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
Jan 5, 2024 • 32min
A history of song: from Schumann to Sting
Discover the evolution of song and its emotional impact, from medieval troubadours to composers like Schumann and Sting. Explore the influential John Dowland's song and the transition to composed lute songs. Learn about the emergence of German domestic song and the significance of 'Summertime' in musical history. Explore the blurring boundaries between classical and rock music, including collaborations and the future of music with AI.
Jan 4, 2024 • 35min
Boston Tea Party | 4. The crackdown
The podcast discusses the consequences of the Boston Tea Party and the brutal crackdown by Britain's government that united the American colonies. It explores the value of the destroyed tea, the organization and impact of the protest, the Coercive Acts' effect on the colonies, the challenges of unity among the colonies, and the colonial response to the Intolerable Acts.
Jan 3, 2024 • 44min
Aztec warfare
This podcast explores the pivotal role of warfare in Aztec society, including the motives behind their warfare, the controversial flower wars, and the importance of capturing enemies. It also discusses the role of women in Aztec warfare, the rituals and education in Aztec society, the emphasis on social status and mobility, and the tactics and strategies employed by Aztec warriors.
Jan 2, 2024 • 44min
History Behind the Headlines: Elections, ‘panda diplomacy’ and the word of the year
Discussion on the history of elections, 'panda diplomacy' as diplomatic gifts throughout history, and the roots of the Oxford Word of the Year - 'charisma'. Also explores the historical significance of democracy, animal symbolism, the impact of climate change in the Middle Ages, and resilience in farming communities.
Jan 1, 2024 • 23min
How spies shaped the modern world
Amanda Mason introduces Spencer Mizen to objects from the Imperial War Museums' exhibition, Spies, Lies and Deception. They discuss bugging German PoWs, qualities of successful spies, and the impact of deepfakes in modern warfare.
7 snips
Dec 31, 2023 • 45min
The Habsburgs: everything you wanted to know
Spencer Mizen interviews Pieter Judson about the Habsburg dynasty. They discuss the dynasty's rise to power through strategic marriages, the influential role of Maria Teresa, the impact of Franz Joseph's reign, the misconception of self-determination in the Austro-Hungarian empire, and the enduring legacy of the Habsburgs.
Dec 29, 2023 • 35min
The medieval Welsh Marches: identity on the frontier
Explore the medieval Welsh Marches and the often overlooked side to frontier life. Discover the disputed border territory and governance, the languages, law, and identity of medieval Wales, and the power dynamics and alliances in the region. Dive into the significance of medieval Welsh poetry and the concept of identity on the border.
Dec 28, 2023 • 33min
Boston Tea Party | 3. The destruction of the tea
Explore the myths and complex legacy of the Boston Tea Party. Learn about Governor Thomas Hutchinson, the role of the Sons of Liberty, and the rising tensions in Boston. Discover how news of the event spread and its significance in the revolution.
Dec 27, 2023 • 34min
Sherlock Holmes: the real history that inspired the detective stories
Guest Andrew Lycett, a biographer of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, discusses the origins of Sherlock Holmes, including the influence of Conan Doyle's education and mentor, Dr. Joseph Bell. The podcast also explores Conan Doyle's transition from medicine to writing and the historical context of his work.
Dec 26, 2023 • 35min
Life of the week: Queen Victoria
Queen Victoria, a monarch who founded many royal traditions, is discussed on this fascinating podcast. Topics include her path to the throne, debunking misconceptions about her, her complex love story with Prince Albert, her experiences with pregnancy and motherhood, and her burial and legacy.
