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...
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The Wind of Change - 'Echoes of a New Era'
Stories to be tolled
In this compelling episode of the 'Stories to be tolled' blog series, Tracy DW kicks off the new year continuing season 5, reflecting on the anniversary and historical significance of British Prime Minister Harold Macmillan's 'Wind of Change' speech. Tracy draws parallels between the transformative winds of 1960, the COVID-19 pandemic and the present-day upheavals brought about by the consequences of post pandemic events. Tracy also highlights another modern 'wind of change' that will question and challenge long-held ideologies and societal norms on a global scale: that of the election of the...
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'The Brave Pen' - Writing Against the Grain
Stories to be tolled
In this the sixth episode of the ‘Stories to be tolled’ blog post series you can listen in on School Leader, author and podcaster Tracy DW on her journey from writing about the British Empire to creating an expansive learning platform aimed at harnessing the power of multimedia to breathe life into her stories, provide meaningful contexts and foster understanding of complex historical narratives. Tracy also talks about another journey: that of creativity and self-expression in stepping out of your comfort zone. Whether you're an author, educator, or simply someone with a story to tell....
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'Our History, Our Voice' - A Perspective on Britain’s Colonial Past
Stories to be tolled
In a world where the small things are often overlooked, it's crucial to explore and celebrate the diverse narratives that have shaped our past as well as our present. In this episode of the ‘Stories to be tolled blog’ Tracy emphasises the importance of diversity in education, highlighting how incorporating stories about colonial history into the curriculum gives people of colour not only a voice to express their own history but can foster in pupils a greater understanding of global interconnections and encourage taking their own journey towards owning their cultural heritage and...
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From 'their' history to 'our' history - a Journey of Ownership
Stories to be tolled
"History teaches us about human nature, how the politics and culture intertwined to make us who we are and to show how we evolve as social beings over time." (Tracy DW) "What I want people to do is to make that journey from saying it's our history to actually saying it's my history." (Tracy DW) This thought provoking episode of the blog challenges the traditional, polarised view of history, particularly black history, and calls for a more holistic understanding. With current discussions on reparations and the investigation into the royal family's wealth amassed through colonialism, Tracy...
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'History's Tapestry' - Weaving the Past with the Present
Stories to be tolled
"The podcast has helped me learn that yet again, there's so much about our present circumstances in the world that has a link to colonialism and to decisions that now influence a lot of foreign policies that countries have with each other around the world." (Tracy DW) This next instalment of the blog series delves into the origins of Tracy’s podcast, 'Stories to be tolled – the podcast series,' which began as a way to share extensive research that didn't make it into her books. Initially planned as a limited series, the podcast has expanded to cover a wide range of topics and diverse...
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Stories to be tolled - Filling the Gaps: Inclusive History for Young Minds.
Stories to be tolled
"The goal is to inspire curiosity and encourage further exploration of topics like the history of Zimbabwe or the early colonisation of the Caribbean." (Tracy DW) As an author, podcaster, and educator, Tracy's blog series aims to intricately weave historical insight with captivating narrative storytelling, shedding light on the British Empire's colonial past. In the second episode of this blog series, Tracy describes how 'Stories to be tolled' highlights the importance of developing a more inclusive history education in schools ‘History is...a matter of fact or perspective?’ School...
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Stories to be tolled - A Narrative Odyssey
Stories to be tolled
Welcome to the fifth season of ‘Stories to be tolled – the podcast series!’ ‘It’s hard to believe that way back in Oct 2020 when the very first episode was released that I would still be here sharing my learning journey with you, my co-learners and co-listeners.’ (Tracy DW) Tracy’s back after a short break and there’s no better way to kick off the fifth season and to celebrate ‘Black History Month’ with her blog series - some episodes with a twist that will help re-orientate her regular listeners and welcome new listeners, helping them to become familiar with ‘Stories to...
info_outline‘In this season finale of 'Stories to be tolled,' I’d like to take this opportunity to say a huge THANK YOU and re-orientate you, my listeners back to where it all began.’ (Tracy DW)
By reading extracts from each of her current published titles, Tracy takes us through a poetic exploration of colonial events that have shaped the world. From England's early attempts to colonise the Caribbean, inspired by tales of gold and glory to The Berlin Conference of 1884 and the partitioning of Africa by European powers. All the way through to Rhodesia's struggle for independence, the resistance against white minority rule and the negotiations between Margaret Thatcher and Deng over the future of Hong Kong.
Tracy's narratives weave a rich tapestry of the past, encouraging listeners to embark on their own learning journeys. You can purchase your own copy of each of Tracy’s current titles by visiting the bookshop on the website.
Also, don't miss out on exclusive offers and challenges:
- Join the 'Name that Podcast' challenge for a chance to win exclusive merchandise.
- Try ‘Magic Mind’ with a special discount using code TOLLED20 for 48% off your subscription or 20% off a one-time purchase at the checkout when you click https://www.magicmind.com/tolled
- Sign up on the website to receive free samples of the first four story titles and also a chance to receive one of our monthly promotional giveaways
Contact Tracy via audio on the speakpipe link or email Tracy [email protected]
Stay connected with Tracy via email at [email protected] or audio message on the speakpipe link and follow 'Stories to be tolled' on social media. Tracy will be back in the autumn with a brand new season, continuing her exploration of Britain’s colonial past and inviting you to join her on this journey. Stay safe, stay well, and stay blessed. Thank you for your support over the past four seasons, and she’ll see you on the next page!