HistoryExtra podcast

Immediate
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.

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