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
29 snips
Aug 28, 2025 • 44min
How Christianity came to dominate the Roman world
Alice Roberts, an anatomist and author known for her insights on the fall of the Roman Empire, joins to discuss the dramatic rise of Christianity. She challenges the notion of Rome’s collapse, suggesting a transformation instead. The conversation reveals how Christianity gained traction among the elite, from St. Paul to Emperor Constantine, reshaping Roman identity. Roberts also highlights the intricate relationships between social structures, ancient rituals, and the church’s growth, painting a vivid picture of religious evolution amidst empire.
23 snips
Aug 26, 2025 • 46min
The spy next door: Moscow's century-long plot to infiltrate the west
Shaun Walker, a journalist and author specializing in espionage, discusses the fascinating history of Russia's covert spy networks, particularly the 'illegals' living in the U.S. He reveals how these spies operated under assumed identities for decades, even deceiving their families. The conversation delves into the rigorous training they underwent and contrasts their glorification in modern Russia with the complexities of their lives. Walker also explores the evolution of Russian intelligence tactics, from the Cold War to contemporary disinformation strategies.
Aug 25, 2025 • 50min
Edward the Confessor: life of the week
In this discussion, Tom Licence, a Professor of Medieval History and author, dives into the life of Edward the Confessor, England's last Anglo-Saxon king. He sheds light on Edward's early years in exile that shaped his ambitions for the crown. The podcast explores Edward's complex relationship with his wife, Edith, revealing the intertwining of royal affection and politics. Licence also examines the turbulent events of 1065, emphasizing Edward’s struggles with loyalty and impending succession crises, which foreshadowed the Norman Conquest.
37 snips
Aug 24, 2025 • 30min
Britain and the Caribbean: from slavery to Black Lives Matter
Imaobong Umoren, an Associate Professor of International History at the London School of Economics and author of *Empire Without End*, discusses Britain's intricate history with the Caribbean. She emphasizes the importance of understanding colonialism and racism not just during slavery but from the 16th century to today. The conversation links past injustices to present movements like Black Lives Matter. Umoren highlights Caribbean resilience post-World Wars and the unrecognized contributions of enslaved women and activists in the fight against racial hierarchies.
71 snips
Aug 23, 2025 • 45min
Nationalism: everything you wanted to know
John Hutchinson, an academic and author specializing in nationalism, delves into the fascinating evolution of the nation-state concept. He discusses how nationalism thrives in crises, revealing its complexities beyond predominantly right-wing narratives. The podcast explores the fine line between nationalism and patriotism, alongside the interplay between nationalism and socialism. Hutchinson also highlights how remembrance rituals shape national identity and the paradox of rising nationalism in a fragmented, globalized world.
Aug 22, 2025 • 9min
Preview: The forgers who faked a fortune
In 1775 London, a respectable lady and her identical twin are embroiled in a thrilling courtroom drama over a massive forgery scheme. As the trial unfolds, suspicions rise, and the tension between the defendants escalates, revealing hidden truths. The discussion delves into the intricacies of financial bonds from the 18th century, emphasizing trust and identity within a scandalous society. Listeners are captivated by the intertwining themes of deception, high-stakes gambling, and the societal implications of these historic events.
8 snips
Aug 21, 2025 • 35min
From dodos to 'lost' tribes: a history of extinction
Sadiah Qureshi, a Chair in Modern British History at the University of Manchester and author of 'Vanished', dives into the profound impacts of human actions on extinction. She unpacks the historical narrative surrounding the dodo and its legacy, revealing how colonialism intertwined with species loss. The discussion also reflects on Indigenous perspectives, challenging traditional extinction narratives. Qureshi emphasizes the need for an emotional and respectful relationship with nature, advocating for justice in conservation efforts and the rights of Indigenous communities.
44 snips
Aug 19, 2025 • 42min
Europe's last pagans
Francis Young, a folklorist and historian, offers a fascinating look into Europe's last pagan peoples. He delves into how non-Christian communities managed to survive amidst the rise of Christianity, particularly in remote areas like the far north and east. Young discusses the complexity of pagan traditions and their connections to the natural world. He highlights Lithuania's painful transition from paganism to Christianity, reflecting on the profound impact of ancient beliefs that continue to resonate in contemporary culture.
Aug 18, 2025 • 45min
VJ Day and the story of women's football: history behind the headlines
The discussion commemorates 80 years since VJ Day, highlighting the historical significance of Japan's surrender and the differences in remembrance compared to Europe's victory. It also dives into the complex narratives of WWII in Asia, particularly the impact of war on children. The podcast explores the evolution of women's football, tracing its journey from the 1881 match to the challenges faced, including a significant ban by the FA. Lastly, it reflects on the early 20th century transformation of women's roles and the emergence of the 'new woman' in society.
54 snips
Aug 17, 2025 • 38min
The tangled legacies of two Americas
In this engaging discussion, Greg Grandin, a Yale professor and author of America, América: A New History of the New World, delves into the intertwined histories of North and Latin America. He highlights the moral complexities of the Spanish conquest and critiques by figures like Bartolomé de las Casas. Grandin also explores evolving ideas of liberty in Latin America, contrasting them with U.S. expansionist ideologies. The conversation reveals how historical narratives continue to shape contemporary relations and identity between these regions.
