Top 29 History Podcasts of 2023

For all history lovers out there, here are my top history podcasts.

1

'Stuff You Missed in History Class' is a delightful deep-dive into the neglected nooks and crannies of our historical past. Hosted by Holly Frey and Tracy V. Wilson, this podcast beams knowledge into the minds of those unapologetic history nerds among us (come on, put your hands up!). Filled with forgotten facts, notable figures and neglected narratives, this podcast unravels the tapestry of our tangled past. Irresistibly entertaining, it has episodes for every type of history lover. If you’ve ever wondered about the woman who invented the board game ‘Monopoly,’ or the mysterious disappearance of an entire Mayan civilisation, you’ll find this podcast as intriguing as an Indiana Jones adventure. 'Stuff You Missed in History Class', because understanding the present requires unearthing the past!

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2

With a twinkle in his intellectual eye, Malcom Gladwell spins forgotten tales and overlooked details into pure magic in "Revisionist History". Take a tumble down a rabbit hole of fascinating "what ifs" that history forgot to ask. It's a wacky time machine for the innately curious and clever. We suspect fans of facts that no one else knows, incognito intellectuals, and trivia game night champions would revel in it. From Picasso's questionable cooking skills to pull-ups at Vassar College, each episode offers a delightful dance of detours. One chuckle-inducing highlight is 'Thank You, Myron,' where Malcom lovingly blames a Frenchman for all our depleted savings. So, buckle up and let Gladwell guide you through the madcap maze of bizarre history you didn't know you needed to know.

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3

Buckle up, history buffs! Dan Carlin’s Hardcore History podcast is a wild ride delivered to your ears by the mad genius of history storytelling himself. Originally a radio guy, Dan took his gift for spinning tales to podcast land, and thus, gave birth to this monster of a show. Targeting anyone with a keen interest in the grittier, darker depths of history, Dan takes you through unforgettable journeys into the past, with an intensity that makes them come alive. Whether it's dealing with the fallout of Genghis Khan or the tangled web of WW1, prepare for a thorough rummage in history's attic. History class has never been this gripping! Trust us, if this podcast was a time machine, Marty McFly would be a regular listener. Join the ride, won't you?

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4

'American History Tellers' is your cheeky, collegiate drinking buddy with a PhD! This podcast is one giant, nerdy love letter to the annals of US history, hosted by your new best friend and history guru, Lindsay Graham (not that one!). Light on lectures, heavy on stories, this brainy broadside has one mission: Making America's Past fun again! Lindsay dives into gripping narratives, from cold wars to gold rushes, and brings history major coolness to the carpool lane. Die-hard history buffs, easy-going edutainers, or anyone who's ever thought "Hey, history is so boring," - this bubbly, deep-dive podcast is your game-changer. One award-worthy episode is 'Colonial Williamsburg,' delivering 17th-century sass like you've never heard! Buckle-up, it's about to get historical, humorously!

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5

"Roll up, history buffs and trivia geeks! The 'History of Rome' podcast is a delightful, romanesque rollercoaster hosted by the indomitable Mike Duncan. Get your toga on and dig into an epic saga that stretches from Rome's legendary Romulus and Remus roots to the fall of the Western Roman Empire. It’s like a time capsule but in your ears, and with more Latin! Who said history was boring? Certainly not those wild party-lovers at the Senate! The target audience? Why, anyone with a pulse and a penchant for the past! And you'll learn loads... like, did you know Julius Caesar wasn't just a salad? So plug in, perk up and prepare to proclaim 'Veni, Vidi, Vici' over your pub-quiz adversaries. History of Rome, bringing the 'fun' back into the 'function of the Roman republic'!"

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6

Get your time machines ready as the History Extra podcast whisks you back to mesmerizing epochs! Hosted by the charming folks at BBC History Magazine (who we suspect have a hot tub time machine), they have assembled a top-tier line-up of historians (nerds with credentials) to weave tales ranging from scandalous Tudor royals, to World War II secrets, and even the quirky origins of the sandwich. The show warmly welcomes history buffs, curious souls, or anyone fancying a departure from the humdrum of 21st-century life. A fan-favorite episode, 'Lee Miller: From Vogue to Dachau,' tells the mesmerizing tale of a model turned war photographer. Buckle up, as the History Extra podcast guarantees a rollercoaster ride through the annals of time. Now that's what we call an extra-ordinary history lesson!

