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
7 snips
Jun 3, 2024 • 35min
Plato: life of the week
Ancient Greek expert Paul Cartledge discusses Plato's life and legacy, exploring his philosophical theories on metaphysics, soul, and state organization. They delve into his founding of the academy, contrasting aristocracy with democracy, and his influence on European philosophy. Additionally, they explore Plato's extremist and totalitarian views in 'The Laws'.
Jun 2, 2024 • 36min
Breastfeeding in the Middle Ages
Historian Hannah Skoda discusses breastfeeding in the Middle Ages, covering topics such as cultural attitudes, medical beliefs, wet-nursing dilemmas, and societal views on extended breastfeeding. The podcast explores the emotional struggles of wet nurses, historical perspectives on infant feeding practices, and contrasts medieval approaches with modern guidelines.
Jun 1, 2024 • 52min
Death and mourning in Britain: everything you wanted to know
Historian Douglas Davies explores the evolution of burial practices in Britain, from cremation to burial, and the impact of social status on funeral customs. He delves into the transformation of mourning practices, the rise of cremation in the 19th century, and the changing role of funeral directors in small communities.
May 30, 2024 • 30min
Julian: the Roman emperor who (almost) changed the world
Professor Philip Freeman discusses Julian, the Roman emperor who almost changed the world by reviving paganism. Topics include Constantine's conversion to Christianity, Julian's strategic moves, his religious reforms, and impact on Roman history.
May 29, 2024 • 45min
D-Day: Sea
Nick Hewitt, expert in the Normandy naval campaign, discusses the integral role of sailors in the D-Day invasion, including planning, gun support, and obstacle clearance. The podcast explores the tragic events of Exercise Tiger, the critical weather decision for the invasion, and the challenges faced by Allied navies in maintaining supply lines. Hewitt sheds light on the forgotten heroes who saved the landings from disaster and the ongoing naval campaign in France.
May 28, 2024 • 40min
A Soviet road trip through 1930s America
Historian Lisa Kirschenbaum discusses the intriguing journey of two Soviet satirists, Ilf and Petrov, as they road trip across America in the 1930s. From encounters with President Roosevelt to experiencing racism in Jim Crow America, their journey offers a fascinating look at US-Soviet relations and cultural observations.
10 snips
May 27, 2024 • 41min
Galileo: life of the week
Historian of science James Hannam discusses Galileo Galilei's pioneering observations, telescope discoveries, and revolutionary astronomical observations. He delves into the challenges Galileo faced from orthodox beliefs, the tensions with the Church, and his impact on the scientific community. The podcast also explores Galileo's personal life, societal pressures, and the consequences of his work on science and freedom.
May 26, 2024 • 33min
What was life like as a peasant?
Author Patrick Joyce discusses the vanished world of European peasants, highlighting their communal living, spiritual beliefs, and the shift to industrialization post-1945. The podcast explores the socio-economic structures, peasant identity, and cultural legacy, urging a nuanced understanding beyond stereotypes.
May 25, 2024 • 52min
The history of museums: everything you wanted to know
Dr. Caroline McCaffrey-Howarth dives into the captivating history of museums, tracing back to ancient Mesopotamia and the Renaissance era. They explore the evolution from cabinets of curiosities to modern educational institutions, shedding light on the pivotal role of women and the impact of war and colonial legacies on museum landscapes.
May 23, 2024 • 43min
Forgotten women writers of the Renaissance
Ramie Targoff, author of 'Shakespeare's Sisters', discusses forgotten women writers of the Renaissance including Mary Sidney and Elizabeth Cary, exploring their literary contributions and the impact they could have had on the canon. The podcast delves into the struggles and achievements of these pioneering women, highlighting their resilience in a male-dominated society.
