History's Secret Heroes
BBC Podcasts
"History's Secret Heroes," brought to you by BBC Podcasts, uncovers the extraordinary tales of ordinary people whose actions have shaped the world in ways that have been nearly forgotten. Each episode delves deep into the annals of history to bring to light the unsung heroes and hidden figures who have made pivotal contributions to society. From courageous activists and innovative thinkers to selfless community leaders and obscure inventors, these are the stories of real individuals whose legacies have been overshadowed by the more famous names of their times. Hosted by expert historians and featuring insights from special guests, the podcast not only narrates these captivating stories but also explores the impact these individuals have had on the present day. "History's Secret Heroes" is more than just a history lesson; it's an inspiring journey that pays homage to the resilience and ingenuity of the human spirit. Tune in to discover the untold stories of those who have quietly changed the world.
Episodes
13. Christine Granville: The Spy Who Skied In from the Cold
In December 1939, a determined Polish aristocrat, Christine Granville (born Krystyna Skarbek), stormed into the British Secret Service headquarters in London, demanding to be recruited as a spy. Despite initial hesitations due to her non-British nationality and gender, her charisma and thorough plan to gather intelligence from Poland convinced the officials. Under the alias Christine Granville, she embarked on perilous missions across Nazi-occupied territories, utilizing her exceptional skiing skills and multilingual abilities. Her fearless endeavors provided critical intelligence to the British, notably information that suggested a potential German invasion of the Soviet Union, which proved pivotal for the Allies. Granville's life post-war was markedly less glamorous, struggling with mundane jobs in London until her tragic murder in 1952.