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7

"Step right up, folks, for the center stage spectacle that is, Malcolm Gladwell's Revisionist History Special Event. This grand mishmash of wisdom and witticism is curated by author extraordinaire, Malcolm Gladwell, who's as keen on rewriting past blunders as a perfectionist who missed a comma! A haven for the intellectually curious and retrospectively rambunctious, this podcast often sheds light on overlooked aspects of past events. But hold your monocles steady, it's not all past whispers, Gladwell brings in a personal touch with anecdotes and life lessons. You'll chuckle, ponder, and yell "Aha!” so frequently, you might startle your poor feline. A snapshot into an alternate history lesson where the teacher ditches the chalk for a microphone. Tune in, question everything, and remember - everything deserves a second look, even history!"

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8

Hold onto your history hats, folks! "Dan Carlin's Hardcore History Addendum” is one bizarre rollercoaster ride through time, narrated by the one and only Dan Carlin. Serving up delicious bite-sized morsels of history, Carlin is your trusty (though slightly eccentric) tour guide through the annals of mankind. A special treat for history buffs, this podcast is heavy on facts and light on snooze-inducing lectures. Whether you fancy tales of washed-up emperors or dramatic pokings into political disputes, there's a war, revolution or regicide for every palate. Not for the faint-hearted or fans of fluffy kittens. If you're ready for the unadulterated truth, history raw and crispy, tuck into Dan Carlin's auditory banquet. One thing's for sure: you won't view your history teachers the same way again.

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9

'Ridiculous History' is a podcast hosted by history buffs, Ben Bowlin and Noel Brown. They delve into the absurdities found recorded on history's pages, leaving no stone unturned. From rioting over fancy hats to wars over bird poop, the duo explores the quirky - and often outlandishly hilarious - side of the past. If you're a history enthusiast who enjoys a healthy dose of humor, this podcast is for you. The quirkier the tale, the more they relish in sharing it. One standout episode is about the time Australia lost a war to emus - no, you didn’t misread that, it's 'emu-ing' true! 'Ridiculous History', turning the pages of the past into a stand-up comedy routine. Give it a listen and prepare to laugh out loud!

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10

'Witness History' is not your typical fireside ghost story podcast but instead, it feels like your quirky history teacher decided to throw a fun, audio pop-quiz! The BBC World Service has conjured up this remarkable podcast that's your 'TARDIS' to fascinating historical events, whisking you from the halls of power in ancient Rome to the heart of the Cold War in ripped jeans and sweat. Targeting history buffs, curious minds or anyone ever dragged to a museum, it packs enthralling, eye-witness accounts of iconic moments and little-known stories. Ready for adventure? Forget your DeLorean, sit back, pop your earphones in, and immerse yourself in time travel at its most convenient. Just remember - no touching the display artifacts!

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11

Peek behind Britain's royal curtains with 'The British History Podcast', a priceless relic romp through Great Britain's tumultuous past. With our fearless navigator and host, Jamie Jeffers, an academic with the heart of a comedian, you'll be exploring various bylanes of Britain's heritage. From a jolly jaunt through the Jurassic period to a full-blown Shakespearean tragedy of the Tudors, each episode unfolds like an intriguing page out of a dusty old history book. Primarily catering to history buffs with an appetite for British lore or individuals who’ve binge-watched The Crown too many times and now crave more, it’s indeed a Masterclass in theatrically recounting historical events. An episode not to miss? ‘The Norman Conquest, a Game of Thrones saga without dragons.’ Tune in and remember, keep calm and history on!

