Witness History

Mark Seifer, biographer of Nikola Tesla, delves into the electrifying rivalry between Tesla and Thomas Edison. The discussion emphasizes Tesla's groundbreaking innovations, particularly his alternating current system, and contrasts them with Edison’s direct current methods. Listeners learn about the intense competition over the Niagara Falls hydroelectric plant and the mystery of why neither inventor received a Nobel Prize despite their monumental contributions. Seifer paints a vivid picture of two brilliant minds whose legacies forever changed the world of electricity.

Singer Marion Rung, who won the Intervision Song Contest in 1980 and achieved top 10 finishes in Eurovision, discusses her remarkable journey from a shy performer to a music icon. She shares tales of early nerves and bravery on stage, especially during politically charged times. The podcast dives into Finland's neutral role in Cold War music competitions, the emotional impact of her victory, and the cultural significance of the contests as they intersected with major political upheaval in Eastern Europe.

Khalil Hariri, an archaeology expert who bravely worked at Palmyra’s museum, shares his harrowing experiences during the 2015 siege. He vividly recounts the chaos as he and others raced against time to save invaluable artifacts from the clutches of the Islamic State group. Khalil discusses the emotional turmoil of residents determined to protect their cultural heritage while facing unimaginable threats. His personal sacrifices highlight the deep connection between the people of Palmyra and their history, revealing the costs of preserving culture in the midst of conflict.

On May 8, 1945, the end of World War II in Europe sparked massive celebrations throughout London. Tens of thousands gathered outside iconic landmarks like Buckingham Palace, reveling in newfound freedom. BBC correspondents, including Richard Dimbleby, captured the joy and relief permeating the streets. Amidst the festivities, there was a heartfelt reflection on the sacrifices made for peace, making the day a poignant blend of celebration and remembrance.

The podcast dives into the tragic sinking of the Lusitania, revealing how it shifted American views on Germany during World War I. With gripping eyewitness accounts, the narrative captures the final voyage filled with tension and warning signs. Listeners experience the chaos of the disaster as passengers scramble for safety, echoing past maritime tragedies. The aftermath is equally compelling, showcasing the rise in anti-German sentiment and its impact on U.S. entry into the war, making history come alive through powerful stories.

Dive into the fascinating story of the automatic electric rice cooker, invented in 1955 by Yoshitada Minami. Discover how he faced skepticism in the male-dominated appliance industry and found inspiration from his wife, Fumiko. The challenges they faced, from perfecting the cooking process to balancing family life, are highlighted. This innovation not only transformed rice cooking but also significantly reduced kitchen labor for women, leading to a heartfelt appreciation for its impact on domestic life.

Explore the solemn rituals of the papal conclave, where cardinals gather in suspenseful unity to elect a new pope. Dive into the personal motivations behind papal resignations, revealing the challenges of age and health. Learn about the historic moment when Joseph Ratzinger became Pope Benedict XVI in 2005, shaped by the emotional context surrounding key figures. Reflect on the legacy of leadership within the Catholic Church, including profound insights into the balance between duty and desire for contemplation.

In 1998, the Snake game made its debut on mobile phones. It is known for its simple yet addictive gameplay and played a major role in popularising mobile gaming.Taneli Armanto is the man responsible for bringing it to our phones, but he only got the task because of mistaken identity.He tells Gill Kearsley the story behind the game that made millions of people not want to put down their phones. 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: Snake game. Credit: IMDB)

On May 1, 2004, ten Eastern European nations joined the European Union, marking a significant political shift. Key insights reveal a mix of optimism about newfound freedom and concerns over immigration. Professor Romano Prodi shares his experiences and perspectives on this historic enlargement. The podcast dives into emotional responses from leaders and citizens alike, celebrating the cultural fusion and unity that emerged from this momentous occasion. It encapsulates a transformative era in European history, echoing themes of hope amidst uncertainty.

Le Van Lang, a Viet Cong veteran, offers a gripping firsthand account of life in the Cu Chi tunnels during the Vietnam War. He shares harrowing tales of survival and the ingenious guerrilla tactics employed beneath the surface. Listeners will learn about the intricate construction of the tunnel network and the harsh realities faced by those who called it home. Lang’s stories highlight the resilience of the Vietnamese fighters as they navigated danger and deprivation, turning the tunnels into crucial elements of their struggle against a more powerful foe.