Shows
The History Hotline129: The Race Relations Act, 1965The Race Relations Act was passed in 1965. It set about to formerly criminalise racial discrimination but only certain kinds. This episode we'll be thinking about how successful this was in improving the situation for Black people in Britain, or was it performative and largely unhelpful? For more information on my PhD study email me at: d.r.a.lyncook@qmul.ac.uk or message me on social media. Keep up to date with us.
2024-01-1648 minThe History Hotline127: What is happening to Guyana?Why does Venezuela claim Essquibo and what will this mean for Guyana?Currently a referendum is on to Venezuelans to claim part of Guyana which is oil rich, which could mean the annexation of the territory from Guyana. Tune in more to find out about what is happening in the region and how this links to other global conflicts in Palestine and Congo as the powers that be exploit for their own gain.Articles consulted: The Financial Times and Al Jazeera.I also speak about my call for participants for my PhD research...
2023-12-0628 min
Strictly Facts: A Guide to Caribbean History and CultureEducation and Empire: Schooling, Colonialism, and Migration, in Britain and the British Caribbean with Deanna LyncookSend us a text message and tell us your thoughts.Education shapes lives - but how is this journey shaped by race, colonialism, and migration? Join us as we navigate the establishment of school systems in the British Caribbean post-Emancipation to the increasingly diverse classrooms of mid-20th century Britain. We're enlightened by the insights of Deanna Lyncook, a fellow podcaster and PhD student, whose research colors our understanding of Caribbean life and education abroad.We trace the racial and religious underpinnings of education in the anglophone colonies and unpack the challenges that newly-migrated British...
2023-11-0154 min
ParrotbeetieEpisode 27: Deanna Lyncook, Host of "The History Hotline" Joins Parrotbeetie!In this episode, Raafeke is joined by Deanna Lyncook, host of The History Hotline podcast. Together, the two of them discuss the importance of Caribbean studies, the preservation of Caribbean culture (as well as its commodification by the West), and how Caribbean migrants have preserved their culture in the US and UK.
If you are enjoying the show, please take time to subscribe and follow us on Instagram and Twitter! Be sure to check out the History Hotline podcast as well to learn more about Caribbean history, and follow Deanna on social media to...
2023-07-2043 minThe History Hotline102: The 1848 Chartist Demonstration William Cuffay was a chartist leader in early Victorian Britain. His mother was English and his father was a formerly enslaved African man born in Saint Kitts. He began as an apprentice to a tailor and quickly ended up in the world of politics, fighting for working people's rights.In part 2, we'll be exploring his contribution to the Chartist movement and the 1848 demonstration that led to him being transported to Tasmania.Socials and Links: https://linktr.ee/thehistoryhotlineGiveaway: https://www.instagram.com/p/CqDGYgJoYiz/ (closing date: 4th April 2023)Host: Deanna Lyncook Researcher: Zakiyyah Riaz
2023-04-0431 minThe History Hotline101: William Cuffay and the Chartist MovementWilliam Cuffay was a chartist leader in early Victorian Britain. His mother was English and his father was a formerly enslaved African man born in Saint Kitts. He began as an apprentice to a tailor and quickly ended up in the world of politics, fighting for working people's rights. Socials and Links: https://linktr.ee/thehistoryhotlineGiveaway: https://www.instagram.com/p/CqDGYgJoYiz/ (closing date: 4th April 2023)Host: Deanna Lyncook Researcher: Zakiyyah Riaz
2023-03-2825 min
The History Hotline100: Reflecting on 100 episodes of The History Hotline100 EPISODES. A special episode to mark a special milestone... Reflections on the podcast so far, how I got here and why I started.Socials and Links: https://linktr.ee/thehistoryhotlineGiveaway: https://www.instagram.com/p/CqDGYgJoYiz/ (closing date: 4th April 2023)Host: Deanna Lyncook Researcher: Zakiyyah Riaz
2023-03-2145 minThe History Hotline092: Caribbean Christmas Fruit CakeCaribbean Fruit Cake, Rum Cake, Fruit Cake, Black Cake or whatever you call the rich, moist alcoholic cake that hails from the Caribbean and is devoured over Christmas time... this episode is all about the history of the cake and why it is so loved and enjoyed today!
2022-12-2716 minThe History Hotline091: Richard Drax and the Legacy of Enslavement in Barbados James Drax arrived in Barbados in the early 1630s looking for an opportunity to create wealth. He was the first of a long line of plantation owners who not only held slaves but ensured the institution would remain etched into the fabric of Bajan society forever. Whilst his descendent, Richard Drax is the next to inherit the 600 acre plantation, calls for reparations are being made once again.In this episode we will discuss the Drax family in Barbados and think about the calls for reparations considering the part this family had to play in the enslavement and...
2022-12-2059 minThe History Hotline090: The British West India Regiment Mutiny during WWI“Nothing we can do will alter the fact that the black man has begun to think and feel himself as good as the white.” - [Secret] Colonial Office Memorandum, 1919.The men of the British West India Regiment (BWIR) were recruited as soldiers who would fight as part of the British regiment, during WWI. However, they were not granted the same freedoms as their white counterparts or celebrated in the same way, in fact they were given arduous and laborious tasks and denied equal pay. The 1918 mutiny epitomising their discontent, adding to anti-colonial conversation in the regi...