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12

Step right up, history-buffs and flame-keepers alike, "History on Fire” beckons! This sizzling podcast, hosted by the charismatic wordsmith, Professor Daniele Bolelli, is your gateway to the greatest tales of yesteryears. Ditching his academic robes, Bolelli wipes off textbook dust to recite epic sagas, dramatic battles, and legendary heroes all in a quirky and engrossing narrative. Our daredevil historian mixes deep dives and cliff notes with a splash of humor, ensuring every connoisseur of the past remains riveted. Whether you're a thrill-seeking trivia hunter or a seasoned scholar, "History on Fire" has the firepower to spark your curiosity. Lean back, stoke the coals, and heat up your headphones with tales that don’t just tickle your fancy but set it ablaze. Bolelli’s campfire stories never sounded this incandescent!

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13

Step into the time machine with Tides of History, a podcast that unearths the jumbled treasure trove of the past. With your witty guide, historian Patrick Wyman, there's nothing Stanley knife-dull about this journey. There'll be no drawing room boredom or musty parchment smell here, folks. Whether exploring the magnitude of the Black Death or questioning if Julius Caesar really loved pizza, each episode is a unique dive into the whirlpool of history. It's like Indiana Jones, except without dodging massive boulders or weird snake-infested pits. The target audience? Anyone with a pulse and curiosity about the past, that's who! Get ready to learn, chuckle, and mentally time travel. As they say, history is just one darn thing after another, and this podcast sure does it justice.

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14

"Hi there, history nerds! Ray Harris Jr., a man who has probably time-traveled more than Doctor Who, brings you 'The History of WWII Podcast'. Ever wanted to sit in your granddad's war stories only with less bias and more facts? Here you go! Catering to both war buffs and knowledge hounds, this podcast dives into WWII's major events, sprinkled with those lesser-known juicy tidbits. Ray, though not a general, commands the narrative with a clear, engaging voice, making his war room accessible to all. Tune in to find out if Hitler had only one testicle or other delectable trivia. And remember, this is more than just a podcast, it's your personal time machine. History has never been this cool!"

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15

Dive into the vault of time with "A History of the World in 100 Objects," a podcast hosted by that charismatic curator of curiosities, Neil MacGregor. Follow Neil as he picks, paws, and ponders over intriguing artifacts, transforming dusty old relics into fascinating historical narratives. Talking lumps of rock? Neil's got that down pat! Bridging the distant past with our digital era, this podcast is an enticing odyssey for history buffs, cultural enthusiasts, and curious cats eager to think outside the conventional timeline. So, unravel the swirling narratives stitched into every piece - from curious obsidian blades to cryptic clay tablets. Forget your Tardis, comrade, this podcast is your passport through time! So why wait? Let Neil MacGregor help you listen, learn, laugh and love the luxurious labyrinth of history.

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16

Dive into the past with HISTORY This Week, a podcast that's like a time machine, only much safer. Targeted at history buffs and casual time-travelers alike, this platform fetches the most interesting events from our vast timeline and presents them like an uncensored chat with time itself. Did we mention it's hosted by history nerd and time-keeper extraordinaire, Sally Helm? From the birth of blue jeans to the mystery of the lost colony, Sally unravels each week's historical display to satiate your thirst for the past. Don't believe history could be fun(ny)? Try on the episode 'Stolen Smile'; it's about the audacious theft of Mona Lisa from The Louvre. Bet you didn’t see that giggle coming! Hitch a ride with HISTORY This Week - no flux capacitors required!

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17

Dive into the annals of history with the History Unplugged Podcast, a back-to-the-past joyride hosted by the expert historian - Scott Rank. So, did your homework on Ancient Rome get eaten by your dog? No worries, Scott's got your back! This podcast is for history fanatics, students and that uncle who loves war stories. Here, you get a buffet of unvarnished history lessons, no-holds-barred interviews with renowned historians, and spot quizzes that make history sound cooler than pop culture. From discussions on ancient civilizations to World War II mysteries, nothing's off the table. Ever heard of the episode 'Why the Viking Age Began'? Not quite the Thor movie but almost! Tune in to History Unplugged and satiate your hunger for past stories, because life's too short to live it just once!

