History Extra podcast

Victoria's armpit and 'giant' bones: body parts that changed history

Dec 11, 2023
Dr. Suzie Edge explores the intriguing stories of body parts that have shaped history. She discusses preserved body parts throughout history, including Rasputin's supposed member and Galileo's middle finger. The podcast also delves into significant body parts like Charles Burney's bones and Napoleon's member, as well as Queen Victoria's armpit abscess and its impact on medical advancements. Other fascinating stories include Jenkins' severed ear symbolizing a conflict between nations and Henrietta Lax's unconsenting contribution to medical research. The podcast also discusses surprising stories like Louis XIV's abscess and how a surgeon named Felix created a new hole.
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