History Extra podcast

Rebecca Rist, a Professor of Medieval History at the University of Reading and a papal history expert, dives into the fascinating world of papal elections. She discusses the dramatic shifts in the voting process over centuries, including the intricate path to securing a two-thirds majority. Rist probes the intriguing possibility of a female pope in history and evaluates controversial figures like Alexander VI. The conversation also touches on the complexities of papal legitimacy, schisms, and the evolving role of women in the Church.

John Willis, author of The People’s War: Unheard Voices, shares insights into the personal stories of ordinary Britons during VE Day. He explores the emotional weight of the celebrations that masked deep loss for many. Willis discusses the contrasting feelings of joy and sorrow, highlighting how the end of the war transformed lives and communities. The impacts on returning soldiers, evolving roles of women, and the importance of preserving these stories for future generations are also key topics in this engaging discussion.

Iwan Morus, a history professor and author of Nikola Tesla and the Electrical Future, immerses listeners in the life of the remarkable inventor. He unpacks Tesla's eccentricities and examines his ambitious ideas, like the infamous death ray and dreams of wireless electricity. The discussion also dips into Tesla's fraught relationship with Edison and explores how he might react to Elon Musk's use of his legacy. Morus highlights the contrast between Tesla's groundbreaking vision and his personal struggles, shedding new light on this enigmatic figure.

Padraic X Scanlan, author of 'Rot: A History of the Irish Famine,' delves into the devastating Irish Famine of the 1840s. He explains how a potato blight morphed into a catastrophic crisis due to the economic structures of the British Empire. Scanlan explores the potato's dual role as a lifeline and a symbol of poverty, while discussing the destructive societal impacts, including mass emigration and the disintegration of community bonds. His insights prompt a critical reevaluation of how historical and contemporary issues shape responses to ecological disasters.

David Laven, a historian and Associate Professor at the University of Nottingham, dives into the thrilling narrative of Italy's unification. He tackles the complex identity of 'being Italian' in the 19th century and the multifaceted reactions from the papacy. Laven also shares why British women fell head over heels for Garibaldi and discusses the political struggles following unification, especially the unrest in southern Italy. The conversation reveals how regional identities continued to challenge national unity long after the kingdom was declared.

Tiffany Jenkins, a writer and cultural historian known for her book "Strangers and Intimates," dives into the blurred lines between public and private life. She discusses the rigid separations in ancient Athens and how figures like Diogenes challenged societal norms. Jenkins explores the evolving roles of women in the public sphere, the transformation of intimacy in the 18th century, and how Georgian homes reflected new privacy concepts. She also addresses the community's enforcement of morality and the growing value placed on personal privacy over time.

In this engaging conversation, Professor Anna Whitelock, an expert on James VI & I and author of 'The Sun Rising', sheds light on the transformative Jacobean era. She discusses how Elizabeth I's reign may have stifled England's global ambitions, and how James's accession marked a pivotal shift towards unification and expansion. Whitelock elaborates on James’s vision for peace across Europe through diplomatic alliances, his role in fostering maritime ambitions, and the implications of Britain's burgeoning trade and colonization strategies during this dynamic period.

In this engaging discussion, Frank Trentmann, a Professor of History at Birkbeck University of London, delves into fascinating historical connections between papal elections and trade wars. He explores how tariff debates mirror modern consumer movements and the implications of past policies on today's trade landscape. The conversation also highlights the curious link between Katy Perry and Alexander the Great, illustrating how ancient narratives continue to resonate in contemporary culture. Tune in for a blend of history, politics, and pop culture!

Historian Russell Shorto, author of 'Taking Manhattan,' delves into how English forces took Manhattan from the Dutch in 1664 without a single shot fired. He unpacks the intricate colonial history filled with pragmatic negotiations, personal rivalries, and ideological divides. Shorto highlights the societal impact of New Amsterdam and introduces colorful anecdotes, such as the life of Catalina Trico. The conversation navigates through Richard Nichols' royal connections and the tensions that defined the transition from Dutch to English control, shaping early New York.

Composing songs of courtly love and war in the High Middle Ages, the troubadours were the poet-musicians of western and southern Europe – especially southern France. But were they really the lovesick wandering minstrels popular culture would have us believe? Or was there more to their artistry? Speaking to Emily Briffett, Linda Paterson answers your top questions on the troubadours and their enduring poetic and musical legacy.(Ad) Linda Paterson is the author of The Troubadours (Reaktion Books, 2024). Buy it now from Waterstones: https://go.skimresources.com?id=71026X1535947&xcust=historyextra-social-histboty&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.waterstones.com%2Fbook%2Fthe-troubadours%2Flinda-m-paterson%2F9781789149197. The HistoryExtra podcast is produced by the team behind BBC History Magazine. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices