The Americas
Enhance your visit by delving deeper into the wonders of the Americas through these handpicked resources.
North America
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Short History Of........ A selection of podcasts from the independent network Noiser (https://www.noiser.com/about) that always hit the mark. A Short History Of the Founding Fathers of the United States of America. The founding of the United States on July 4th, 1776, changed the world, and inspired other colonies to control their own destinies. The men responsible for writing and signing the Declaration of Independence - the Founding Fathers - have gone down in history as legends, with an almost ‘God-like status’. But nearly 250 years on, their legacy is challenged and debated. So who were the founding fathers? And how do the choices they made in the 18th century still affect the world today? A Short History of the Great Depression. The Great Depression was the worst and deepest peacetime economic shock of the twentieth century. It affected millions of lives, redefined global trade, and contributed to the drift towards the Second World War.But how were the seeds of this financial disaster sown in the First World War? What was the cost to ordinary people? And how did America and the wider world dig itself out of its financial hole? A Short History Of The Boston Tea Party. In December, 1773, hundreds of angry Bostonians charged into the harbor at Griffin’s Wharf, and tossed over 300 chests of tea into the icy waters below. This lawlessness marked the culmination of what many Americans viewed as decades worth of oppression and exploitation by the British. Ultimately leading to the American War of Independence, this nonviolent protest has become one of the most pivotal moments in American history. But what circumstances led to the Boston Tea Party? And why is the Boston Tea Party considered to be the single most important catalyst for the American Revolution? A Short History of The Wild West Think of the Wild West, and you’ll imagine cowboys, shootouts, bank robberies and saloons. But it was also a time of massive resettlement, new technology and communications. But what did the white settlers’ westward migration mean for the native people who had lived on the land for centuries? And if the era only lasted a few decades, what makes it so iconic to Americans and the rest of the world? A Short History of the Underground Railroad. The Underground Railroad helped up to 100,000 enslaved people to freedom. It was America’s first civil rights movement, operated by Black and white people united in their abhorrence of slavery. But how was it established? And who were its passengers, and the people risking everything to assist them? Other Topics covered by Noiser include: Rosa Parks, The Moon Landing, The California Gold Rush, The Watergate Scandal, Prohibition, Abraham Lincoln, Pocahontas & Las Vegas |
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Short History Of........
Podcasts from the independent network Noiser (https://www.noiser.com/about) that always hit the mark. A Short History of the Maya. In 1511, a Spanish lifeboat makes land on the Yucatán coast in modern-day Mexico. Thirteen days ago, the crew's caravel was wrecked on a reef. But their adventure is far from over. Now, they are about to become some of the first Europeans to make contact with the Maya. Custodians of an ancient civilisation, at one time tens of millions of Maya people inhabited a swathe of the Americas. But who were they and what did they do? Where did they go once their society collapsed? And how are their modern-day descendants beginning to bring the past back to life? A Short History of Frida Kahlo. Frida Kahlo is as much a modern icon for her personal flair as she is for her paintings. But how did her style develop, and what did she intend it to communicate? What was so subversive about her work, and the subjects she chose to portray? And why is she such an enduring figurehead for feminists, women with fertility issues, the queer community, and those living with disabilities and chronic pain? A short history of The Aztecs. Since the arrival of the Aztecs in central Mexico from the early 1300s, history has been fascinated by them. They’re widely reputed to be a savage people who left behind obsidian knives, skull racks, and disturbing remnants of human sacrifice. But in reality, the Aztecs were far more multifaceted than that. So what else has history gotten wrong about the Aztecs? Why were they so feared and reviled? How did they become so powerful? And what is the full truth about their downfall? |
Central America
Read"Blood of Brothers" by Steven Kinzer.
"Blood of Brothers" is a remarkable 1991 book by Stephen Kinzer, an American author and The New York Times foreign correspondent who reported from Nicaragua during the Sandinista-Contras civil war period of the 1980s. With his firsthand experience, Kinzer provides a gripping and intimate account of the country's turbulent history, making it a must-read for anyone seeking a deep understanding of Nicaragua's past. Truly one of the best books I have read in preparation for travelling to a country or region. |
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Caribbean
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Short History Of........
