Afua Hirsch and Peter Frankopan tell the wild stories of some of the most extraordinary men and women ever to have lived – and ask whether they have the rep they deserve. Should Nina Simone’s role in the civil rights movement be more celebrated than it is? When you find out what Picasso got up to in his studio, can you still admire his art? Was Napoleon a hero or a tyrant - or both? (And, while we’re at it, was he even short?) Legacy is the show that looks at big lives from the perspective of now – and doesn’t always like what it sees.
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“A Merry Christmas to us all; God bless us, everyone!” A Christmas Carol is a huge success and Dickens is an international celebrity. There’s lots of money coming in – Bleak House, Hard Times, David Copperfield all do well - but he has a big family and a lavish lifestyle to fund, as well as his Home for Homeless Women. Plus, there’s trouble in his marriage when Dickens’ eye is caught by the turn of a pretty ankle. Join Legacy+ for bonus episodes, early access, Q&A's, fewer adverts and more. ...
Dickens’ star is on the rise. Sketches by Boz is a success and he publishes The Pickwick Papers, Oliver Twist and more. Plus, he is a hit on both sides of the Atlantic with ‘Dickensmania’ sweeping the United States. But there is tragedy at home. And when his new novel doesn’t do as well as he’d hoped, he needs a new idea. Something to do with Christmas maybe? Join Legacy+ for bonus episodes, early access, Q&A's, fewer adverts and more. legacy.supportingcast.fm Stay connected with Legacy: Ins...
A young Charles is filled with imagination and ambition, but his childhood with humiliation and uncertainty. His father is in and out of debtors’ prison and he is forced to sacrifice his education for a string of menial jobs to make ends meet. But he discovers he has a skill. He can paint pictures with words like no one else can. Could this be his destiny? Join Legacy+ for bonus episodes, early access, Q&A's, fewer adverts and more. legacy.supportingcast.fm Stay connected with Legacy: Instag...
The war is won but the nation seems far from grateful as the election of 1945 sweeps Labour into power. But the Churchill phenomenon doesn’t stop and he’s back in Number 10 in 1951 as the new Queen Elizabeth’s first prime minister. Upon his death he receives a state funeral, but there were – and still are – many who question whether he truly was a national hero. Join Legacy+ for bonus episodes, early access, Q&A's, fewer adverts and more. legacy.supportingcast.fm Stay connected with Legacy: ...
It’s 1939 and Churchill has been proved right in his fervent opposition to appeasement of Hitler. German tanks have crossed the Polish border and Churchill is brought straight back into government. Now he is tasked with guiding the country through one of the biggest crises it has ever faced. How can the seemingly overwhelming Nazi threat be beaten into submission? If there was ever a time for self-belief, this is it. Join Legacy+ for bonus episodes, early access, Q&A's, fewer adverts and mor...
The First World War sees Churchill as confident as ever in his role as First Lord of the Admiralty. But rash judgements – especially around the disastrous campaign in Gallipoli - cost thousands of lives. The UK press describes him as ‘a danger to the country’, he’s left out of Lloyd George’s cabinet and, at home, tragedy strikes. All the while he can see trouble brewing in Europe, but no one is listening to him... Join Legacy+ for bonus episodes, early access, Q&A's, fewer adverts and more. ...
This episode delves into the early life and formative experiences of Winston Churchill, examining his aristocratic upbringing, difficult relationship with his parents, and a deep-seated imperial mindset. It covers his dramatic adventures as a war correspondent and soldier, including his daring escape during the Boer War, before tracing his entry into politics and evolving views on social reform and empire. The discussion highlights the complexities and contradictions that shaped one of the 20th century's most famous leaders.
Arguably the most famous political assassination of the 20th century, the shooting of John F. Kennedy has ignited scores of conspiracy theories. Was Oswald really acting alone? Could the Soviets have been involved? The CIA? And how does his infamous death affect how we view his legacy? Should he be remembered as charismatic proponent of civil rights who prevented nuclear world war? Or a womaniser who mishandled foreign affairs and was too slow to support the plight of African-Americans? Join Leg...
For the White House and the Kremlin, the question of nuclear war is not if, but when. Newly-elected President John F. Kennedy is launched into proving his skills in international diplomacy. He faces a crisis in Cuba with the Bay of Pigs fiasco and must win over Krushchev in a crucial summit. Will his charm prevail now that he’s in the top job? Join Legacy+ for bonus episodes, early access, Q&A's, fewer adverts and more. legacy.supportingcast.fm Stay connected with Legacy: Instagram: @origina...
