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
Mar 22, 2024 • 33min
Eric 'Winkle' Brown: Britain's most extraordinary pilot
Discover the extraordinary life of Eric 'Winkle' Brown, a legendary Second World War pilot who survived a torpedo attack, set world records for flying, and had encounters with influential figures. From his daring feats like landing a mosquito on an aircraft carrier to his lessons in determination and preparedness, his story is filled with remarkable adventures and insights.
Mar 21, 2024 • 29min
Tiger Tamer | 5. crazy about wheelbarrows
Delving into the Victorian wheelbarrow craze of 1886-7 led by Bob Carlisle. Explore the odd historical crazes like fasting challenges and pigeon-eating trends. Meet eccentric figures like Sawdust Jack and James Gordon in the competitive wheelbarrow race. Discover Bob Carlisle's media manipulation strategies post-wheelbarrow recovery.
Mar 20, 2024 • 28min
Will the real Jesus please stand up?
Early Christianity was filled with diverse and conflicting narratives about Jesus, including alternative versions of his life and personality. The podcast delves into the various beliefs and controversies surrounding Jesus' birth, the cult of the Virgin Mary, and the evolution of Christianity in the Roman Empire amidst competition from other religions. It also explores the reception of apocryphal gospels in early Christianity.
Mar 19, 2024 • 42min
Mary Wollstonecraft: life of the week
Explore the fascinating life of Mary Wollstonecraft, a trailblazing advocate for women's rights during the Enlightenment. From her involvement in the French Revolution to her controversial personal choices, learn about her lasting impact on history and feminism.
Mar 18, 2024 • 39min
An obscenity trial that shocked Victorian Britain
Learn about the scandalous 1877 trial of Annie Besant for distributing a birth control pamphlet. Explore the societal impact of this legal case in Victorian Britain and why Besant chose to represent herself in court. Dive into the evolution of birth control methods and societal beliefs, from ancient civilizations to the Victorian era. Discover the partnership between Besant and Charles Bradlaw in challenging societal norms and advocating for activism.
Mar 17, 2024 • 56min
The Capetians: everything you wanted to know
Delve into the captivating history of the Capetian dynasty and their enduring hold on the French throne. Unravel mysteries surrounding their religious beliefs, the 'Capetian miracle,' and their influence on French identity. From popularizing the name 'Phillip' to the iconic fleur-de-lis, explore the intriguing legacy of this influential French dynasty.
Mar 15, 2024 • 35min
Lothar II vs Theutberga: a marriage scandal that shook the ninth century
Delve into the scandalous marital affairs of Lothar II in the ninth century, as Professor Charles West uncovers the political complexities and passions intertwined in royal divorces. Explore love magic, trial by ordeal, church interventions, and power struggles that shaped the tumultuous events of Lothar's reign.
Mar 14, 2024 • 38min
Tiger Tamer | 4. celebrity pedestrian
Learn about the larger-than-life character Bob Carlisle, a circus showman and big cat tamer in the Victorian age. Discover his fascinating journey in the travelling circus and the world of Victorian show business. Explore his incredible walking feats, rivalry with American counterparts, battle with addiction, and transition to a career at sea.
Mar 13, 2024 • 34min
A political earthquake: Britain's first Labour government
Explore Britain's first Labour government led by Ramsay MacDonald in 1924, delving into their successes, failures, and complex relationship with the establishment. Discover the political intricacies, challenges, and controversies faced by the government, including the Zenovia letter scandal. Reflect on McDonald's unexpected ascent to power, the impact of his administration on future governments, and the parallels to today's political landscape.
Mar 12, 2024 • 48min
James VI and I: life of the week
Explore the life of James VI and I, from his fascinating childhood as 'the cradle king' to his reign in both Scotland and England. Learn about his relationships with his favorites, his fascination with witches, and the intrigue surrounding his death. Delve into his legacy and the enduring impact he had on political alliances, cultural patronage, and colonial ventures.
