History Extra podcast

Nicholas Best reflects on the events and aftermath of the 1941 Japanese raid, while Carlo Rovelli discusses his new book ‘Reality Is Not What It Seems: The Journey to Quantum Gravity’. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt…

Rosalind Ormiston discusses an important 19th-century artistic movement, while David Bramwell introduces some of history’s most talented eccentrics. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Simon Ings, author of Stalin and the Scientists, describes how the Bolshevik leaders intervened in scientific research in the USSR. Meanwhile, food writer William Sitwell tells the story of a man who battled to bring supplies into Britain during the er…

Author and broadcaster Ben Macintyre details the extraordinary activities of the Special Air Service in the fight against the Axis, based on research for his new authorised history. Meanwhile, we speak to the German writer Norman Ohler whose sensationa…

Historian and broadcaster David Olusoga explores Britain’s often forgotten links with the people of Africa. Meanwhile, historical author Linda Porter, describes the fates of a group of royal children whose father was executed in 1649 See…

John Simpson, the BBC’s World Affairs Editor, reflects on his 50 years of reporting from conflicts all over the globe. Plus, he considers how life for the foreign correspondent has changed throughout history See acast.com/privacy for pri…

As we approach the 50th anniversary of the Aberfan disaster, historian and producer Steve Humphries talks about how the Welsh village has coped with the tragedy. Meanwhile, we are joined by Woman’s Hour presenter Jenni Murray to discuss some of the fig…

As we approach the 950th anniversary of the battle of Hastings, medieval historian Marc Morris tells the story of William the Conqueror’s dramatic victory of 1066 and explores its profound legacy for England See acast.com/privacy for pri…

Catherine Merridale recounts the future Soviet leader’s famous 1917 train journey across Europe to Petrograd, where the took command of the Bolsheviks. Meanwhile, we speak to Helen Rappaport about some of the foreign nationals then living in Petrograd …

Tony Robinson discusses his new autobiography, No Cunning Plan, and the impact of shows such as Time Team and Blackadder. Meanwhile, Dr Katie Stevenson explores the 1513 battle of Flodden and its consequences for Scotland. Why did England emerge victor…