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Unveiling the Secrets of the As It Happens Files: An Archive of Unforgettable Canadian Radio Broadcasts

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For over half a century, the As It Happens Files have served as a sonic time capsule, capturing the essence of Canadian history as it unfolded through the voices of the people who lived it. Preserved within the hallowed halls of the CBC Archives, these recordings offer a captivating glimpse into the pivotal moments that have shaped our nation, from the depths of the Cold War to the dawn of a new millennium.

The As It Happens Files: Radio That May Contain Nuts

by Mary Lou Finlay

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	527 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	290 pages

The Genesis of a Broadcasting Legacy

The origins of the As It Happens Files can be traced back to 1968, when CBC producer Allan McFee conceived a nightly radio program that would bring listeners the latest news and current events as they happened. The program's mandate was simple: to provide Canadians with an unfiltered, behind-the-scenes look at the world around them.

The first broadcast of As It Happens aired on June 23, 1968, hosted by the legendary Michael Enright. The program quickly gained a loyal following, known colloquially as "the AIH crowd," who tuned in night after night for Enright's incisive commentary and interviews with notable figures from all walks of life.

Capturing History as It Unfolded

Throughout its illustrious history, As It Happens has been at the forefront of breaking news and historical milestones. The program's correspondents have reported live from war zones, political summits, and cultural events, capturing the raw emotions and perspectives of those directly involved.

The As It Happens Files contain exclusive interviews with world leaders such as Lester Pearson, John Diefenbaker, Fidel Castro, Nikita Khrushchev, Richard Nixon, and Ronald Reagan. Listeners can hear firsthand accounts of the Cuban Missile Crisis, the Vietnam War, the Watergate Scandal, and the fall of the Berlin Wall.

Beyond the headlines, As It Happens also delved into the social and cultural transformations that were reshaping Canadian society. The program featured interviews with artists, musicians, authors, and activists, capturing the spirit of the times and providing a platform for diverse voices to be heard.

A Treasure Trove for Historians and Researchers

Today, the As It Happens Files represent an invaluable resource for historians, researchers, and anyone seeking a deeper understanding of Canadian history. The archive contains over 50,000 recordings, spanning decades of broadcasts and covering a wide range of topics.

Researchers can access the As It Happens Files through the CBC Archives in Toronto. The collection is meticulously cataloged and searchable by keyword, date, and topic, making it an efficient and accessible resource for academic inquiry.

Unveiling the Untold Stories

Beyond their historical significance, the As It Happens Files also offer a glimpse into the behind-the-scenes world of radio broadcasting. The recordings capture the candid conversations between hosts, producers, and correspondents as they prepare for and execute live broadcasts.

These conversations reveal the challenges and triumphs of live radio, the camaraderie among the team, and the unwavering commitment to delivering accurate and compelling content to listeners.

The As It Happens Files provide a unique window into the unsung heroes of Canadian radio, the anonymous individuals who worked tirelessly to bring the news and stories of the day to the airwaves.

The As It Happens Files are a testament to the enduring power of radio as a medium for storytelling and historical preservation. The archive offers a captivating journey through time, allowing us to relive the past through the voices of those who lived it. From the halls of power to the streets of everyday life, the As It Happens Files capture the essence of Canadian history and continue to inspire and inform generations to come.

The As It Happens Files: Radio That May Contain Nuts

by Mary Lou Finlay

5 out of 5