In this enlightening discussion, historian and broadcaster Tracy Borman dives into Tudor England's vibrant culture and innovative spirit. She unpacks the extravagant festivals that defined public life and reveals Queen Elizabeth I's use of toxic beauty products. Borman also explores the true popularity of Shakespeare's works during his time, the stark contrast in dietary habits between the rich and poor, and how fashion reflected societal hierarchies. Listeners will gain insights into the period's artistic and scientific advancements that shaped modern Britain.

Annie Gray, a food and social historian and author of "The Bookshop, The Draper, The Candlestick Maker: A History of the High Street," discusses the fascinating history of Christmas shopping. She highlights the daunting experiences of browsing Victorian butcher shops and shares stories of extravagant seasonal feasts. Annie also explores the evolution of gift-giving, the rise of department stores, and the transformation of Christmas advertising. Listeners will be captivated by quirky tales of festive consumer culture through the ages.

Fiona Watson, a historian and author specializing in Scottish history, discusses the intriguing life of Robert the Bruce, renowned for his role in the Wars of Scottish Independence. She reveals the darker side of Bruce's ascent to power, including ruthless political maneuvers and the controversial murder of rival John Common. The conversation highlights the significance of the Battle of Bannockburn, where Bruce's innovative strategies led to an unexpected Scottish victory. Watson also explores the complexities of Bruce's legacy as both a ruthless leader and a national icon.

Historian Frank Trentmann, author of "Out of the Darkness: The Germans, 1942-2022," explores Germany's remarkable transformation from postwar devastation to economic powerhouse. He discusses the nation's grappling with its Nazi past and the Cold War's impact on identity. The conversation also touches on the moral dilemmas during the 2015 refugee crisis and the complex ties between German environmentalism and cultural identity, revealing the contradictions in a country that values nature yet struggles with high emissions.

Kerry McInerney, a Research Associate at the Leverhulme Centre for the Future of Intelligence and an expert on robot history, dives into the fascinating origins of automatons and their evolution into modern robots. She discusses the cultural impact of the infamous Mechanical Turk hoax and traces the term 'robot' back to its 1921 roots. The conversation also touches on gender dynamics in technology, the influence of 20th-century science fiction on societal anxieties, and the evolving perceptions of AI and robotics over time.

Alice Hunt, author of 'Republic: Britain’s Revolutionary Decade, 1649-1660', dives into the radical 11 years that followed the beheading of King Charles I. She unveils the rich tapestry of cultural and scientific developments during this time, spotlighting the contributions of figures like Cromwell and Samuel Hartlib. Hunt dispels common myths about Cromwell's legacy and explores how this turbulent period paved the way for modern governance in Britain, highlighting the societal ramifications of the republican experiment.

Tracy Borman, an author and historian specializing in Tudor history, shares intriguing insights on daily life in Tudor England. Discover the most popular pastimes, misconceptions about bathing, and the ingenious ways people conserved warmth by sharing their homes with pets. Borman also discusses the harsh realities faced by the rural majority compared to the glamorous court life, and the social customs that shaped family dynamics and marriage in this fascinating era.

In a captivating discussion, historian and author Jack Weatherford explores the remarkable journey of Kublai Khan, who transformed from a nomadic leader into a formidable naval ruler. He delves into Kublai's strategic innovations during his conquest of China and the challenges faced against the Southern Song Dynasty. Weatherford highlights Kublai's unique blend of Mongol and Chinese cultures, his role in unifying an empire, and the lasting impact he had on maritime trade, shaping both Asian and European histories.

Join Professor Tim Thornton, a historian who recently made a groundbreaking discovery related to the Princes in the Tower, and Dr. Tracy Borman, who presents a documentary on this haunting mystery. They delve into the historical narratives surrounding the princes' disappearance in 1483 and the influence of Richard III. Thornton discusses the implications of a newly found gold chain linked to Edward V, potentially tied to a suspected killer's relative, bringing fresh evidence to this age-old enigma.

In this captivating discussion, bestselling author Kate Summerscale delves into the gruesome Rillington Place murders, where the bodies of three women were discovered in 1953. She explores the chilling psyche of killer Reg Christie and the flaws of the justice system that wrongfully convicted Timothy Evans. Summerscale highlights the media's ethically questionable role in shaping public outrage and the societal issues affecting women during post-war London. Her insights reveal stark parallels between historical violence and contemporary concerns.