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
34 snips
Jan 23, 2025 • 46min
The 1453 fall of Constantinople: capturing the Byzantine capital
Join Professor Jonathan Harris, an expert on Byzantine history from Royal Holloway University, as he delves into the dramatic fall of Constantinople in 1453. Discover how the Byzantine Empire faced decline, allowing the ambitious Mehmed II to launch a strategic siege. Harris recounts the fierce battles and desperate fortifications as the city braced for the onslaught. The discussion also touches on the legends surrounding Emperor Constantine XI and the long-lasting implications this pivotal moment had on modern national identities in Greece and Turkey.
34 snips
Jan 22, 2025 • 37min
Inside the mind of the Third Reich
Historian and filmmaker Laurence Rees dives into the disturbing psychology of the Nazi regime, exploring what drives individuals to commit heinous acts. He discusses the value of eyewitness testimonies in understanding historical mentality, revealing how personal narratives shape our grasp of this dark chapter. Rees also unpacks the duality of a Waffen-SS veteran's life and the troubling justifications Nazi leaders employed post-war. By examining these elements, he provides critical insights into the social psychology behind extremism and moral accountability.
29 snips
Jan 21, 2025 • 38min
Sacagawea: life of the week
Stephenie Ambrose Tubbs, author and president of the Lewis and Clark Trust, dives deep into the life of Sacagawea, the Shoshone interpreter vital to the Lewis and Clark Expedition. They discuss Sacagawea's remarkable resilience, her role in bridging cultures, and her profound impact on the journey's success. Stephenie highlights her early life, the trials she faced near Great Falls, and the complications in interpreting her legacy. This conversation reveals the nuances of Sacagawea’s story and its significance in American history.
Jan 20, 2025 • 36min
Women's bodies: an unreliable history
Helen King, a Professor Emerita of Classical Studies, dives deep into the complex history of women's bodies. She explores captivating themes like the dual identity of breasts—nourishment versus sexuality—and the societal pressures surrounding breastfeeding and virginity. King highlights how misconceptions about anatomy, such as the duality of the womb, shaped female identity and roles. The conversation addresses the absurdities of legal views on virginity and advocates for a broader understanding of femininity beyond physical appearance.
104 snips
Jan 19, 2025 • 47min
Ancient Mesopotamia: everything you wanted to know
Moudhy Al-Rashid, author of "Between Two Rivers: Ancient Mesopotamia and the Birth of History," dives into the vibrant tapestry of ancient Mesopotamia. He unveils the impressive advancements in writing and mathematics while sharing fascinating insights about the Sumerians and Babylonians. Al-Rashid examines the intriguing origins of kingship and the famous flood myth, drawing parallels with biblical stories. Listeners also learn about the cultural significance of daily life, their pantheon of gods, and the enduring impact of this cradle of civilization.
27 snips
Jan 18, 2025 • 52min
Who moulded Winston Churchill?
In a captivating discussion, Professor David Reynolds, an expert on Winston Churchill, examines the legendary leader’s interactions with key figures like Stalin, Mussolini, Gandhi, and Clement Attlee. He explores how these relationships influenced Churchill’s wartime strategies and his evolving alliances during a tumultuous era. The conversation also delves into the vital support provided by Clementine Churchill, shedding light on her role as both advisor and emotional anchor. Reynolds offers insights into the complexities of Churchill's legacy, rhetoric, and conflicting views on fascism.
8 snips
Jan 17, 2025 • 41min
Elizabethan London: a multicultural melting pot
Dr. John Gallagher, an Associate Professor of Early Modern History at the University of Leeds, dives into the rich tapestry of Elizabethan London's multicultural past. He discusses the diverse migration patterns of 'strangers' fleeing conflict and the personal struggles faced by women seeking refuge. The conversation reveals how church records reflect societal norms while also showcasing the friction between migrant communities and authorities. Gallagher also explores how churches acted as multilingual hubs, fostering cultural exchange in this vibrant, historical melting pot.
24 snips
Jan 16, 2025 • 37min
Strange stories of medieval saints
In this enlightening discussion, Luke Daly, author of "Medieval Saints and their Sins," shares fascinating insights into the lives of medieval saints. He uncovers how attitudes toward grief were shaped by figures like Saint Augustine. Daly also explores the gendered perceptions of saints, contrasting the veneration of male and female saints and their societal implications. He dives into the unique pilgrim practices, like wax offerings to Saint William of Norwich, revealing how these stories reflect broader medieval fears and aspirations.
22 snips
Jan 15, 2025 • 37min
What is the greatest historical movie of all time?
Join historians Roger Luckhurst, a 19th-century culture expert, and Alex Von Tunzelmann, a screenwriter and author, as they dive into the fascinating world of historical cinema. They debate what makes a great historical film and discuss the cultural significance of nominees from a poll on the greatest historical movies. Expect surprising insights, like why 'Bill & Ted's Excellent Adventure' qualifies as historical, and a deep dive into classics like 'Schindler's List' and 'Saving Private Ryan.' Explore how films shape our understanding of history and even spark interest in real events!
8 snips
Jan 14, 2025 • 35min
Nell Gwyn: life of the week
Historian Sophie Shorland, an expert on the Restoration era and author on Catherine of Braganza, dives into the vibrant life of Nell Gwyn. From her humble beginnings as an orange seller to her rise as a celebrated actress and royal mistress, Sophie highlights Gwyn's charm, wit, and resilience. The podcast explores her groundbreaking role on the English stage and her intimate bond with King Charles II, offering a captivating glimpse into the complexities of women's lives in 17th-century England.
