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
Jan 2, 2025 • 40min
Who is buried at Sutton Hoo?
Helen Gittos, an expert in Anglo-Saxon history and archaeology, shares her groundbreaking insights on the Sutton Hoo ship burial. She discusses the identity of the buried individual and the luxurious items accompanying him, suggesting a possible mercenary connection to the Byzantine Empire. Gittos delves into how these burials reveal intricate trade and cultural exchanges, alongside the influence of Christianity on Anglo-Saxon military practices. This fresh perspective may reshape our understanding of this pivotal moment in British history.
23 snips
Jan 1, 2025 • 37min
Sex and Christianity: 2,000 years of love and fury
Diarmaid MacCulloch, a noted professor and author, dives into the tangled history of sex and Christianity. He discusses Jesus's views on sexuality and the perplexing rise of celibacy within the church. Did the church ever show tolerance for homosexuality? MacCulloch examines shifting interpretations of biblical texts and societal influences on sexual ethics over 2,000 years. He also highlights how religious life provided women with newfound freedoms, challenging rigid societal norms. This conversation is sure to spark lively debate!
9 snips
Dec 31, 2024 • 37min
Catherine the Great: life of the week
Janet Hartley, Emeritus Professor at the London School of Economics and a noted expert on Russian history, dives into the life of Catherine the Great. She discusses how Catherine seized power in a daring coup, her pursuit of Enlightenment ideals, and her legacy as a 'philosopher empress.' The conversation touches on her relationships with contemporary thinkers and the challenges she faced, including rebellion and territorial expansion, highlighting her complex image as both an innovator and a controversial ruler.
Dec 30, 2024 • 46min
The Second Norman Conquest
Fiona Edmonds, a professor at Lancaster University, and Sophie Ambler, a history expert, dive into the little-known Second Norman Conquest led by William Rufus in the 1090s. They explore how Cumbria, which held a unique position after 1066, was gradually integrated into the Anglo-Norman state. The duo discusses the brutal tactics during the Harrying of the North, the political motivations behind Rufus’s campaign, and the complex historical tapestry of Cumbria, urging listeners to rethink its significant but overlooked legacy in English history.
11 snips
Dec 29, 2024 • 40min
The Carolingians: everything you wanted to know
In this engaging discussion, Professor Matthew Gabriele, co-author of 'Oathbreakers,' joins historian David Musgrove to shed light on the Carolingian Empire's pivotal role in shaping medieval Europe. They delve into the complex legacy of rulers like Charles Martel and Charlemagne, exploring the nuanced reality of the Carolingian Renaissance. The conversation also tackles the reinterpreted Battle of Tours and the fascinating political alliance between Charlemagne and the Islamic Caliph Harun al-Rashid, showcasing the empire's rich history and cultural impact.
27 snips
Dec 28, 2024 • 47min
The SAS in WW2: everything you wanted to know
Joshua Levine, an author and broadcaster with extensive knowledge on the SAS during World War II, dives into the elite unit's fascinating history. He discusses the innovative strategies that shaped the SAS, from their formation to daring D-Day missions. Levine highlights the transformative impact of key figures, the rigorous training they underwent, and the harrowing experiences during the liberation of Belsen. Listeners are treated to captivating insights about the complexities and camaraderie that defined one of Britain's most legendary special forces.
15 snips
Dec 27, 2024 • 32min
Arnhem: 24 hours that shattered Allied dreams
In this engaging discussion, comedian and history enthusiast Al Murray, author of "Arnhem: Black Tuesday," delves into the dramatic events of the Battle of Arnhem. He highlights the rapid downfall of Allied hopes in just 24 hours, emphasizing flaws in planning and the unexpected strength of German defenses. Murray shares thrilling anecdotes of paratroopers and personal soldier accounts that capture the chaos of battle. He also reflects on leadership challenges faced by Bernard Montgomery and how overlooked warnings foreshadowed the impending disaster.
19 snips
Dec 26, 2024 • 38min
Tudor England | 5. The wider world
Tracy Borman, an esteemed author and historian focusing on Tudor history, joins Emily Briffett to discuss the intriguing world of 16th-century England. They explore how England emerged as a significant European player amid wars and the darker sides of exploration, including slavery. The conversation delves into notable Tudor explorers like Drake and Raleigh, the development of an English identity influenced by Henry VIII, and the grim realities of exploitation faced by indigenous peoples, all set against a backdrop of cultural advancements and international rivalry.
45 snips
Dec 24, 2024 • 42min
2024 in review: history behind the headlines
Explore the fascinating connections between today's headlines and their historical roots. The rise of AI sparks debates on creativity and authenticity, while archaeological finds unveil rich histories in the British Isles. Delve into the Tokyo War Crimes Tribunal and the echoes of past conflicts in East Asia. Discover how medieval practices inform modern sustainability efforts. Lastly, witness global political shifts, drawing parallels to 1905, and the evolving landscape of voter behavior amidst contemporary challenges.
10 snips
Dec 23, 2024 • 50min
Shipwrecks: a porthole to the past
David Gibbins, a diver and maritime archaeologist, shares his insights on the hidden treasures of shipwrecks. He recounts thrilling diving experiences and the emotional weight of exploring underwater sites. The discussion highlights gripping survival tales, particularly from the SS Gairsoppa in WW2, revealing the resilience of the human spirit. Gibbins also delves into the significance of archaeological investigations compared to treasure hunting, showcasing how shipwrecks provide deep insights into our past and the evolution of diving practices.
