Ian Waugh: Broadcaster, Historian, and Published Author
Ian Waugh is a British historian, broadcaster, and author known for his extensive work in British social history, particularly focused on the lives of ordinary people and forgotten historical stories. He has a long career in broadcasting, having worked with various radio and television stations in the UK, Africa, and Europe. Ian has a particular passion for preserving historical records, including letters and documents from the 18th to 20th centuries, and has contributed significantly to British social history through his research.
One of his notable works is his research on John “Babbacombe” Lee, a man famously known as “The Man They Couldn’t Hang” due to a series of failed execution attempts. This case has been a key area of his historical investigation. He also runs the Old British News website, where he delves into historical events from 1750 to 1950, helping to uncover stories that are often overlooked in mainstream historical narratives. His approach to history is deeply rooted in social and cultural contexts, aiming to highlight the contributions and experiences of ordinary people through time.
In addition to his historical work, Waugh has had a rich career in radio, particularly in Devon, and later worked internationally, training broadcasters in countries like Zimbabwe, Malta, and Namibia.