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
Feb 28, 2024 • 37min
The EU: from Maastricht to Brexit
Explore the impactful Maastricht Treaty, key figures like Angela Merkel and Jacques Delors, and the evolution of the EU from its early foundations to Brexit. Learn about Euro crisis challenges, Brexit negotiations, and the unity amidst the Brexit response.
Feb 27, 2024 • 36min
Rudyard Kipling: life of the week
Dive into the life and legacy of Rudyard Kipling, known as the 'Bard of Empire' for writing The White Man's Burden. Explore his childhood trauma, resilience, early influences, and complex portrayal of India. Learn about his views on imperialism, 'The White Man's Burden', and the lasting impact of his poem 'If'.
6 snips
Feb 26, 2024 • 41min
Winthrop Bell: a Canadian spy who predicted Nazi horrors
Explore the fascinating life of Dr Winthrop Bell, a Harvard professor turned spy who warned about Nazi supremacy post-World War I. Learn about his espionage missions, cultural activities at a German prison camp, recruitment by MI6, and crucial intelligence reports on Hitler's plans. Discover how his insights shaped diplomatic decisions and influenced global responses to the Nazi threat.
Feb 25, 2024 • 43min
Arts & Crafts movement: everything you wanted to know
Delve into the origins and influence of the Victorian Arts and Crafts movement, its global reach beyond London and Glasgow, the role of women artists, evolution and impact of the movement, emphasis on craftsmanship and authenticity, and the essence of artistry without formal training in handmade craftsmanship.
Feb 24, 2024 • 40min
Stonewall: the 1969 fight for gay rights
Explore the Stonewall riots of 1969, a key event in LGBTQ+ history, and the resistance against police harassment. Learn about the oppression and community organizing of queer individuals pre-Stonewall. Discover the complex legacy and impact of Stonewall on LGBT activism, and the diverse mix of patrons at the Stonewall Inn.
Feb 23, 2024 • 36min
The Chinese migrants chasing an American dream
Discover the captivating stories of two Chinese teenagers who migrated to California in the late 19th century, facing both opportunity and prejudice. Their journey led them to establish a Chinese settlement in Mexico, with descendants forging new cultural ties. Explore the economic dominance and tragic violence in Torión, Mexico, during the Mexican revolution. Uncover the struggles, resilience, and differing experiences of the Fuentuk and Hing family branches amidst revolution and discrimination.
Feb 22, 2024 • 27min
Tiger Tamer | 1. “the life of a dozen men”
Discover the intriguing life of Bob Carlisle, a Victorian eccentric who went from circus lion tamer to renowned pedestrian in England. Uncover the forgotten figure's autobiographies, dive into 19th-century life writing, and explore his unconventional career paths and adventurous tales. Join the journey of this larger-than-life character in a six-part series that sheds light on a fascinating era of history.
Feb 22, 2024 • 1min
The Tiger Tamer who went to sea | Trailer
Discover the incredible story of a Victorian man who was both a global seafarer and a circus performer, athlete, and wheelbarrow pedestrian. Learn about the broader historical themes of the 19th and early 20th centuries through his fascinating adventures and occupations.
Feb 21, 2024 • 34min
The Britons who rebuilt postwar Germany
Author Daniel Cowling discusses the British occupation of Germany from 1945-49, exploring the challenges faced by young officials, their efforts in rebuilding a broken nation, and the skepticism among their compatriots. Topics include establishing democracy, British perspectives on post-war Germany, success stories like transforming Volkswagen, and the unique origins of Currywurst.
11 snips
Feb 20, 2024 • 43min
Christopher Columbus: life of the week
Historian Julia McClure discusses Christopher Columbus's legacy, from his exploration of the Americas to his treatment of indigenous populations. Topics include Columbus's origins, motivations for his voyage, legacy, impact on indigenous peoples, and the controversy surrounding Columbus Day.
