9 Best History Podcasts You Need to Listen to Right Now
If you’re a history buff or just curious about the past, podcasts offer a fantastic way to dive into captivating stories and intriguing events. Whether you’re commuting, exercising, or relaxing at home, history podcasts can transform your downtime into an educational adventure.
From ancient civilizations to modern revolutions, there’s a podcast out there that brings history to life in a way that’s both engaging and informative. In this article, we’ll explore the nine best history podcasts that will not only entertain you but also deepen your understanding of our world’s rich and complex past.
Uncover the Ancient World: “The History of Rome”
Dive deep into one of the most influential civilizations in history. “The History of Rome” podcast offers a detailed chronicle of the rise and fall of the Roman Empire.
Explore the Rise and Fall of the Roman Empire
Discover how Rome transformed from a fledgling city-state into a sprawling empire. This podcast covers everything, from the founding myths of Rome to the dramatic collapse of the Western Roman Empire. You’ll hear about legendary figures like Julius Caesar, Augustus, and Constantine, as well as lesser-known but equally important events that shaped Rome.
Key Episodes to Start With
Start with Episode 1: “In the Beginning”. This episode sets the stage for Rome’s origins, including the stories of Romulus and Remus. Continue with Episode 15: “The Rise of Hannibal”, which explores Rome’s conflict with Carthage and the military genius of Hannibal. Episode 47: “The Year of the Four Emperors” delves into a tumultuous period of civil war and political intrigue. These episodes provide a solid foundation for understanding Rome’s complex history.
Journey Through the Middle Ages: “The British History Podcast”
Explore Britain’s rich history through “The British History Podcast.” This podcast takes you on a riveting journey from the early medieval period through various significant events and figures in British history.
A Detailed Look at Britain’s Past
Dive into detailed discussions about key events and periods in Britain’s past. This podcast covers everything from the fall of the Roman Empire to the Norman Conquest. You’ll discover insights about lesser-known events and everyday life in medieval Britain. Episodes like “The Dark Ages,” “Viking Invasions,” and “The Battle of Hastings” provide in-depth analysis, ensuring you grasp the transformations that shaped Britain.
Must-Listen Episodes for Medieval Enthusiasts
Immerse yourself in episodes that bring the Middle Ages to life. Start with “The Anglo-Saxon Settlement” for a look at early medieval society. Move on to “Alfred the Great” to understand his impact on British history. Don’t miss “The Norman Conquest: 1066” for a detailed recounting of one of the most pivotal moments in medieval history. Each episode combines engaging narration with meticulous research, making history both informative and entertaining.
Explore Modern History: “Revolutions”
Dive into the transformative world of revolutions with the “Revolutions” podcast. This podcast delves into significant uprisings that have reshaped societies globally.
Examining Revolutions Across the World
Focus on understanding major revolutions, including the American, French, Haitian, and Russian. Each season of the podcast is dedicated to a specific revolution, providing detailed insights. Learn how each uprising unfolded, who the key players were, and what impact it had on the world.
Season One explores the English Revolution, offering context on how political and social upheaval transformed monarchy and governance. Season Three dives deep into the tumultuous era of the French Revolution, examining its causes, major events, and far-reaching consequences.
Top Episodes to Understand Global Change
Select episodes to better grasp how revolutions shape our world. In “The American Revolution,” follow the journey from colonial unrest to the birth of a nation. The episode “Haitian Revolution” reveals the only successful slave revolt in history, altering colonial rule and inspiring future movements.
Episodes like “The Storming of the Bastille” and “The Reign of Terror” provide detailed narratives of critical moments in the French Revolution. For insight into 20th-century upheaval, “Russian Revolution” episodes cover the fall of the Tsar and rise of the Soviet Union, crucial for understanding modern political landscapes.
Discover American History: “American History Tellers”
“American History Tellers” takes you on a journey through the pivotal moments that have defined the United States. Dive into the events and stories that have shaped the nation, presented in a captivating manner.
The Events That Shaped America
Explore transformations like the Cold War, the American Revolution, and Prohibition. Each episode digs deep into the context and impact of these events, making history accessible and engaging. For example, uncover how the Cold War influenced daily American life and global politics.
Recommended Episodes for U.S. History Buffs
Listen to top episodes like “The Cold War – Deadly Secrets,” “The American Revolution – Liberty or Death,” and “Prohibition – Undercover of Darkness.” These episodes offer profound insights and gripping stories that’ll keep you hooked while enriching your understanding of American history.
Dive Into Untold Histories: “You Must Remember This”
Hollywood and Its Historical Secrets
Uncover the hidden stories of Hollywood’s golden age with “You Must Remember This.” Host Karina Longworth dives deep into the fascinating and sometimes scandalous history of Tinseltown. She explores everything from the rise and fall of iconic stars to the secrets behind legendary films. Each episode unveils the dark and glamorous sides of Hollywood that have shaped the industry as we know it today.