2022-12-0627 minThe History Hotline089: The West India Regiment Mutiny in Dominica In 1802 the 8th West Indian Regiment rebelled against their commanding officers and mutinied in Prince Rupert’s, Dominica. This episode explores the reasons for the mutiny, a timeline of events and the outcomes and consequences.
2022-11-2921 minThe History Hotline088: West India Regiment The British Army was the single biggest purchaser of slaves by the end of the 18th century. The enslaved African men they bought joined the West India Regiment from 1795. This episode explores the creation of the regiment, the pushback and opposition from Caribbean legislatures, the perception of the of the regiment and the material conditions and pay for soldiers within the regiment.
2022-11-1527 minThe History Hotline087: The History Matters Journal featuring A.S. FrancisThis week we're launching a series of podcast with The History Matters journal, featuring a very special guest: A. S. Francis. This episode explores the origins of The History Matters collective and the journal and the way in which it continues to contribute to the dissemination of Black British History within public narratives.
2022-11-0845 minThe History Hotline086: African Slave TradersAn episode thinking about the role of African people in the transatlantic slave trade, featuring:1. The Woman King and the [in]accurate depiction of the Kingdom of Dahomey.2. Racism and Slavery.3. William Ansah Sessarakoo.4. Ayuba Suleiman Diallo.5. The artworks that depicted their lives in London.
2022-11-0126 minThe History Hotline085: Racism in FootballRacism in football is often portrayed to be an unfixable issue as it is a manifestation of societal racism and arguably won’t be fixed until racism in wider society is. In this episode we will uncover not only the covert racism of fans but also the racism within the institution.We’ll be starting with the story of 1) Jack Leslie, the inspiration for this episode and looking at 2) the history of Black men in the sport in England. We’ll then be thinking about 3) the history of Black women in English football and why there are so few...
2022-10-2534 minThe History Hotline084: What will happen to the Commonwealth? The Commonwealth is a voluntary association of 56 independent and equal countries in Africa, Asia, the Americas, Europe and the Pacific. But following the death of Queen Elizabeth II can the commonwealth survive? Or will member states, with complex histories of being colonised by the British Empire begin to seek a different future?
2022-10-1827 minThe History Hotline083: BLM in the UK: RIP Chris KabaWelcome back to The History Hotline, this week's episode includes:US Origins of the phrase and the movement.How that developed across the last 9 years.BLM in Britain as a movement, piggy backing the US?What BLM is doing in the UK?History of organisations fighting race based discrimination in the UK.Chris Kaba and police brutality in the UK.
2022-10-1140 minThe History Hotline082: Fort Charles, Britain's colonial legacyFort Charles is located in the small town of Port Royal in Jamaica. Fort Charles was the first and only surviving port constructed to guard its entrance in the 17th Century. Port Royal was decimated during a terrible earthquake in 1692 and Fort Charles is the only fort to have survived, as 33 acres were submerged into the 'sunken city'.
2022-07-0520 minThe History Hotline081: Windrush Monument: Empty Gesture?This week we're discussing the newly erected monument at Waterloo Train Station in 'honour' of the Windrush Generation, Gus John's open letter and whether or not it's all just an empty political gesture?Episodes will be released every Tuesday, instead of Mondays.
2022-06-2836 minThe History Hotline080: Windrush Day: What are we celebrating? Wednesday 22nd June 2022 marks the 5th national celebration of Windrush Day and 74 years since the Empire Windrush arrived at Tilbury Docks in Essex and the generation of people that followed. But what are we actually celebrating, the Windrush and the legacy it leaves will be one of sacrifice and contribution but also of scandal, of pain and trauma. Is this something to celebrate or should it be a time or reckoning with this element of Britain's racist past? Or can we do both?
2022-06-2026 minThe History Hotline079: Patty vs PattyThe ‘patty’ a baked flaky pastry filled with traditionally with well seasoned minced beef is a Jamaican staple. It can be enjoyed for breakfast or lunch or as a snack. They are known to all as a patty but this nearly changed in 1985 for a Toronto Jamaican bakery, who were threatened with a fine if they didn’t change the name of the ‘patty’ as it did not meet the food standards for a patty. Tune into this week’s episode to find out more about the patty and what happened in “patty vs patty: 1985”.
2022-05-3021 minThe History Hotline078: Was Winston Churchill Racist?Winston Churchill, is historically ranked as one of the greatest British prime ministers and the greatest Briton to ever live. But has the British public been ignorantly avoiding the truth about one of their heroes and are concerns about his inflammatory and racist comments warranted?Tune into this weeks episode to explore why Winston Churchill's comments are viewed as problematic at best and dangerous racist rhetoric, responsible for the loss of life.
