History Extra podcast

Nicholas Spencer chronicles the complex relationship between science and Christianity – and explores moments when tensions between the two have bubbled over

Brian Groom shares some notable moments in the history of northern England, from the “Harrying of the North” to the Industrial Revolution

Ronald Hutton answers listener questions on the long history of paganism

Bryce Evans takes listeners back to the aspirational canteens of Second World War Britain, which became bastions of good food, good prices and good company

Jennifer Wright discusses the dramatic life of Madame Restell, a New York businesswoman who made millions – and horrified many – by selling abortions and birth control in the 19th century

Christopher de Hamel introduces an extraordinary cast of historical characters, all of whom shared a burning passion for manuscripts

Luke Pepera tells Kev Lochun about the dramatic life and reign of Queen Njinga, the formidable 17th-century ruler of Ndongo and Matamba, in modern-day Angola

Sarah Clegg explores how and why historical myths have portrayed women as monstrous beings – from seductive, child-killing monsters to mermaids, sirens and vampires

Dan Todman answers your top questions surrounding Britain’s Second World War home front, from evacuees and black market deals to sheltering from bombs in the London underground

Government minister Lord Parkinson discusses proposed changes to which historical artefacts might be considered “treasure” – and other issues facing heritage in the UK