HistoryExtra podcast
Immediate
The HistoryExtra podcast brings you gripping stories from the past and fascinating historical conversations with the world's leading historical experts.
HistoryExtra is a free history podcast, with episodes released six times a week. Subscribe now for the real stories behind your favourite films, TV shows and period dramas, as well as compelling insights into lesser-known aspects of the past.
We delve into global history stories spanning the ancient world right up to the modern day. You’ll hear deep dives into the lives of famous historical figures like Cleopatra, Anne Boleyn and Winston Churchill, and explorations of intriguing events from the past, such as the Salem witch trials, the battle of Waterloo and D-Day.
Expect fresh takes on history, helping you get to grips with the latest research, as we explore everything from ancient Roman archaeology and Viking mythology to Renaissance royals and Tudor kings and queens.
Our episodes touch on a wide range of historical eras – from the Normans and Saxons to the Stuarts, Victorians and the Regency period. We cover the most popular historical subjects, from the medieval world to the Second World War, but you’ll also hear conversations on lesser-known parts of our past, including black history and women’s history.
Looking at the history behind today’s headlines, we consider the forces that have shaped today’s world, from the imposing empires that dominated continents, to the revolutions that brought them crashing down. We also examine the impact of conflict across the centuries, from the crusades of the Middle Ages and the battles of the ancient Egyptians to World War One, World War Two and the Cold War.
Plus, we uncover the real history behind myths, legends and conspiracy theories, from the medieval murder mystery of the Princes in the Tower, to the assassination of JFK.
Featuring interviews with notable historians including Mary Beard, Tracy Borman, James Holland and Dan Jones, we cover a range of social, political and military history, with the aim to start conversations about some of the most fascinating areas of the past.
Unlock full access to HistoryExtra.com for 6 months for just 99p https://www.historyextra.com/join/
HistoryExtra is a free history podcast, with episodes released six times a week. Subscribe now for the real stories behind your favourite films, TV shows and period dramas, as well as compelling insights into lesser-known aspects of the past.
We delve into global history stories spanning the ancient world right up to the modern day. You’ll hear deep dives into the lives of famous historical figures like Cleopatra, Anne Boleyn and Winston Churchill, and explorations of intriguing events from the past, such as the Salem witch trials, the battle of Waterloo and D-Day.
Expect fresh takes on history, helping you get to grips with the latest research, as we explore everything from ancient Roman archaeology and Viking mythology to Renaissance royals and Tudor kings and queens.
Our episodes touch on a wide range of historical eras – from the Normans and Saxons to the Stuarts, Victorians and the Regency period. We cover the most popular historical subjects, from the medieval world to the Second World War, but you’ll also hear conversations on lesser-known parts of our past, including black history and women’s history.
Looking at the history behind today’s headlines, we consider the forces that have shaped today’s world, from the imposing empires that dominated continents, to the revolutions that brought them crashing down. We also examine the impact of conflict across the centuries, from the crusades of the Middle Ages and the battles of the ancient Egyptians to World War One, World War Two and the Cold War.
Plus, we uncover the real history behind myths, legends and conspiracy theories, from the medieval murder mystery of the Princes in the Tower, to the assassination of JFK.
Featuring interviews with notable historians including Mary Beard, Tracy Borman, James Holland and Dan Jones, we cover a range of social, political and military history, with the aim to start conversations about some of the most fascinating areas of the past.
Unlock full access to HistoryExtra.com for 6 months for just 99p https://www.historyextra.com/join/
Episodes
Mentioned books
Oct 28, 2024 • 1min
Introducing History's Greatest Conspiracy Theories
Dive into the tantalizing world of conspiracy theories that challenge our understanding of history. Was the moon landing just an elaborate hoax? Did aliens help build the pyramids? Explore the intriguing question of whether Shakespeare truly authored his famous works. This journey uncovers the murky waters of myth and fact, engaging with expert historians to separate truth from fiction. Prepare for a mind-bending exploration of some of history's most compelling mysteries!
47 snips
Oct 28, 2024 • 36min
Cocaine: a Victorian sensation
Dr. Douglas Small, author of "Cocaine, Literature, and Culture, 1876-1930," delves into the fascinating history of cocaine in Victorian Britain. The conversation reveals how Edward Weston, a celebrated athlete, sparked a craze for coca leaves that permeated popular culture. Small discusses the transformation of coca from a ritualistic plant into a commercialized drug, the sensational pedestrianism sport of the 1870s, and the initial public perception of cocaine as a wonder drug before concerns over addiction arose.