2022-05-2345 minThe History Hotline077: Michael X in Trinidad Michael X, died on the gallows in the royal jail in May 1975, despite urgent last‐minute pleas for commutation of his sentence. The first execution on the Caribbean island of Trinidad since 1957, was not met with any public demonstrations or protests in Trinidad but marked by international support of Malik by activists in the UK and USA.Michael was charged with the murder of 24 year old Joseph Skerritt whose body was found buried next to Gale Benson also thought to have been murdered at Michael X's commune in 1972. To find out the chilling facts of th...
2022-05-1623 minThe History Hotline076: Michael X in BritainMichael X, who was born Michael de Freitas, was a Trinidad and Tobago born self proclaimed black nationalist, revolutionary and civil rights activist. He migrated to London in 1957 and lived a life alongside some of the seediest characters of West London. The first person prosecuted under the race relations act (1965) and a face on the desk of the Special Branch surveillance team.
2022-05-0932 minThe History Hotline075: Honouring David OluwaleDavid Oluwale, a Nigerian man was "hounded to his death" by police in Leeds in the 1960s. His death led to the first prosecution of British police for involvement in the death of a black person, but this was 'hollow justice' to say the least.In April 2022, a plaque to honour him in Leeds was put up, but devastatingly it has been vandalised and stolen twice in what was less than 3 days. Articles mentioned in the episode:Perry Blankson: https://tribunemag.co.uk/2022/04/we-must-remember-david-oluwaleOlivia McGhie: https://www.thestateofthearts.co.uk...
2022-05-0236 minThe History Hotline074: The Ivory Bangle LadyIn 1901 near Sycamore Terrace in York, the remains of a woman we now refer to as the ‘Ivory Bangle Lady’, dating all the way back to the second half of the 4th Century, were found. The first written record of African people in Britain dates back to the 3rd Century AD. They came via the movement of the Roman Empire which due to its expansive span through trade, military movements, civilian migrations which were both voluntary and forced. All kinds of people travelled within the Empire, the Ivory Bangle Lady was no exception.Tune in to f...
2022-04-2522 minThe History Hotline073: Darcus HoweDarcus Howe, a British broadcaster, writer and racial justice campaigner. He arrived in Britain as an 18 year old in 1961. He studied law but as his life panned out he became more involved with journalism, broadcasting and activism. He has been one of the most powerful voices for Black rights in Britain, always articulate and dominant, speaking with great eloquence and pride. He was a fearless campaigner, consistently fighting against injustice in Britain and overseas. This episode takes a glimpse into his life and all he achieved as well as the legacy he left.
2022-04-1831 minThe History Hotline072: Black Face and Minstrelsy in Britain The Black and White Minstrel Show ran for 20 years, at a time in Britain where race relations were growing ever tenser. How did a show like this manage to run for so long? Where did minstrelsy come from? (America if you didn't know) How did the show eventually draw to a close?****hint: We can thank Diana Ross!!
2022-04-1141 minThe History Hotline071: The Emmett Till Anti-Lynching ActPresident Joe Biden signed a bill into law on Tuesday 29th March that makes lynching a federal hate crime. This episode will explore the bill, the harrowing story of Emmett Till, and the consequences of an act such as this in 2022.TW// Details of extreme violence, racism, lynching, murder
2022-04-0427 min
CORPORATE HARD TALKSeason 5 , Ep 4 Interview with Deanna Lyncook, Founder of Hotline History Podcast,Oral History/ Project OfficerWelcome to the all-Black Women Season running from the 8th of March to the end of May.
It's been a minute, we are glad to be back with season 5, a little emotional because we have been gone for some time.
This season at CHT we will focus on black women, it is important for us to spin a couple of stories on the head.
Season 5 is all about bringing professional women, specifically black women, it is suggested that black women are behind in the corporate world, what we want to do at Corporate H...
2022-04-0244 minThe History Hotline070: Jamaica: The Next Republic?A new episode on all things Jamaican politics. Will it be the next republic, following in the footsteps of Barbados? This week we will discuss Jamaica's new pledge to become a republic, what that means and how the royal visit did more harm than good.Brief historyThe royal visit to JamaicaWhat next?Reparations?TW// Slavery and racism
2022-03-2843 minThe History Hotline069: ChildQ and the Adultification of Black GirlsTW// racism, violence In 2020, a 15 year old Black girl was strip-searched at school after being wrongly suspected of carrying drugs. This week the report revealing these details was released and this episode hopes to shed light on this case and the problems of racism within policing and education and the traumatic impact that has on young Black children.
2022-03-2123 minThe History Hotline068: Olive MorrisThis episode is about Olive Morris, the Jamaican born activist, community leader, radical feminist, Black nationalist and Marx-Leninist communist, thinking about her life and legacy.Early life and education The assault by the metropolitan policeA life of activism Housing campaigns and squatting Life after death
2022-03-1429 minThe History Hotline067: The Brixton Black Women's Group The Brixton Black Women's Group was an organisation formed by Black women in 1973 to 1985. It aimed to raise the consciousness of Black women and also organise around specific issues affecting black women in British society.
