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
8 snips
Jun 23, 2025 • 39min
International security & rough sleeping: history behind the headlines
Hannah Skoda, a fellow and tutor in medieval history at St. John's College, Oxford, joins to unravel the past's impact on modern issues. They delve into the evolution of international security, tackling the balance between morality and the necessity of war in the Middle Ages. The discussion highlights the historical foundations of social issues like rough sleeping and the Vagrancy Act of 1824, revealing how economic factors intertwine with security and societal attitudes toward poverty. Expect intriguing connections between history and today's headlines!
Jun 22, 2025 • 42min
Make Mercia Great Again
Max Adams, author of The Mercian Chronicles, dives into the overlooked kingdom of Mercia and its critical role in forming early England. He highlights King Offa's leadership and the importance of Offa's Dyke as a significant boundary. The discussion covers the political dynamics of rulers like Æthelbald and examines Mercia’s unique blend of Christian influences. Adams argues for a reevaluation of Mercia’s contributions to English history, challenging narratives that often glorify Wessex and King Alfred.
69 snips
Jun 21, 2025 • 38min
The Merovingians: everything you wanted to know
Professor James Palmer, an expert from the University of St Andrews and author of 'Merovingian Worlds', takes us deep into the fascinating reign of the Merovingians. He reveals how this Frankish dynasty cleverly wielded violence, myth, and even hair to assert power. Discover the intriguing role of King Clovis in shaping modern France and the symbolic importance of uncut hair in Merovingian kingship. Palmer also dives into scandalous tales of King Chilperic and Fredegund, showcasing a world rife with betrayal and political intrigue.
27 snips
Jun 19, 2025 • 34min
How the Allies won WW2
In this engaging discussion, military historian James Holland, known for his expertise and works on WWII, shares fascinating insights into the final moments of the war. He dives into the dramatic Axis surrenders, particularly Germany's chaotic capitulation and its leaders' delusions. The conversation also explores the complexities of the negotiations surrounding unconditional surrender and the implications for post-war Europe and Japan. Holland brings to light lesser-known stories, including Hitler's remains, revealing the intricate narratives that defined this historic conflict.
54 snips
Jun 17, 2025 • 38min
Ancient tips for health and happiness
Claire Bubb, Assistant Professor of Classical Literature and Science and author of 'How to Eat,' shares fascinating insights into ancient Greek and Roman health practices. She discusses how these civilizations shaped dietary norms and exercise regimens to enhance well-being. Listeners learn about quirky topics like the historical reputation of basil and the economic factors influencing diet. Bubb draws parallels between ancient wisdom and modern health trends, revealing timeless strategies to achieve balance in life and nutrition.
26 snips
Jun 16, 2025 • 42min
Thomas Aquinas: life of the week
In this engaging discussion, Professor Robert Pasnau, an expert on medieval philosophy, sheds light on Thomas Aquinas, a pivotal 13th-century theologian. He explores Aquinas’s transformative integration of Aristotelian thought with Christian theology. Listeners will discover how Aquinas's early life shaped his groundbreaking ideas and his struggles against familial expectations to join the Dominican order. Pasnau also delves into Aquinas's profound contributions, particularly his enduring work, the 'Summa Theologiae,' and the legacy that still influences spiritual and secular thought today.
Jun 15, 2025 • 40min
Barmier than Bond: Ian Fleming's extraordinary wartime escapades
Edward Abel Smith, a talented author and podcaster, dives into Ian Fleming's flamboyant wartime life, revealing absurd tales of bogus sex parties and exploding tin cans. He discusses how Fleming's role as a wartime intelligence officer dramatically influenced the creation of James Bond. The conversation explores the real-life espionage inspirations behind Bond's iconic adventures, shedding light on Fleming's innovative strategies, like Operation Tracer, while framing his larger-than-life escapades in the context of his literary genius.
28 snips
Jun 14, 2025 • 38min
Fatherhood: a short history
Join Augustine Sedgwick, author of 'Fatherhood: A History of Love and Power', as he dives into the historical evolution of fatherhood. He discusses how ancient cultures viewed fathers and the pivotal role they played in society. The conversation reveals the transformation through Christianity, highlighting St. Augustine's challenging views. Sedgwick also explores the impact of legal changes on fatherhood during Tudor England and how societal expectations have shifted from the time of Henry VIII to modern-day, reflecting on the complexities of paternal influence.
12 snips
Jun 12, 2025 • 34min
CIA book smugglers of the Cold War
In this engaging discussion, Charlie English, a former head of international news at The Guardian and author of 'The CIA Book Club,' unveils the CIA's fascinating covert operations during the Cold War, which used literature as a weapon against censorship. He describes how books were smuggled into the Eastern Bloc through creative methods, promoting freedom and challenging oppressive ideologies. English also highlights the impact of literature, including Agatha Christie's work, in shaping perceptions and inspiring resistance, all while contrasting these cultural initiatives with the KGB's tactics.
42 snips
Jun 10, 2025 • 48min
The Renaissance: not such a golden age?
Ada Palmer, a historian and author specializing in the Renaissance, joins the discussion to challenge the myth of this period as a golden age. She reveals the era's grim realities, including corrupt popes and the aftermath of the Black Death. The conversation also touches on Michelangelo's struggle with painting and Machiavelli's political complexities. By exploring the duality of artistic achievement amidst societal chaos, Palmer encourages a more nuanced understanding of the Renaissance and its influence on modern society.
