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
26 snips
May 17, 2025 • 38min
The Beaker People: everything you wanted to know
Mike Parker-Pearson, an expert archaeologist in Neolithic Britain, dives into the enigmatic Beaker People. He details their striking pottery and monumental contributions, like influencing the construction of Stonehenge. Parker-Pearson discusses the complexities of their migration—challenging myths of violence and exploring how they transformed Britain’s demographics. He also sheds light on the fascinating discovery of the Amesbury Archer, revealing insights into their societal structures and burial practices, and traces their genetic legacy that still echoes through time.
39 snips
May 15, 2025 • 39min
Gods, demons, witches and exorcists: inside an ancient Assyrian library
Selena Wisnom, an expert in ancient Mesopotamia and author of The Library of Ancient Wisdom, guides listeners through the fascinating world of the Assyrian library created by King Ashurbanipal. She uncovers how this monumental collection reveals Assyrian beliefs about gods and the supernatural, along with the complexities of their religious practices. The discussion covers everything from divine communication, offerings, and demon beliefs, to the intriguing legacy of the lost library and the scientific insights of ancient civilizations.
23 snips
May 13, 2025 • 36min
Peaks, perils, and pioneers: the deadly history of mountaineering
Daniel Light, an author and climber known for 'The White Ladder,' delves into the captivating world of mountaineering. He explores the historical allure of mountains and the evolution of climbing as a sport. Light highlights the unsung heroes, local guides, and the challenges they faced—especially during the Victorian era. He also discusses the fierce rivalries between pioneering women in mountaineering and the challenges of verifying summit claims throughout history. Their stories shed light on both triumphs and tragedies in this perilous pursuit.
15 snips
May 12, 2025 • 45min
Josephine Baker: life of the week
Hanna Diamond, a Professor of French History and author of 'Josephine Baker's Secret War,' unveils the remarkable life of Josephine Baker. She discusses Baker's evolution from a struggling performer in St. Louis to becoming the first black superstar in Paris. Listeners will learn about her daring role as a spy for the French Resistance during World War II, her passionate activism for civil rights, and her unique family of adopted children and a pet cheetah. Baker's story is a vibrant tapestry of showbiz, courage, and advocacy.
20 snips
May 11, 2025 • 40min
Women who ruled over Africa
Paula Akpan, a journalist and historian, delves into the rich, often overlooked lives of Africa's powerful female rulers in her compelling discussion. She highlights twelve influential queens and warriors, challenging the traditional narratives that often marginalize their impact. From exploring the legacies of matriarchy to addressing colorism and colonial misunderstandings, Akpan advocates for a re-evaluation of African history. Her insights underscore the complexities of leadership and the necessity of including diverse voices in historical accounts.
68 snips
May 10, 2025 • 56min
The Taiping Rebellion: everything you wanted to know
In this engaging discussion, Stephen R Platt, a Professor of history at the University of Massachusetts Amherst with expertise in Chinese history, sheds light on the Taiping Rebellion, the bloodiest civil war in history that devastated China from 1850 to 1864. He explains the rebellion's obscure status in global narratives despite its staggering 20 million death toll. Platt shares insights on the economic turmoil leading to the conflict, the rise of the charismatic leader Hong Xiuquan, and the complexities of British intervention, all while highlighting the rebellion's lasting impact on modern China.
51 snips
May 8, 2025 • 39min
How to choose a pope
Rebecca Rist, a Professor of Medieval History at the University of Reading and a papal history expert, dives into the fascinating world of papal elections. She discusses the dramatic shifts in the voting process over centuries, including the intricate path to securing a two-thirds majority. Rist probes the intriguing possibility of a female pope in history and evaluates controversial figures like Alexander VI. The conversation also touches on the complexities of papal legitimacy, schisms, and the evolving role of women in the Church.
27 snips
May 6, 2025 • 27min
VE Day: a people's history
John Willis, author of The People’s War: Unheard Voices, shares insights into the personal stories of ordinary Britons during VE Day. He explores the emotional weight of the celebrations that masked deep loss for many. Willis discusses the contrasting feelings of joy and sorrow, highlighting how the end of the war transformed lives and communities. The impacts on returning soldiers, evolving roles of women, and the importance of preserving these stories for future generations are also key topics in this engaging discussion.
28 snips
May 5, 2025 • 39min
Nikola Tesla: life of the week
Iwan Morus, a history professor and author of Nikola Tesla and the Electrical Future, immerses listeners in the life of the remarkable inventor. He unpacks Tesla's eccentricities and examines his ambitious ideas, like the infamous death ray and dreams of wireless electricity. The discussion also dips into Tesla's fraught relationship with Edison and explores how he might react to Elon Musk's use of his legacy. Morus highlights the contrast between Tesla's groundbreaking vision and his personal struggles, shedding new light on this enigmatic figure.
32 snips
May 4, 2025 • 43min
What caused the Irish Famine?
Padraic X Scanlan, author of 'Rot: A History of the Irish Famine,' delves into the devastating Irish Famine of the 1840s. He explains how a potato blight morphed into a catastrophic crisis due to the economic structures of the British Empire. Scanlan explores the potato's dual role as a lifeline and a symbol of poverty, while discussing the destructive societal impacts, including mass emigration and the disintegration of community bonds. His insights prompt a critical reevaluation of how historical and contemporary issues shape responses to ecological disasters.
