Witness History

History as told by the people who were there

Investigating global developments, issues and affairs.

History as told by the people who were there

[LISTEN NOW]

It began when a group of street performers in Quebec bought a big top tent and went on tour.

Lucy Burns speaks to Cirque du Soleil co-founder Gilles Ste-Croix, who walked 56 miles on stilts to raise money for the show.

First broadcast on the BBC World Service in 2019.

Stories of our times told by the people who were there. Presented by Lucy Burns.

The story of the ground-breaking circus that began in Quebec and went on to be seen by 200 million. With Lucy Burns. From 2019.

The global circus phenomenon Cirque du Soleil was born in 1984

It began when a group of street performers in Quebec bought a big top tent and went on tour.

Lucy Burns speaks to Cirque du Soleil co-founder Gilles Ste-Croix, who walked 56 miles on stilts to raise money for the show.

First broadcast on the BBC World Service in 2019.

Stories of our times told by the people who were there. Presented by Lucy Burns.

The story of the ground-breaking circus that began in Quebec and went on to be seen by 200 million. With Lucy Burns. From 2019.

Little did he know that his aircraft would be the final one to land there, it would be destroyed within hours, and the airport remains frozen in time to this day.  

Fifty years later, Captain Adamos Marneros tells Amelia Parker about that fear-filled final flight, on a pivotal day in 1974, and the airport, which he revisited a few years ago.

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: Captain Adamos Marneros outside the derelict Nicosia Airport in 2017. Credit: Leon Dimitrios)

In July 1974, Captain Adamos Marneros landed the last flight at Nicosia Airport in Cyprus

On 20 July 1974, Captain Adamos Marneros landed passenger flight CY317 into Nicosia Airport in Cyprus amidst the threat of an imminent Turkish invasion.

(Photo: Captain Adamos Marneros outside the derelict Nicosia Airport in 2012. Credit: Andros Efstathios)

In July 1974, Captain Adamos Marneros landed the last flight at Nicosia Airport in Cyprus.

Fight the Power by hip-hop group, Public Enemy, was radical both politically and sonically.

The song was written at the request of filmmaker, Spike Lee, who needed an anthem for his 1989 movie, Do the Right Thing.

The film became a box office smash and - despite controversy surrounding Public Enemy's image - the song soon became an anthem of protest and rebellion all over the world.

Public Enemy frontman, Chuck D, shares his memories of that time with Matt Pintus.

(Photo: Chuck D and Spike Lee pictured in 1989. Credit: Getty Images)

In 1989, Public Enemy provided the soundtrack for Spike Lee's movie, Do The Right Thing

It's 35 years since the release of one of the most provocative songs in music history. In 1989, Public Enemy released Fight the Power. Chuck D shares his memories of that time.

The journey from goddess to graduate in Nepal.

The story of Chanira Bajracharya who went from spending 10 years as a 'Kumari' or living goddess, in Nepal to university and a career in finance.

The idea was suggested by a book editor who had attended one of Dale's public speaking courses in New York.

The result was a mix of psychology, philosophy and good old-fashioned common sense. Dale offered advice like: Smile. Give praise. Be a good listener. And remember people's names.

The book went on to become a best seller. Today, more than 30 million copies have been sold worldwide, and it has been translated into 36 languages. Even the title is part of popular culture.

Dale's daughter Donna Dale Carnegie tells Jane Wilkinson about the secret of its success.

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: How to Win Friends and Influence People in 1955. Credit: Frederic Hamilton/Hulton Archive/Getty Images)

In 1936, Dale Carnegie wrote the self help book - How to Win Friends and Influence People

In 1936, Dale Carnegie wrote one of the world's most popular self help books - How to Win Friends and Influence People. Today, more than 30 million copies have been sold globally.

He was leading hundreds of protesters who had gathered to demand that China grants Hong Kong free and fair elections.

As the day went on the protest continued to grow and it wasn't long before Nathan's face was all over the news.

Then at 2am his microphone was cut off and the protest plunged into darkness as plain-clothed police officers rushed to the stage and arrested him.

Nathan tells Anoushka Mutanda-Dougherty how despite his arrest the protests continued to grow into some of the largest Hong Kong had ever seen lasting 79 days in total.

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.

