Journey Through Time

Explore how the three Ghosts of Christmas transformed Scrooge and highlighted societal ills. Discover Dickens' urgent message about poverty in Victorian England and the impact of child labor. Delve into Tiny Tim’s significance as a moral test for readers and the stark realities of neglect. The discussion reveals Scrooge as a reflection of societal greed and ultimately showcases the redemptive power of kindness and compassion during the festive season.

Victorian Britain had nearly forgotten Christmas until Charles Dickens stepped in. Discover how a grim visit to a ragged school sparked the idea for 'A Christmas Carol.' Hear about Dickens' financial struggles and his urgent need for a hit. Explore Scrooge's character as a symbol of materialism and indifference. Delve into the inspiration behind Tiny Tim and the poignant messages about compassion in the face of poverty. This tale not only revived a holiday but also aimed to rekindle humanity's spirit.

What does the hysteria around white women sleeping with Black GIs tell us about race and class in wartime Britain? Why were Black GIs banned from marrying their British sweethearts? What was the sad fate of many of the mixed raced babies left behind as a result of this encounter?  Sarah Churchwell and David Olusoga tell the final chapter in the story of Black GIs in the UK.  Social Producers: Emma Jackson, Harry Balden Assistant Producers: Alfie Rowe, Alfie Norris  Producer: Alice Horrell Head of History: Dom Johnson Exec Producer: Tony Pastor Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

What happened when Black GIs went on strike over their violent treatment at the hands of the white Military Police? Why did the American Army start fighting itself in the heart of a British city? How did the Ministry of Information stop the British public from hearing about this violence?  Join David Olusoga and Sarah Churchwell as they tell the story of the Park Street Riots, the forgotten American mutiny on the streets of Bristol.  Social Producers: Emma Jackson, Harry Balden Assistant Producers: Alfie Rowe, Alfie Norris  Producer: Alice Horrell Head of History: Dom Johnson Exec Producer: Tony Pastor Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Explore the explosive events in Bamber Bridge, where an argument over uniforms escalated into a fierce gun battle among American soldiers. The struggles of Black GIs facing harsh segregation, and their surprising camaraderie with local villagers, set the stage for this conflict. News of violence back home heightened tensions, leading to a chaotic confrontation at a pub. The aftermath spurred significant reforms in the military and a lasting legacy of remembrance for the lives affected by this dark chapter in history.

Discover how American troops brought segregation to Britain during World War II, sparking tensions in British towns. The hosts explore the striking contrast between the well-fed GIs and the struggling locals. Learn about the British public's mixed reactions, from sympathy for black GIs to complicity in segregation. They highlight the cultural differences between black and white soldiers and the violent enforcement of American racial policies. Personal stories illustrate the moral dilemmas faced as Britain grappled with its own racism while fighting fascism.

What happened when 1.5 million American troops landed in the UK during WWII? Explore how British culture was reshaped by the 'friendly invasion' and the often-overlooked story of 130,000 African American soldiers. Discover the clash between Jim Crow segregation and British society, along with the complex reactions of locals. The podcast dives into the everyday realities of segregation, the British government's concerns, and the dual struggle faced by black servicemen against both fascism and racial injustice.

Dive into the bizarre world of reality where familiar concepts vanish under scrutiny. Discover how curiosity fuels science by sharpening questions. Learn to explain gravity to an alien and explore its strange effects—like tiny attractions between us! Unpack Newton's views and Einstein's groundbreaking ideas about spacetime. Ever wondered how gravity impacts time? Find out how living in Boulder makes you age a fraction faster than in Greenwich! Join this captivating exploration that proves reality is stranger than fiction.

Discover how Harriet Tubman led over 750 enslaved people to freedom during the daring Combahee River Raid. Explore her dual roles as a Union scout and spy, navigating challenges while gathering vital intelligence. Delve into her post-war struggles for financial stability and activism for women's suffrage. Reflect on her complex legacy, from fighting for a military pension to dreaming of a home for destitute Black veterans. Tubman's life uncovers the enduring fight for freedom and her significant impact on today's political landscape.

Discover Harriet Tubman's ingenious escape tactics, including her strategic use of Saturdays and winter to elude capture. Learn about her daring journeys on railroads and her focus on reuniting enslaved families. The discussion also highlights John Brown's radical abolitionism and his collaboration with Tubman during the failed Harpers’ Ferry raid. Explore how Tubman’s reputation raised a bounty on her head while she remained largely unknown. The podcast paints a vivid picture of her relentless fight for freedom and her pivotal role in the abolitionist movement.