To know where we are, we must first know where we come from. History allows us to understand how the world we inhabit was formed, but also what our predecessors lived: their trials, their sacrifices and their disappointments, but also their joys and their victories. Here are some cultural and documentary works from home, to explore our past.
14-18: The Great Canadian War
This documentary podcast tells the story of the First World War as it was experienced in Canada and by Canadian soldiers. Claude Legault’s narration is perfect for giving the necessary gravity to this tragic period in history. Letters from soldiers and testimonies bring events to life, while historians provide the necessary context to understand. From the horror of the trenches in Europe to the riots in Quebec against conscription, including the employment of women in war factories, this series will plunge you into a bygone but pivotal era. The 5 53-minute episodes are available on Radio-Canada’s OHdio platform.
February 15, 1839
This film by Pierre Falardeau is a must in Quebec cinema. When it came out in 2001, it reminded the collective conscience of the Patriots and their rebellion. Luc Picard plays Chevalier de Lorimier there, during his last 24 hours before he was hanged. Imprisoned, he and other compatriots discuss with gusto the reasons that prompted them to take up arms and why they are ready to die for their cause. This historic film is dramatic and moving, sometimes funny, and the brilliant performances of the actors honor these heroes of yesteryear.
39-45 on Canadian soil
This documentary TV series explores the little-known impact WWII had here. Using archive images, experts, testimonies and anecdotes, host Claude Legault brings to light the touching and human stories of those who lived through this uncertain period. Did you know that German prisoners have been detained in Quebec? That spies were trained here? Or that Montreal was almost closed to soldiers on leave, because its Red Light (and its brothels) were too popular? 5 episodes out of the 13 planned are already available on the TV5 website, and the new ones are broadcast on Mondays at 10 p.m.
Today the story
This podcast hosted by Jacques Beauchamp is perfect for those curious about history. Each week, 4 new 20-minute episodes explore a different historical subject, from the censorship of a play presented at Expo 67 to the Hadrian’s Wall built by the Romans in Britain. Interviews are complemented with tasty archival excerpts. The subjects chosen allow us to shed new light on the history of Quebec or the world, to tell its little-known stories, or to discover its unusual characters. Available on Radio-Canada’s OHdio platform, or at 8:00 p.m. Monday to Thursday on ICI Première.
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