(Picture: Umbrella Protests. Credit: Getty Images)

In September 2014, Nathan Law led Hong Kong's 'Umbrella' Protests

History as told by the people who were there

On the 26 September 2014 Nathan Law stood on a makeshift stage outside Hong Kong's central government complex and led one of the largest protests Hong Kong has ever seen

[LISTEN NOW]

Millions of people including sports stars and celebrities filmed themselves being doused in ice cold water for charity.

Nancy Frates' son Pete helped to make the ice bucket challenge become a phenomenon. Nancy tells Gill Kearsley the poignant story of how the challenge went from a simple idea to world news.

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: Pete Frates takes part in the ice bucket challenge. Credit: Barry Chin/The Boston Globe via Getty Images)

The ice bucket challenge became a worldwide phenomenon in 2014

Millions of people filmed themselves being doused in ice cold water for charity in 2014, when the ice bucket challenge became a worldwide phenomenon.

The ice bucket challenge became a worldwide phenomenon in 2014.

The signing of the Japanese surrender documents at the Forbidden City in Beijing in 1945.

John Stanfield, now 103, recalls how he signed the Japanese surrender declaration documents on behalf of the British in a ceremony at the Forbidden City in Beijing in the autumn of 1945.

He was finally persuaded to surrender in 1974 when his former commander, Yoshimi Taniguchi, found him and gave him an order.

In a televised ceremony, Hiroo presented his sword to the then Philippine president Ferdinand Marcos. President Marcos returned the sword and gave him a full presidential pardon and told him he admired his courage.

Hiroo died in January 2014 at the age of 91.

This programme was produced and presented by Vicky Farncombe, using BBC archive.

Hiroo Onoda spent 30 years fighting in the jungle, believing the war was still going on.

Hiroo Onoda was an Imperial Japanese Army intelligence officer who fought in World War Two and did not surrender at the war's end in August 1945.

La Haine would follow three friends from a poor immigrant neighbourhood in the Paris suburbs 24 hours after a riot.

The film was released in 1995 to huge critical acclaim and Mathieu won best director at the Cannes Film Festival.

It was heavily critical of policing in France and it caught the attention of high profile politicians in the country, including then Prime Minister, Alain Juppé.

Thirty years on, Mathieu has been sharing his memories of that time with Matt Pintus.

(Photo: Vincent Cassel 'Vinz' in La Haine. Credit: Studio Canal+)

How Mathieu Kassovitz's critique of policing shocked French society

It has been 30 years since film director Mathieu Kassovitz started work on the cult cinema classic, La Haine. He has been sharing his memories of that time with Matt Pintus.

They thought they had carried out the perfect crime.

But they were soon caught and put on trial.

Vincent Dowd investigates the motives of Nathan Leopold and Richard Loeb.

A murder case that went on to inspire Rope, a stage play written in 1929 which was later turned into the 1948 Alfred Hitchcock thriller.

Producer: Vincent Dowd

First broadcast on the BBC World Service in 2011.

Vincent Dowd investigates the motives of the murder of Bobby Franks by Leopold and Loeb.

Vincent Dowd investigates the motives of the 1924 murder of Bobby Franks by Leopold and Loeb. From 2011.

Mallory disappeared on the mountain in 1924 together with his fellow climber Andrew Irvine.

In 1999 Mallory's body was found.

Farhana Haider spoke to Jochen Hemmleb, one of the original members of the team that discovered George Mallory's remains.

First broadcast on the BBC World Service in 2016. .

Farhana Haider explores the disappearance of George Mallory on Everest in 1924.

Farhana Haider explores the disappearance of British mountaineer, George Mallory, in 1924 on Mount Everest. From 2016.

Farhana Haider explores the disappearance of British mountaineer, George Mallory, on Mount Everest.

he disappeared on the mountain in 1924 together with his fellow climber Andrew Irvine.

Farhana speaks to Jochen Hemmleb, one of the original members of the team that discovered George Mallory's remains.

As the president of the banned African National Congress (ANC), he had lived in Zambia building the liberation movement while other key ANC members including Nelson Mandela and Walter Sisulu were political prisoners.

By lobbying around the world and attracting talented South African exiles such as Thabo Mbeki, he built the organisation into a legitimate contender for government.

When President FW de Klerk unbanned the ANC, Oliver Tambo was finally able to return home where he was greeted by a crowd of thousands at the airport.

