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
11 snips
Feb 8, 2024 • 30min
Conspiracy | 4. The Protocols of the Elders of Zion
Guest Professor Pamela S Nadell discusses the notorious Protocols of the Elders of Zion conspiracy theory, its origins as a forgery, fueling of anti-Semitic beliefs, Henry Ford's involvement, and its continued influence on the right and left despite debunking.
7 snips
Feb 7, 2024 • 26min
Love: a weird & wonderful history
From prehistoric carvings to grand romantic gestures, this podcast explores the curious and forgotten aspects of love throughout history. It discusses the early evidence of a kiss, the evolution of the heart symbol, magical spells for healing heartbreak, courtly love, unusual marriage traditions, and interesting stories and objects for a book on love.
Feb 6, 2024 • 56min
Life of the week: the Duke of Wellington
Learn about the life of the Duke of Wellington, a formidable military commander. Discover his successes on the battlefield, controversial tenure as a politician, and salacious personal life. Explore his early life, military career, and marriage struggles. Debunk some misconceptions and delve into his later years, exploring his role in international diplomacy and state funeral.
Feb 5, 2024 • 27min
Ploughman's for the people: a culinary history of Britain
Pen Vogler, author of 'Stuffed: A History of Good Food and Hard Times in Britain', takes listeners on a culinary journey through Britain's history, exploring the marketing origins of the Ploughman's lunch and the belief that turnips were once thought to be an aphrodisiac. She also delves into the impact of enclosures on food and society, the evolution of the roast dinner, and the history of food rationing during World War I and II.
Feb 4, 2024 • 39min
Chivalry: everything you wanted to know
Exploring the origins and evolution of chivalry, its contradictory definitions, and the role of women in knightly conduct.
4 snips
Feb 2, 2024 • 30min
Alexandria: the first modern city
Exploring the ancient city of Alexandria, its vibrant atmosphere, and its transformation into a global center of knowledge. From Alexander the Great's vision to the challenges of excavating artifacts, learn about the radical creation of the first modern city and the grandeur, wealth, and dark sides of ancient Alexandria.
5 snips
Feb 1, 2024 • 1h 11min
Conspiracy | 3. Who killed JFK?
Gerald Posner, journalist and author of 'Case Closed,' discusses the JFK assassination. They explore why Oswald acted alone, the controversy surrounding the single bullet theory, Oswald's background and motivation, public opinion on the assassination, and the prevalence of conspiracy theories.
Jan 31, 2024 • 45min
Masters of the Air: the real history behind the new show.
Author Donald L Miller discusses the terrifying realities of flying a B-17 Flying Fortress during WW2 bombing missions, and the vital role played by American airmen in the run-up to D-Day. He explores the challenges faced by the 'bloody hundredth' bomb group, the vulnerability of bomber pilots in combat, the treatment of captured airmen, and the impact of bombing campaigns on the German economy.
Jan 30, 2024 • 51min
Life of the week: Spartacus
Explore the fascinating life of Spartacus and his portrayal as a revolutionary hero. Understand the challenges and biases in understanding his life. Discover the vulnerability and risk of slavery in ancient Rome. Learn about the reasons behind the revolts of enslaved people. Dive into the origins and perception of gladiators. Uncover unknown details about Spartacus' final battle and his lasting influence. See Spartacus as a warning to Roman elites about the dangers of their slaves.
Jan 29, 2024 • 50min
The West's enduring fascination with Asia
Historian and author Christopher Harding explores the enduring fascination of the West with India, China, and Japan. From early encounters with war elephants and Indian philosophers to Marco Polo's journeys challenging European beliefs, the podcast delves into the impact of Asia on the West. It also discusses the portrayal of Buddha in 'The Light of Asia', the darker side of Western fascination with Asia, and the growing influence of Asian ideas on Western society.
