History Extra podcast
Immediate Media
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/
Episodes
Mentioned books
39 snips
Apr 14, 2025 • 35min
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.
33 snips
Apr 13, 2025 • 56min
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.
57 snips
Apr 12, 2025 • 53min
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 • 36min
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.
16 snips
Apr 8, 2025 • 42min
JFK: the man behind the myths
In this engaging discussion, historian Mark White, author of 'Icon, Libertine, Leader: The Life and Presidency of John F. Kennedy,' delves into the multifaceted legacy of JFK. He explores the complexities of Kennedy's character, contrasting his glamorous public image with a tumultuous personal life. The conversation covers JFK's shift from Cold Warrior to champion of civil rights and foreign empathy. White also speculates on the alternate history had Kennedy lived longer, questioning how it might have altered America's political landscape.
28 snips
Apr 7, 2025 • 34min
Fulvia: life of the week
Jane Draycott, an author known for her upcoming book on Fulvia, dives into the life of this remarkable Roman woman. Fulvia played a pivotal role in Mark Antony's ascent, even declaring war on Octavian. She faced intense scrutiny and hostility, especially from figures like Cicero, as she navigated a male-dominated political landscape. Draycott also discusses how Fulvia's assertiveness challenged societal norms and what history might have looked like had she continued her political influence.
26 snips
Apr 6, 2025 • 42min
Simon Schama on the Holocaust
Join historian Simon Schama, renowned for his captivating storytelling and deep insights, as he discusses his latest work on the Holocaust. He shares his powerful first impressions of Auschwitz-Birkenau, the shocking complicity across Europe, and the chilling indifference of citizens during the Nazi regime. Schama reflects on the incremental nature of evil and contrasts personal tales—including that of Anne Frank—with society's varied responses. He also highlights the importance of memory in preserving the truth and combating contemporary anti-Semitism.
68 snips
Apr 5, 2025 • 41min
The 'Scramble for Africa': everything you wanted to know
Professor Richard Reid, an expert in African history at the University of Oxford and author of The African Revolution, dives into the intense 'Scramble for Africa' from the 1870s to the First World War. He discusses the motivations behind European colonial ambitions and the lasting impact on Africa's geopolitical landscape. Reid breaks down the significance of the Berlin Conference and explores the complexities of treaties and resistance among African leaders. He emphasizes the fierce rivalries among European powers while recognizing the agency of African populations during this tumultuous era.
13 snips
Apr 3, 2025 • 47min
A Nazi in Chile: did an SS commander work for Pinochet?
Philippe Sands, a renowned author and lawyer focused on international law and human rights, dives deep into the unsettling connections between Chile’s dictator Augusto Pinochet and Nazi SS commander Walter Rauff. He recounts Pinochet's dramatic 1998 arrest in London and its implications for international justice. The discussion reveals the ethical dilemmas surrounding legal defenses in human rights cases, explores the chilling legacy of Colonia Dignitat, and examines the persistent themes of immunity and accountability in the wake of atrocities.
37 snips
Apr 1, 2025 • 30min
Tariffs and trade wars: a history of economic warfare
Frank Trentmann, a Professor of History at Birkbeck University, dives into the fascinating world of tariffs and trade wars. He explores the historical roots of economic warfare, revealing how these practices have shaped international relations. Trentmann discusses the evolution of trade dynamics, from the mid-Victorian era to today, and contrasts past protectionist strategies with modern approaches. He also unpacks the significance of U.S.-Canada trade relations and the impact of social movements on trade policies, emphasizing the ongoing relevance of these topics.