As the Kennedys face tragedy after tragedy, JFK becomes aware that time may not be on his side. But soon things move fast for him: after winning a seat in Congress - and marrying Jackie in a wedding fit for a royal couple, he is propelled to the presidential candidacy. But there are two obstacles in his way: his Catholicism, and Richard Nixon. Join Legacy+ for bonus episodes, early access, Q&A's, fewer adverts and more. legacy.supportingcast.fm Stay connected with Legacy: Instagram: @origina...
The son of a rich and prestigious family, John F. Kennedy’s childhood is seemingly idyllic. Yet his mother is strict and distant, and his father is openly a womaniser who resents John's frailty as a sickly child. But John is a fighter. He thrives at Harvard, and during World War Two, joins the navy. And it's there in the wake of a dramatic rescue mission, that he proves his heroism, setting him on the path to political success. Join Legacy+ for bonus episodes, early access, Q&A's, fewer adve...
Marilyn's death sparks grief, soul-searching and mystery - mystery that persists still to this day. Looking back at her legacy, how did Marilyn Monroe come to shape and define Hollywood, and America's views on sexuality, autonomy and feminism? This episode contains reference to suicide. If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health, help is available 24/7. Contact Samaritans on 116 123 or visit https://www.samaritans.org/ . Join Legacy+ for bonus episodes, early access, Q&A's, ...
At the peak of her fame, Marilyn takes on the studios in a bid to control her own career. But her superstardom is threatened by her own insecurities, and her increasing reliance on drink and drugs. This episode features descriptions of alcohol and drug abuse. If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, contact the support service Frank day or night by calling 0300 123 6600 from within the UK, or go to https://www.talktofrank.com/ Join Legacy+ for bonus episodes, early access, Q&...
The struggling starlet is exploited by the powerful executives who run Hollywood. But Marilyn begins creating what will become the iconic Marilyn look which she'll use to her advantage to climb the industry ladder. But her ascent is jeopardised when a decision from her past threatens to create a scandal… and destroy everything she’s built so far. This episode contains discussion of sexual abuse and domestic violence. If you're in England or Wales and have been affected by any form of sexual abus...
The young Marilyn Monroe has a traumatic childhood in and out of foster homes. Watching movies is a precious escape from reality, but it’s not enough to shield her from a mentally unwell mother and absent father. But this is LA, the land of Hollywood, and life-changing opportunities. And soon she discovers she might have a place in front of the camera. This episode contains discussion of sexual abuse. If you're in England or Wales and have been affected by any form of sexual abuse, support is av...
More than a century after Rhodes' death students in South Africa and Britain thrust his name back into the spotlight. Should statues of colonialists like him be torn down? And, in Africa, how is Rhodes' legacy felt today? Join Legacy+ for bonus episodes, early access, Q&A's, fewer adverts and more. legacy.supportingcast.fm Stay connected with Legacy: Instagram: @originallegacypodcast TikTok: @legacy_productions Explore more from Peter and Afua — essays, sources, and ideas: Substack: peterfra...
Rhodes deals with the fallout from the Jameson Raid as questions about his conduct reach the British parliament. He finds a new cause to further his ambition but years of ill-health are starting to catch up with him. Join Legacy+ for bonus episodes, early access, Q&A's, fewer adverts and more. legacy.supportingcast.fm Stay connected with Legacy: Instagram: @originallegacypodcast TikTok: @legacy_productions Explore more from Peter and Afua — essays, sources, and ideas: Substack: peterfrankopa...
Rhodes dashes back to Kimberley to be with his dying friend. He then redoubles his colonial efforts, using ruthless tactics to trick the indigenous population out of their land. But an ill-fated scheme to take on the Boers is about to hurt him. Join Legacy+ for bonus episodes, early access, Q&A's, fewer adverts and more. legacy.supportingcast.fm Stay connected with Legacy: Instagram: @originallegacypodcast TikTok: @legacy_productions Explore more from Peter and Afua — essays, sources, and id...
We've delved into the Legacy archives to bring back one of our most divisive characters: Cecil Rhodes. A sickly vicar’s son travels from England to Africa to join the diamond rush. Cecil Rhodes wants to make his fortune. But he also wants to extend the British Empire. Drama in his private life threatens to undermine both ambitions. Join Legacy+ for bonus episodes, early access, Q&A's, fewer adverts and more. legacy.supportingcast.fm Stay connected with Legacy: Instagram: @originallegacypodca...
Despite an assassination attempt, Bob Marley continues to spread political messages of peace, freedom and anti-colonialism throughout the world. But health issues from his childhood are catching up with him, and he'll have to confront a devastating diagnosis. Today, his face appears on t-shirts, lighters and posters around the world, but has his legacy become detached from the meaning behind his music? Join Legacy+ for bonus episodes, early access, Q&A's, fewer adverts and more. legacy.suppo...