Podcasts from the independent network Noiser (https://www.noiser.com/about) that always hit the mark. A Short History of the Cuban Missile Crisis, in 2 parts. In October 1962, three men – Kennedy, Khrushchev and Castro – hold the fate of the planet in their hands. A dispute over Soviet missiles in Cuba spirals out of control. Officials in the USA and the USSR prepare for a war that would end life on Earth as we know it. How exactly did it come to this? And just how close will the world come to nuclear Armageddon? |
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Short History Of........ Podcasts from the independent network Noiser (https://www.noiser.com/about) that always hit the mark. A Short History of the Conquistadors. From the end of the 15th century, the Conquistadors changed the face of the Americas. Invading first the Caribbean and Mexico, they then plunged on into the rest of the continent and plundered the Pacific seaboard. So what do we know of these Europeans and their quest to expand a burgeoning empire? And who were the indigenous people that resisted invasion, negotiated with strangers, and fought off barbarians? A Short History of Blackbeard the Pirate. In the early 18th century, one man makes his name as the most notorious pirate of all time. The legend of Edward Thatch has spawned television shows, novels and major motion pictures. Stories abound of his wild eyes striking fear into enemy hearts, of the six pistols strapped to his chest, and of his arrival in battle with his jet-black beard set ablaze. But how much is fact and how much fiction? A Short History Of the Real Pirates of the Caribbean. Throughout the late 17th and early 18th Century, the waters of the Caribbean were crawling with pirates. Stories about swash-buckling buccaneers, and insatiable treasure-seekers haunted the tropical islands, as navies tried in vain to put a stop to their reign of terror. But who were some of the world’s most notorious pirates? How much of what we think we know about them is real, and how much is legend? What was life like on board a pirate ship? And how were these fearsome bandits caught and brought to justice? |
South America
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One Hundred Years of Solitude by Gabriel García Márquez
A landmark of Latin American literature, this novel gives cultural and historical insight into Colombia's magical realism and societal complexities. It vividly portrays the fictional town of Macondo (thought to be based on Márquez's hometown), reflecting the country's turbulent history and the intertwined fate of its people through generations. Rosario Tijeras by Jorge Franco First published in 1999, this novel offers a raw and unfiltered look at urban life in Medellín in the "80's and '90's, focusing on the story of a young woman whose life is intertwined with violence and passion. It provides a critical perspective on the social realities of Colombia’s drug trade and its impact on youth culture at that time and highlights just what a remarkable transformation Medellin has undergone since then. Like This Afternoon Forever by Jaime Manrique Published in 2019, this novel is set in the 1990s and 2000s Bogota and Putumayo, a region plagued by conflict involving guerrillas, paramilitaries, and drug cartels. It tells the story of Lucas and Ignacio, two Catholic priests from very different backgrounds who fall in love amid deadly conflict. It explores themes of love, faith, and social justice, also addressing the "false positives" scandal (where civilians were killed and falsely presented as guerrillas by the military.) Colombia: A Concise Contemporary History by Michael J. LaRosa and Germán R. Mejía This book gives a straightforward overview of Colombia’s recent progress, particularly since the FARC peace deal. It focuses on real social development, peacebuilding efforts, and how the country is tackling issues like violence and inequality. The authors keep it factual, avoiding hype, so readers get a clear picture of what’s really changed in Colombia. |
"Encanto" (film) Disney, 2021Encanto is a heartwarming tale of the Madrigal family from a rural Colombia village, where magical gifts are bestowed upon each member, except for the heroine Mirabel. When she discovers their family's magic is fading, Mirabel sets out to uncover the cause and save her family. Absolutely charming, for all ages.
