Past Present Future

In this engaging discussion, historian Edward Acton, a specialist in modern Russia, dives deep into the intertwined lives of Lenin and Trotsky. He unpacks their radicalization, examining how personal tragedies shaped their revolutionary beliefs. The conversation highlights their contrasting views on party structure and the role of the working class, revealing the ideological rift that eventually developed. Acton also shares insights into their pivotal moments during the 1917 revolution and the legacy of their revolutionary theories.

Historian Robert Saunders, a specialist in 20th century British politics, dives into the tumultuous life of Winston Churchill. He discusses Churchill's dramatic shifts from disgrace to pivotal leadership during WWII, exploring his complex legacy and controversial relationships within politics. The conversation highlights Churchill's dual role in supporting the welfare state while advocating free-market values and his diplomatic strategies to engage the United States in war. Saunders also critiques conventional narratives, revealing the intricacies behind Churchill's persona.

Dominic Dromgoole, author of 'Astonish Me! First Nights that Changed the World', joins the conversation to dissect Stravinsky’s 'The Rite of Spring'. He delves into the chaotic premiere in 1913, exploring the audience’s outrage and Nijinsky's artistic boldness. The chat also touches on the broader cultural tensions of the time, antisemitism, and the significance of this revolutionary work in modern art. Dromgoole shares insights on how the premiere foreshadowed the societal upheaval to come in 1914 and the unexpected ties to American presidential history.

Dominic Dromgoole, a writer and theatre director, dives into the explosive premiere of Alfred Jarry’s 'Ubu Roi' in 1896 Paris, which sparked a riot and redefined theatre. He explores why this absurd play, likened to a schoolboy's creation, resonated so deeply with audiences. From its chaotic reception to the innovative use of language and costume, Dromgoole articulates how the performance challenged authority and embraced hilarity. He connects this theatrical upheaval to broader cultural shifts, emphasizing the lasting impact of absurdity in art.

Dominic Dromgoole, a renowned theatre director and writer, delves into the revolutionary Salon des Refusés from 1863. He discusses how Emperor Napoleon sponsored this provocative art show, which sparked public outrage. The conversation highlights Edouard Manet's game-changing painting, 'Le Déjeuner sur l'herbe,' and its bold challenge to conventional norms. Dromgoole sheds light on the clash between traditional art and new voices, showcasing how this landmark event set the stage for the rise of Impressionism and transformed the artistic landscape.

Bruno Leipold, a historian and author of 'Citizen Marx', dives deep into Karl Marx's revolutionary ideas and the 1871 Paris Commune. He discusses how the Commune redefined democracy and exemplified a workers' uprising. Leipold explores the tension between Marx's vision of self-governance and the brutal failure of the Commune, emphasizing the importance of international solidarity for transformative movements. He also sheds light on the crucial role women played in seeking social emancipation and the evolving ideals of governance that emerged from the revolutionary fervor.

In this engaging conversation, historian Fara Dabhoiwala, author of 'What Is Free Speech?', delves into the evolution of free speech from its earliest articulations to modern interpretations. She highlights the profound impact of J.S. Mill's 'On Liberty' on societal views of personal expression. The dialogue explores how free speech has been both a fundamental right and a weapon for political power throughout history. Additionally, Dabhoiwala discusses the ongoing tensions between individual liberties and government control, emphasizing the importance of diverse viewpoints in a thriving democracy.

Helen Lewis, a renowned writer and journalist, joins the discussion to analyze the iconic film 'Network.' They explore the film's prophetic nature in today's media landscape, especially regarding political figures like Kanye West and Russell Brand. The conversation highlights how sensationalism has evolved and the blurred lines between authenticity and performance in modern media. Lewis and her host dive into the intersection of media, power, and the rise of populism, questioning the implications of our current digital realities.

Join geneticist and science writer Adam Rutherford as he explores the revolutionary impact of Darwin’s *On The Origin of Species*. Discover how Darwin’s concept of natural selection reshaped our understanding of evolution, contrasting it with earlier theories. Rutherford highlights Darwin's formative experiences in the Galapagos and the misconceptions surrounding his theory. The discussion also delves into the mixed reactions Darwin faced from both the scientific community and religious circles, revealing the ongoing legacy of his groundbreaking ideas.

In this engaging discussion, historian Julia Lovell, an expert on modern China, delves into the Taiping Revolution, a significant 19th-century upheaval. She explores how Christianity inspired a massive uprising against the Qing dynasty. The conversation raises thought-provoking questions about whether it was a revolution or civil war. Lovell examines the complex nature of the Taiping Heavenly Kingdom and its role in shaping China's revolutionary history, along with the socio-economic crises that fueled this transformative moment.