Oliver Tambo's son, Dali Tambo, recalls to Josephine McDermott how his father and other ANC exiles danced in the aisle of the plane as they crossed into South African airspace.

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: Oliver Tambo at Jan Smuts Airport. Credit: AP/John Parkin)

Oliver Tambo returned to South Africa in 1990 after 30 years in exile.

Oliver Tambo led the movement against apartheid in South Africa from exile in Zambia. When he returned in 1990, greeted by Nelson Mandela, there were thousands to welcome him.

Eight months later in May 1957, 1,000 people squeezed into St Pancras Town Hall in London to listen to a transatlantic concert.

The person performing, Paul Robeson, was a globally renowned singer, but he'd been banned from travelling outside the USA. So, he made use of the new transatlantic telephone line to perform to his fans in the UK.

Ben Henderson speaks to John Liffen, who curated an exhibition on TAT-1 and the concert at the Science Museum in London.

(Photo: Engineers build repeaters used in TAT-1. Credit: Russell Knight/BIPs via Getty Images)

In 1957, Paul Robeson used a new undersea phone line to perform a transatlantic concert.

In May 1957, the American singer Paul Robeson used a new transatlantic telephone line called TAT-1 to perform a concert from New York to an audience in London.

In 1976, the 3,000-year-old mummy of Ramesses II was found to have a fungal infection.

The embalmed body of the Egyptian pharaoh was flown from Cairo to Paris for a once-in-a-deathtime makeover.

It received a royal welcome at the airport, and was guarded throughout its restoration, which took place at the Musee de l'Homme.

Anne-Marie Goden worked as a receptionist at the museum. She tells Gill Kearsley the extraordinary story of the restoration.

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: The mummy of Ramesses II being examined in Paris. Credit: Tony Comiti/Sygma via Getty Images)

In 1976, the mummy of Ramesses II was flown from Egypt to Paris for a makeover

History as told by the people who were there

The 3,000-year-old mummy of Ramesses II, an Egyptian pharaoh, was found to have a fungal infection. So in 1976, it was flown to Paris for a once-in-a-deathtime makeover.

[LISTEN NOW]

The dancer claimed asylum during a UK tour, nine years after another Russian dancer, Rudolf Nureyev, had defected.

Natalia later joined the American Ballet Theatre in New York. She wouldn't return to her home country for almost 20 years.

Jane Wilkinson has been looking through the archive to discover the reasons behind her defection.

(Photo: Natalia Makarova in New York, 1980. Credit: Brownie Harris/Corbis via Getty Image

The Russian ballerina who defected to the west

The story of Natalia Makarova, the leading Russian ballet star, who defected after a London performance in 1970.

Investigating global developments, issues and affairs.

When Nelson Mandela became the president of South Africa in 1994, he requested that Sarah's remains be returned to her homeland. However, by 1998 that had not happened. Poet Diana Ferrus decided to write about Sarah's limbo. Her poem became so popular that it was noticed by politicians in France. Diana shares her memories of that time with Matt Pintus.

This programme contains discriminatory language.

(Photo: Sarah Baartman likeness at French museum. Credit: Getty Images)

The campaign to return Sarah Baartman to South Africa nearly 200 years after her death

Witness History tells the story of how Sarah Baartman, abused and paraded in 19th-century European freak shows, was finally returned home to South Africa.

It was created by entrepreneur Andrew Weinreich.

But Six Degrees never achieved the scale of later social networks like Facebook or MySpace, and Weinreich sold the site in 1999.

Andrew speaks to Lucy Burns.

First broadcast on the BBC World Service in April 2020.

Lucy Burns explores Six Degrees, the first social network.

The hand was initially stolen by General Franco's opposition from a convent in Ronda, but Franco's nationalist soldiers took it for themselves when they won the Battle of Malaga.

Sister Jenifer is the Mother Superior of the Church of Our Lady of Mercy, Ronda, where the hand is kept on display for people to see.

She tells Johnny I'Anson who St Teresa was, why her hand was cut off, and what made it special.

(Photo: Monument of Saint Teresa of Avila, Spain. Credit: digicomphoto/Getty Images)

How General Franco kept the hand of St Teresa of Avila for spiritual guidance.

