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
Sep 22, 2024 • 46min
Tokyo 1946: the war crime trial that shaped Japan's future
Gary Bass, a historian and author of the acclaimed book on the Tokyo war crime trials, discusses the pivotal 1946 tribunal that shaped Japan's post-war identity. He delves into the complexities of justice with a diverse panel of judges and the controversial omission of Emperor Hirohito from proceedings. The discussion highlights the dramatic testimonies, the fraught decision-making process, and the legacy of the trials, revealing how they influenced Japan's global reputation and regional relationships in the aftermath of World War II.
6 snips
Sep 21, 2024 • 40min
The Stuarts: everything you wanted to know
Anna Keay, a leading expert on the Stuart dynasty, dives into the fascinating history of this tumultuous era. She discusses the complexities of James I's intimate relationships and his enigmatic sexuality. The conversation also grapples with Charles I's costly missteps that led to his downfall and the English Civil War. Keay explores the profound influence of French royalty on the Stuarts and examines the legacy and eventual decline of the dynasty amidst a backdrop of turbulent politics and societal change.
Sep 19, 2024 • 35min
Hidden environmental histories of the last 500 years
Sunil Amrith, an expert on historical environmental impacts, joins Ellie Cawthorne to explore fascinating intersections of human actions and ecological changes over the last 500 years. They discuss how major events like colonialism and war have contributed to environmental degradation. The conversation delves into the links between the transatlantic slave trade and land exploitation, as well as the devastating ecological costs of the World Wars. Finally, they address the critical lessons history can teach us in tackling today’s climate crisis.
Sep 18, 2024 • 50min
Ancient Egypt | 5. a lost world?
Campbell Price, an expert curator and Egyptologist, dives into our enduring fascination with ancient Egypt. He discusses the darker colonial roots of Egyptology and the Victorian obsession that fueled it. The groundbreaking discovery of Tutankhamun's tomb is explored, along with the ethical challenges of representing Egyptian heritage today. Price challenges misconceptions about ancient Egypt as a lost world, advocating for a richer, inclusive narrative that honors its complex legacy and reviews the impact of cultural exchange throughout history.
Sep 17, 2024 • 38min
Congo, Cold War & CIA plotting: the 1961 assassination that shook Africa
Stuart A Reid, author of the Cundill History Prize-shortlisted *The Lumumba Plot*, joins Elinor Evans to dissect the assassination of Patrice Lumumba, Congo's first Prime Minister. They delve into the chaotic aftermath of Congo's independence and the chilling role of the CIA in Lumumba's execution. The conversation also touches on the political climate of the time, Dag Hammarskjöld's peacekeeping efforts, and enduring repercussions of Lumumba's legacy, including the haunting fate of his remains and the impact on Congo's history.
Sep 16, 2024 • 49min
Viking trade, Titanic and Olympic rings: history behind the headlines
Hannah Skoda, a historian delving into various historical topics, joins Rana Mitter, a modern history expert and commentator, to explore captivating historical narratives. They discuss Viking trade networks and their global implications, revealing insights from the Galloway hoard. The ongoing debate over the Olympic rings on the Eiffel Tower highlights themes of historical preservation. Lastly, they uncover startling discoveries from the Titanic wreck, intertwining its legacy with modern exploration ambitions.
8 snips
Sep 15, 2024 • 41min
How ancient India transformed the world
William Dalrymple, a bestselling historian and author of *The Golden Road*, uncovers the profound impact of ancient India on global history. He discusses India's contributions to art, religion, and technology, from influencing the Roman economy to the spread of Buddhism. Dalrymple highlights the significance of India's role in global trade and maritime routes, emphasizing the introduction of zero to the Arab world. He also critiques colonial narratives that have overlooked India's achievements, advocating for a reassessment of its historical legacy.
Sep 14, 2024 • 49min
The Hittites: everything you wanted to know
Mark Weeden, a historian specializing in ancient civilizations, joins Jon Bauckham to dive into the enigmatic Hittites, once a dominant empire in the Near East. They discuss the groundbreaking discovery of clay tablets that unveiled the Hittites' governance and culture. Hear about their intricate politics, including the famed Battle of Kadesh, and how religion shaped their identity with the worship of various deities. The conversation also highlights modern archaeological efforts that continue to reveal the rich history of this elusive civilization.
Sep 12, 2024 • 39min
The Iranian embassy siege: an SAS hostage drama in London
Ben Macintyre, a bestselling author renowned for his thrilling historical narratives, dives into the dramatic events of the 1980 Iranian Embassy siege. He unpacks the complex motivations of the gunmen and the impact of this incident on Margaret Thatcher's early stance against terrorism. The conversation reveals how the SAS transformed from a secretive force to a globally recognized elite unit, and highlights the critical dynamics between hostages and captors during the rescue operation. Unexpected moments of humanity emerge, adding depth to this intense narrative.
Sep 11, 2024 • 44min
Ancient Egypt | 4. religion and death
Emily Briffett and Campbell Price delve into the captivating world of ancient Egypt's religion and death rituals. Briffett unveils the diverse pantheon of gods, from Amun to Sekhmet, showcasing their significance in daily life and societal norms. Price brings to light the fascinating mummification practices and the judgment of the heart by Osiris, revealing how these customs reflect deep beliefs about the afterlife. Together, they explore the interplay between mourning rituals and the living's connection to the divine, painting a rich tapestry of ancient Egyptian spirituality.
