Podcasts-Explorers

Barry Gough’s Podcast Series on Western Canadian Explorers

Renowned historian Barry Gough has brought the thrilling tales of Western Canadian exploration to life through his podcast series, “The Explorers.” This series delves into the daring journeys of legendary figures such as Alexander Mackenzie, Simon Fraser, and Captain James Cook, whose exploits shaped the history of British Columbia and the Pacific Northwest.

Alexander Mackenzie: The Race to the Pacific

One of the most compelling episodes in the series recounts the journey of Alexander Mackenzie, the Scottish fur trader and explorer who became the first European to cross the North American continent to reach the Pacific Ocean in 1793. Gough explores Mackenzie’s grueling expedition up the Peace and Fraser Rivers and his ultimate arrival at the Pacific—years before Lewis and Clark. The podcast highlights Mackenzie’s indigenous guides, his struggles with the rugged terrain, and the significance of his achievement in opening trade routes for the North West Company.

Simon Fraser: The Harrowing Descent of the Fraser River

Gough also dedicates an episode to Simon Fraser, who in 1808 led an expedition down the Fraser River, a treacherous waterway filled with impassable rapids and sheer canyon walls. Fraser, often overshadowed by Mackenzie, is portrayed as a daring and determined figure who risked everything to map British Columbia’s interior. The podcast examines the immense challenges Fraser faced, including hostile encounters with First Nations, the harsh terrain, and near-fatal accidents along the river.

Captain James Cook: The Arrival of European Influence

Another fascinating episode focuses on Captain James Cook, the legendary British navigator who arrived at Nootka Sound in 1778. Gough explores how Cook’s voyage marked the beginning of European contact with the Indigenous peoples of British Columbia, and how it ignited the maritime fur trade. The podcast provides a gripping account of Cook’s interactions with the Nuu-chah-nulth people, his mapping of the Pacific coast, and the fateful events that followed his departure.

David Thompson: The Greatest Mapmaker of North America

Another key figure covered in Gough’s series is David Thompson, the legendary cartographer and explorer who mapped over 3.9 million square kilometers of North America, including vast portions of what is now British Columbia. Between 1807 and 1811, Thompson navigated and mapped the Columbia River, establishing crucial trade routes for the North West Company. The podcast highlights Thompson’s extraordinary skills in astronomy and surveying, his deep reliance on Indigenous knowledge, and his journey to the Pacific in 1811—where he arrived just as the American Astorians were establishing Fort Astoria. Gough emphasizes Thompson’s lasting contributions to Canadian and American geography, even though his name remains less widely known than Mackenzie or Fraser.

Gough’s Legacy in Canadian History

Barry Gough’s deep expertise in maritime history and Western exploration makes this podcast series a compelling listen for history enthusiasts. His engaging storytelling and scholarly research provide a rich and immersive experience, bringing to life the explorers who helped shape the destiny of British Columbia and beyond.

For those fascinated by the grit, determination, and perilous journeys of Canada’s earliest adventurers, “The Explorers” is an essential listen.