During the Spanish Civil War, General Franco acquired St Teresa of Avila's severed hand. He relied on it for spiritual guidance until his death.

They had been documenting the work of graffiti arts on the subways system of New York for many years.

The colourful book was called Subway Art and it quickly became known as the graffiti bible.

Forty years on from its release, Martha and Henry explore its enduring legacy with Matt Pintus.

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: Marta Cooper and Henry Chalfant pictured at the 25th anniversary event for Subway Art. Credit: Getty Images)

In 1984, Henry Chalfant and Martha Cooper released an iconic photography book

In 1984, photographers Martha Cooper and Henry Chalfant came together to publish an era-defining book about the early graffiti movement. They speak to Matt Pintus.

More than 3,000 athletes from 44 nations took part, of which only 135 were women, in 17 sports.

Rachel Naylor goes through the BBC archive for interviews with two British medallists - the sprinter Harold Abrahams and the tennis player Kitty Godfree.

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: Harold Abrahams winning gold at the Olympics in Paris, in 1924. Credit: Jewish Chronicle / Heritage Images / Getty Images)

The last time Paris held the Olympic Games was 100 years ago in 1924. More than 3,000 athletes from 44 nations took part in 17 sports.

A warning for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander listeners - this programme contains the names of people who have died.

Nearly 60 years ago, a group of university students set out on a bus to challenge the discrimination of Australia's indigenous people.

Led by Sydney University's first indigenous undergraduate, Charles Perkins, they toured north-western New South Wales highlighting the public pools, cinemas, theatres and pubs in country towns where Aboriginal people were excluded or segregated from white people.

Darce Cassidy was recording the journey for a radio programme. We hear 19-year-old Brian Aarons demonstrating at a swimming pool in Moree where Aboriginal children were not normally allowed to swim.

He and Gary Williams, an indigenous student, recall the Freedom Ride to Josephine McDermott, including the moment when they made the national news by ordering a beer together in a Bowraville pub.

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: The 1965 Freedom Riders. Brian Aarons and Gary Williams sit fifth and fourth from the right, one row from the back. Credit: Reproduced with permission of Wendy Watson-Ekstein and Ann Curthoys)

The students who challenged the discrimination of Australia's indigenous people

History as told by the people who were there

In 1965 a group of students set out on a Freedom Ride to expose the discrimination of Aboriginal people. It would be one of Australia's most significant civil rights events.

Show more "

[LISTEN NOW]

A warning for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander listeners - this programme contains the names of people who have died.

Nearly 60 years ago, a group of university students set out on a bus to challenge the discrimination of Australia's indigenous people.

Led by Sydney University's first indigenous undergraduate, Charles Perkins, they toured north-western New South Wales highlighting the public pools, cinemas, theatres and pubs in country towns where Aboriginal people were excluded or segregated from white people.

Darce Cassidy was recording the journey for a radio programme. We hear 19-year-old Brian Aarons demonstrating at a swimming pool in Moree where Aboriginal children were not normally allowed to swim.

He and Gary Williams, an indigenous student, recall the Freedom Ride to Josephine McDermott, including the moment when they made the national news by ordering a beer together in a Bowraville pub.

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: The 1965 Freedom Riders. Brian Aarons and Gary Williams sit fifth and fourth from the right, one row from the back. Credit: Reproduced with permission of Wendy Watson-Ekstein and Ann Curthoys)

The students who challenged the discrimination of Australia's indigenous people

History as told by the people who were there

In 1965 a group of students set out on a Freedom Ride to expose the discrimination of Aboriginal people. It would be one of Australia's most significant civil rights events.

[LISTEN NOW]

[LISTEN NOW]

The technology is used today to wirelessly connect accessories such as mice, keyboards, speakers and headphones to desktops, laptops and mobile phones.

It's named after Harald Bluetooth, a Viking king who was said to have blue teeth.

Sven Mattisson, one of the brains behind the technology, tells Gill Kearsley how the name Bluetooth came about following some drinks after a conference.

(Photo: A mobile phone with the Bluetooth logo. Credit: Westend61 via Getty images)

The story of how a Viking inspired wireless technology.

In the 1990s engineers in Lund, Sweden invented Bluetooth. But why did they decide to name their new wireless technology after a Viking king?