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18

The Bowery Boys: New York City History is hosted by two history buffs with an irrepressible enthusiasm for the quirky people and places that have shaped the Big Apple. Greg Young and Tom Meyers may not be native New Yorkers, but they truly embody the city’s restless spirit. Luring history-lovers, urban explorers and armchair tourists, this podcast reveals a hidden side of the city that never sleeps. No bland history lectures here, just hilarious tales and fascinating nuggets - served hot and with a side of quirky wit. From spooky ghost stories to the birth of punk music, it’s a fascinating journey through time – all from the comfort of your own earbuds. So grab a pretzel, hop on The Bowery Boys' time-travelling city bus, and let's paint the town red - historically speaking of course.

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19

"The History of England Podcast", hosted by the knowledge-thirsty yet irreverently humorous David Crowther, is just what the curious (and slightly nerdy) doctor ordered. Weaving tales from the misty dawn of Albion to the latest royal foible, Crowther retired from his ho-hum day job to enthrall global history buffs- No need for a Delorean when you have this podcast! Expect hearty chuckles as he stumbles through names, weaves a story like your favorite kooky uncle, and unearths the odd, magnificent, and typically British eccentricities of historical England. A hot favourite? "Magna Carta-Not a Failed Charter". So pour a cuppa tea, relax and listen as you're pulled back in time. Will you be king (or queen) of England trivia after tuning in? One can only hope, old chap!

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20

Hang on to your history caps, folks! Dive right into Dan Snow's History Hit, hosted by the man who's as enthused about the past as an archaeologist on caffeine. Dan Snow, a historian by profession, decided that textbooks were passe and podcasts were the new parchment. His aim? Quite simply, to bring history to the masses. Laced with facts, anecdotes and infectious enthusiasm, this podcast is a riveting rollercoaster ride through the annals of yesteryears. It's intended for history geeks, general knowledge buffs, and anyone who secretly enjoys time travel. A standout episode? Top vote goes to 'The Real King Arthur' – because historical figures love a good identity crisis. And there's tons more where this came from! Dan Snow's History Hit - it's history, but cooler.

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21

"History That Doesn't Suck" is the brainchild of Professor Greg Jackson, who swaps his classroom for the airwaves with style. Imagine your history class, minus the desk snoozefests, filled with epic stories you actually care about. Bursting with genuine passion, Jackson deftly retells riveting tales from history, nailing the “facts with flair” combo. The podcast is designed for history buffs, the henceforth history-converted, and pretty much anyone who loves a good story laced with facts. From revolutions to romanticism, each epoch has its day here. Picture the charm of your favorite Prof, delivering lessons complete with cliffhangers. Highlight reel? Try the "Civil War: Causes and Blood Anticipation” episode – spoiler, it's even better than it sounds. Dive in, history never sucked this little.

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22

'Buckle up language enthusiasts and history buffs, prepare to enter the word-nerd realm! Welcome to The History of English Podcast – a riveting journey through the roller-coaster ride of language evolution, hosted by the delightful Kevin Stroud. Retracing the footsteps of our English linguistic ancestors, this podcast does for words what David Attenborough does for wildlife - fascinates, educates, and entertains! From mind-boggling Old English sagas to linguistic adventurers called Normans, learn about the roots, shoots, and fruits of English language. Geared towards anyone who's ever wondered "Why the heck do we say that?", this podcast serves language lessons with a hearty side of history. Sit back, plug in and boost that brain with the most melodious chronicle of the English language!

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23

'In Our Time History' is like a time machine for your ears, guided by lord of the airwaves, Melvyn Bragg! He's binned off his traditional broadcasting garb to engage history buffs and curious minds alike…all from the comfort of his podcasting armchair. In each episode, Melvyn ropes in academic bigwigs to travel back in time, tackling themes from the Magna Carta to ancient Rome. Want to impress your friends with fascinating historical facts at the next pub quiz? Forget trawling through dusty encyclopedias; this podcast has got you covered! With episodes like 'The Emancipation of the Serfs', who needs soaps or sitcoms? Plug in and get ready for some timeless edutainment! Or as they might say in ancient Rome, "Audite et discite!" (Listen and learn!).

