
History Extra podcast
The History Extra podcast brings you gripping stories from the past and fascinating historical conversations with the world's leading historical experts.Produced by the team behind BBC History Magazine, History Extra 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/
Latest episodes

35 snips
Apr 22, 2025 • 38min
The great siege of Malta: Knights Hospitaller vs the Ottoman empire
In this discussion, Professor Marcus Bull, a noted expert on Medieval and Early Modern Studies, delves into the 1565 Great Siege of Malta. He highlights the surprising resistance of the Knights Hospitaller against the formidable Ottoman Empire, revealing the profound struggles and sacrifices made during this pivotal clash. The Siege of St. Elmo is compared to ancient battles, showcasing the defenders' transformation from reluctant fighters to heroes. Bull also examines the geopolitical ramifications and economic factors influencing this significant historical conflict.

Apr 21, 2025 • 54min
Joanna Plantagenet: life of the week
Catherine Hanley, a medieval history expert and author of "Lionessheart: The Life and Times of Joanna Plantagenet," dives into the thrilling life of Joanna Plantagenet, sister of Richard the Lionheart. She explores Joanna’s adventurous spirit as a queen and powerful political player, highlighting her negotiation skills amidst Sicilian turmoil. The discussion reveals her resilience through imprisonment and the challenges of being a woman in a male-dominated society. Joanna's legacy as an influential figure in medieval politics is also examined, showing her struggle and triumphs in a dynamic historical landscape.

30 snips
Apr 20, 2025 • 38min
Suleyman the Magnificent's bid for world domination
Christopher de Bellaigue, author of 'The Golden Throne: The Curse of a King', dives into the life of Suleyman the Magnificent, the powerful Ottoman sultan of the 16th century. The discussion highlights Suleyman's ambitious quest for world domination and his significant military campaigns, including the pivotal Battle of Mohács. De Bellaigue also explores Suleyman's relationships with European leaders like Charles V and the impact of religious divisions during the Reformation, revealing the challenges he faced from within his own dynasty.

24 snips
Apr 19, 2025 • 55min
The Etruscans: everything you wanted to know
Lucy Shipley, a researcher and author specializing in Etruscan civilization, unpacks the complexities of this ancient society. She explores their origins, challenging myths with DNA evidence that connects them to local populations. Delving into their vibrant society, she highlights the significance of the Dodecapolis and reveals the intriguing roles of Etruscan women, showcasing their relative independence and literacy. Shipley also discusses how archaeological finds and classical texts shape modern perceptions of the Etruscans, offering fresh insights into this captivating culture.

33 snips
Apr 17, 2025 • 43min
Lexington and Concord: 250 years on
In this discussion with George Goodwin, a historian and author focused on British and American political history, listeners dive into the significance of the battles at Lexington and Concord. He reveals how reporting shaped public perception of 'the shot heard around the world.' Goodwin explores the rising tensions leading to revolution, including key events like the Sugar Act. He also unpacks myths surrounding the confrontations, including new insights on who fired first. This dialogue highlights the delicate interplay between fact and narrative in shaping history.

11 snips
Apr 15, 2025 • 38min
The botanists of besieged Leningrad
Simon Parkin, a writer and journalist, shares the incredible story behind the botanists who safeguarded the world's first seed bank during the harrowing Siege of Leningrad. He discusses the life and dedication of Nikolai Vavilov, who championed biodiversity despite facing starvation and political oppression. Listeners will discover the juxtaposition of scientific passion and survival against the backdrop of war, highlighting the extraordinary resilience of those committed to preserving plant species for future generations.

38 snips
Apr 14, 2025 • 37min
The Brothers Grimm: life of the week
Ann Schmiesing, a Professor of German and Scandinavian Studies, dives into the intricate lives of the Brothers Grimm. Explore their close bond and passion for folklore beyond fairy tales. Discover how their stories intertwine with the political landscape of 19th-century Germany, their struggles with fame, and their ambitious creation of a comprehensive dictionary. Schmiesing reveals the darker themes and variations in their tales, showcasing the complexity and enduring impact of their work on culture.

32 snips
Apr 13, 2025 • 58min
Could the US have won the Vietnam war?
Geoffrey Wawro, a historian and author of *The Vietnam War: A Military History*, dives deep into the complexities of U.S. involvement in Vietnam. He unpacks how flawed strategies from Truman to Nixon doomed the American campaign. Wawro reveals Nixon's secret negotiations that backfired spectacularly. The conversation also highlights the harsh realities faced by troops and critiques the impacts of pivotal events like the Tet Offensive. Throughout, he paints a vivid picture of the military, political miscalculations, and the war's long-lasting consequences.

52 snips
Apr 12, 2025 • 55min
The Teutonic Order: everything you wanted to know
Aleks Pluskowski, a Professor of medieval archaeology and author, delves into the fascinating history of the Teutonic Order, which began as a field hospital in the Holy Land. He reveals how it transformed into a formidable military and religious power in medieval Europe. Pluskowski discusses their unique recruitment practices and political alliances, detailing successes and failures during the Northern Crusades. He also explores the Order's complex legacy, including its decline and impact on modern nationalism in Eastern Europe.

17 snips
Apr 10, 2025 • 38min
The women's orchestra of Auschwitz
Join author Anne Sebba, who specializes in Holocaust history, as she discusses the compelling story of the all-female orchestra in Auschwitz. Discover how these musicians used music as a means of survival under the Nazis. Sebba reveals the transformation brought by conductor Alma Rosé and explores the emotional complexities faced by the players amid immense suffering. The podcast delves into personal narratives, resilience, and the often-overlooked experiences of women during this dark time, highlighting their strength and sisterhood.
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