Songs like 'Get Up Stand Up' and 'No Woman, No Cry' garner international success for Bob Marley and the Wailers. Not only do people love the music, but they're also inspired by the freedom fighting messages within it. Yet as political tensions heat up in Jamaica, Marley's global stardom and revolutionary lyrics become a threat to his safety... Join Legacy+ for bonus episodes, early access, Q&A's, fewer adverts and more. legacy.supportingcast.fm Stay connected with Legacy: Instagram: @origina...
Bob Marley, now in his early 20s and part of the newly-named band the Wailers rises to popularity in Jamaica. The band use their music to ask for peace on the island and beyond. But Bob's life is about to change when he's introduced to a new religion: Rastafari. And a special woman named Rita. Listen to Legacy on the Wondery App or wherever you get your podcasts. You can binge episodes early and ad-free on Wondery+. Join Wondery+ in the Wondery App, Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Start your free tri...
Born in colonial-era Jamaica to a black teenage mum and an absent white dad, Bob Marley has a fractious childhood and is constantly moved around. But Bob dreams of making it big as a musician, whilst Jamaica dreams of independence. Can this small island boy make it big amongst the violence and chaos engulfing his home nation? Join Legacy+ for bonus episodes, early access, Q&A's, fewer adverts and more. legacy.supportingcast.fm Stay connected with Legacy: Instagram: @originallegacypodcast Tik...
Hoover wrote the playbook used by many of today's politicians, not least Donald Trump. What would Hoover make of today's political landscape? And how much did he shape it? Join Legacy+ for bonus episodes, early access, Q&A's, fewer adverts and more. legacy.supportingcast.fm Stay connected with Legacy: Instagram: @originallegacypodcast TikTok: @legacy_productions Explore more from Peter and Afua — essays, sources, and ideas: Substack: peterfrankopan.substack.com | afuahirsch.substack.com Host...
FBI spying reaches new depths, as Hoover persecutes civil rights campaigner Dr Martin Luther King. But then a daring break-in exposes the FBI's tactics. Listen to Legacy on the Wondery App or wherever you get your podcasts. You can binge episodes early and ad-free on Wondery+. Join Wondery+ in the Wondery App, Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Start your free trial by visiting wondery.com/links/legacy now. Join Legacy+ for bonus episodes, early access, Q&A's, fewer adverts and more. legacy.supporti...
Rumours about Hoover's sexuality threaten to overshadow his work building the FBI into a credible crime fighting force. And although he's obsessed with information, he misses a key piece of intelligence, which could have changed the path of the Second World War. Join Legacy+ for bonus episodes, early access, Q&A's, fewer adverts and more. legacy.supportingcast.fm Stay connected with Legacy: Instagram: @originallegacypodcast TikTok: @legacy_productions Explore more from Peter and Afua — essay...
As a young boy, J Edgar Hoover strives for perfection and control. After a stint working at the Library of Congress he embarks on a career in law enforcement. But it's not long before his perfect image is threatened, and he needs to find someone to blame when things goes wrong. What happens next will set him on the path to becoming the founding director of the FBI - and one of the most controversial figures of the 20th century. Join Legacy+ for bonus episodes, early access, Q&A's, fewer adve...
Stabbed in the back by her Tory allies, Thatcher is forced to wave goodbye to Number 10. She remains active in public life until declining health forces her to withdraw. Today, more than a decade after her death, her legacy continues to divide: for some, she is an icon of conservatism who revived the British economy; for others, the harbinger of increased inequality. Either way, Thatcher's legacy still defines British politics. Join Legacy+ for bonus episodes, early access, Q&A's, fewer adve...
Conflict is never far from Thatcher's politics - and life. She becomes locked in a year long bitter stand off with miners on strike over her planned closures. She doesn't give in either to the IRA. If anything - after surviving a near-miss assassination attempt, she is more resolute than ever in seeing through the changes she believes the country needs. Join Legacy+ for bonus episodes, early access, Q&A's, fewer adverts and more. legacy.supportingcast.fm Stay connected with Legacy: Instagram...
As Britain's first female Prime Minister, Thatcher has made history. But she's off to a shaky start: her economic policies are unpopular and lead to riots across the country. It looks like her tenure might be cut short - until ... Argentina decides to invade the Falklands islands. Join Legacy+ for bonus episodes, early access, Q&A's, fewer adverts and more. legacy.supportingcast.fm Stay connected with Legacy: Instagram: @originallegacypodcast TikTok: @legacy_productions Explore more from Pet...
