Portillo's State Secrets

Overview
Michael Portillo delves into the national archives, unearthing intriguing narratives concealed within once-classified documents. Each episode invites viewers on a journey through history, revealing secrets that have shaped the nation. With a keen eye for detail, Portillo brings these forgotten tales to light, offering fresh perspectives on familiar events and figures. His exploration not only highlights the significance of transparency but also emphasizes the impact of these revelations on our understanding of the past. Engaging and insightful, the show uncovers the layers of history that await discovery in dusty files.
Episodes
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1

Crime and Punishment
Michael stumbles upon confidential documents related to Britain’s final hangman. He delves into personal correspondence addressed to Sherlock Holmes...
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2

Tyrants
Michael stumbles upon concealed medical records belonging to Hitler and examines Christmas cards addressed to an African dictator. In addition, he unc...
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3

Celebrity and Scandals
Michael discovers the hidden campaign against the Rolling Stones, uncovering how Special Branch had been monitoring a future monarch.
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4

Mysteries
Michael discovers the historic letter that inspired the legend of Jack the Ripper, while also uncovering the enigmatic vanishing of a celebrated hero ...
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5

Sport and Politics
Michael discovers hidden documents revealing the reasons behind the country’s decision not to boycott Hitler’s Olympics. He also uncovers Churchil...
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6

Traitors and Spies
Michael discovers the hidden documents connected to various traitors in the nation.
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7

Monarchy
Michael delves into documents from the National Archives concerning the monarchy and uncovers a speech that the Queen would have delivered in the even...
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8

Banned
Michael discovers the government's approach to Scientology and uncovers the fact that bull running has been prohibited in the United Kingdom.
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9

On Trial
Michael explores Mary Whitehouse's passionate defense of God in a legal setting and uncovers the story of the final woman to be incarcerated under the...
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10

National Security
Michael uncovers classified documents detailing the SAS's boldest mission, exposing a violent plot aimed at toppling the government.
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1
Episode 1
Nicky Campbell leads a live discussion from Manchester, featuring a virtual audience from London. He poses the provocative question: Are lockdown mea...