Narcos (TV Series) Narcos is a well known series that tracks the rise and fall of Pablo Escobar and the Medellín drug cartel. It offers a gritty, no nonsense look at Colombia’s drug trade, showing not just the criminal side but also the effects on law enforcement and politics. It doesn’t sugarcoat anything and gives a clear sense of the violence and corruption that defined that era. Colombia Magia Salvaje (Colombia Wild Magic) A 2015 documentary that puts Colombia’s incredible natural diversity front and centre. It’s all about the country’s ecosystems—from the Amazon to the Andes—and the wildlife that thrives there. It’s a straightforward reminder that Colombia isn’t just about its past conflicts; it’s a top spot for nature and ecotourism. |
Colombia Calling: Episode “Medellín’s Transformation”
This episode takes a close look at how Medellín has reinvented itself from being one of the most violent cities in the world to becoming a hub of innovation, culture, and urban development. It covers the social and infrastructural changes that have contributed to this transformation, providing an on the ground perspective from locals and experts. The Moth: “No More War: Stories from Colombia” Real life stories from Colombians who have lived through decades of armed conflict, offering personal insights into how the violence affected their lives and communities. It highlights their resilience and hopes for a peaceful future following the FARC peace agreement. Two Specific Episodes to Explore: 1. “The Letter Never Sent” A story about a woman’s search for her missing brother during Colombia’s conflict, illustrating the personal costs of war and the drive for closure. 2. “Under the Night Sky” A narrative from a former combatant reflecting on leaving violence behind and embracing a new life focused on peace. |
Read"We will be Jaguars: A Memoir of My People" Nemonte Nenquimo, 2024
We Will Be Jaguars is a remarkable memoir by the remarkable Nenquimo, a recipient of TIME magazine's Earth Award. Raised in Ecuador's Amazon rainforest as part of the Waorani tribe, which was among the last to encounter missionaries in the 1950s, Nemonte Nenquimo's childhood was truly unique. This is a heartfelt memoir detailing an Indigenous upbringing, cultural clashes, and the battle to protect the Amazon rainforest |
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Turn right at Machu Picchu: Rediscovering the lost city one step at a time by Mark Adams.
A travelogue about what happens when an adventure travel expert who's never actually done anything adventurous tries to recreate the original expedition to Machu Pichu! Peru: The Cookbook by Gastón Acurio. Gastón Acurio, a pioneering chef born in Lima in 1967, has been instrumental in globalizing Peruvian cuisine, with over 44 international restaurants and more planned globally. His cookbooks and restaurants highlight Peru's culinary richness, featuring dishes from quinoa and ceviche to amaranth and aji amarillo. Essential reading and tasting for anyone heading to Peru, especially those interested in food and culture. The White Rock: An Exploration of the Inca Heartland by Hugh Thomson. Takes you on a journey through the fascinating world of the Incas, delving into their remarkable history and culture. With vivid storytelling, Thomson brings to life the breathtaking landscapes of Peru that tell the story of this ancient civilization. This book is perfect for anyone keen to learn about Peru's history and its sites. |
Street Food: Latin America Netflix.
Ceviche, picarones, anticuchos; the Peru episode is dedicated to the succulent gastronomy of Lima. Take a journey through the unique flavors of the City of Kings delicious cuisine and immerse yourself in the fascinating lives of the people who sell it on the streets. Magical Andes This Netflix docuseries travels through the Andes, exploring the rich tapestry of cultures and landscapes found in six countries, including Peru. The series set in Peru highlights the deep connection between the people and the majestic Andean landscapes, as well as the multifaceted nature of Peruvian culture, through stunning cinematography and scenery. Peru, Hidden Treasure by Luis Ara. This film explores Peru's rich culture, stunning landscapes, and hidden secrets, showcasing its ancient architecture, flora, and fauna. Shot between 2016 and 2017, it captures breathtaking images of iconic sites like Machu Picchu, the Nazca Lines, and the Amazon River, along with lesser-known natural wonders, offering a virtual journey through Peru's diverse heritage and beauty. |
Short History Of........
Podcasts from the independent network Noiser (https://www.noiser.com/about) that always hit the mark. Take an hour and learn in an entertaining and accessible way. A Short History of Machu Picchu and the Inca Trail. Covering thousands of miles in the Andes, the Inca Trail was the backbone of the ancient empire, connecting the millions of people who lived under its rule. The jewel in its crown, Machu Picchu, was recently named one of the seven wonders of the modern world. But who were the Incas? What was the purpose of their complex road system? And why did they build a stone citadel on a mountain ridge, only to abandon it a century later? The Inca Empire by Your Dead to Me Podcasts. Greg Jenner, Professor Bill Sillar, and comedian Sue Perkins delve into the South American Inca empire. From their Peruvian base, the Incas governed a vast region across the Andes from Ecuador to Argentina before their downfall in the 1530s due to Spanish conquistadores. This episode examines not just iconic sites like Machu Picchu but also Incan social structure, lifestyle, and cultural practices. |
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Short History Of........
Podcasts from the independent network Noiser (https://www.noiser.com/about) that always hit the mark. A Short History of Easter Island. First inhabited by the Rapa Nui people a thousand years ago, Easter Island is best known for its hundreds of giant stone statues. But what inspired a group of ancient Polynesian explorers to settle in such a remote spot in the South Pacific? How did they almost bring their own community to the point of collapse? And as ancient traditions meet with modern tourism, what is the future for the Rapa Nui people? |
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