Journey Through Time

Who was Lance Loud, America's first openly gay TV celebrity? What ethically dubious tactics did producers pioneer in MTV's hit show 'The Real World' to manipulate participants and storylines? What does it mean when reality TV becomes a form of social experiment? Join Sarah Churchwell and David Olusoga as they explore the developments that brought us the reality TV we know and love. Email: journeythroughtime@goalhanger.com  X: @ThroughTimePod Blue Sky: @ThroughTimePod Instagram: @JourneyThroughTimePod Social Producer: Emma Jackson, Harry Balden Producer: Alice Horrell Head of History: Dom Johnson Exec Producer: Tony Pastor Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

David shares his thrilling experience on Celebrity Traitors. The hosts trace reality TV's roots back to WWII, revealing its profound impact on society. They delve into how this genre reshapes celebrity culture and viewer intimacy. Candid Camera's innovative techniques are explored, showcasing the blend of humor and authenticity. The conversation highlights the monumental significance of An American Family, the first landmark in reality TV, while grappling with the ethical dilemmas of documenting real lives.

Discover why the Confederate States believed cutting off cotton supplies would secure British support during the Civil War. Learn about the unique humanitarian efforts in Lancashire to help starving mill workers and how British stockpiling strategies changed the landscape. Delve into the political debates and relief efforts that influenced public opinion, as well as the role Liverpool played in supporting the Confederacy. Uncover dramatic naval encounters involving British-built raiders and how they sparked tensions between the US and Britain.

Tensions between Britain and America nearly led to war over the capture of Confederate officers in 1861. The hosts delve into the Trent Affair, discussing Captain Wilkes's controversial actions and the fierce British public outrage. They reveal how Prince Albert's final letter softened Britain’s ultimatum, providing a diplomatic off-ramp. The aftermath saw both nations relieved, yet lingering tensions remained. The conversation hints at whether the Confederacy's cotton diplomacy could still sway Britain into the conflict.

David Olusoga and Sarah Churchwell dive into the intricate history of the UK-US relationship, highlighting its complexities during the American Civil War. They explore Barack Obama's perspectives on trust versus fear in society. Discussions reveal surprising British ties to the Confederacy, driven by economic interests in cotton. The podcast unpacks how British capital significantly fueled American growth and how mixed sentiments about the Civil War led to Britain's cautious neutrality. Intriguing insights into diplomatic maneuvers add depth to this historical exploration.

In a riveting discussion, the hosts delve into the iconic March on Washington, spotlighting over 250,000 participants, including musical legends like Harry Belafonte and Bob Dylan. They reveal threats from the American Nazi Party aimed at inciting violence. The episode highlights how Martin Luther King Jr. crafted his legendary 'I Have a Dream' speech on the fly, inspired by Mahalia Jackson. The global impact of the broadcast and the complex aftermath, including the tragic Birmingham bombing, further underscore the speech's enduring legacy.

Dive into the staggering events leading up to the iconic March on Washington in 1963. Discover the strategic genius of Martin Luther King and the vital contributions of figures like Bayard Rustin and unsung women in the movement. Unpack the brutal realities faced by peaceful protesters, media's role in shaping public opinion, and the political hesitance that marked the era. Explore the challenges of organizing a historic demonstration amidst societal tensions and uncover how this pivotal moment reshaped America's civil rights landscape.

Explore the thrilling life of Billy the Kid as he escapes from prison and confronts the notorious Pat Garrett, whose role in his story is more complex than legend suggests. The podcast dissects the dramatic siege at Lincoln during the Lincoln County War, revealing the media's pivotal role in mythologizing the outlaw. It also unpacks the final days leading to Billy's last stand, questioning the narratives that define his legacy and the one-dimensional portrayals that have emerged in popular culture.

Dive into the Wild West as the legendary outlaw Billy the Kid comes to life! Discover the chaotic world of 1880s New Mexico, where cultural clashes and corrupt power dynamics shaped his infamous story. Uncover the origins of Billy McCarty, his rise to notoriety after a dramatic jailbreak, and the gripping conflicts that defined the Lincoln County feud. The episode also sheds light on the cultural resilience of Hispanic communities and showcases the tumultuous relationships between various ethnic groups, making for a captivating exploration of America's gritty past.

Discover how Hitler’s failed Beer Hall Putsch turned into a political spectacle that launched his career. The trial was not just a legal proceeding but a theatrical platform where he rewrote his narrative as a patriotic martyr. Uncover the role of media in amplifying his notoriety and the chilling rituals associated with Nazi symbolism. Explore the implications of mythmaking in politics and how historical narratives can be manipulated for power today.