2022-03-0730 minThe History Hotline066: Stokely Carmichael (aka Kwame Ture) visits London, 1967.In July of 1967, Stokely Carmichael, the leader of SNCC, "Honorary Prime Minister" Black Panther Party and one of the most prominent leaders in the American Black Power Movement, arrived in London as part of an international tour.He made a speech at the Dialects of Liberation Congress during his time in London is widely regarded as a pivotal moment in the British Black Power movement. Carmichael advocated for Black Power and a call for a new way of fighting individual and institutional racism.Who was Kwame Ture?Race relations in Britain prior to...
2022-02-2800 minThe History Hotline065: Did the 1952 Immigration and Nationality Act impact Caribbean Migration to the US?This episode we'll be looking at immigration from the Caribbean to the US in the latter part of the 20th century. The impact of the McCarran Walter Act (1952) on immigration to the US from around the world. The experiences of Caribbean people under segregation and jim crow laws, by looking briefly at the story of Colin Powell.This episode can be enjoyed on its own but might be more easily digested after episode 63 and 64.
2022-02-2128 minThe History Hotline064: What was the relationship like between Afro-Caribbean Immigrants and African Americans in early 20th Century America?This week we will be continuing the conversation about Caribbean immigration to the US. Focusing on the early 20th Century, we'll explore how African Americans and Caribbean immigrants' understanding of race shaped their perception of one another. How that impacted the job and housing sectors in the Northern US states, regarding these two groups of people. Also, paying attention to the experience of the newly arrived Afro-Caribbean immigrants in the US.
2022-02-1435 minThe History Hotline063: Caribbean Immigration to the USCaribbean Immigration to the US began forcibly during the transatlantic slave trade. The pattern of immigration continued into the early 20th century, creating Caribbean-American heritage, culture and communities.This week we'll be discussing these waves of immigration beginning in the 17th Century and finishing in the 1930s.
2022-02-0723 minThe History Hotline062: What happened to Black Germans under the Nazis?This week's episodes looks at the horrors of Nazi Germany, specifically on Afro-Germans. We'll be thinking about:Where did Black people in Germany come from?Mixed race children in the Rhineland.The German colonies in Africa.The Impact of the 1935 Nuremberg Laws.Reparations or a lack of for Black victims and their families.The stories of: Thomas Holzhauser, Hans Hauck, Hans-Jürgen Massaquoi, John William, and Theodor Michael Wonja.TW: This episode contains conversations about genocide, violence, murder, forced sterilisation, rape and assault to adults a...
2022-01-3138 minThe History Hotline061: Desmond's and Black representation on TVThis week's episode will explore the Black sitcom: Desmond's. A 6 series comedy, set in a Guyanese barbershop in Peckham. We'll look at:1)Why it started?2) How important it was in challenging negative stereotypical portrayals of Black people at the time?3) How important is the show for viewers today?4) Some political commentary in the show.5) The Cast: Where are they now?
2022-01-2439 minThe History Hotline060: Why do we need to be concerned about the Nationality and Borders Bill?This week we'll be talking about:1) The five bills currently being passed through the House of Commons and the House of Lords.2)The Nationality and Borders Bill.3) The points on asylum4) The infamous clause 95) Protests and Comments on the bill.
2022-01-1741 minThe History Hotline059: Did Edward Colston’s statue need to be dragged down?This week we'll be exploring:1) Who was Edward Colston?2) How long have Bristolians wanted the statue to come down?3) How did it come down?4) Where is it now?5) The Case of the Colston Four.Documentary mentioned: https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m000wvzx
2022-01-1044 minThe History Hotline058: Britain's first Black bookshop: New Beacon BooksBritain's first Black bookshop, New Beacon Books is potentially facing closure after over 50 years as the first Black publisher, book shop and international book distributor. It was founded by John La Rose and Sarah White and has continued to be run by the family, surviving longer than any other bookshop of its kind.To support head down to the shop in Finsbury Park or shop online at: https://www.newbeaconbooks.com/
2021-12-2721 minThe History Hotline057: Sorrel aka Roselle Juice aka Bissap aka Hibiscus DrinkThis week we're looking at the history of another Caribbean Christmas tradition. You might know it be the name sorrel, roselle, bissap, wonjo, foléré, dabileni, zobo, sobolo, hibiscus, auga de Jamaica, red drink or something different entirely. The roselle hibiscus plant is the base of a drink that spans across many continents and due to its history became a THE Caribbean Christmas drink.
2021-12-2021 minThe History Hotline056: Guyanese PepperpotGuyanese pepperpot a dish typically enjoyed on Christmas day. Its roots start with the indigenous populations of South America and the Caribbean, transported across the transatlantic slave trade to America. Many cultures having their own version of this iconic dish. Tune in to find out what makes it so special and how it travels the world.
2021-12-1329 minThe History Hotline055: Barbados: A New RepublicOn the 55th anniversary of Barbadian Independence, they transitioned from a 'constitutional monarchy' to a parliamentary republic'. By removing the queen from her position, the democratic nation of 300,000 people is finally free of one of the last institutionalised vestiges of British colonialism. Barbados is officially the world’s newest republic... To find out what this means, how it will impact the Caribbean and of course a brief history of Barbados, tune in!
