History Extra podcast

Dr. Mike Rapport, a Reader in modern European history at the University of Glasgow and author of *City of Light, City of Shadows*, unravels the complexities of Paris's Belle Époque. He discusses the era's glamorous façade with vibrant cafes and can-can dancers, contrasted against the realities of poverty and inequality. The conversation dives into the Dreyfus Affair, revealing deep societal divisions and the rise of radical politics amidst a backdrop of cultural richness and urban transformation.

Hallie Rubenhold, author of the upcoming book 'Story of a Murder', delves into the shocking 1910 case of Dr. Crippen and the mysterious disappearance of his wife, Belle Elmore. She explores the sensational international manhunt, Crippen's crumbling defense, and societal norms around medicine and women's roles in the early 20th century. The podcast also highlights Belle's transformation from a challenging background to a celebrated performer, and examines the dynamics between Crippen, his mistress Ethel Neve, and the web of lies that ensued.

Ali Watkins, a reporter and author of 'The Next One Is For You', delves into the fascinating world of Philadelphia gun-runners who supported the IRA during the 1970s. She unveils how the Philadelphia Five orchestrated smuggling operations amidst the chaos of the Troubles. Watkins discusses the deep-seated connections between Irish Americans and the IRA, highlighting the emotional toll on journalists covering the conflict. Through gripping narratives, she explores the innovative methods used to transport arms and the lasting impact these actions had across the Atlantic.

In this engaging discussion, Michael Staunton, a Professor of Medieval History at University College Dublin, unpacks the intriguing life of Thomas Becket. He traces Becket's dramatic rise from humble beginnings to a powerful church figure and his evolving relationship with King Henry II. The conversation highlights Becket's brave defiance against royal authority and how his martyrdom reshaped public perception. Staunton also delves into Becket's complex legacy, marking him as both a saint and a controversial figure in the history of England.

Luke Pepera, author of "Motherland: A Journey through 500,000 Years of African Culture and Identity," redefines African history beyond the transatlantic slave trade. He highlights Africa's rich cultural tapestry, showcasing its significant contributions to global civilization. The conversation delves into oral traditions, emphasizing their evolution from griots to contemporary rap battles. Pepera also discusses the dynamics of female-led societies, challenging stereotypes and underlining the importance of diverse narratives in understanding Africa's complex past.

Join Rosemary Ashton, Emeritus Professor of English Language and Literature at University College London, as she delves into the notorious Great Stink of 1858. Discover how the stifling heat and pollution in the Thames led to public outrage and significant sanitation reforms. Ashton highlights the cholera outbreaks that plagued Victorian London and the groundbreaking work of engineer Joseph Bazalgette, who revolutionized the city's sewage system. The conversation also uncovers misconceptions about disease and the media's role in fostering environmental awareness.

Guests Charles King, author of 'Every Valley: The Story of Handel’s Messiah,' and Elinor Evans, an expert on Handel, dive into the intriguing backstory of this iconic piece. They discuss how shifting politics, scandals in London's West End, and the transatlantic slave trade played surprising roles in its creation. King shares insights into the oratorio's innovative techniques, while Evans highlights its lasting cultural resonance despite its tumultuous origins. Together, they illuminate the complex interplay between art and history surrounding Handel's timeless masterpiece.

From true crime pamphlets to reports from the scaffold, early modern Britain was gripped by tales of women who killed. But were these cases as common as they seemed, or was something else at play? Speaking to Lauren Good, historian Blessin Adams explores the obsession with female murderers in this period, and what this tells us about historical attitudes to gender, justice and power.(Ad) Blessin Adams is the author of Thou Savage Woman: Female Killers in Early Modern Britain (Harper Collins, 2025). Buy it now from Waterstones: https://go.skimresources.com?id=71026X1535947&xcust=historyextra-social-histboty&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.waterstones.com%2Fbook%2Fthou-savage-woman%2Fblessin-adams%2F9780008500177.The HistoryExtra podcast is produced by the team behind BBC History Magazine. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Explore the remarkable journey of Rosa Luxemburg, a fiery revolutionary whose ideas challenged the status quo during a time of great upheaval. Delve into her rebellious youth in Poland, her bold opposition to World War I, and her profound critiques of capitalism. Uncover the complexities of her political beliefs and the misconceptions surrounding her legacy as a female leader. From her passionate activism to her tragic demise, learn how her fierce intellect and uncompromising spirit continue to resonate in modern movements for social justice.

The histories of religious reformations across the globe have largely focused on men. But women were also integral to these major transformations. Speaking with Emily Briffett, historian Merry Wiesner-Hanks explains how early modern women strove to shape the world around them – as wives, mothers, missionaries, mystics and migrants.(Ad) Merry Wiesner-Hanks is the author of Women and the Reformations: A Global History (Yale University Press, 2024). Buy it now from Amazon: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Women-Reformations-History-Merry-Wiesner-Hanks/dp/0300268238/?tag=bbchistory045-21&ascsubtag=historyextra-social-histboty. The HistoryExtra podcast is produced by the team behind BBC History Magazine. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices