In June 1907, five plucky teams departed the Chinese capital and embarked on a 9,317-mile automobile race to Paris. Traversing scorching deserts and perilous mountain passes in ill-equipped vehicles, the participants regularly risked their lives – but their tenacity would transform attitudes towards the car forever. Kassia St Clair spoke to Jon Bauckham abou ... Show More
Sep 20
The making of the modern Middle East
The Middle East has, for decades, been riven by violent conflict. But what are the roots and ongoing causes of this violence? In this episode, Simon Sebag Montefiore discusses The Cauldron, his new book exploring the forces and figures that forged the region. Speaking to Charlott ... Show More
46m 56s
Jul 2021
The World’s First Motor Race
Billed as a concours for ‘horseless carriages’, the Paris–Rouen competition which took place on 22nd July, 1894, is now widely considered the world’s first motor race.
Only 21 vehicles qualified. Some of them had solid iron tyres. One was an eight passenger wagonette that weighe ... Show More
11m 34s
Jul 2011
The First Cross-Country Road Trip
<p>In an earlier episode, Scott and Ben recounted the story of Bertha Benz and the first automobile road trip, which took three days. However, the first cross-country road trip took much longer -- and at times it seemed impossible. Tune in to learn more.</p><p> </p> Learn more ab ... Show More
30m 48s
Nov 2022
S1 Ep160: The History of the Baja 1000
The Baja 1000 is an arduous 1000-mile drive through the remote and desolate Baja Peninsula. For many, it wasn’t a question of when you finished, but if you’d finish at all. The route is treacherous, and so is the weather. Drivers face flash floods and fog. Scorching heat and free ... Show More
51m 4s