Articles by History Extra podcast

Andrew Davies discusses the Birmingham gangsters who inspired the BBC drama, and explains how late-Victorian society contributed to a rise in gang violence. Historyextra.com/podcast

BBC journalist and author Babita Sharma explores the history of the British corner shop, explaining how Asian immigrants managed to transform these local businesses in the age of the supermarket. Historyextra.com/podcast

Ahead of the 200th anniversary of Peterloo, Robert Poole reveals why a peaceful demonstration ended in death and injury. Historyextra.com/podcast

Mike Pitts discusses some of the British Isles’ most exciting archaeological sites.

Former prime minister Gordon Brown describes the astonishing philanthropic activities of the American businessman Andrew Carnegie, who gave away almost all of his gigantic fortune at the turn of the 20th century. Historyextra.com/podcast

Lawyer and historian Harry Potter explores the twists and turns in the history of the British penal system, describing how attempts at reform have met with mixed success over the years. Historyextra.com/podcast

Emma Dabiri explains how the history of black hair reflects themes such as capitalism, slavery and colonialism. Historyextra.com/podcast

Gill Bennett explores how a forged letter in 1924 shocked Britain and helped undermine the Labour Party. Historyextra.com/podcast

Greg Jenner, historical consultant for Horrible Histories, talks their new film, Rotten Romans. He also explores wider questions about presenting history to the public. Historyextra.com/podcast

Professor Dame Janet L Nelson talks about her major new biography of Charlemagne, the 8th-century king of the Franks who became one of medieval Europe’s most important and influential rulers. Historyextra.com/podcast