In January 1990, Cuban singer Celia Cruz, known as ‘the Queen of Salsa', went back to Cuba. Banned by Fidel Castro for opposing his regime, it was the only time in her 43 years of exile that she was able to visit the island.

She was invited to sing in the US naval base on Guantanamo Bay. The trip only lasted a day and a half, but it was full of touching moments and symbolisms. Omer Pardillo Cid, Celia's manager and close friend, tells Stefania Gozzer about the mark this visit left in the singer.

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: Celia Cruz holds a Cuban flag as she performs during the 'Combinacion Perfecta' concert at Madison Square Garden, New York City, 1993. Credit: Getty Images)

Cuban salsa singer Celia Cruz's only return to the island in 43 years of exile.

History as told by the people who were there

Cuban singer Celia Cruz, known as 'the Queen of Salsa', lived in exile for 43 years. Banned from going back to her country by Fidel Castro, she visited the island once in 1990.

Show more "

[LISTEN NOW]

In January 1990, Cuban singer Celia Cruz, known as ‘the Queen of Salsa', went back to Cuba. Banned by Fidel Castro for opposing his regime, it was the only time in her 43 years of exile that she was able to visit the island.

She was invited to sing in the US naval base on Guantanamo Bay. The trip only lasted a day and a half, but it was full of touching moments and symbolisms. Omer Pardillo Cid, Celia's manager and close friend, tells Stefania Gozzer about the mark this visit left in the singer.

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: Celia Cruz holds a Cuban flag as she performs during the 'Combinacion Perfecta' concert at Madison Square Garden, New York City, 1993. Credit: Getty Images)

Cuban salsa singer Celia Cruz's only return to the island in 43 years of exile.

History as told by the people who were there

Cuban singer Celia Cruz, known as 'the Queen of Salsa', lived in exile for 43 years. Banned from going back to her country by Fidel Castro, she visited the island once in 1990.

[LISTEN NOW]

On 20th March 1974, recently married Princess Anne and Captain Mark Phillips were returning to Buckingham Palace following an engagement in London. On The Mall, their limousine was blocked by another car, driven by lone gunman Ian Ball. Jim Beaton describes the dramatic events, including being shot three times as he protected the Princess.

Produced and presented by Mike Lanchin.

First broadcast on the BBC World Service in March 2014.

Royal Protection Officer, Jim Beaton, recalls the failed kidnap attempt to Mike Lanchin.

Royal Protection Officer, Jim Beaton, describes the failed 1974 kidnap attempt on Princess Anne to Mike Lanchin. From 2014.

They stole over £2 million.

Most of the Great Train robbers ended up behind bars, but most of the money has never been recovered.

Presented and produced by Chloe Hadjimatheou.

First broadcast on the BBC World Service in August 2012.

In August 1963, thieves stole over \u00a32 million from a London bound Royal Mail train.

[LISTEN NOW]

In 2008, Iraqi journalist Muntadhar al-Zaidi hurled his shoes at the President of the United States in protest at America's occupation of Iraq.

George W Bush had been giving a joint press conference in Baghdad with Iraqi prime minister Nouri al-Maliki at the time. He was in his final months as president as Barack Obama was due to take over.

As he threw the first shoe, Muntadhar yelled: “Here is your goodbye kiss, you dog.

He tells Vicky Farncombe how he prepared for the moment and what happened to him next.

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 Bush ducks after Muntadhar al-Zaidi threw a shoe. Credit: Reuters)

Iraqi journalist Muntadhar al-Zaidi threw his shoes at the President of the United States.

History as told by the people who were there

TV journalist Muntadhar al-Zaidi threw his shoes at President George W Bush in 2008 to protest against the occupation of Iraq.

[LISTEN NOW]

[LISTEN NOW]

In 1984, a 21-year-old Irish shopworker refused to serve a customer buying two South African grapefruits. Mary Manning was suspended from the Dunnes store in Dublin, and ten of her colleagues walked out alongside her in protest.

It was the start of a strike that lasted almost three years, and ended when Ireland became the first western country to impose a complete ban of South African imports.

Why did Mary do it? In 1984, she and her colleagues were part of the Irish workers' union, IDATU, which had told its members not to sell items from South Africa.

At the time the 11 strikers knew little about apartheid – South Africa's system of racial segregation - but they soon learnt.

