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
8 snips
Jan 7, 2025 • 49min
Susan B Anthony: life of the week
Susan Ware, a distinguished historian and author specializing in women's history, dives into the life of Susan B. Anthony, a key figure in the women’s suffrage movement. She discusses Anthony’s early activism and her partnership with Elizabeth Cady Stanton. The conversation reveals the challenges faced by 19th-century activists, their strategic grassroots efforts, and the impact of the Civil War on suffrage priorities. Ware also addresses the complexities of Anthony's legacy and her enduring influence on women's rights and autonomy.
47 snips
Jan 6, 2025 • 36min
How the compass became a political weapon
In this discussion, Jerry Brotton, author of "The Four Points of the Compass: The Unexpected History of Direction," delves into the intriguing history of cardinal directions. He explains why early Islamic maps oriented south at the top and how compass technology has shaped navigation. Brotton also highlights the cultural significance of these directions and the intense political implications of terms like 'the West.' Listeners are invited to rethink their understanding of geography and its power dynamics, especially in our digital age.
60 snips
Jan 5, 2025 • 46min
Medieval towns: everything you wanted to know
In this engaging discussion, Professor Carole Rawcliffe, a preeminent scholar of medieval urban history, uncovers the vibrant yet gritty reality of daily life in medieval British towns. She debunks myths of rampant filth and violence, revealing surprisingly clean urban centers and the role of bathhouses. From culinary delights and communal dining to the bustling marketplace traffic, she explores how residents navigated their surroundings. Rawcliffe also sheds light on timekeeping methods and the essential contributions of immigrants, painting a vivid picture of this fascinating era.
24 snips
Jan 3, 2025 • 29min
Harold Wilson: the rock 'n' roll prime minister
Alan Johnson, a former Labour politician and author, delves into the life of Harold Wilson, a pivotal figure in 1960s Britain. He discusses Wilson's transformative social reforms and his relatable image that resonated with the youth. Johnson also explores the duality of Wilson's reputation, balancing clever political strategies with perceptions of cunning. The intricacies of Wilson's relationships, particularly with his political secretary, are examined, alongside his lasting influence on contemporary politics and society.
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.