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24

"Hope Through History" packs a powerful punch for all you history buffs out there. It's a historical safari, navigating us through devastating crises that rocked humanity, hosted by the inimitable maven of history, Jon Meacham. From the great depression to 9/11, listen as Meacham stitches stories of resilience together with his delightful wit. No, you won't need A-level history for this. It’s designed for anyone who loves a dash of triumph with their morning coffee. And yes, they do serve some jazzy trivia on this informative plate of the past. So, buckle up, folks! Each episode is a thrilling ride exploring how humanity found hope and survived against all odds. Now if that isn't a history lesson with a kick, we don't know what is!

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25

"Time-travel isn't impossible when you're hitching a ride with 'History of Philosophy Without Any Gaps'. Professor Peter Adamson, your charismatic time lord, nobly took a break from amateur badminton competitions to create this podcast because he believes in wisdom for all, not just his students. Perfect for philosophy enthusiasts and armchair time-travellers, this podcast devours centuries of thought without missing a philosophical nibble. One of the stand-out episodes is 'Philoxenus: Mr Personality'. The guest-star, an aged scroll, tells the riveting tale of an ancient poet cum rogue who thought the world was his oyster. And there's buckets more wisdom where that came from! Jump on board, folks - the world of yore awaits you!"

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26

Dive headfirst into 1000 years of fascinating history with The History of Byzantium podcast. No, it's not a trendy new yoga position, but a whirlwind audio tour of the Byzantine Empire led by Robin Pierson. With this podcast, Robin trades gold coins for golden insights into the period between ancient and modern history many of us slept through in school. Geared towards history buffs and trivia lovers, each episode unpacks everything from court intrigues to the secret lives of emperors. So buckle up, Byzantium enthusiasts, because this podcast will catapult you back in time faster than a trebuchet on whipped horses. Still not sold? Tune into episodes like "Justinian's Follies" to truly appreciate the wonders of Byzantine drama. Prepare for the edutainment ride of your lifetime!

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27

'Delve into the darkest chapters of humanity with the Most Notorious A True Crime History Podcast. This isn't your everyday light-hearted chat show, oh no! Host Erik Rivenes, who probably knows more about vintage villains than anyone should, brings you the most audacious, infamous, and chilling crimes from across the annals of time and the globe. It's come-and-get-me content for armchair detectives, history buffs, and lovers of the spine-chillingly macabre who can't resist a rich narrative. From the infamous Lizzie Borden to the sultry intrigue of Mata Hari, find scintillating stories that are guaranteed to raise your brows. And remember, it's all fun and games until you realize... it's all true. Buckle up, Nancy Drews and Sherlock Holmeses of the world! This podcast feed is your hot ticket to past nefarious no-good-doers.'

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28

Great Speeches in History is a must-listen podcast for history buffs and eloquence enthusiasts alike. Hosted by the charismatic and well-read Orator The Great, he retired from his cushy history professorship, all to bring you closer to history's greatest spiels via a podcast. Sharing his love for history's great speeches, he takes us on a thrilling time-traveling adventure. Imagine diving into the impassioned orations of Martin Luther King or tasting the honeyed words of Churchill right from your couch! The content dips into the depths of profound speeches with historical context, attributing its appeal to those keen on oratory skills, history, or simply love a good tale. So go ahead, lend an ear, and tune into the verbal symphonies that changed the course of history. Showstopper episodes? We'd vouch for 'Lincoln's House-Divided' - you've got to hear it to believe it!

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29

Step back in time with The History Hour podcast, a thrilling audio romp hosted by—let's just call him Professor Time, aka Max Pearson. Why skim dusty textbooks when you can gallivant through bygone eras, get the skinny on historic happenings, and munch on bite-sized anecdotes—all packaged in your ear. Each episode plunges into a different era making it the perfect treat for history buffs, fact-ferrets and ‘I-know-this-obscure-thing’ dinner party types. With content ranging from world wars to historical flukes, it’s the history class you daydreamed of in school. You might catch a chuckle learning about silly medieval laws or hold your breath in tales of ancient espionage. The History Hour, because darling, yesterday is never truly gone!

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