History Extra podcast

Marking the 70th anniversary of the first Everest summit, Jonathan Westaway answers listener questions on the history of expeditions on the mountain

Have you always wanted us to cover a certain topic, or interview your favourite expert? This is your chance to tell us, so we can give you more of what you want.

Zareer Masani shares his thoughts on whether our view of the past is becoming distorted by present-day political concerns

Dr Estelle Paranque and Dr Tracy Borman reveal how Henry VIII’s last wife used her position to advance religious reform – and bolster her own power

David Veevers argues that the early years of Britain’s imperial project were characterised by resistance, violence and, often, failure

Rebecca Tyson reexamines William the Conqueror’s 1066 invasion plans – and explores the huge challenges his forces faced in crossing the Channel

James Belich considers how the Black Death had consequences that stretched far beyond the Middle Ages – and was, in fact, one of the key reasons why Europe rose to prominence

Joan Allen answers listener questions on the working-class mass campaign for political reform

Leah Redmond Chang explores the intertwined lives and legacies of three Renaissance queens – Catherine de’ Medici, Elisabeth de Valois and Mary, Queen of Scots

Kate McCaffrey and Dr Tracy Borman chart the tragic story of Catherine Howard, Henry’s vivacious fifth wife, who was ultimately sent to the executioner’s block