Episodes That Reveal the Unknown
Delve into episodes that shed light on Hollywood’s mysterious past. Start with “The Blacklist Era,” where Longworth discusses the lives of those affected by the Hollywood blacklist during the Red Scare. Another must-listen is “Jean and Jane,” a series revealing the intertwined careers and tumultuous lives of Jean Seberg and Jane Fonda. Each episode of “You Must Remember This” is meticulously researched, providing engrossing narratives that uncover untold histories.
Understand Historical Contexts: “Hardcore History”
Few podcasts dive into the depths of history as compellingly as “Hardcore History.”
Dan Carlin’s Unique Storytelling Approach
Dan Carlin captivates listeners with his dynamic and immersive storytelling. He doesn’t just recount events but brings them to life with vivid details. By blending historical facts with dramatic narratives, he creates a cinematic experience. Carlin’s ability to connect various historical threads keeps you deeply engaged, making complex historical events accessible and riveting.
Iconic Episodes You Can’t Miss
“Dropping the Atomic Bomb” provides an intense look at the critical moments leading to WWII’s end. “Blueprint for Armageddon,” spanning six episodes, offers a thorough exploration of WWI. “The Wrath of the Khans” series delves into the Mongol Empire’s vast conquests and the legendary Genghis Khan. These episodes showcase Carlin’s expertise and make history both gripping and unforgettable.
Learn About Non-Western Histories: “The History of Japan”
Dive into Japan’s fascinating past with “The History of Japan” podcast. This series covers the intricate cultural, political, and societal evolutions of Japan, offering you a deeper understanding of the country.
Japan’s Rich Cultural and Political Past
Explore the podcast’s episodes that delve into Japan’s cultural and political milestones. Uncover the impact of the Samurai era, the Tokugawa shogunate, and the Meiji Restoration. Discover how these periods shaped Japan’s identity and global influence. Hosted with an engaging storytelling style, the podcast provides insights that go beyond textbooks, making Japan’s history both accessible and intriguing.
Best Episodes for Beginners
Start with episodes like “The Meiji Restoration” that explain Japan’s transformation from a feudal society to a modern state. Listen to “The Onin War” to understand the conflicts that led to the warring states period. For a cultural dive, “The Tale of Genji” episode explores the world’s first novel and its significance in Japanese literature. These episodes offer a great introduction to the diverse and rich history of Japan, making it easier for you to dive deeper into subsequent topics.
Engage with Interview-Driven Narratives: “History Extra Podcast”
Dive into the fascinating world of “History Extra Podcast,” where you’ll find rich, interview-driven narratives. This podcast, backed by BBC History Magazine, brings historical insights right to your ears.
Conversations with Historians and Authors
Explore engaging conversations with renowned historians and authors. The podcast features interviews with experts on a wide range of historical topics, providing deep dives into events and personalities that shaped our world. Guests like Professor Mary Beard and author Dan Jones share their knowledge, making complex histories accessible to everyone. You’ll enjoy the authentic, conversational tone that helps unravel the past intriguingly.
Essential Episodes for Variety in Perspectives
Discover essential episodes that offer a variety of perspectives. Episodes cover diverse topics from ancient civilizations to modern history, ensuring there’s something for every history enthusiast. Noteworthy episodes include “The Rise and Fall of the Roman Empire” with Tom Holland, “Women’s Suffrage Movement” with Dr. Fern Riddell, and “The Partition of India” with Dr. Yasmin Khan. These episodes not only educate but also provide nuanced views that challenge conventional narratives, enriching your understanding of history’s multifaceted stories.
Dive Deeper with Thematic Studies: “The Memory Palace”
Short, Poetic Stories of the Past
Experience a unique approach to history with “The Memory Palace.” This podcast offers beautifully crafted, short episodes that blend historical facts with poetic storytelling. Host Nate DiMeo’s narration brings history to life, focusing on lesser-known stories that leave a lasting emotional impact. The episodes often explore forgotten moments and unsung heroes, making history feel personal and relatable.
Memorable Episodes to Start With
Start your journey with some standout episodes. “Mary Walker Would Wear What She Wanted” tells the story of a pioneering female physician and women’s rights advocate. Then, listen to “No Summer” to understand the far-reaching effects of the summer-less year of 1816. Another must-hear is “400,000 Stars,” which delves into the remarkable history of the Palomar Observatory. These episodes showcase the eclectic and evocative storytelling that sets “The Memory Palace” apart in the world of history podcasts.
Conclusion: Enhancing Your Historical Knowledge
Exploring these history podcasts can deepen your understanding of the past in an engaging way. Whether you’re intrigued by ancient civilizations or fascinated by lesser-known historical events, there’s a podcast here to suit your interests. Each podcast offers a unique perspective and storytelling style, ensuring you’ll never find history dull again. Dive into these auditory journeys and enrich your knowledge with captivating stories from different eras and cultures. Happy listening!