2021-12-0645 minThe History Hotline054: Enoch Powell's 'Rivers of Blood' SpeechOn 21st April 1968 Enoch Powell, addressed an invited audience of conservative supporters, to present his prophecies for the future of Britain should immigration continue. This episode will think about:1. Who was Enoch Powell?2. When and why did he make the speech?3. What did the speech say and mean?4. What was the impact of the speech, then and today?
2021-11-2949 minThe History Hotline053: The Battle of Lewisham13th August 1977, the National Front clashed with anti-fascist and anti-racist organisations in the heart of South East London. To find out about the national front in the 1970s in Britain, how this clash happened and why... tune in!
2021-11-2226 minThe History Hotline052: The West Indian Economic Contribution to WWIWe often think about war as a time of personal sacrifice for the 'greater good' but have you ever thought about the economic costs of the world wars from the perspectives of former British colonies? This episode we will be exploring the 'men, money and materials' sent by the West Indies to Britain during WWI.For more information on the Black Poppy Rose: https://www.blackpoppyrose.org/
2021-11-0831 minThe History Hotline051: A space where Black British History and tech collide ft. Kayleigh Oliver (FOBBS)This week I'm joined by a very special guest Kayleigh Oliver, who is currently developing an app called FOBBS (Figures of Black British History) in order to help educate school children on some of the key figures within Black British history. Tune in to find out her motivation for the app and what she hopes to achieve with it. The History Hotline is in partnership with FOBBS for the creation of this app.The website: https://fobbs.uk/To sign up for the app: https://fobbs.uk/#signupInstagram...
2021-11-0127 minThe History Hotline050: 10 Things I Hate About Black History MonthEvery October, Black History Month rolls around again, but will there be a time where we no longer need it? Here's my 10 Things I Hate About Black History Month. Disclaimer: Please take this episode with a pinch of salt, it is meant to be somewhat lightheartedly.
2021-10-2525 minThe History Hotline049: The Importance of Figures in Black British History?This episode we're thinking about the importance of people in studying history or if this a problematic erasure of other more important factors in history. With a special focus on the life of Claudia Jones and announcements on upcoming exhibitions curated by me.https://www.methodist.org.uk/about-us/news/latest-news/all-news/exhibition-at-wesleys-chapel-leadership-on-a-journey/
2021-10-1821 minThe History Hotline048: Black British Historical Fiction This episode we will be discussing these five texts:1) Letters from London - C. L. R James2) Small Island -Andrea Levy3) The Lonely Londoners -Sam Selvon4) Second Class Citizen -Buchi Emecheta5) Things Fall Apart -Chinua AchebeI won't be spoiling any of the books, but I hope they will give you some fiction titles that help understand Black Britain.Buchi Emecheta interview I wanted to add but didn't want the copyright violation: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KJPIJ8JpOFk
2021-10-1127 minThe History Hotline047: Black History and British StatuesBlack History Month 2021 started off with news of the unveiling of a statue of Betty Campbell, Wales' first Black headteacher. We'll be exploring her life as well as the significance of statues as a way of memorialising people and understanding history. Are they necessary? Are they for the moment they were unveiled in, or is their purpose to stand for eternity?
2021-10-0426 minThe History Hotline046: Britain's Immigration Crises With Britain contemplating relaxing current immigration rules we discuss the immigration acts and laws that have shaped who and who isn't welcome in Britain. Starting in 1905 and ending in 1981... we'll be exploring several different laws and their historical context and reasons for existence. Whilst looking at how immigration policy 'othered' different migrant groups and continues to do so.
2021-09-2733 minThe History Hotline045: Black Authors on the English Curriculum?Following the recent announcement that OCR has included more texts written by Black authors on the A-level and GCSE specification we're discussing:-Who the new authors are.-Why curriculum change is important.-Sam Selvon's The Lonely Londoners-Problems with GCSE/A-level specification changes with no changes in KS3.-The role of teachers in these changes.
2021-09-2031 minThe History Hotline044: Britains First Black Bus Driver, Joe CloughBritain's first Black bus driver -Joe Clough. We'll be exploring his life and experiences in Victorian Britain, his role as a serviceman in WWI and his subsequent career as a taxi driver.Call for information:“We are also trying to make contact with descendants of Joe Clough,” said Louise Townsend of Townsend Theatre Productions.“We know that one of their daughters married into the George family of Bedford, so we’d be grateful if anyone knows any of Joe’s descendants and could put us in touch.”If you can help, please email...
2021-09-1322 minThe History Hotline043: The Bristol Bus BoycottWhen the Bristol Omnibus Company refused to hire Black or Asain bus crews, Roy Hackett, Owen Henry, Audley Evans, Prince Brown and Paul Stephenson formed an action group and decided that a boycott was the only way to force the bus company to change.
2021-09-0627 minThe History Hotline042: Notting Hill Carnival's Caribbean RootsExploring the roots of Notting Hill Carnival, back to its Trinidadian traditions through slavery, its growth in the UK from St Pancras Hall, to a mini street party to the biggest "street party" in Europe.
