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
13 snips
Aug 3, 2024 • 41min
The Great Exhibition: everything you wanted to know
Caroline McCaffrey-Howarth, an expert on the Great Exhibition, dives into this landmark event that captivated over six million visitors in 1851. She shares fascinating insights into the Crystal Palace's construction, the key figures involved, and the diverse exhibits from around the world. Discover how the exhibition shaped public taste and offered a glimpse into Victorian ambition. McCaffrey-Howarth also discusses the lasting impact on London's museum culture and the enchanting crystal fountain that wowed attendees.
Aug 1, 2024 • 47min
Dismemberment & disgrace: the grisly fate of Simon de Montfort
Sophie Thérèse Ambler, a historian, sheds light on the grisly fate of Simon de Montfort, a medieval rebel leader. After his defeat at the Battle of Evesham, his body was horrifically dismembered, with parts displayed as grim trophies across Britain. Ambler discusses the shockingly brutal practices of body mutilation in medieval warfare, contrasting these with the chivalric ideals of the time. She also unpacks Montfort's complex legacy and the cultural significance of his remains, revealing how they formed a local cult involving relics and miraculous tales.
Jul 31, 2024 • 38min
Toilets through time | 2. Medieval privies
James Wright, an author and architectural archaeologist known for debunking medieval myths, dives into the quirks of medieval sanitation. He discusses why monks feared the latrine and reveals fascinating sanitation practices of the time. Listeners learn about the communal nature of toilets and surprising historical vulnerabilities, including notable figures' tragic fates in the loo. Wright also highlights early advancements in toilet technology, challenging modern perceptions and blending humor with deeper societal fears surrounding hygiene.
Jul 30, 2024 • 42min
Has imperial history become too politicised?
Alan Lester, an expert on Britain's imperial history, Bronwen Everill, who deepens our understanding of colonial legacies, and Sathnam Sanghera, a commentator on the empire's controversies, dive into the heated debates surrounding imperial history. They discuss the challenges historians face in today's politicized climate, emphasizing the need for diverse perspectives. The conversation critiques simplistic narratives of pride or shame, arguing for a more inclusive, analytical approach to understanding the complex legacies of colonialism.
4 snips
Jul 29, 2024 • 43min
Francis Drake: life of the week
Historian Robert Hutchison dives into the life of Francis Drake, England's notorious sea captain known for his circumnavigation and battles against the Spanish Armada. He reveals the darker aspects of Drake’s legacy, such as his involvement in slave trading and the violent execution of his crew member. Hutchison discusses Drake's ruthless ambition and the geopolitical climate of the era, as well as the perils faced by 16th-century sailors. The conversation also reflects on the complex legacy that makes Drake both a celebrated hero and a controversial figure.
Jul 28, 2024 • 40min
Our long obsession with the end of the world
Matt Elton, an expert on apocalyptic thought, dives into humanity's longstanding fascination with the end of the world. He explores the evolution of these fears, from asteroids to AI, and how they've been depicted in literature and film. Elton discusses pivotal moments in history, like the years 1000 and 2000, and the role of the church in shaping perceptions of Judgment Day. He also highlights emotional echoes in works like Mary Shelley's 'The Last Man', linking past anxieties to today's climate concerns and technological threats.
Jul 27, 2024 • 43min
The Grand Tour: everything you wanted to know
Lizzie Rogers, a historian with a flair for cultural travel, teams up with Ellie Cawthorne, an expert guide, to take you back to the 18th-century Grand Tour. They explore must-see destinations, reveal how travelers navigated challenges like language barriers and uncomfortable mules, and share the scandalous tales of high society. Discover the fascinating duality of hedonistic pursuits and cultured experiences, as well as the impact of these journeys on both individuals and colonialism!
8 snips
Jul 26, 2024 • 44min
Black Death: everything you wanted to know
Giovanni Boccaccio, a 14th-century Italian writer renowned for his tales during the Black Death, joins historian David Musgrove to delve into this catastrophic pandemic. They discuss the plague's deadly spread across Europe, its devastating impact, and the current understanding of its symptoms through recent DNA findings. The conversation also highlights misguided health beliefs and the myriad of religious and social repercussions at the time. They even touch on the potential resurgence of the disease in a modern context, emphasizing the role of antibiotics.
Jul 25, 2024 • 46min
The Decameron: sex, plague, and a medieval Love Island
Historian Rebecca Bowen discusses how 'The Decameron' by Boccaccio tackled the Black Death through risqué stories. They explore post-plague literature, connections between health practices and social interactions, and the portrayal of female agency in the tales.
Jul 24, 2024 • 35min
Toilets through time | 1. Roman latrines
Historian Dr. Hannah Platts discusses Roman latrines with David Musgrove, exploring communal toilet experiences, gladiator toilet sponge incidents, and ancient ablutions. They delve into Roman toilet designs, British evolution, sensory experiences, and dietary habits, providing a fascinating insight into ancient sanitation practices.
