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
12 snips
Dec 31, 2025 • 41min
New Year's Eve, newts and Nessie: a history of British folklore
Joining the discussion are Dr. Kerry Holbrook, a Senior Lecturer in Folklore and History, and Owen Davies, a Professor of Social History, both from the University of Hertfordshire. They dive into the intriguing customs surrounding New Year's Day and the curious beliefs in newts as folk medicine. Folklore's role in shaping cultural identity is explored, alongside modern legends like Nessie and UFO sightings. They emphasize that folklore is not static but evolves, reflecting contemporary issues and community practices, even during lockdown.
52 snips
Dec 30, 2025 • 45min
Augustus: life of the week
Ed Watts, a historian and author of The Romans: A 2,000-Year History, delves into the life of Augustus, Rome's first emperor. He contrasts Augustus’s ruthless early persona with his later image as a state-builder. Watts explores how Augustus seized power, skillfully used propaganda against Antony and Cleopatra, and navigated the brutalities of political life. He describes Augustus's charisma, strategic family dynamics, and the monumental rebuilding of Rome, showcasing his complex legacy that shaped an empire for centuries.
23 snips
Dec 29, 2025 • 39min
Inside the Viking battle of the genders
Dr. Jackson Crawford, an Old Norse specialist and translator, delves into the intriguing dynamics of gender in Viking mythology. He discusses the Poetic Edda and its narratives—aspects of male and female roles, from the drengr ideal of masculinity to women's agency in provoking conflict. Crawford highlights how mythological tales like Thor’s bridal disguise reveal humor and complexity around gender. He also reflects on the emotional depth of the poems and the often overlooked voices of women in Norse literature.
12 snips
Dec 28, 2025 • 33min
A house of one’s own: Jane Austen’s ‘golden years’
Join historian Dr. Lizzie Rogers, a specialist in Jane Austen’s life, as she delves into the prolific Chawton years of the beloved author. Discover how Chawton Cottage provided a stable and creative home for Austen, leading to the publication of renowned works like Sense and Sensibility and Pride and Prejudice. Explore her close relationship with sister Cassandra and the intriguing dynamics of her literary career, including her sarcastic dedication to the Prince Regent, revealing both her wit and disdain for societal norms.
41 snips
Dec 26, 2025 • 33min
Æthelstan: the king who made England
In this engaging conversation, Professor David Woodman, a historian specializing in early medieval Britain, explores the reign of Æthelstan, the first king of England. He discusses the political landscape Æthelstan inherited, marked by fragmentation and rivalry. Woodman highlights the king's innovative military strategies and diplomatic maneuvers, including his successful campaigns and alliances against Viking forces. Additionally, he emphasizes Æthelstan's significant contributions to religion, culture, and the unification of England, solidifying his legacy as a pivotal figure in British history.
Dec 24, 2025 • 35min
Did the WW1 Christmas truce really happen?
Historian Alex Churchill, an expert on First World War myths, delves into the fascinating realities of the 1914 Christmas truces. He dispels the notion of grand football matches, revealing instead intimate moments of fraternisation between soldiers. The discussion touches on the romantic appeal of these stories, the risks involved, and how they were born from shared weariness. Churchill shares anecdotes, such as George Fletcher's experiences, and highlights the broader implications for warfare, showing why such truces have not occurred in later conflicts.
13 snips
Dec 23, 2025 • 42min
Father Christmas: life of the week
Join historian Thomas Rhys-Smith, a professor with a keen focus on the cultural history of Father Christmas and Santa Claus, as he unravels the intriguing evolution of these iconic figures. Explore the roots of Father Christmas from St. Nicholas to Sir Christmas, and how Dutch and German traditions shaped Santa in America. Discover the fascinating clash between Santa’s secular charm and Father Christmas's festive spirit, and learn how Victorian culture solidified their images. Thomas reminds us how these beloved figures continue to inspire kindness and joy in our celebrations.
15 snips
Dec 22, 2025 • 29min
When was the best time in English history to be alive?
Ian Mortimer, a British historian known for his 'Time Traveller's Guides', offers fascinating insights into four pivotal periods of English history. He reveals that Elizabethans were renowned for their kissing prowess, and discusses an amusing tale of Northampton drinkers dousing fires with beer. Mortimer critiques the romanticization of history, opting to focus on the lives of ordinary people rather than idealized eras. He emphasizes how immersive storytelling can connect us with the past, inspiring future generations to embrace history.
Dec 21, 2025 • 34min
“I am to flirt my last”: Jane Austen’s twenties
In this lively discussion, Dr. Lizzie Rogers, a historian specializing in the 18th and early 19th centuries, reveals the vibrant life of Jane Austen in her twenties. Listeners uncover Austen’s flirtation with Tom Lefroy and how it inspired her early work, including connections to Pride and Prejudice. They explore her creative struggles, the mixed emotions of moving to Bath, and the impact of family tragedies on her writing. With insights into her brief proposal and choices around marriage, this exploration showcases Austen's resilience and evolving independence.
17 snips
Dec 19, 2025 • 32min
The secret propaganda war against the Nazis
In this engaging discussion, Terry Stiastny, an author and journalist focused on 20th-century history, unpacks the covert efforts of the Political Warfare Executive against Nazi Germany. He reveals how a motley crew of journalists, spies, and creatives crafted deceptive narratives using everything from fake news to audio dramas. Terry also highlights ethical dilemmas faced by the team, Churchill's ambivalent support, and the lasting implications of these propaganda strategies on today's disinformation landscape.