Their protest would lead to them addressing the United Nations, winning praise from Bishop Desmond Tutu, and meeting with Nelson Mandela.

Mary tells Jane Wilkinson about what drove the strikers to continue despite little initial support.

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: Strikers outside Dunnes store in Dublin in 1985. Credit: Derek Speirs)

In 1984, 11 Dunnes store workers walked out after refusing to handle South African goods

History as told by the people who were there

In 1984, 11 workers walked out of the Dunnes store in Dublin after refusing to handle South African goods. It was the start of a three year strike against apartheid.

[LISTEN NOW]

It was World War Two, and families in southern Italy had already lived through a German invasion, air bombardment, and surrender to the Allies.

And then at 16:30 on 18 March, Vesuvius erupted. The sky filled with violent explosions of rock and ash, and burning lava flowed down the slopes, devastating villages.

By the time it was over, 11 days later, 26 people had died and about 12,000 people were forced to leave their homes.

Angelina Formisano, who was nine, was among those evacuated from the village of San Sebastiano. She's been speaking to Jane Wilkinson about being in the path of an erupting volcano.

(Photo: Vesuvius erupting in March 1944. Credit: Keystone/Getty Images)

Vesuvius is famous for burying Pompeii but it last erupted in 1944, during World War II.

Mount Vesuvius is famous for destroying Pompeii in AD79, but it last erupted in 1944, during World War II. Rock and ash filled the sky, and a flow of hot lava destroyed homes.

A CTVC production for the BBC Radio 4.

(Photo: Philippa Bernard beside the scrolls in Westminster Synagogue. Credit: BBC)

The Torah scrolls stolen by the Nazis, rescued by an London Jewish community.

Witness History hears the tale of the Torah scrolls stolen by the Nazis and rescued by a group from a London synagogue over 20 years later.

(Photo: Philippa beside the scrolls in Westminster Synagogue. Credit: BBC)

The Torah scrolls stolen by the Nazis, rescued by a London Jewish community

In 1983, punk rock was strictly forbidden in East Berlin. However, that didn't stop young music obsessive Mark Reeder, from Manchester in the UK, smuggling cassettes, and then a punk band across the Berlin Wall.

Mark shares how he arranged for the West German band, Die Toten Hosen, to perform illegally at a secret concert in a church.

This episode was produced by Paul Hanford and Rosalie Delaney. A Munck Studios production for the BBC World Service.

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: Members of the band Die Toten Hosen and friends in East Berlin in 1983. Credit: Mark Reeder)

How punk rock band Die Toten Hosen secretly played a concert in East Berlin.

History as told by the people who were there

In 1983, a man from the UK secretly took punk rock music recordings across the Berlin Wall. Mark Reeder organised a secret concert for the band Die Toten Hosen in East Berlin.

Show more "

[LISTEN NOW]

In 1983, punk rock was strictly forbidden in East Berlin. However, that didn't stop young music obsessive Mark Reeder, from Manchester in the UK, smuggling cassettes, and then a punk band across the Berlin Wall.

Mark shares how he arranged for the West German band, Die Toten Hosen, to perform illegally at a secret concert in a church.

This episode was produced by Paul Hanford and Rosalie Delaney. A Munck Studios production for the BBC World Service.

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: Members of the band Die Toten Hosen and friends in East Berlin in 1983. Credit: Mark Reeder)

How punk rock band Die Toten Hosen secretly played a concert in East Berlin.

History as told by the people who were there

In 1983, a man from the UK secretly took punk rock music recordings across the Berlin Wall. Mark Reeder organised a secret concert for the band Die Toten Hosen in East Berlin.

[LISTEN NOW]

In 1963, Dr Jose Ignacio Barraquer Moner performed the first surgery on a human eye aimed at correcting short-sightedness.

The ophthalmologist had been developing his technique for years, believing that there was a better solution for blurry vision than wearing glasses.

But he had to move from Spain to Colombia to begin his experimental surgery which involved dry ice, a watchmaker's lathe and rabbits. The idea was to change the shape of the cornea – the front layer of the eye - to focus vision.

First, he sliced off the patient's cornea then dunked it in liquid nitrogen, before using a miniature lathe to carve the frozen cornea into the right shape. Next, he thawed the disc and sewed it back on.

