
Where Politics Meets History
Join broadcaster Iain Dale and historian Dr Tessa Dunlop as they take a fresh look at the biggest news of the week - through the lens of history. Because nothing is ever truly new, and history has a habit of repeating itself.
With wit, insight, and the occasional good-natured row, Iain and Tessa explore how today’s headlines echo the past, unearthing fascinating stories and unexpected parallels. Expect sharp analysis, engaging debate, and plenty of laughs along the way.
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For advertising opportunities on this podcast email: dax@global.com
Latest episodes

May 9, 2025 • 48min
18. VE Day Special: WWII veteran Colin Bell
In this episode, Iain and Tessa are joined by 104-year-old WWII veteran Colin Bell on Iain's LBC show. Colin answers questions about whether the younger generations care enough about remembrance, whether defence spending ought to go up... and the secrets to his longevity!Send your questions and voice notes to 07557 187929 or wherepoliticsmeetshistory@global.com.Stay connected with us on Instagram @WherePoliticsMeetsHistory and on X @WherePolitics. You can also follow @IainDale and @DrTessaDunlop.

May 6, 2025 • 52min
17. VE Day Special: We'll Meet Again
Iain and Tessa convene for a special episode dedicated to Victory in Europe Day.Send your questions and voice notes to 07557 187929 or wherepoliticsmeetshistory@global.com.Stay connected with us on Instagram @WherePoliticsMeetsHistory and on X @WherePolitics. You can also follow @IainDale and @DrTessaDunlop.

May 2, 2025 • 43min
16. Heaven is a Place on Rare Earths
The hosts tackle the intriguing rare earths deal between the US and Ukraine, exploring its geopolitical ramifications. A poignant discussion on the King's cancer care speech leads to reflections on public responses. Personal accounts of sexual harassment shed light on pervasive societal issues, along with the impact of toxic masculinity. The conversation meanders through literature, historical parallels in leadership, and healthcare inequalities, ultimately examining the complexities of modern political narratives and the future of monarchy.

Apr 29, 2025 • 54min
15. Carney Get You Out of My Head
Iain and Tessa return to your devices to delve into why Russia wants to keep expanding, what's up for grabs at the local elections, how electricity came to be such a large part of our lives and why Mark Carney won the election (and is he as ruthless as Keir Starmer?). Send your questions and voice notes to 07557 187929 or wherepoliticsmeetshistory@global.com.Stay connected with us on Instagram @WherePoliticsMeetsHistory and on X @WherePolitics. You can also follow @IainDale and @DrTessaDunlop.

Apr 25, 2025 • 50min
14. That's The Way (I Biscuit)
Iain and Tessa reconvene to discuss what Pope Francis symbolised as they preview his funeral. Plus, they talk about what it means to be English and whether St George should be replaced - and the cultural significance of digestives (and how WWII sugar rationing ties in!).Send your questions and voice notes to 07557 187929 or wherepoliticsmeetshistory@global.com.Stay connected with us on Instagram @WherePoliticsMeetsHistory and on X @WherePolitics. You can also follow @IainDale and @DrTessaDunlop.

Apr 21, 2025 • 46min
13. Easter Special: The Crying Game
For Easter, Iain and Tessa come together once again and take your questions about energy prices, YouTube and much more!Send your questions and voice notes to 07557 187929 or wherepoliticsmeetshistory@global.com.Stay connected with us on Instagram @WherePoliticsMeetsHistory and on X @WherePolitics. You can also follow @IainDale and @DrTessaDunlop.

Apr 18, 2025 • 47min
12. Man! I Feel Like A Woman!
Join Iain and Tessa as they dive into the intriguing UK Supreme Court ruling defining womanhood and its implications. They discuss evolving gender identities, touching on personal stories and historical perspectives. The conversation also explores women's choices regarding surnames after marriage and the impact on identity and feminism. Additionally, they tackle the challenges faced by older generations, shifting societal views on aging, fertility, and the ongoing fight for gender pay equity. It’s a mix of humor, reflection, and sociopolitical commentary!

Apr 15, 2025 • 60min
11. China in You're Banned
The discussion kicks off with Britain's industrial past, focusing on the significance of British Steel and the cultural touchstone of Edwardian doll's houses. They delve into current political tensions, including China barring a Lib Dem MP from Hong Kong and the implications of Brexit. Additionally, there's a humorous take on aging celebrities, and a reflective look at Romania's stance on the Ukraine conflict. The hosts also touch on Germany's political shifts and the evolving role of the British monarchy in a modern context.

Apr 11, 2025 • 39min
10. I Wanna Know What Gove Is
Dive into the intriguing complexities of U.S.-China trade relations, with historical echoes of the Opium Wars shaping contemporary views. Enjoy a lighthearted banter surrounding a peerage for Michael Gove and the royal meeting with the Pope. The discussion takes a turn towards the underrepresented Welsh, reflecting on their identity in the UK. Delve into the evolving landscape of corporate governance and gender representation, revealing both progress and ongoing challenges in today's political landscape.

Apr 8, 2025 • 57min
9. Homeward Bound MPs
Dive into the turmoil of President Trump's tariffs and their surprising historical roots. Explore the fallout for Labour MPs expelled from Israel and the evolving dynamics of royal family relationships. The banter also touches on parenting inequalities during holidays, with a humorous nod to the challenges faced by fathers. Reflect on how political leaders tackle economic crises, and enjoy light-hearted comparisons between historical icons and today’s politicians, all while keeping the conversation lively and engaging.
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