2021-08-3029 minThe History Hotline041: The Origins of Notting Hill CarnivalThis weeks episode will set the context for Notting Hill carnival, we'll be thinking about:Racial tensions in the 1950sThe Notting Hill Riots in 1958The murder of Kelso Cochrane in 1959
2021-08-2434 minThe History Hotline040: 25 Facts about the Empire Windrush On 22nd June 1948 the Empire Windrush arrived at Tilbury docks bringing over 1000 passengers from the Caribbean and 73 years later, it's the 2nd ever Windrush Day!Tune in to hear 25 facts about the ship, the passengers, its voyage and the reception it got as it touched British waters.
2021-06-2120 minThe History Hotline039: 1981 Race Riots During the summer of 1981; major UK cities such as London, Birmingham, Liverpool and Leeds were overcome with “race riots.” After decades of police harassment, brutality and racist attacks from numerous far right and fascist groups, as well as racist individuals.We will be exploring the reasons for the riot: the political, social and economic climate. The role of policing in the build up and during the riots and the aftermath of the uprisings across the country.
2021-06-1400 minThe History Hotline038: Protesting Racism: The 1981 Riots ft. Montel GordonA conversational episode with special guest Montel Gordon, discussing 'protesting racism' in a modern day context and in comparison to the 1981 riots which forms part of a long history of anti-racist protests/riots/uprisings in Britain.Montel's article: https://www.independent.co.uk/voices/george-floyd-black-lives-matter-b1853451.html
2021-06-0758 minThe History Hotline037: Caribbean Women At WarThis week's episode is all about Caribbean women serving in the Auxiliary Territorial Service (ATS) during WWII. The spirit of resistance that lives through Caribbean women from Nanny of the Maroons to Mary Seacole and all those 20th Century Caribbean women that paved the way in migration to Britain will be explored.
2021-05-3144 minThe History Hotline036: The British Colonial Education SystemAn episode exploring the colonial education system in the British Caribbean and the impact that had on class hierarchies in Britain and the long lasting legacy this had one Caribbean children, educated in Britain, in the post war era.Documentary mentioned: https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m000w81h
2021-05-2435 minThe History Hotline035: African and Caribbean Solidarity ft Seun MatilukoThis week we're exploring African and Caribbean solidarity in Britain and on a global level, with special guest Seun Matiluko. Pushing back against the currently quite divisive conversations that can happen around African and Caribbean individuals... we talk about the British Black Panthers, Olive Morris and the Nigerian diplomat, the 1986 Commonwealth games boycotts, Marcus Garvey and his political beefs and the points of diplomatic solidarity in a more modern context.
2021-05-1749 minThe History Hotline034: Calypso and CricketWe're thinking about the second test match in the four match series between the West Indies and England in the summer of 1950. Immortalised by the calypsonians Lord Kitchener and Lord Beginner, this match 'it bound to go down in history'.To listen to Victory Calypso: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wFl9x3XzKSw
2021-05-1029 minThe History Hotline033: Migration: Nigeria ft. Abigael FagbolagunThis is the last episode in our migration series where we will be looking at Nigerian migration into Britain with our special guest history student Abigael Fagbolagun!We'll be discussing a brief history of Nigerian and also looking at the main ways Nigerian's in Britain created community and settled: Faith and the Church and Access to home.
2021-05-0346 minThe History Hotline032: Migration: The Punjab to Southall ft. Satya Gunput (part II)Another episode in our migration series this week, with special guest, history PhD student Satya Gunput. He will be exploring his PhD research and his role as a historian currently working within the structures of UK academia. This is a part 2 to episode 31 and follows on from the discussions that took place in part 1.Together we continue discussions on migration, focusing on the Punjabi community in Southall, the Southall Black sisters, the radicalisation of Asians in Britain, the recent (March 2021) government report on racial disparities, the 'war on British History' and systemic racial issues vs. individual racial...
2021-04-2632 minThe History Hotline031: Migration: The Punjab to Southall ft. Satya Gunput (part I)Another episode in our migration series this week, with special guest, history PhD student Satya Gunput. He will be exploring his PhD research and his role as a historian currently working within the structures of UK academia.Together we continue discussions on migration, focusing on the Punjabi community in Southall, different forms of anti-racist struggles, the Southall riots, the organisation of the Southall black Sisters and the case of Kiranjit Ahluwalia.https://southallblacksisters.org.uk/https://twitter.com/hisnameissatyahttps://vimeo.com/476804477/89cf852f8c
2021-04-1935 minThe History Hotline030: Migration: The Seychelles ft. Vanessa Stewart The first episode in the three part migration series... this week we're looking at the islands of the Seychelles and the waves of migration into Britain with special guest Vanessa Stewart.
2021-04-1251 minThe History Hotline029: Institutionally Ignorant?Is Britain still institutionally racist? This episode will focus on the recently published by the Commission for Race and Ethnic Disparities. Primarily, thinking about what this means for race relations today...
