Where Politics Meets History
Global
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.
Subscribe now on Global Player or wherever you get your podcasts.
For advertising opportunities on this podcast email: dax@global.com
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.
Subscribe now on Global Player or wherever you get your podcasts.
For advertising opportunities on this podcast email: dax@global.com
Episodes
Mentioned books
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.
Apr 4, 2025 • 51min
8. Tariff Me Baby One More Time
Dive into the complexities of Trump's tariffs and their surprising impact on the economy. Discover the crisis in male role models for young boys and the evolving dynamics of masculinity today. Enjoy a humorous look at political antics from Canada and Australia, sprinkled with personal tales. Reflect on the sentimental memories of friends lost, alongside the weight of history in shaping youth narratives. The conversational flow keeps it light while delving into profound themes of legacy, friendship, and the changing perceptions of age.
Apr 1, 2025 • 54min
7. Marine Le Penitentiary Blues
Political figures clash as Trump's Greenland threats resurface, while Marine Le Pen's conviction stirs debate about future elections. The hosts reflect on the nuances of political arguments and celebrity influences on public perception. They also delve into the complexities of U.S. foreign policy and historical territorial acquisitions. Controversies surrounding Prince Harry and charity leadership reveal the intertwining of celebrity and accountability in politics. All this is topped off with a humorous take on current events and political dynamics.
Mar 28, 2025 • 56min
6. Money For Nothing (and everything else is free)
Dive into the dynamic world of welfare politics and philanthropy! The hosts explore the Spring Statement's impact on society, contrasting historical approaches to poverty with modern challenges. Prince Harry’s charity efforts spark conversation about royal responsibility and Victorian influences. Enjoy lighthearted anecdotes about political media appearances, while also tackling serious issues like climate activism and online trolling. Join in for a mix of insightful history and entertaining banter that keeps you engaged.
Mar 25, 2025 • 60min
5. Should I Stay or Should Nato
Dive into the strategic importance of a massive new NATO base in Romania as tensions rise near Ukraine. Explore the complexities of Turkish politics and the societal impact of regional military developments. Hear a mix of historical insights on NATO's evolution along with lighthearted quiz fun about its origins. Enjoy nostalgic tales of Blue Peter and its cultural impact, while also navigating sensitive discussions on modern conflicts like Israel-Gaza. The hosts balance humor and serious topics, keeping the conversation engaging and dynamic!
Mar 21, 2025 • 52min
4. I Guess That's Why They Call It Blue Labour
The discussion navigates the balance between the ongoing Israel-Gaza conflict and Labour Party welfare reforms. An amusing story involving a nun adds a light-hearted touch to the serious topics. They analyze Labour's shift to centrist politics, reflecting on historical impacts. The hosts also delve into how TikTok algorithms influence global elections and the intersection of humor with history and politics. Listeners are invited to share their own humorous takes on historical events as the conversation unfolds.
