History Extra podcast

Daniel Light, an author and climber known for 'The White Ladder,' delves into the captivating world of mountaineering. He explores the historical allure of mountains and the evolution of climbing as a sport. Light highlights the unsung heroes, local guides, and the challenges they faced—especially during the Victorian era. He also discusses the fierce rivalries between pioneering women in mountaineering and the challenges of verifying summit claims throughout history. Their stories shed light on both triumphs and tragedies in this perilous pursuit.

Hanna Diamond, a Professor of French History and author of 'Josephine Baker's Secret War,' unveils the remarkable life of Josephine Baker. She discusses Baker's evolution from a struggling performer in St. Louis to becoming the first black superstar in Paris. Listeners will learn about her daring role as a spy for the French Resistance during World War II, her passionate activism for civil rights, and her unique family of adopted children and a pet cheetah. Baker's story is a vibrant tapestry of showbiz, courage, and advocacy.

Paula Akpan, a journalist and historian, delves into the rich, often overlooked lives of Africa's powerful female rulers in her compelling discussion. She highlights twelve influential queens and warriors, challenging the traditional narratives that often marginalize their impact. From exploring the legacies of matriarchy to addressing colorism and colonial misunderstandings, Akpan advocates for a re-evaluation of African history. Her insights underscore the complexities of leadership and the necessity of including diverse voices in historical accounts.

In this engaging discussion, Stephen R Platt, a Professor of history at the University of Massachusetts Amherst with expertise in Chinese history, sheds light on the Taiping Rebellion, the bloodiest civil war in history that devastated China from 1850 to 1864. He explains the rebellion's obscure status in global narratives despite its staggering 20 million death toll. Platt shares insights on the economic turmoil leading to the conflict, the rise of the charismatic leader Hong Xiuquan, and the complexities of British intervention, all while highlighting the rebellion's lasting impact on modern China.

Rebecca Rist, a Professor of Medieval History at the University of Reading and a papal history expert, dives into the fascinating world of papal elections. She discusses the dramatic shifts in the voting process over centuries, including the intricate path to securing a two-thirds majority. Rist probes the intriguing possibility of a female pope in history and evaluates controversial figures like Alexander VI. The conversation also touches on the complexities of papal legitimacy, schisms, and the evolving role of women in the Church.

John Willis, author of The People’s War: Unheard Voices, shares insights into the personal stories of ordinary Britons during VE Day. He explores the emotional weight of the celebrations that masked deep loss for many. Willis discusses the contrasting feelings of joy and sorrow, highlighting how the end of the war transformed lives and communities. The impacts on returning soldiers, evolving roles of women, and the importance of preserving these stories for future generations are also key topics in this engaging discussion.

Iwan Morus, a history professor and author of Nikola Tesla and the Electrical Future, immerses listeners in the life of the remarkable inventor. He unpacks Tesla's eccentricities and examines his ambitious ideas, like the infamous death ray and dreams of wireless electricity. The discussion also dips into Tesla's fraught relationship with Edison and explores how he might react to Elon Musk's use of his legacy. Morus highlights the contrast between Tesla's groundbreaking vision and his personal struggles, shedding new light on this enigmatic figure.

Padraic X Scanlan, author of 'Rot: A History of the Irish Famine,' delves into the devastating Irish Famine of the 1840s. He explains how a potato blight morphed into a catastrophic crisis due to the economic structures of the British Empire. Scanlan explores the potato's dual role as a lifeline and a symbol of poverty, while discussing the destructive societal impacts, including mass emigration and the disintegration of community bonds. His insights prompt a critical reevaluation of how historical and contemporary issues shape responses to ecological disasters.

David Laven, a historian and Associate Professor at the University of Nottingham, dives into the thrilling narrative of Italy's unification. He tackles the complex identity of 'being Italian' in the 19th century and the multifaceted reactions from the papacy. Laven also shares why British women fell head over heels for Garibaldi and discusses the political struggles following unification, especially the unrest in southern Italy. The conversation reveals how regional identities continued to challenge national unity long after the kingdom was declared.

Tiffany Jenkins, a writer and cultural historian known for her book "Strangers and Intimates," dives into the blurred lines between public and private life. She discusses the rigid separations in ancient Athens and how figures like Diogenes challenged societal norms. Jenkins explores the evolving roles of women in the public sphere, the transformation of intimacy in the 18th century, and how Georgian homes reflected new privacy concepts. She also addresses the community's enforcement of morality and the growing value placed on personal privacy over time.