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
Dec 25, 2023 • 1min
Merry Christmas from the HistoryExtra podcast
Sneak peek into upcoming series on Suffragettes and historical conspiracies, plus new Everything You Wanted to Know episodes. Uncover the myths and legacy of the Boston Tea Party.
Dec 24, 2023 • 49min
Druids: everything you wanted to know
Learn about the origins, beliefs, and practices of the mysterious Druids, including their role in ancient societies and the threats they posed to the Romans. Explore the similarities and differences between Druids and religious specialists from other cultures. Delve into the beliefs and practices of the ancient Druids, from gods and animal sacrifices to the existence of female Druids. Discover the mystery of the Owen writing system and its uncertain origins. Uncover the potential influence of Druidic practices on Christianity and the decline of Druidic influence in Western Europe. Finally, explore the resurgence of interest in Druidism during the Celtic revival and the modern perception of Druids influenced by ancient texts.
Dec 22, 2023 • 41min
Bannockburn: Robert the Bruce’s greatest victory
Robert the Bruce, a hero in Scottish history, discusses his landmark victory at the battle of Bannockburn. Topics include the events leading to the battle, the Scottish resistance against English rule, military tactics used in the battle, and its impact on Scotland, England, and Ireland.
Dec 21, 2023 • 31min
Boston Tea Party | 2. The Sons of Liberty
The podcast discusses the tactics used by the Sons of Liberty in the Boston Tea Party, including violent acts. It explores the consequences faced by Thomas Hutchinson and the evolving meaning of the term 'Sons of Liberty'. The podcast also delves into intercolonial boycotts and the dark punishment of tarring and feathering. It examines the complicated relationship between the Sons of Liberty and violence, as well as the British government's concerns and debates over the American colonies' rebellions. Finally, it explores the tensions and resentments in the New England colonies regarding the Tea Act and hints at the upcoming Boston Tea Party.
5 snips
Dec 20, 2023 • 34min
Amazing Grace: a story of salvation and slavery
James Walvin, author of Amazing Grace: A Cultural History of the Beloved Hymn, discusses the contradiction of slavery and Christianity and the impact of Amazing Grace. Topics include John Newton's transformation from a slave captain to abolitionist, the origin and impact of the hymn, and President Obama's electrifying performance of Amazing Grace.
Dec 19, 2023 • 34min
Life of the week: Amelia Earhart
Amelia Earhart, the first woman to fly solo across the Atlantic Ocean, lived a life of adventure and broke numerous records in aviation. Historian Claire Mulley explores her early life, her unconventional relationship with George Putnam, her advocacy for women's rights and education, and her mysterious disappearance. Earhart's accomplishments make her a pioneer and an inspiration for women's empowerment.
Dec 18, 2023 • 37min
Nazi Germany: the myth of the innocent bystander
Diving into Nazi Germany, the podcast explores the claim of innocence by Germans who claimed ignorance of the fate of their Jewish citizens. The speaker challenges this perception and discusses a book that delves into the complexities of navigating the Nazi regime. The podcast also explores the changing social dynamics, antisemitism, indifference, compliance, and ambivalence within German society during that time. Additionally, it analyzes the expansion of the Third Reich and local societal responses in Latvia, Lithuania, and Poland.
Dec 17, 2023 • 31min
1970s Britain: everything you wanted to know
Exploring the contrasting views on 1970s Britain, from strikes to shared culture; the political landscape and industrial disputes; the wave of strikes, inflation, and public backlash; the 1977 confrontation between the National Front and anti-fascist groups; and the cultural impact of war trauma.
Dec 16, 2023 • 19min
Caesar | 1. Beware the Ides of March
Explore Julius Caesar's final Senate meeting and the warning signs leading up to his assassination. Discover the details of the carefully planned murder and the aftermath. Reflect on the consequences of his death and get a preview of his rise to power.
Dec 16, 2023 • 27min
Caesar | 3. Master of his fate
The last decade of Julius Caesar’s life was dominated by civil war, his romance with Cleopatra and his quest for ultimate power. In episode three of our new series on Julius Caesar’s rise and fall, Rob Attar is joined by Professor Philip Freeman, Dr Jane Draycott and Dr Volker Heuchert to explore Caesar’s final years as the storm clouds were gathering around him.The HistoryExtra podcast is produced by the team behind BBC History Magazine. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
