

HistoryExtra podcast
Immediate
Let us know what you want to hear on the HistoryExtra Podcast by completing this quick survey: https://immediateinsiders.com/uc/admin/2d3c/?a=1&b=3
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/
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/
Episodes
Mentioned books

Oct 10, 2023 • 45min
Re-examining women in the Roman empire
Historian Kate Cooper explores the lives of women in the Roman empire through the lens of St Augustine of Hippo's Confessions. She discusses four women - Augustine's mother, his lover, his fiancée, and the Roman empress Justina - shedding light on their experiences. Topics include Augustine's family stories, his emphasis on humility, Roman family planning for marriages, and challenging societal norms.

Oct 9, 2023 • 41sec
History Behind the Headlines Trailer
A new monthly series explores historical stories in the headlines and how the past influences today's world. Host Matt Elton and a panel of experts discuss and dissect historical news stories, offering insight into the origins of current events.

Oct 8, 2023 • 40min
Is black history still being overlooked?
Expert historians Hannah Cusworth, Pamela Roberts, and Hakim Adi discuss Black History Month in the UK, its impact on education, and the challenges faced in researching and teaching black history. They highlight the need for more research on pre-20th century black history, the importance of recognizing contributions of black scholars and activists, and making black history accessible and engaging through virtual and walking tours.

7 snips
Oct 7, 2023 • 35min
Cat history: everything you wanted to know
This podcast explores the history of our relationship with cats, from their revered status in ancient Egypt to their association with witches. It delves into the domestication of cats, the social aspect of their relationship with humans, the cultural significance of black cats crossing paths, the roles of cats in warfare, and famous cats in history.

Oct 5, 2023 • 37min
The Huxleys: how one family shaped our view of nature
Thomas Henry Huxley and his grandson Julian shaped our view of nature. They championed evolutionary theory, struggled with mental health, and influenced changing ideas about science. The Huxley family's remarkable contributions and connections, including Aldous Huxley and involvement in eugenics, are explored. Their agnosticism and interest in religion impacted the natural sciences. Discover how their work on evolution and fossil hunters led to widespread acceptance of the theory and changed concepts of time and the Earth's age.

Oct 4, 2023 • 1h 7min
Great Reputations: Gandhi
Explore the life and legacy of Mahatma Gandhi, including his controversial behavior, fasting methods, and views on religion and politics. Learn about his belief in non-violence and his influence on civil rights movements. Delve into the debates surrounding accusations of racism against Gandhi and his shift in public perception from controversy to national hero.

Oct 3, 2023 • 39min
The Cultural Revolution: a Chinese catastrophe
The podcast discusses the immense devastation caused by Chairman Mao's Cultural Revolution in China, the willingness of the population to participate, the lack of accountability for violence, the shocking involvement of young perpetrators, and the personal stories and trauma experienced by individuals affected by the revolution.

Oct 2, 2023 • 43min
The brutal WW2 battle for Italy
Historian James Holland speaks about the brutal WW2 battle for Italy, focusing on the challenges faced by both the Allied and German forces, the impact on Italian civilians, and the harsh realities experienced by soldiers. He also reflects on the multi-dimensional aspects of war history and the importance of considering diverse perspectives and emotions from the Second World War.

Oct 1, 2023 • 41min
David Mitchell on a new history of England’s monarchy
Comedian and actor David Mitchell discusses his first history book about England's monarchy from early days to Elizabeth I's reign. They explore the role of violence, the origin of kingship, and the significance of Shakespeare in a comprehensive and meaningful approach.

Sep 30, 2023 • 36min
Archaeology’s golden age: everything you wanted to know
Dr Hélène Maloigne, archaeologist during archaeology's golden age, discusses the thrilling finds and moral conundrums of this period. They explore the global nature of archaeological discoveries, famous archaeologists, the origin and evolution of archaeology as a profession, the impact of non-professional archaeologists, and the influence of Indiana Jones on public perception.