2021-04-0536 minThe History Hotline028: Princess and Nurse Adenrele AdemolaThe daughter of the Alake of Abeokuta, a King in the southern region of Nigeria. Omo-Oba Adenrele Ademola arrived in Britain in 1935 and started her training as a midwife.She balanced her role as a princess with the demands of her professional nursing career. Balancing royal social events in Britain with a nursing career that spanned 30 years. However, records of her life bear little significance in British archives. We'll discuss why that is and the significance of her life regarding empire, Britain's historical memory and the place of Black women in British history.
2021-03-2926 minThe History Hotline027: Queen Nanny of the Maroons This episode is about Queen Nanny of the Maroons (c. 1686 – c. 1755). The Maroons were a group of formerly enslaved Africans, featuring in many Caribbean islands, forming separate communities and antagonising the colonisers on the island. They consistently resisted Spanish and then British colonialism and fought a guerrilla war over many years against British. Queen Nanny legacy is that of a military, spiritual and cultural leader.Sisters Uncut: https://www.sistersuncut.org/
2021-03-2238 minThe History Hotline026: Women Resisting This episode we will be looking at instances of Black women resisting, in the context of women's current struggles to come to voice and be heard. Using Stella Dadzie's 'A Kick in the Belly' we'll discuss the women that resisted British and Portuguese colonialism, transatlantic slave ship rebellions and the military prowess of African women in the 17th and 18th Century.
2021-03-1533 minThe History Hotline025: Organisation of Women of African and Asian Descent The Grandmother of Black feminist movements in Britain. This episode we discuss OWAAD, its roots, aims, achievements and legacy. We also look at the book born out of the movement: 'The Heart of the Race' (1985) and discuss the importance of Black women writing their own historical narratives.
2021-03-0838 minThe History Hotline024: Mary Seacole As we jump into Women's History Month (March 2021) we are thinking about the trailblazing British-Jamaican Mary Seacole. The doctress, healer and nurse who travelled across the world from the Caribbean to the Crimea to heal wounded soldiers on the battlefield. We'll be exploring her legacy and the way in which history often excludes Black women from its records.To donate to Sistah-Space: https://uk.gofundme.com/f/httpsyoutubeCNDFliY7lk4
2021-03-0135 minThe History Hotline023: 'Blackness' in Literature This week I am joined by Orisha, creator of The Reader's Collection. We discuss African American literature and the portrayal of 'Blackness' across several texts by authors and poets such as: Maya Angelou, Ralph Ellison, Octavia Butler, Toni Morrison and James Baldwin.Our conversation goes from the representation of Black masculinity and fatherhood to the portrayal of women and how Black authors have subverted these narratives.
2021-02-2249 minThe History Hotline022: Ira Aldridge: The First Black Shakespearean ActorIra Aldridge often remembered as a Black Briton was an American born actor that moved to Britain aged 17 to peruse his dreams of acting. He took to theatre stages across Europe wowing audiences. He is most widely known for his role of Othello but he took on a range of roles across many genres. Whilst the critics were hostile, audiences loved him. His acting career highlighting 19th Century expectations for Black people in society and on stage.
2021-02-1526 minThe History Hotline021: WWII: Jim Crow in BritainIn this episode we going back to WWII, over 2 million US service personnel passed through the British isles during WWII. Whilst the American's acclimatised to the British way of life, their mannerisms and personalities. The British welcomed them and their contribution to the war effort, but also welcomed the racial prejudice, colour bar and Jim Crow laws they were so fond of... especially in the Southern States. This led to racial tensions and 'The Battle of Bamber Bridge' in Lancashire, 1943 . One of the many race riots between African-American soldiers and white commanding officers and military police, we discuss in...
2021-02-0839 minThe History Hotline020: Malcolm X visits Birmingham On the 12th February 1965, Malcolm X visited the infamous Marshall Street in Smethwick, Birmingham. Invited by the Indian Worker's Association to come and see witness the forced segregation in the areas pubs and other social settings. Marshall Street, was the street that was meant to be kept for 'whites only'. Faced with growing racial tension over immigration, a the conservative led council with MP Peter Griffiths at the helm decided, it would buy up any properties that came onto the market and let or sell them to white families only. In comes Malcolm X to witness the sorry state...
2021-02-0133 minThe History Hotline019: The New Cross FireIn commemoration of the 40th anniversary of The New Cross Fire on 18th January 1981... This week's episode will look at the fire and place it into the context of race relations in Britain in the 1980s.The fire led to the tragic deaths of 14 young Black people, after a fire broke out at 439 New Cross Road during the early hours of a 16th birthday party. Whilst inquests have ruled the fires cause unknown, the aftermath illuminated just how little British society cared about Black lives. An important message for us to understand in the era of the...
2021-01-1839 minThe History Hotline018: Ackee and SaltfishThis week we'll be exploring the Christmas breakfast staple in any Jamaican household and Jamaica's national dish: Ackee and Saltfish. Its improbable history takes us on a journey along the triangular trade route, from West Africa to Northern Europe and finally the tropic climates of Jamaica. The dish embodies the nation full of 'pieces that don’t seem to fit together,' but somehow work.
