Five Years of My Life 1894-1899
- No. of episodes
- 16
- Latest episode
- 2025-07-26
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In 1894, Alfred Dreyfus, a Jewish captain in the French Army, was falsely accused of treason and sentenced to life imprisonment on Devil’s Island, a notorious penal colony in French Guiana. His published prison diary, Five Years of My Life, is a riveting account of his fight for survival amidst torturous conditions, isolation and deprivation. Back in Paris, his wife Lucie was battling her own war, protecting their children from the surge of anti-Semitism, and tirelessly working to clear Alfreds name. This podcast includes heart-wrenching excerpts from their letters, a testament to their undying love and determination. Despite the unbearable circumstances, Alfreds unwavering will to prove his innocence and preserve their honor remained unbroken. This story of Alfred and Lucie Dreyfus is not just a tale of survival and love, but also a testament to human resilience in the face of gross injustice. Their story still resonates powerfully today. (Summary by Sue Anderson)