HistoryExtra podcast

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Nov 3, 2023 • 43min

Scotland’s last witch

Explore the remarkable story of Helen Duncan, the last witch to be convicted in Britain in 1944. Delve into her extraordinary abilities as a spiritualist medium, the legal consequences she faced, and the debate between spiritualists and psychical researchers. Learn about the process of materialization mediums, the role of spirit guides, and the phenomenon of ectoplasm. Discover the tragic life and trial of Helen Duncan, her return to performances after prison, and the shift in public opinion towards her legitimacy.
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Nov 2, 2023 • 42min

The First Crusade | 4. Besieged

Crusaders face challenges and employ clever strategies during the siege of Antioch. They witness miracles and find a relic believed to be from the crucifixion, inspiring victory. The strategic importance of sieges and the difficulties faced are discussed. The power of religious relics and influential individuals are explored. Crusaders launch a counter attack and defeat the Turkish force, capturing Antioch.
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Nov 1, 2023 • 38min

Fighting racism in postwar Britain

Preeti Dhillon, author of The Shoulders We Stand On, discusses forgotten anti-racist activism in postwar Britain. Topics include activism against discrimination, global solidarity movements, unique British flavor of Black Panthers, education as a flashpoint for resistance, differences in women's movements, and the Chromebook dispute for better working conditions and union recognition.
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Oct 30, 2023 • 50min

Horror films: a chilling cultural history

Professor Roger Luckhurst explores the cultural history of horror films and how they reflect changing social anxieties. He discusses the top 10 horror movies that represent their time. The origins of horror films as a genre are traced back to the 18th century. Real-life fears and experiences have influenced horror films, including political events in the 1930s. Folklore traditions and classic monster movies are explored, along with the significance of the 1960s in horror films. The representation of women and the emergence of the 'final girl' trope are discussed. The revolutionary film 'Night of the Living Dead' and the significance of 'Get Out' in addressing racial inequality are examined. The increasing politicization of horror films and the importance of respecting individual preferences are explored.
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Oct 28, 2023 • 44min

The history of Jamaica: everything you wanted to know

Discover the rich history of Jamaica, from its role in the slave trade to the birth of Rastafari. Learn about the indigenous Taino people, the strategic importance of Jamaica, violent slavery and resistance, and the ideals of Rastafari. Explore the impact of wars on Jamaica and its journey towards independence.
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Oct 26, 2023 • 30min

Killers of the Flower Moon: The real history

A historic murder investigation caught the attention of the FBI and became the bloodiest chapter in American crime history. The Osage Native Americans faced terror and prejudice due to their enormous wealth from oil deposits. Racial prejudice, corruption, and complicity within the power structure prevented the crimes from being solved.
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Oct 25, 2023 • 44min

The First Crusade | 3. Crossing into the unknown

Explore the challenges faced by the First Crusaders as they entered Asia Minor and encountered Christian populations alongside their supposed enemies. Discover the political situation in the Muslim world and the strategic moves made by the crusaders. Learn about the cultural diversity in Eastern Anatolia, Syria, and Palestine and the local reactions to the Crusaders. Delve into the logistical challenges and warfare strategies of the Crusaders in Asia Minor, and examine the role of religion in shaping the motivations of both Christians and Muslims in the crusades.
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Oct 24, 2023 • 35min

Disease killers: the black nurses who conquered TB

Author Maria Smilios discusses the little-known story of the black nurses of New York's Seaview Hospital who helped fight tuberculosis. Topics include their experiences during a time of segregation, their significant contributions to curing tuberculosis, and the early treatments, false dawns, and effective treatments for the disease.
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Oct 22, 2023 • 51min

Who moulded Winston Churchill?

Professor David Reynolds discusses Winston Churchill's relationships with influential figures including Stalin, Mussolini, Gandhi, and Attlee, and how they shaped him. They explore his admiration for Roosevelt, his changing opinions of Mussolini, Hitler, and Stalin, and his contrasting views on imperialism. They also discuss the impact of Churchill's parliamentary speeches and his worldview.
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Oct 21, 2023 • 40min

The Second Barons’ War: everything you wanted to know

Learn about the Second Barons' War in medieval England, including the rebellious actions of the barons, Simon de Montfort's leadership, Henry III's weaknesses, the origins of English Parliament, and the significant impact of the war on King Edward I.

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