2020-12-2125 minThe History Hotline017: The Brockwell ThreeThis week we're looking at the Brockwell Three, the creation of Black Sac and the collective protests against another incidence of police injustice, upheld by the legal system. We'll be exploring this within the context of the racial injustice system in the US with reference to Brandon Bernard and the impact of this on how we view capital punishment.
2020-12-1427 minThe History Hotline016: Fanny Eaton: Jamaican Pre-Raphaelite MuseIn line with Victorian standards of beauty, the idealised artistic muse, was white and pale skinned. But Jamaican Fanny Eaton (c.1835-1924) was one of the most influential muses to the Pre-Raphaelites during the 19th Century. Eaton came to Britain as a child only a few years after the abolition of slavery in the British colonies and went on to model for some of the most influential artists of the period. This episode will explore her life and her legacy.
2020-12-0717 minThe History Hotline015: Small Axe: Leroy Logan Following on from the third instalment from Steve McQueen's Small Axe series: Red, White and Blue. This episode continues the story of Leroy Logan, a Black police officer, who made it his mission to fight racial inequality from within. We'll explore the policing of Black communities, the racism he faced, and his work fighting for racial equality.https://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/m000pzmb/small-axe-series-1-red-white-and-blue
2020-11-3026 minThe History Hotline014: Immigration ft. Hannah GaffeyThe history of immigration, exploring the acts dating back to 1905. We also have a special guest Hannah Gaffey recent Cambridge masters graduate who has conducted research on the experiences of asylum seekers and refugees in Britain. We explore the systemic and historical failings of the home office and how politics, the media and public opinion influence immigration policy.
2020-11-2343 minThe History Hotline013: Racism as Riot: 1919In the aftermath of WWI, many ex-servicemen were left without work in many of the major port cities. We'll explore how this led to race riots in cities such as Cardiff, Glasgow and: Liverpool and look at the treatment Black ex-servicemen received after the war. TW: Violence, Lynching, Murder.
2020-11-1629 minThe History Hotline012: Lest We ForgetDuring World War One Black officers in the British armed forces faced a system with prejudice at its core. We'll be highlighting the stories of three servicemen: David Louis Clemetson, George Bemand and Walter Tull, who were all at some point thought to be the first Black officer in the forces. Their stories in some ways run parallel but also highlight, how societies defined race and your personal identity, might not match.
2020-11-1126 minThe History Hotline011: Constantine vs. Imperial HotelsLearie Constantine, MBE was a West Indian cricketer, lawyer and politician who served as Trinidad's High Commissioner to the United Kingdom and became the UK's first black peer. This week we'll be looking at his landmark case in British race relations against the Imperial London Hotel.
2020-11-0228 minThe History Hotline010: Condemning Critical Race TheoryOn this weeks episode we will be reacting to Kemi Badenoch's (MP and Minister for Equalities) speech at the parliamentary Black History Month debate. Exploring BLM, white privilege, critical race theory and the way they exist within society today. We'll also be briefly looking at the way these things are taught in schools and how they should be taught... and the consequences of that.
2020-10-2636 minThe History Hotline009: End SARS: Police Brutality in NigeriaThis week will be shifting our focus to Nigeria and contextualising the current End SARS protests within the colonial history of the country. We'll be exploring the links with colonialism and corruption, which continues to plague countries within the continent of Africa. We will also be hearing from Nigerians across the diaspora about what the movement means to them and what we can do to help further it.Opening track by Fikky: @Fikkyofficial on Instagram and Twitter//TW: violence, torture, rape.
2020-10-1929 minThe History Hotline008: Race: A Social Construct? As the Presidential campaign rages on in the US, and debates of who can identify as 'Black' rage on we'll be discussing the social construction of race. This episode will take us on a global journey of how race has been classified in different parts of the world, from Caribbean slave societies to the American South and ending up in Modern Britain.
2020-10-1229 minThe History Hotline007: The British Black PanthersBritain had Black Panthers? Who were they? What did they stand for? This week's episode is about the British Black Panthers, we'll be exploring their influences, their politics and what they managed to achieve as a community organisation.
2020-10-0530 minThe History Hotline006: Black History Month?Why is it important to celebrate Black History Month? What should those celebrations look like? How does that impact the teaching of Black History throughout the rest of the year? This episode is asking and answering questions about Black History Month in Britain, and tapping into some of the key debates surrounding its existence.
2020-09-2821 minThe History Hotline005: Beryl Gilroy: Black TeacherThis week's episode is centred around Beryl Gilroy who was one of Britain's first Black Headteachers. We contextualise her story based on her autobiography Black Teacher (1976) by studying the way Britain remembers Black women in the pages of their history books.
2020-09-2125 minThe History Hotline004: Educationally Subnormal Today we're looking at Educationally Subnormal (ESN) schools that were opened in Britain in the 1960s and the impact they had on Black children. We're also exploring the impact and importance of Bernard Coard's 'How the West Indian Child is made Educationally Subnormal in the British School System?' and studying the legacy of the supplementary school.
2020-09-1428 min