History Extra podcast

Zoe Playdon discusses a secret 1965 trial revolving around Ewan Forbes, a transgender man, and reveals how it affected trans rights.

Keith Lowe speaks to Imperial War Museum curators about creating their new galleries on the Holocaust and the Second World War.

Jim Downs reveals how the conditions created by colonialism, war and slavery affected the study of disease and its spread.

Jane Ridley discusses the life and reign of George V, who steered the monarchy through a tumultuous era of British history.

Robert Gallagher brings to light newly discovered evidence about Asser, the biographer of King Alfred.

Michael Goodman tackles listener questions and popular search queries on the history of spying and intelligence.

Benjamin Savill discusses the St Brice’s Day Massacre of 1002, in which Danes living in England were killed, apparently on royal orders.

Mary Wellesley uncovers the hidden stories of the artisans and authors behind medieval manuscripts.

Ranulph Fiennes uses his unique perspective as a polar explorer to reflect on the life and adventures of Ernest Shackleton.

Susan Williams discusses the United States’ covert programme to undermine the leaders of newly independent African nations in the 1950s and 1960s.