Witness History
BBC World Service
Eye-witness accounts brought to life by archive. Witness History is for those fascinated by and curious about 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 how the Excel spreadsheet was developed, the creation of cartoon rabbit Miffy and how the sound barrier was broken.We look at the lives of some of the most famous leaders, artists, scientists and personalities in history, including: the moment Reagan and Gorbachev met in Geneva, Haitian singer Emerante de Pradines’ life and Omar Sharif’s legendary movie entrance in Lawrence of Arabia.You can learn all about fascinating and surprising stories, like the invention of a stent which has saved lives around the world; the birth of the G7; and the meeting of Maldives’ ministers underwater. We cover everything from World War Two and Cold War stories to Black History Month and our journeys into space.
Episodes
Mentioned books
4 snips
May 16, 2025 • 10min
Sweden’s shocking sugar experiment
In the 1940s, Swedish researchers conducted a shocking experiment on hospital patients, feeding them excessive sugar to study its effects on dental health. Initially viewed as a success, the study's dark ethical implications surfaced decades later when documents revealed the lack of consent and severe dental damage. Elin Bommenel's discovery prompted a critical reflection on these practices, exposing troubling aspects of Sweden's healthcare history and calling for greater awareness in disability care. It's a story that highlights the forgotten victims of questionable medical research.
May 15, 2025 • 10min
Mexico’s soda tax: Confronting soft drink giants
In Mexico, a groundbreaking soda tax was introduced in 2013 to combat rising diabetes rates. Advocates faced fierce opposition from the beverage industry, which used media tactics to undermine their efforts. The connection between sugary drinks and health crises was stark, with alarming conditions in schools lacking safe drinking water. Despite intimidation faced by health officials, grassroots advocacy led to the tax's implementation, showcasing both the challenges and triumphs in promoting public health.
5 snips
May 14, 2025 • 11min
The founding of the Warsaw Pact
On May 14, 1955, Soviet and European leaders signed the Warsaw Pact, a key moment in Cold War history. This treaty emerged as a response to NATO and reflected the intense geopolitical tensions of the era. Key events like the Berlin Blockade and the Hungarian uprising showcased its impact. The narrative also revisits the 1968 invasion of Czechoslovakia during the Prague Spring, highlighting the struggles within communist states. Eyewitness accounts bring these historical moments to life, revealing their lasting implications.
18 snips
May 13, 2025 • 11min
Tesla and Edison: Electricity rivals
Mark Seifer, biographer of Nikola Tesla, delves into the electrifying rivalry between Tesla and Thomas Edison. The discussion emphasizes Tesla's groundbreaking innovations, particularly his alternating current system, and contrasts them with Edison’s direct current methods. Listeners learn about the intense competition over the Niagara Falls hydroelectric plant and the mystery of why neither inventor received a Nobel Prize despite their monumental contributions. Seifer paints a vivid picture of two brilliant minds whose legacies forever changed the world of electricity.
May 12, 2025 • 10min
Intervision Song Contest
Singer Marion Rung, who won the Intervision Song Contest in 1980 and achieved top 10 finishes in Eurovision, discusses her remarkable journey from a shy performer to a music icon. She shares tales of early nerves and bravery on stage, especially during politically charged times. The podcast dives into Finland's neutral role in Cold War music competitions, the emotional impact of her victory, and the cultural significance of the contests as they intersected with major political upheaval in Eastern Europe.
May 9, 2025 • 11min
Rescuing Palmyra’s treasures from the Islamic State group
Khalil Hariri, an archaeology expert who bravely worked at Palmyra’s museum, shares his harrowing experiences during the 2015 siege. He vividly recounts the chaos as he and others raced against time to save invaluable artifacts from the clutches of the Islamic State group. Khalil discusses the emotional turmoil of residents determined to protect their cultural heritage while facing unimaginable threats. His personal sacrifices highlight the deep connection between the people of Palmyra and their history, revealing the costs of preserving culture in the midst of conflict.
4 snips
May 8, 2025 • 10min
VE Day celebrations
On May 8, 1945, the end of World War II in Europe sparked massive celebrations throughout London. Tens of thousands gathered outside iconic landmarks like Buckingham Palace, reveling in newfound freedom. BBC correspondents, including Richard Dimbleby, captured the joy and relief permeating the streets. Amidst the festivities, there was a heartfelt reflection on the sacrifices made for peace, making the day a poignant blend of celebration and remembrance.
6 snips
May 7, 2025 • 10min
Sinking of the Lusitania
The podcast dives into the tragic sinking of the Lusitania, revealing how it shifted American views on Germany during World War I. With gripping eyewitness accounts, the narrative captures the final voyage filled with tension and warning signs. Listeners experience the chaos of the disaster as passengers scramble for safety, echoing past maritime tragedies. The aftermath is equally compelling, showcasing the rise in anti-German sentiment and its impact on U.S. entry into the war, making history come alive through powerful stories.
6 snips
May 6, 2025 • 10min
The invention of the automatic electric rice cooker
Dive into the fascinating story of the automatic electric rice cooker, invented in 1955 by Yoshitada Minami. Discover how he faced skepticism in the male-dominated appliance industry and found inspiration from his wife, Fumiko. The challenges they faced, from perfecting the cooking process to balancing family life, are highlighted. This innovation not only transformed rice cooking but also significantly reduced kitchen labor for women, leading to a heartfelt appreciation for its impact on domestic life.
7 snips
May 5, 2025 • 11min
Conclave: How a new pope is chosen
Explore the solemn rituals of the papal conclave, where cardinals gather in suspenseful unity to elect a new pope. Dive into the personal motivations behind papal resignations, revealing the challenges of age and health. Learn about the historic moment when Joseph Ratzinger became Pope Benedict XVI in 2005, shaped by the emotional context surrounding key figures. Reflect on the legacy of leadership within the Catholic Church, including profound insights into the balance between duty and desire for contemplation.
