Step into the enthralling tales of history with “A Gun Through Time,” as acclaimed historian David Olusoga, known for his compelling BBC series “A House Through Time” and “Black and British: A Forgotten History,” takes audiences on an extraordinary journey through the stories of three firearms that have indelibly shaped the world.
Each weapon carries with it a multifaceted legacy, intertwining narratives of conquest, survival, and social upheaval that still resonate today.
In a world witnessing the resurgence of mechanised warfare, the timing of this show is poignant. Europe finds itself echoing past conflicts, with young Ukrainians battling in trenches reminiscent of those from a century ago. Meanwhile, discussions around rearmament and military expansion are becoming increasingly prevalent in Britain. It seems that history, with all its complexities, is poised to repeat itself.
David Olusoga shares his fascination with these stories, explaining, “My first passions as a boy—when I first got into history—were the First and Second World Wars. But I was always much more interested in the experiences of ordinary people caught up in those great events than I was in the speeches and strategies of politicians and generals.” This show, therefore, is not a technical exploration of firearms or battle tactics; it is a profound examination of the cultures that emerged from the lives intertwined with these weapons.
In “A Gun Through Time,” Olusoga will delve into the nuanced histories of three iconic firearms. The Thompson Sub-Machine Gun, initially a WWI “wonder weapon,” became infamous as the “Tommy Gun” during Prohibition-era America. The Maxim Gun, known for its role in African colonisation and the devastation it wrought on the Western Front, remains relevant, appearing on modern battlefields in Ukraine. Lastly, the Lee-Enfield Rifle, a staple for soldiers in both World Wars, carries a legacy shared by generations of British families.
Olusoga’s exploration extends beyond the mere functionality of these weapons, shedding light on their cultural and historical significance. In a live experience unlike any other, audiences will have the rare opportunity to view these artifacts up close, uncover the hidden social histories they carry, and engage directly with Olusoga through questions, enriching their understanding of the intricate tapestries of history.
Tickets for this captivating event go on sale at 10am on Friday, 8th November, available at www.fane.co.uk/david-olusoga, with prices ranging from £22 to £44. Don’t miss the chance to witness history brought to life through the lens of these three world-altering firearms, presented by one of the most insightful historians of our time. Experience the stories, the history, and the legacy—one weapon, one story at a time.
Tickets on sale now from www.fane.co.uk/david-olusoga
Feature image: Karen Robinson