Witness History

Anvita Abbi, a dedicated Indian linguist, recounts her poignant journey with Boa Sr., the last speaker of the Bo language. She shares how Boa, isolated from her community, communicated with birds as her ancestors before forming a bond with Anvita. Together, they cherished and documented ancient songs and tales, emphasizing the heartbreaking loss of one of the world's oldest languages. Abbi highlights the cultural impact of this loss and the importance of preserving linguistic diversity for future generations.

Ekkachai, one half of the Thai couple who set the Guinness World Record for the longest kiss, shares his unforgettable story. He reminisces about the couple's incredible feat of kissing for 58 hours and 35 minutes and what it took to prepare for such an endurance test. Ekkachai reveals the challenges they faced, from fatigue to the emotional hurdles of their eventual separation. His reflections highlight the bittersweet nature of their achievement, vowing that despite their differences, the memory of that record-breaking kiss will always hold a special place in his heart.

Discover the incredible journey of Eva Peron, from her humble beginnings to becoming a powerful figure in 1940s Argentina. Hear about her passionate speeches and groundbreaking role in supporting the poor through her foundation. Experience the electric atmosphere of her rallying cries and the profound connections she forged with the Argentine people. Explore the complexities of her legacy, marked by both adoration and controversy, and witness the enduring cultural impact she left behind.

Explore the groundbreaking 1992 speech by Australia's Prime Minister in Redfern, a pivotal moment acknowledging historical injustices faced by Indigenous Australians. Hear insights from the speechwriter about its spontaneous development and profound impact. Discover themes of empathy and responsibility essential for understanding Indigenous experiences. Reflect on the speech's mixed outcomes in reconciliation efforts and its lasting legacy, highlighting the resilience of Indigenous culture and the ongoing journey towards acknowledgment in society.

Mary Fisher's courageous 1992 speech at the Republican National Convention tackled the stigma surrounding HIV and AIDS, sharing her personal diagnosis as a mother. She passionately called on the Republican Party to show compassion and support for those affected. Recalling her desire for her children to grow up free of shame, Fisher's words became a legacy of empowerment. This impactful moment shifted public perceptions and inspired future generations to confront the AIDS crisis with awareness and hope.

In January 1961, US President Dwight Eisenhower ended his time in the White House with a farewell address regarded as one of the greatest speeches made by a US president. He warned Americans against the "military-industrial complex", a phrase that he coined. In 2018, Louise Hidalgo looked back on the speech with Dwight Eisenhower's grandson, David Eisenhower, and one of his speechwriters, Stephen Hess.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: President Dwight Eisenhower. Credit: Bettmann/Contributor via Getty Images)

Dolores Ibárruri, renowned as La Pasionaria, was a passionate Communist leader whose stirring oratory inspired fighters during the Spanish Civil War. She shares her journey from a miner's daughter to a powerful voice of resistance, igniting hope with her battle cry, 'No pasaran!' The podcast highlights her advocacy for women's rights and the impact of her speeches against fascism. It also reflects on the emotional farewells of the International Brigade, capturing the sacrifices made in the name of freedom and the enduring legacy of this fierce revolutionary.

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.

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.

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.