History Extra podcast

Minoo Dinshaw, author of 'Friends in Youth: Choosing Sides in the English Civil War,' discusses the strained friendship between Bulstrode Whitelock and Ned Hyde during the 17th-century civil conflict. He explores their contrasting loyalties—one to the King, the other to Parliament—and how ideological divides led to personal rifts. The conversation also highlights the enduring nature of friendships amid war and connects historical sentiments to contemporary issues, offering insights into the Civil War's lasting legacy.

Joan Smith, a journalist and author of 'Unfortunately, She Was a Nymphomaniac: A New History of Rome's Imperial Women', delves into the portrayal of women in ancient Rome. She discusses how misogyny and mistranslation have created flawed narratives around powerful figures of the Julio-Claudian dynasty, notably the misunderstood Livia. Smith also highlights the harsher realities of women’s lives, exposing societal constraints that challenged notions of empowerment. This thought-provoking conversation connects historical misrepresentation to contemporary issues surrounding women's rights.

In this engaging discussion, Katja Hoyer, a German-British historian and author of 'Blood and Iron,' delves into the remarkable life of Otto von Bismarck. She explores Bismarck's pivotal role in German unification and his tactical brilliance that led to victory over France in 1871. The podcast highlights his realpolitik approach, the implications of the Second Schleswig War on nationalism, and the complexities of his legacy within modern Germany. Hoyer brings Bismarck's charismatic yet controversial influence on European geopolitics to life.

Thomas Harding, bestselling author of The Einstein Vendetta, explores the harrowing story of his family during WWII. He details the tragic fate of Robert Einstein, cousin to Albert, highlighting the brutal realities faced by Jewish families amidst Nazi oppression. The conversation dives into the crimes committed against Robert's family, the long struggles for justice, and the disturbing historical negligence by authorities. Harding connects this dark legacy to modern issues, emphasizing the need to remember the humanity of victims beyond their tragic fates.

Mike Parker-Pearson, an expert archaeologist in Neolithic Britain, dives into the enigmatic Beaker People. He details their striking pottery and monumental contributions, like influencing the construction of Stonehenge. Parker-Pearson discusses the complexities of their migration—challenging myths of violence and exploring how they transformed Britain’s demographics. He also sheds light on the fascinating discovery of the Amesbury Archer, revealing insights into their societal structures and burial practices, and traces their genetic legacy that still echoes through time.

Selena Wisnom, an expert in ancient Mesopotamia and author of The Library of Ancient Wisdom, guides listeners through the fascinating world of the Assyrian library created by King Ashurbanipal. She uncovers how this monumental collection reveals Assyrian beliefs about gods and the supernatural, along with the complexities of their religious practices. The discussion covers everything from divine communication, offerings, and demon beliefs, to the intriguing legacy of the lost library and the scientific insights of ancient civilizations.

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.