26 snips
Oct 26, 2024 • 55min
Medieval science: everything you wanted to know
Join Seb Falk, a historian and expert in medieval science, alongside historian Emily Briffett as they unravel the complexities of medieval scientific thought. They challenge the myth that the Church was anti-science, revealing fascinating stories like a monk's daring leap for experimentation. Discover the ingenious inventions of the era, the lasting influence of ancient philosophers, and the pivotal role of alchemy and astronomy. Dive into the remarkable impact of the astrolabe and the vibrant collaboration that fueled scientific inquiry amidst the backdrop of religious belief.
Oct 25, 2024 • 30min
Halloween traditions: everything you wanted to know
Professor Owen Davies, an expert in the historical origins of Halloween, dives into the holiday's fascinating evolution from a Catholic celebration to a spooky festivity. Discover why turnips gave way to pumpkins and the origins of trick-or-treating's mischievous roots. He explores the chaos of Mischief Night and the supernatural ties that make Halloween a liminal space for communicating with the dead. With insights into ghostly folklore and seasonal traditions, Davies reveals why we remain captivated by Halloween's eerie allure.
Oct 24, 2024 • 44min
Medieval women: friendship, wanderlust and the medieval hustle
Hetta Howes, a historian and author specializing in medieval studies, sheds light on the lives of four remarkable medieval female writers: Marie de France, Julian of Norwich, Christine de Pizan, and Margery Kempe. She explores how their works reveal the everyday experiences of women, from navigating male-dominated societies to forming deep friendships. Howes discusses themes of sexual agency, resilience against societal norms, and the timeless relevance of these women's struggles, drawing powerful parallels to modern challenges.
Oct 23, 2024 • 50min
The Tyrant, the usurper and the hero | Richard II: tyrant
Helen Castor, a historian specializing in medieval England, and Dan Jones, author of works on English royalty, delve into the complexities of Richard II's kingship. They discuss Richard's detachment from the realities of governance and his obsession with hygiene, revealing a monarch who struggled amid the Peasants' Revolt. They also explore Richard's unique upbringing, his authoritarian shifts during crises, and how his artistic contributions contrast with his failures as a ruler, leading to his poignant downfall.
5 snips
Oct 22, 2024 • 44min
Chris Packham & Peter Frankopan: can history help tackle the climate crisis?
Join best-selling author and historian Peter Frankopan, known for his work on how climate has affected civilization, and broadcaster Chris Packham, a leading conservationist and climate activist. They discuss the importance of learning from history to inform our current climate crisis response. The conversation emphasizes humanity's struggle with change, the need for diverse voices in climate activism, and the power of small individual actions. Through historical lessons, they explore optimism for a sustainable future amidst pressing challenges.
Oct 21, 2024 • 44min
History Behind the Headlines: political memoirs, fuel and access to nature
Delve into the intriguing world of political memoirs, featuring insights from Boris Johnson and echoes of past leaders like Thatcher and Blair. Discover how these personal narratives shape our understanding of governance and individual legacies. Explore the evolution of land rights and the debate over public access to nature, revealing connections to Robin Hood's resistance against inequality. Journey through time to understand Britain's changing energy landscape, from medieval fuel sources to the Industrial Revolution's coal era.
12 snips
Oct 20, 2024 • 44min
Tudor spymaster: the secret machinations of Robert Cecil
In this captivating discussion, Professor Stephen Alford, an expert on Tudor politics, reveals the secretive life of Robert Cecil, a key figure behind the scenes during Queen Elizabeth I's reign. They dive into Cecil's strategic prowess in navigating court rivalries, particularly with the Earl of Essex, and how he ensured stability during a turbulent transition to the Stuart monarchy. Alford also sheds light on Cecil's espionage efforts and the complexities of his legacy, intriguing listeners with tales of political intrigue and personal ambition.
36 snips
Oct 19, 2024 • 38min
The Korean War: everything you wanted to know
Owen Miller, an expert on Korean Studies at SOAS, dives deep into the Korean War's origins and its profound impacts. They discuss how the post-World War II division of Korea set the stage for conflict. The conversation sheds light on devastating civilian consequences and the potential for nuclear escalation. Miller also highlights Britain's role and the war's lasting legacy, including the emotional toll on families and the stark division between North and South Korea that persists today.
