BBC Radio 4

BBC Radio 4 is a radio channel that started transmitting on the 30th September 1967. It replaced BBC Home Service.

Radio 4

Intelligent speech, the most insightful journalism, the wittiest comedy, the most fascinating features and the most compelling drama and readings anywhere in UK radio.

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Noise: A Human History: Slavery and Rebellion

Slavery and Rebellion

Noise: A Human History

BBC Radio 4 Extra - Noise: A Human History, Slavery and Rebellion

David Hendy explores the history of slavery through sound.

David Hendy explores the soundscape of slavery, from Ghana's Gate of No Return to the Carolina plantations.

Many slaves would have heard the sounds of home for the last time as they waited at Ghana's Gate of No Return to be herded onto a ship to the new world. Far away on the Carolina plantations, they were expected to be quiet or to sing to demonstrate contentment with their lot. 

But in 1739, one of the largest and most violent revolts in American history took place - and for a brief time the slaves were anything but silent. 

Professor David Hendy of the University of Sussex tells the story of the Stono River revolt.

30-part series made in collaboration with the British Library Sound Archive.

Producer: Matt Thompson.
A Rockethouse production for BBC Radio 4 first broadcast in 2013.

BBC Radio 4 Extra

Your digital radio entertainment station showcasing the best in comedy and drama

Your digital radio entertainment station showcasing the best in comedy and drama. With recent favourites from BBC Radio 4.

Documentaries

Factual: History

Prof David Hendy on the role of sound and listening in 100,000 years of human history.

Prof David Hendy presents a 30-part series exploring the role of sound, and listening, in the past 100,000 years of human history.

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Programme Index

Noise: A Human History

Slavery and Rebellion

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Series

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