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
Mar 5, 2024 • 40min
History Behind the Headlines: ageing politicians & new names for the London Overground
Exploring historical significance of age in leadership, contrasting traditional views with modern ideals. Reflecting on impact of old age on rulers throughout history. Delving into challenges of reconstructing marginalized histories and preserving working-class stories. Analyzing historical sources and concerns for future historians. Exploring intersection of historical memory and urban naming, focusing on new names for London Overground lines.
Mar 4, 2024 • 40min
The man who ran Auschwitz: the real story of The Zone of Interest
The podcast delves into the real story of Rudolf Höss, the commandant of Auschwitz, and explores his domestic life as a Holocaust perpetrator. It discusses the rise of Nazi war criminals, their motivations, and the legacy post-Auschwitz liberation. The episode also examines the banality of evil, Eichmann's unrepentant nature, and the depiction of Nazism in film.
Mar 3, 2024 • 42min
Alcatraz: everything you wanted to know
Discover the intriguing history of Alcatraz, from its notorious prisoners to the daring escape attempts. Learn about the prison's evolution, from a military fortress to a high-security federal penitentiary. Explore the impact of the Native American occupation and the fascination surrounding Alcatraz's legacy.
Mar 1, 2024 • 40min
Plague, leprosy & murder: unlocking the secrets of medieval bones
Discover the secrets hidden within medieval human remains, from the impact of diseases like the Black Death and leprosy to forensic analysis of violent massacres. Genetic analysis revolutionizes understanding of historical diseases, while exploring the 'fish event horizon' reveals dietary habits of medieval populations. Uncover the complex history of St. Bryce's Day massacre and the role of science in understanding societal responses to diseases like leprosy.
Feb 29, 2024 • 32min
Tiger Tamer | 2. sail, steam & stormy seas
Explore the daring exploits of Bob Carlisle in the Victorian Royal Navy, from dangerous sea journeys to evolving naval technology. Learn about the recruitment process, trading ventures, and circus escapades of this larger-than-life sailor.
Feb 28, 2024 • 37min
The EU: from Maastricht to Brexit
Explore the impactful Maastricht Treaty, key figures like Angela Merkel and Jacques Delors, and the evolution of the EU from its early foundations to Brexit. Learn about Euro crisis challenges, Brexit negotiations, and the unity amidst the Brexit response.
Feb 27, 2024 • 36min
Rudyard Kipling: life of the week
Dive into the life and legacy of Rudyard Kipling, known as the 'Bard of Empire' for writing The White Man's Burden. Explore his childhood trauma, resilience, early influences, and complex portrayal of India. Learn about his views on imperialism, 'The White Man's Burden', and the lasting impact of his poem 'If'.
6 snips
Feb 26, 2024 • 41min
Winthrop Bell: a Canadian spy who predicted Nazi horrors
Explore the fascinating life of Dr Winthrop Bell, a Harvard professor turned spy who warned about Nazi supremacy post-World War I. Learn about his espionage missions, cultural activities at a German prison camp, recruitment by MI6, and crucial intelligence reports on Hitler's plans. Discover how his insights shaped diplomatic decisions and influenced global responses to the Nazi threat.
Feb 25, 2024 • 43min
Arts & Crafts movement: everything you wanted to know
Delve into the origins and influence of the Victorian Arts and Crafts movement, its global reach beyond London and Glasgow, the role of women artists, evolution and impact of the movement, emphasis on craftsmanship and authenticity, and the essence of artistry without formal training in handmade craftsmanship.
Feb 24, 2024 • 40min
Stonewall: the 1969 fight for gay rights
Explore the Stonewall riots of 1969, a key event in LGBTQ+ history, and the resistance against police harassment. Learn about the oppression and community organizing of queer individuals pre-Stonewall. Discover the complex legacy and impact of Stonewall on LGBT activism, and the diverse mix of patrons at the Stonewall Inn.
