Journey Through Time

Explore the chaotic backdrop of Barcelona's May Days and Orwell's perilous escape from Stalinist agents. Discover the intense clashes between communists and anarchists, driven by conflicting ideologies. Delve into the chilling influence of Soviet operatives and the brutal suppression faced by leftist factions. The podcast also reveals how Orwell's harrowing experiences informed his iconic works, Animal Farm and 1984, portraying the stark realities of totalitarianism. A gripping dive into a pivotal moment in history!

Explore the chaotic May Days in Barcelona and the internal conflict between communists and anarchists. Discover how key figures like Orwell navigated the dangers of Stalinist agents and how the Spanish Civil War influenced his iconic works such as Animal Farm and 1984. Learn about the challenges faced by international volunteers, including the devastating consequences of the Harama assault and how propaganda reshaped the narrative of heroism amidst chaos. Unravel the complex interplay of ideologies and the reality behind the romanticized tales.

The podcast delves into the fascinating story of the International Brigades and the diverse motivations of the 35,000 foreign volunteers who fought in the Spanish Civil War. It explores the first racially integrated military unit in the U.S. and the pivotal roles women played, from nurses to frontline fighters. Journalists like Hemingway shaped global perceptions of the conflict, while the podcast reveals the complexities of factionalism, the impact of Soviet influence, and Orwell's disillusionment with communism as warfare evolved.

Explore the chaotic roots of the Spanish Civil War, where clashes between Republicans and Nationalists ignited in 1936. Learn how foreign powers like Hitler and Mussolini intervened while Western democracies remained inactive, ultimately shaping the conflict's trajectory. Witness the arrival of the International Brigades, fueled by global outrage, and discover how icons like Hemingway and Orwell were drawn into the fray. The episode delves into the global implications of Spain's turmoil and how it foreshadowed the emerging shadows of World War II.

In what significant ways did the bestselling book ‘A Christmas Carol’ change Victorian behaviour around Christmas? From Christmas movies to the office Christmas party, what traditions do we have Charles Dickens to thank for? Why does this story still resonate in modern debates around poverty, responsibility, and compassion?  Join David Olusoga and Sarah Churchwell exploring the enduring legacy of Charles Dickens’ ‘A Christmas Carol’.  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 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.