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
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.
Jan 24, 2025 • 10min
The launch of Windows 95
In this fascinating discussion, Sarah Leary, a project manager who famously demonstrated Windows 95 with Bill Gates and Jay Leno, shares insider stories from that historic launch. She reveals the intense excitement of midnight queues and the groundbreaking marketing campaign that attracted millions. Leary also breaks down how Windows 95 transformed personal computing, making technology accessible to everyday users. She reflects on the competitive tension with Apple and explores how internet integration changed the software landscape forever.
Jan 23, 2025 • 10min
Replacing the Panchen Lama
In this episode, Arjia Rinpoche, a senior Tibetan Lama who witnessed the secret 1995 ceremony to select the next Panchen Lama, shares his gripping firsthand accounts. He discusses the tense atmosphere dominated by Chinese guards and the significance of choosing a new leader in Tibetan Buddhism. Rinpoche reflects on the fate of the Dalai Lama's chosen boy, who was kidnapped six months earlier, revealing the intersection of faith and political manipulation. His insights illuminate the struggles faced by Tibetan practitioners amid this historical upheaval.
Jan 22, 2025 • 10min
The murder of Maurizio Gucci
Maurizio Gucci’s shocking murder in 1995 rocked the fashion world. The plot involved his ex-wife, Patrizia Reggiani, and a network of conspirators, illustrating a dangerous mix of betrayal and ambition. The ensuing trial captivated the public, revealing the dark side of wealth and jealousy. Emotional storytelling uncovers the intricate legal battles tied to the case, while exploring the chilling realities of jealousy and the complexities of the luxury lifestyle. The intersection of fame, crime, and twisted motives creates a gripping narrative.
Jan 21, 2025 • 10min
Sarin gas attack on the Tokyo subway
In 1995, a doomsday cult unleashed terror in the Tokyo subway with a sarin gas attack, resulting in chaos and tragedy. Eyewitness accounts capture the panic and devastation as unsuspecting passengers fell victim to the deadly fumes. The cult's disturbing practices and motivations are explored, shedding light on their leader's apocalyptic beliefs. One survivor shares their emotional journey from trauma to justice, while the broader societal impact of this horrific event is examined, leaving a haunting legacy.
7 snips
Jan 20, 2025 • 10min
Hunting the Unabomber
Kathleen Puckett, a former FBI agent instrumental in capturing the Unabomber, shares gripping details about the 17-year bombing spree that terrorized America. She reveals the complexities of tracking Ted Kaczynski, highlighting his unsettling transition from a promising academic to a hermit-turned-terrorist. The discussion includes the ethical dilemmas surrounding the publication of his manifesto, which ultimately contributed to his arrest. Puckett also reflects on the deeper themes of loneliness and societal influence that shaped Kaczynski's life.
Jan 17, 2025 • 10min
Drum: Africa’s revolutionary magazine
Prospero Bailey, son of Drum magazine's founder Jim Bailey, shares captivating stories about his father's revolutionary impact on African journalism. He discusses how Drum became a powerful voice against apartheid, focusing on Black lives and stories often ignored by mainstream media. The conversation dives into the incredible bravery of writers and photographers who risked their lives to unveil harsh societal truths. Additionally, Prospero highlights the vibrant culture and social scene that Jim cultivated, leaving a lasting legacy in African journalism.
Jan 16, 2025 • 10min
'I wrote Schindler's List'
Thomas Keneally, the acclaimed Australian author of 'Schindler's Ark', shares the incredible journey that led him to write 'Schindler's List'. He recounts his fortuitous encounter with Holocaust survivor Leopold Pfefferberg, who inspired the narrative detailing Oskar Schindler's complex character – a businessman turned unlikely hero. Keneally reflects on the moral ambiguities of Schindler's actions and the profound connections he formed with survivors during his research. The discussion reveals the importance of telling these powerful stories to honor resilience in history.
Jan 15, 2025 • 10min
Kobe earthquake
Kiho Park, a survivor of the 1995 Kobe earthquake, shares his gripping story of escaping destruction at just eight years old. He recalls the sheer chaos and fear that engulfed his family during the disaster. Kiho discusses the unexpected role of the Yakuza in helping survivors amid governmental shortcomings, showcasing the resilience of the community. He also reflects on the lasting trauma and how those experiences shape preparedness for future disasters. The conversation sheds light on both personal and collective healing in the aftermath of tragedy.
6 snips
Jan 14, 2025 • 10min
Confronting Betty Ford’s addiction
Susan Ford Bales, daughter of former U.S. President Gerald Ford and Betty Ford, shares her poignant story of confronting her mother’s addiction to alcohol and prescription medication. She recalls the emotional family intervention that ultimately led Betty to seek help, underscoring the unprecedented openness of a First Lady about such struggles. The discussion highlights Betty's advocacy for addiction recovery, the impact of her struggles on public perception, and her enduring legacy, including the establishment of the Betty Ford Center.
