Witness History

In January 1961, US President Dwight Eisenhower ended his time in the White House with a farewell address regarded as one of the greatest speeches made by a US president. He warned Americans against the "military-industrial complex", a phrase that he coined. In 2018, Louise Hidalgo looked back on the speech with Dwight Eisenhower's grandson, David Eisenhower, and one of his speechwriters, Stephen Hess.Eye-witness accounts brought to life by archive. Witness History is for those fascinated by 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 football in Brazil, the history of the ‘Indian Titanic’ and the invention of air fryers, to Public Enemy’s Fight The Power, subway art and the political crisis in Georgia. We look at the lives of some of the most famous leaders, artists, scientists and personalities in history, including: visionary architect Antoni Gaudi and the design of the Sagrada Familia; Michael Jordan and his bespoke Nike trainers; Princess Diana at the Taj Mahal; and Görel Hanser, manager of legendary Swedish pop band Abba on the influence they’ve had on the music industry. You can learn all about fascinating and surprising stories, such as the time an Iraqi journalist hurled his shoes at the President of the United States in protest of America’s occupation of Iraq; the creation of the Hollywood commercial that changed advertising forever; and the ascent of the first Aboriginal MP.(Photo: President Dwight Eisenhower. Credit: Bettmann/Contributor via Getty Images)

Dolores Ibárruri, renowned as La Pasionaria, was a passionate Communist leader whose stirring oratory inspired fighters during the Spanish Civil War. She shares her journey from a miner's daughter to a powerful voice of resistance, igniting hope with her battle cry, 'No pasaran!' The podcast highlights her advocacy for women's rights and the impact of her speeches against fascism. It also reflects on the emotional farewells of the International Brigade, capturing the sacrifices made in the name of freedom and the enduring legacy of this fierce revolutionary.

Lisanne Falk, known for her role as Heather McNamara in the cult classic film, shares her insights on the making of Heathers. She discusses the film's unexpected journey from box office flop to beloved classic, highlighting its unique blend of dark humor and serious themes. Falk reveals the challenges faced during filming, including its bold take on teenage struggles, and reflects on the film's lasting influence on pop culture. Her anecdotes paint a vivid picture of how a misunderstood movie resonated across generations, transforming audiences' perspectives.

Clive Wilkinson, a marine ecologist and co-ordinator for the Global Coral Reef Monitoring Network, shares insights into the first global coral bleaching event in 1998. He discusses the shockwaves this unprecedented phenomenon sent through the scientific community as rising ocean temperatures led to widespread coral death. The intricate relationship between coral and the algae they depend on is explained, highlighting the impacts of climate change on marine ecosystems and coastal livelihoods. Despite dire prospects, Clive offers a glimpse of hope for coral recovery.

Dr. Alfredo Sadun, one of America's top eye specialists, investigates a mysterious blindness epidemic in 1990s Cuba, where 50,000 people lost their sight during a severe economic crisis. Dr. Sadun recounts his urgent mission, facing potential dangers while collaborating with Fidel Castro. Initial fears of a viral cause shift to uncover that methanol poisoning from bootleg rum was to blame. The findings led to crucial health interventions, showcasing the struggles and resilience of Cuban society during this difficult period.

Agathe Hébras, granddaughter of Robert Hébras, shares the harrowing tale of her grandfather's survival during the Oradour massacre in June 1944, where 642 villagers lost their lives. She recounts the chilling moments as German soldiers rounded up the population, leading to unimaginable tragedy. Agathe highlights her grandfather's miraculous escape and the heavy burden of silence he carried as a survivor. Through her commitment to preserving this painful history, she emphasizes the importance of remembrance and the impact of storytelling.

Discover the fascinating journey of Jacques Derrida, whose bold arguments shattered conventional philosophy at the 1966 talk. Explore the origins of his revolutionary theory of deconstruction, which continues to challenge Western thought. Hear about his cultural impact, from calls for curriculum decolonization to experimental art forms. His lasting influence extends into feminist literature and beyond. Witness the legacy of a thinker whose ideas still inspire critical conversations around truth and historical narratives.

Kathy Flower, the presenter of the groundbreaking English program 'Follow Me' on Chinese TV during the 1980s, shares her incredible journey as one of China's most famous foreign figures. She discusses how her show, airing at primetime, captivated 500 million viewers during a pivotal cultural shift under Deng Xiaoping. Kathy reveals how humor played a key role in teaching language and culture, fostering connections in remote areas, and highlights her unforgettable experiences living in a rapidly changing China.

In 1968, New York City was rocked by a teachers' strike sparked by a fierce battle over school control. The tension between predominantly white educators and the Black and Latino community seeking influence in their schools brought significant unrest. Eyewitness accounts reveal the chaos and challenges faced by participants, alongside grassroots efforts for educational reform. This conflict highlighted systemic inequities and empowered local parents to advocate for community-controlled education, shaping future discussions on racial equality and accountability in the schooling system.

Luise Quietsch, an 84-year-old 'wolf child', shares her heart-wrenching journey of fleeing East Prussia during World War II. She recounts the grim realities of life as an orphan, navigating dangerous forests alongside her aunt. Luise describes the transformation from a lost child to finding a sense of belonging in Lithuania, amidst trauma and isolation. Her experience highlights the broader struggles of displaced children and the ongoing impact of war on identity and community.