

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 11, 2024 • 39min
From Russia to Texas: the search for a Jewish homeland
Discover the little-known Galveston movement, where Russian Jews sought refuge in Texas instead of Palestine. Dive into the history of American, Zionism, and European Jewry. Explore the struggles of Jewish immigrants in New York and the controversial proposal for a Jewish homeland in Uganda. Learn about the welcoming city of Galveston and the assimilation challenges faced by Russian Jewish immigrants. Uncover historical prejudices through primary sources from the early 20th century.

Mar 10, 2024 • 35min
British Redcoats: everything you wanted to know
Explore the evolution of the British Army from the 17th to 19th centuries, focusing on military commanders like the Duke of Marlborough. Learn about the rivalry between British and French armies, financial reforms, and the transition from redcoats to khaki uniforms.

6 snips
Mar 8, 2024 • 39min
The West's attempt to crush Bolshevik Russia
Exploring the Allied intervention in Bolshevik Russia post-1917 revolution, motivations of key nations, intricate alliances during the civil war, consequences of foreign support on atrocities and public opinion, and lasting impact on Europe and political consequences.

Mar 7, 2024 • 36min
Tiger Tamer | 3. would you let a tiger lick your face?
Explore the daring and colorful life of Bob Carlisle, a circus showman and big cat tamer in Victorian England. Learn about the challenges of the circus industry, the world of menageries, and the risky ventures into lion taming. Dive into the impact of legislation on fairs and Carlisle's wild escapades with a tiger

Mar 6, 2024 • 38min
Mary & George: the real history behind the new drama
Explore the real history behind the new drama 'Mary & George' set in the court of King James VI and I, focusing on the intrigues and scandals of the Villiers family. Learn about George's close relationship with the king, the speculation surrounding James' death, and the power struggles within the court. Dive into the cultural flourishing of England and Scotland during this vibrant period of history.

Mar 5, 2024 • 40min
History Behind the Headlines: ageing politicians & new names for the London Overground
Exploring historical significance of age in leadership, contrasting traditional views with modern ideals. Reflecting on impact of old age on rulers throughout history. Delving into challenges of reconstructing marginalized histories and preserving working-class stories. Analyzing historical sources and concerns for future historians. Exploring intersection of historical memory and urban naming, focusing on new names for London Overground lines.

Mar 4, 2024 • 40min
The man who ran Auschwitz: the real story of The Zone of Interest
The podcast delves into the real story of Rudolf Höss, the commandant of Auschwitz, and explores his domestic life as a Holocaust perpetrator. It discusses the rise of Nazi war criminals, their motivations, and the legacy post-Auschwitz liberation. The episode also examines the banality of evil, Eichmann's unrepentant nature, and the depiction of Nazism in film.

Mar 3, 2024 • 42min
Alcatraz: everything you wanted to know
Discover the intriguing history of Alcatraz, from its notorious prisoners to the daring escape attempts. Learn about the prison's evolution, from a military fortress to a high-security federal penitentiary. Explore the impact of the Native American occupation and the fascination surrounding Alcatraz's legacy.

Mar 1, 2024 • 40min
Plague, leprosy & murder: unlocking the secrets of medieval bones
Discover the secrets hidden within medieval human remains, from the impact of diseases like the Black Death and leprosy to forensic analysis of violent massacres. Genetic analysis revolutionizes understanding of historical diseases, while exploring the 'fish event horizon' reveals dietary habits of medieval populations. Uncover the complex history of St. Bryce's Day massacre and the role of science in understanding societal responses to diseases like leprosy.

Feb 29, 2024 • 32min
Tiger Tamer | 2. sail, steam & stormy seas
Explore the daring exploits of Bob Carlisle in the Victorian Royal Navy, from dangerous sea journeys to evolving naval technology. Learn about the recruitment process, trading ventures, and circus escapades of this larger-than-life sailor.


