests alongside her aunt. Luise describes the transformation from a lost child to finding a sense of belonging in Lithuania, amidst trauma and isolation. Her experience highlights the broader struggles of displaced children and the ongoing impact of war on identity and community.
Jan 28, 2025 • 10min
The Baltic chain protest
On August 23, 1989, over two million people formed a 690-kilometer human chain across the Baltic states, a powerful stand against Soviet occupation. The podcast vividly captures the emotional journey of the organizers, revealing the blend of fear and beauty in their quest for independence. Personal testimonies highlight the thrilling connection and unity felt among the participants. This moment not only symbolized hope but also garnered international attention, catalyzing a greater movement for freedom. Reflect on the nostalgia and resilience that shaped a nation's battle for independence.
Jan 27, 2025 • 10min
The Milltown Cemetery attack
In this discussion with Bill Buesenberg, an American journalist who reported on the tragic Milltown Cemetery attack for National Public Radio, he recounts the chaotic day of March 16, 1988. A paramilitary's brutal assault on mourners left three dead and dozens injured. Bill shares his harrowing experience of being knocked over during the attack. The conversation delves into the broader implications of this violence within the context of the Troubles and how such incidents fueled the community's push for peace, eventually influencing the Good Friday Agreement.
