Fascinating, surprising and eye-opening stories from the past, brought to life.
This week: 12th to 18th January
16th January 1547 - Ivan The Terrible becomes the first Tsar of Russia.
16th January 1950 - The first edition of "Listen With Mother" is broadcast on the BBC Light Programme.
17th January 1921 - The first public performance of the illusion of sawing a person in half is given at Finsbury Park Empire.
Presented by Ron Brown and Viji Alles.
Published on Monday, 12th January 2026.
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