History Extra podcast

In this discussion, Dr. Lisa Pine, an expert on Nazi Germany and author of 'Nazi Posters: Propaganda and Policies,' delves into the notorious 'Mein Kampf.' She highlights how the book laid the foundation for Hitler's anti-Semitic ideology and nationalism, influencing both past and present extremist movements. Lisa explores its initial limited reach and subsequent rise in popularity, alongside the indoctrination methods used by the Nazi regime. The conversation also addresses its troubling legacy and ongoing relevance in today's world.

Join historian Jonathan Healey, an expert in 17th-century British history and author of 'The Blood in Winter,' as he unravels the dramatic winter of 1641-2. Discover the fraught relationship between King Charles I and Parliament, leading to his ill-fated attempt to arrest five MPs. Healey explores the complex political landscape, emerging public awareness, and the influence of uprisings on the march to civil war. Can the bloodshed have been avoided? Dive into the pivotal moments that shaped England's future.

Mary S Lovell, a renowned biographer celebrated for her work 'The Mitford Girls', dives into the captivating lives of the Mitford sisters after World War II. She discusses Diana's allegiance to fascism and Jessica's activism amid McCarthyism. Nancy thrives as a novelist in France, while Pamela cherishes a quieter country life. Lovell also highlights Deborah's transformation into the Duchess of Devonshire and her innovative strategies to revive Chatsworth. The episode reveals the sisters' complex personal and political legacies that continue to fascinate.

Claire Taylor, a historian specializing in medieval studies, dives deep into the grim realities of slavery along the Silk Road. She uncovers the extensive human trafficking networks that connected regions from Ireland to China, revealing harsh conditions in slave markets. The discussion highlights the complex dynamics of slavery, including the shift between freedom and servitude and the rare cases of individuals, like women and eunuchs, who achieved significant social status. Taylor also explores the unique perspectives on enslavement during the Mongol Empire, emphasizing its societal and cultural intricacies.

In this engaging discussion, Jean Williams, a professor of sports at the University of Wolverhampton and an expert in women's football, delves into the fascinating history of the sport. She highlights pioneering figures like Nettie Honeyball and the significant cultural impact of World War I on female teams. Williams also addresses the 1921 ban by the Football Association and the groundbreaking 1971 unofficial Women's World Cup, showcasing how these events shaped women's football and the ongoing fight for recognition.

David Hepworth, a renowned music journalist and author who co-presented the BBC's Live Aid coverage, shares his vivid memories of the historic concert. He recalls Queen's electrifying performance and a memorable encounter with Bob Geldof. The discussion delves into how Live Aid changed the music industry, uniting artists for humanitarian causes and reshaping audience relationships. Hepworth emphasizes the emotional weight of the event, particularly the poignant imagery of suffering, set against the backdrop of unforgettable live performances.

Sharon Kinoshita, a distinguished professor and author of "Marco Polo and His World," dives deep into the legendary travels of Marco Polo, the 13th-century Venetian merchant. The conversation highlights Polo's time at Kublai Khan's court and his transformative journeys along the Silk Road. Kinoshita uncovers the vibrant cultures and wealth of cities Polo encountered, contrasts his firsthand experiences with misconceptions during his time, and examines the lasting legacy of his adventures in promoting cross-cultural exchanges in the medieval world.

Mary S. Lovell, a renowned biographer and author of 'The Mitford Girls', dives into the fascinating lives of the Mitford sisters—Nancy, Pamela, Diana, Unity, Jessica, and Deborah. She explores their hedonistic escapades in the roaring 1920s and the ideological divides of the 1930s. Hear about Diana’s scandalous romance that rocked her family, Unity’s troubling connection to fascism, and Jessica’s fight for political activism in America. Lovell’s personal anecdotes reveal how these sisters found themselves at the center of history's most shocking moments.

Historian Alex Churchill, co-author of 'Ring of Fire', discusses fresh insights into World War I. He emphasizes the importance of ordinary people's experiences, moving beyond typical narratives like trench warfare and the famous assassination. The conversation unveils unique perspectives from African and Indian soldiers, explores the resilience of the elderly, and highlights youthful voices affected by the war. Alex's work challenges prevailing misconceptions and advocates for a more inclusive understanding of the conflict's global impact.

Adrian Goldsworthy, a historian and author specializing in ancient Roman military history, dives into fascinating insights about Roman warfare. He answers intriguing questions like the truth behind the iconic red uniforms, the usage of the tortoise formation, and the logistics of maintaining command over vast armies. Goldsworthy explores the interplay between military and society, the role of naval forces, and innovations in tactics and weaponry. Listeners will also discover modern military lessons drawn from the remarkable strategies of the ancient Romans.