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
Dec 31, 2023 • 45min
The Habsburgs: everything you wanted to know
Spencer Mizen interviews Pieter Judson about the Habsburg dynasty. They discuss the dynasty's rise to power through strategic marriages, the influential role of Maria Teresa, the impact of Franz Joseph's reign, the misconception of self-determination in the Austro-Hungarian empire, and the enduring legacy of the Habsburgs.
Dec 29, 2023 • 35min
The medieval Welsh Marches: identity on the frontier
Explore the medieval Welsh Marches and the often overlooked side to frontier life. Discover the disputed border territory and governance, the languages, law, and identity of medieval Wales, and the power dynamics and alliances in the region. Dive into the significance of medieval Welsh poetry and the concept of identity on the border.
Dec 28, 2023 • 33min
Boston Tea Party | 3. The destruction of the tea
Explore the myths and complex legacy of the Boston Tea Party. Learn about Governor Thomas Hutchinson, the role of the Sons of Liberty, and the rising tensions in Boston. Discover how news of the event spread and its significance in the revolution.
Dec 27, 2023 • 34min
Sherlock Holmes: the real history that inspired the detective stories
Guest Andrew Lycett, a biographer of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, discusses the origins of Sherlock Holmes, including the influence of Conan Doyle's education and mentor, Dr. Joseph Bell. The podcast also explores Conan Doyle's transition from medicine to writing and the historical context of his work.
Dec 26, 2023 • 35min
Life of the week: Queen Victoria
Queen Victoria, a monarch who founded many royal traditions, is discussed on this fascinating podcast. Topics include her path to the throne, debunking misconceptions about her, her complex love story with Prince Albert, her experiences with pregnancy and motherhood, and her burial and legacy.
Dec 25, 2023 • 1min
Merry Christmas from the HistoryExtra podcast
Sneak peek into upcoming series on Suffragettes and historical conspiracies, plus new Everything You Wanted to Know episodes. Uncover the myths and legacy of the Boston Tea Party.
Dec 24, 2023 • 49min
Druids: everything you wanted to know
Learn about the origins, beliefs, and practices of the mysterious Druids, including their role in ancient societies and the threats they posed to the Romans. Explore the similarities and differences between Druids and religious specialists from other cultures. Delve into the beliefs and practices of the ancient Druids, from gods and animal sacrifices to the existence of female Druids. Discover the mystery of the Owen writing system and its uncertain origins. Uncover the potential influence of Druidic practices on Christianity and the decline of Druidic influence in Western Europe. Finally, explore the resurgence of interest in Druidism during the Celtic revival and the modern perception of Druids influenced by ancient texts.
Dec 22, 2023 • 41min
Bannockburn: Robert the Bruce’s greatest victory
Robert the Bruce, a hero in Scottish history, discusses his landmark victory at the battle of Bannockburn. Topics include the events leading to the battle, the Scottish resistance against English rule, military tactics used in the battle, and its impact on Scotland, England, and Ireland.
Dec 21, 2023 • 31min
Boston Tea Party | 2. The Sons of Liberty
The podcast discusses the tactics used by the Sons of Liberty in the Boston Tea Party, including violent acts. It explores the consequences faced by Thomas Hutchinson and the evolving meaning of the term 'Sons of Liberty'. The podcast also delves into intercolonial boycotts and the dark punishment of tarring and feathering. It examines the complicated relationship between the Sons of Liberty and violence, as well as the British government's concerns and debates over the American colonies' rebellions. Finally, it explores the tensions and resentments in the New England colonies regarding the Tea Act and hints at the upcoming Boston Tea Party.
5 snips
Dec 20, 2023 • 34min
Amazing Grace: a story of salvation and slavery
James Walvin, author of Amazing Grace: A Cultural History of the Beloved Hymn, discusses the contradiction of slavery and Christianity and the impact of Amazing Grace. Topics include John Newton's transformation from a slave captain to abolitionist, the origin and impact of the hymn, and President Obama's electrifying performance of Amazing Grace.