Jose's initial surgery was performed on rabbits, but in 1963 he carried out the first procedure on a human patient, a 9 year old girl. It was a success, and soon doctors from around the world were flocking to Colombia to find out more.

Barraquer called this procedure keratomileusis, from the Greek words for “carving” and “cornea.” The technique was the forerunner of Lasik eye surgery when the lathe was replaced with lasers.

Jose's daughter, Carmen Barraquer Coll followed her father into ophthalmology and tells Jane Wilkinson, how he inspired her.

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: Lasik eye surgery in 2009. Credit: BSIP/UIG Via Getty Images)

In 1963, Dr Jose Barraquer Moner performed the first eye surgery to fix short-sightedness.

History as told by the people who were there

In 1963, Dr Jose Ignacio Barraquer Moner performed the first surgery on a human eye aimed at correcting short-sightedness. His technique was the forerunner of Lasik eye surgery.

Show more "

[LISTEN NOW]

In 1963, Dr Jose Ignacio Barraquer Moner performed the first surgery on a human eye aimed at correcting short-sightedness.

The ophthalmologist had been developing his technique for years, believing that there was a better solution for blurry vision than wearing glasses.

But he had to move from Spain to Colombia to begin his experimental surgery which involved dry ice, a watchmaker's lathe and rabbits. The idea was to change the shape of the cornea – the front layer of the eye - to focus vision.

First, he sliced off the patient's cornea then dunked it in liquid nitrogen, before using a miniature lathe to carve the frozen cornea into the right shape. Next, he thawed the disc and sewed it back on.

Jose's initial surgery was performed on rabbits, but in 1963 he carried out the first procedure on a human patient, a 9 year old girl. It was a success, and soon doctors from around the world were flocking to Colombia to find out more.

Barraquer called this procedure keratomileusis, from the Greek words for “carving” and “cornea.” The technique was the forerunner of Lasik eye surgery when the lathe was replaced with lasers.

Jose's daughter, Carmen Barraquer Coll followed her father into ophthalmology and tells Jane Wilkinson, how he inspired her.

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: Lasik eye surgery in 2009. Credit: BSIP/UIG Via Getty Images)

In 1963, Dr Jose Barraquer Moner performed the first eye surgery to fix short-sightedness.

History as told by the people who were there

In 1963, Dr Jose Ignacio Barraquer Moner performed the first surgery on a human eye aimed at correcting short-sightedness. His technique was the forerunner of Lasik eye surgery.

[LISTEN NOW]

The ophthalmologist had been developing his technique for years, believing that there was a better solution for blurry vision than wearing glasses.

But he had to move from Spain to Colombia to begin his experimental surgery which involved dry ice, a watchmaker's lathe and rabbits. The idea was to change the shape of the cornea – the front layer of the eye - to focus vision.

First, he sliced off the patient's cornea then dunked it in liquid nitrogen, before using a miniature lathe to carve the frozen cornea into the right shape. Next, he thawed the disc and sewed it back on.

Jose's initial surgery was performed on rabbits, but in 1963 he carried out the first procedure on a human patient, a 9 year old girl. It was a success, and soon doctors from around the world were flocking to Colombia to find out more.

Barraquer called this procedure keratomileusis, from the Greek words for “carving” and “cornea.” The technique was the forerunner of Lasik eye surgery when the lathe was replaced with lasers.

Jose's daughter, Carmen Barraquer Coll followed her father into ophthalmology and tells Jane Wilkinson, how he inspired her.

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: Lasik eye surgery in 2009. Credit: BSIP/UIG Via Getty Images)

In 1963, Dr Jose Barraquer Moner performed the first eye surgery to fix short-sightedness.

History as told by the people who were there

In 1963, Dr Jose Ignacio Barraquer Moner performed the first surgery on a human eye aimed at correcting short-sightedness. His technique was the forerunner of Lasik eye surgery.

They first came to Ireland in the late 1990s to work in the town's meat factory.

Lucimeire Trindade was just 24-years-old when she and three friends arrived in the town, unable to speak a word of English or Irish.

Nearly 25 years later, Lucimeire considers Gort her true home.

She tells Vicky Farncombe how being in Ireland changed her outlook on life.

“I learned that a woman can have their own life, especially going to the pub alone without their husbands!”

