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.
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/
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
11 snips
Aug 17, 2024 • 54min
The history of migration: everything you wanted to know
Danny Bird, a knowledgeable guest alongside Ian Goldin, dives deep into the history and significance of migration. They explore the reasons behind human movements and the historical emergence of passports. The conversation touches on how migration has shaped cultural exchanges and technological advancements. Fear and misconceptions surrounding migrants are discussed, shedding light on the positive contributions they make to society. Ultimately, they analyze the evolving landscape of migration, contrasting past challenges with modern realities.
Aug 15, 2024 • 35min
Eighteen-year-olds who changed history
Alice Loxton, author of 'Eighteen: A History of Britain in 18 Young Lives', teams up with Danny Bird to explore how young people have shaped history. They discuss the evolving significance of turning 18 as a marker of adulthood and share the inspiring stories of figures like Elizabeth I and Vivienne Westwood. The conversation touches on generational divides in political aspirations and the importance of mentorship. They also highlight the incredible achievements of Mary Anning, a pioneering fossil collector who defied challenges to make her mark.
Aug 14, 2024 • 30min
Toilets through time | 4. Victorian lavatories
Join historian Jerry White, known for his expertise on Victorian Britain, as he delves into the quirky world of 19th-century sanitation. He reveals startling disparities in toilet access across social classes and the humorous euphemisms that emerged from this era. Discover how innovative sewerage systems clashed with dire public health crises, and how dietary habits influenced sanitation practices. The evolution of hygiene and the contributions of figures like Thomas Crapper shed light on broader societal shifts during a time when cleanliness was both a privilege and a struggle.
Aug 13, 2024 • 31min
How games changed history
In a captivating discussion, Kelly Clancy, an author and academic, dives into the powerful influence of games throughout history. She reveals how ancient games shaped societal norms and military strategies, including chess’s evolution as a military training tool. Clancy also explores the Mesoamerican ball game’s role in leadership and conflict resolution. Furthermore, she examines how games like Monopoly and Snakes and Ladders reflect changing moral values and cultural beliefs, showcasing their profound impact on human experience.
4 snips
Aug 12, 2024 • 42min
George Orwell: life of the week
Laura Beers, a historian renowned for her insights on George Orwell, dives deep into the author's intriguing life and the societal shadows he casts. She unveils how Orwell’s experiences, from British imperialism to the Spanish Civil War, shaped his iconic works like 'Animal Farm' and '1984'. Beers discusses Orwell's complex views on race, his critiques of totalitarianism, and his enduring relevance in today's surveillance-driven society, highlighting the dark truths behind our modern realities.
Aug 11, 2024 • 33min
Lines on a map: borders that shaped world history
Paul Bloomfield, an author specializing in the historical implications of borders, discusses the profound impact of borders on identity and conflict. He delves into the arbitrary nature of these lines, particularly in the Europe-Asia divide. The conversation spans the evolution of borders from tribal to modern nation-states and examines colonial influences on straight borders in Africa and North America. Bloomfield highlights the fluidity of borders and their connection to national identity, revealing the lasting consequences of these divisions on individual lives.
Aug 10, 2024 • 41min
Tartan: everything you wanted to know
In this engaging conversation, historian and tartan expert Peter MacDonald delves into the colorful and often misunderstood history of tartan. He reveals how this iconic fabric evolved from regional use to a national symbol of Scotland. MacDonald also discusses the origins of regimental tartans, the impact of the tartan ban post-Jacobite uprisings, and the revival of tartan in Victorian times. Listeners will enjoy insights into ancient weaving traditions and essential tips for researching tartan history effectively.
Aug 9, 2024 • 43min
Olympic History: everything you wanted to know
David Goldblatt, a noted Olympic historian and author of "The Games: A Global History of the Olympics," teams up with commentator Spencer Mizen to dive into the fascinating journey of the Olympic Games. They discuss the ancient Greek origins and the remarkable revival in the 19th century, shedding light on the chaotic 1900 Paris Games. The conversation also touches on the significant evolution of women's participation and the impactful stories of athletes who overcame adversity, making it a captivating exploration of Olympic history.
Aug 8, 2024 • 43min
Hidden labs, sex gardens & torture attics: secrets of British royal palaces
Join Kate Williams, an acclaimed author specializing in royal history, and Kev Lochun, an engaging speaker, as they unveil the shocking secrets hidden within British royal palaces. Discover how these grand structures shape royal lives and reveal dark tales of intrigue. Explore King George III’s hidden struggles at Kew Palace and learn about a monarch's bizarre 'skull medicine' concoctions. The duo also predicts the evolving role of these palaces as they transition from royal residences to public museums in a changing monarchy.
Aug 7, 2024 • 35min
Toilets through time | 3. Tudor garderobes
In this engaging discussion, author and public historian Tracy Borman takes us on a humorous journey into the world of Tudor toilets. Discover how Henry VIII's constipation might have shaped his tyrannical reign. Learn about the fascinating role of the 'groom of the stool' and the surprising social dynamics of sanitation. From the status of communal toilets to the realities of Tudor hygiene practices, Borman debunks myths and shares quirky anecdotes that reveal the unusual relationship between personal care and power in the 16th century.
