Journey Through Time

Discover the chilling details behind the Salem Witch Trials, where innocent lives were lost to baseless accusations. Young girls' convulsions fueled hysteria, while factional politics shaped the course of justice. Learn about the pivotal role of spectral evidence and the harrowing courtroom drama that unfolded. Hear about the tragic fate of figures like Bridget Bishop and Giles Corey, whose defiance led to brutal outcomes. Explore how confessions became a survival tactic in a community gripped by fear and suspicion.

Discover the haunting origins of the Salem Witch Trials, where a series of mysterious fits led to a deadly witch hunt in a Puritan community. Learn how local divisions and the arrival of minister Samuel Parris intensified tensions. Delve into the perplexing role of Tituba, the first accused, and her coerced confession that ignited mass hysteria. The discussion also reveals how supernatural beliefs and social dynamics of the time shaped the tragic events that followed, making for a gripping exploration of history's darkest moments.

What did it feel like to be at the centre of the most popular Reality TV moment of the century? Why was the nation captivated by Big Brother? What can we learn about a country from who wins their game shows?  Sarah Churchwell and David Olusoga are joined by Sir Peter Bazalgette, acclaimed television producer behind UK Big Brother, to discuss all this and more.  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

What unbelievable and ethically dubious Reality TV concepts made it onto our screens in the 2000s? What was behind Big Brother’s game changing popularity?  How did Trump’s time on The Apprentice pave the way for his presidency? Join David Olusoga and Sarah Churchwell as they explore the latest chapter in the story of Reality TV’s worldwide success.  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

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.