(Photo: Traditional Brazilian carnival dancers strut their stuff in Gort. Credit: John Kelly, Clare Champion)

How Gort in the west of Ireland became home to so many Brazilians

In the late 1990s, hundreds of out-of-work butchers left their homes in Brazil for a new life in Gort, a small town in the west of Ireland.

Quisling suggested to Hitler that the British were planning to move into Norway for their own strategic needs. Norway hadn't been a concern for the Nazis but the meeting alarmed Hitler and within months Germany started its invasion of Norway.

From that moment, Quisling was consigned into history as a traitor. So much so that in the time since, his name has become a byword for traitor in numerous languages.

Matt Pintus hears from Norwegian journalist, Trude Lorentzen, who decided to study Quisling's life after stumbling across his suitcase in an online auction.

As part of her voyage of discovery, Trude interviewed Quisling's Jewish neighbour Leif Grusd who was forced to flee to Sweden when the Nazis took over Norway.

Leif Grusd's interview was translated from the NRK podcast 'Quislings koffert' - Quisling's suitcase - released in 2021. It was made by production company Svarttrost for NRK.

(Photo: Vidkun Quisling and Adolf Hitler. Credit: Getty Images)

In 1939, Vidkun Quisling asked Hitler to invade Norway.

Vidkun Quisling is known as Norway's biggest traitor. His name is a byword for traitor in several languages. Journalist Trude Lorentzen speaks to Matt Pintus about his life.

She came up with a solution – a reusable outer garment, initially made out of parachute material, with a disposable, biodegradable pad inside.

She named it the Paddi and once her friends saw it, they all wanted one, so she went into business. Rachel Naylor speaks to Nigel Hunter Gordon, Valerie's son, who modelled them as a baby in the first adverts.

The story of how disposable nappies were invented.

In 1947, after the birth of her third child, Valerie Hunter Gordon decided she was sick of the drudgery of cloth nappies and so she invented disposable nappies.

Frank Cottrell-Boyce who wrote the scene for the opening ceremony of the 2012 London Olympic Games explains how it came about.

Josephine McDermott hears how corgis, a clothes line and the Queen's dresser all played important parts.

(Photo: The moment the Queen and James Bond appeared to jump out of a helicopter above the Olympic Stadium in London. Credit: Getty Images)

For the 2012 London Olympic Games the Queen appeared to jump out of a helicopter

Frank Cottrell-Boyce describes the scene he wrote for the opening of the 2012 London Olympic Games in which the Queen appeared to jump out of a helicopter.

That was until one day in the summer of 1974, when a group of women decided to plot an invasion.

At a time when Irish women couldn't even access contraception, why did this group of hardy feminists decide to fight this particular battle for equality?

Rosie Blunt speaks to poet, writer, women's rights activist, and swimmer Mary Dorcey.

(Photo: Woman diving at the Forty Foot in 2019. Credit: David Fitzgerald/Sportsfile via Getty Images)

In 1974, women campaigned to swim at the Forty Foot in Dublin, Ireland

Women fought for their right to Dublin's male-only swimming spot, the Forty Foot, in 1974. For years, male swimmers had told women they couldn't swim off the Irish beach.

But the BBC's debut of Doctor Who was tragically overshadowed by the assassination of US President John F Kennedy.

Lucy Burns speaks to Carole Ann Ford, who played the Timelord's grand-daughter, Susan.

Presented and produced by Lucy Burns.

First broadcast on BBC World Service November 2013.

On 23 November 1963, the first episode of Doctor Who was shown.

Doctor Who began on 23rd November 1963. Lucy Burns talks to Carole Ann Ford who played the Time Lord's grand-daughter, Susan.

The remains were discovered in a gravel pit in rural Sussex and became known as Piltdown Man.

Witness tells the story of the hoax using contemporary accounts of what happened.

The programme also hears from Dr Miles Russell of Bournemouth University, author of 'Piltdown Man: Case Closed'.

Presented and produced by Simon Watts.

First broadcast on BBC World Service December 2012.

In 1912, Britain's top palaeontologists were hoaxed by a 'missing link' in human evolution

In 1912, Britain's top palaeontologists were hoaxed by a 'missing link' in human evolution. Simon Watts explores what happened.

First broadcast on BBC World Service 2012.