The American Dream: democracy or autocracy?
Stories to be tolled
In this episode of 'Stories to be tolled', Tracy DW embarks on an exploration of the evolution of America from 13 colonies to a global superpower. She delves into the remarkable journey that began with the Declaration of Independence in 1776 and the establishment of a constitutional republic, highlighting the foundational principles of liberty, democracy, and the American Dream. As she examines the complexities of American democracy, she raises critical questions about the current state of civil liberties and the alarming signs of democratic backsliding. Listeners are invited to reflect...
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Divided We Stand: ZANU & ZAPU's' quest for Zimbabwe's Independence
Stories to be tolled
With today’s changing global political landscape, with nationalism coming into focus once again, Tracy DW looks back and dives in to the tumultuous history of Zimbabwe, exploring the complex interplay of colonialism, nationalism, and the struggle for liberation. Tracy highlights the significant roles of the two main political parties, ZANU and ZAPU, as they fought for the rights and freedoms of their people amidst the backdrop of British colonial rule and the subsequent fight for independence. Through examining the origins, strategies, and ideologies of both parties, Tracy sheds light on...
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The Benin Bronzes - Spoils of War or Cultural Ambassadors?
Stories to be tolled
In this episode, Tracy DW reflects on her recent visit to the British Museum, where the Benin Bronzes reignited her passion for the complex issue of artefact repatriation. Through the lens of her year six pupils' studies on the Benin Kingdom, Tracy navigates the debate surrounding the return of historical artefacts to their countries of origin, raising questions about rightful ownership, cultural identity, and the legacies of colonialism. As she examines the broader implications of artefact retention versus repatriation, Tracy invites listeners to consider the impact of colonialism on cultural...
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Jammu and Kashmir: Where do we draw the line?
Stories to be tolled
In this podcast episode of 'Stories to be tolled', Tracy DW delves into the recent military escalation between India and Pakistan, sparked by the tragic Pahalgan terrorist attack. Tracy examines the historical roots of this enduring conflict, tracing back to the partition of British India in 1947 and the series of wars over the disputed region of Jammu and Kashmir. She highlights the complexities of colonial legacies and the hasty decisions made by British officials that have led to decades of turmoil. As she explores the potential for dialogue and reconciliation, listeners are invited to...
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In Search of a Peace that is 'Nobel'
Stories to be tolled
In this episode Tracy DW shares her reflections on the US military strikes on Iran that took place on June 22nd, 2005. While she questions the narrative of triumph presented by the Trump administration, she reveals the discrepancies between proclaimed victories and the harsh realities of warfare. Tracy explores Iran's intricate history, from its colonial influences to the pivotal role oil played in shaping British interests and also explores the motivations behind Trump's desire for a Nobel Prize for Peace. As she draws parallels between historical and contemporary conflicts, Tracy urges...
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Beyond Arrival - the Windrush and its controversial Legacy
Stories to be tolled
Tracy DW is back and celebrates ‘Windrush Day 2025’ with a look back at her inaugural episode of the 'Stories to be tolled' podcast series, remastered with the podcasts intro and outro and updated notables. Tracy delves into the historical significance of the H.M. Windrush, a ship that symbolises both national pride and controversy within Caribbean communities in Britain. Tracy provides a comprehensive overview of the ship's journey from Jamaica to Tilbury Docks in 1948, exploring the broader implications of this migration in the context of Britain's colonial past and its evolving...
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The Lens of War - A Focus on the Ukraine Crisis
Stories to be tolled
In this episode of the 'Stories to be tolled' blog series, Tracy DW looks briefly at the contemporary implications of the war and crisis. Through a critical lens, she asks how the narratives of victors and victims shape our understanding of history and reflects on its profound impact on the human condition and the complexities of narrative control in times of conflict. Listeners are urged to confront the uncomfortable truths of historical and ongoing injustices, from the colonial conquests of the past to the current geopolitical tensions. This short reflection serves as a poignant reminder...
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From Erasure to Revelation - Canada's Journey to Truth
Stories to be tolled
February marks the month of Black History in the US and Canadian Heritage and this poignant episode of the ‘Stories to be tolled’ blog series delves into the unsettling revelations from Canada, where from 2004, we remember the remains of children that were discovered at former residential schools. These institutions, part of a broader system aimed at erasing Indigenous identities, serve as a grim reminder of the colonial past's injustices. Tracy reflects on the dual role of education, both as a force for good and as a tool for hidden agendas, drawing parallels between historical atrocities...
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'Land of the Free ?' - The Complex Legacy of the Louisiana Purchase
Stories to be tolled
In this thought-provoking episode of the 'Stories to be tolled' blog series, Tracy marks the beginning of a new era in geopolitics with reference to the complex history of the United States, tracing its roots back to a pivotal moment in 1803—the Louisiana Purchase. Tracy DW reflects on this monumental land acquisition not only expanded the 13 original colonies into a vast nation but also set the stage for deeply entrenched societal and political ideologies that resonate to this day. Listeners are encouraged to unravel the intricate web of colonialism, slavery, and the relentless pursuit of...
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The Hero Paradox - Unsung but never forgotten
Stories to be tolled
In this episode of the 'Stories to be tolled' blog series, as the 47th US Presidential inauguration approaches Tracy DW reflects on the life of Crispus Attucks, a man shrouded in mystery yet immortalised as a symbol of the anti-slavery movement and the complex roles Africans played in the American Revolution, navigating the paradoxical heroism and war crimes they faced. By questioning how Africans, who fought bravely, were denied the status of heroes in a society that refused to acknowledge their equality, Tracy brings the discussion about the ‘hero complex’ into a modern day...
info_outlineWith tensions and violence escalating in the Middle East, Tracy shares more of her learning journey about this important part of the world and encourages her co-listeners and co-learners never to over look the regions colonial narrative and to always relate this to its political context.
History is...a matter of fact or perspective? School Leader and author of the 'Stories to be tolled' poetic narratives, Tracy DW attempts to explore this question through her podcast series about the British Empire and Britain’s colonial past. By inviting you to share her learning journey, Tracy advocates a more global approach to understanding history. Presenting learning about the topic in a way that is thought provoking, imaginative and engaging.
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You can also contact Tracy via audio on the speakpipe link or email Tracy [email protected]