How does the past shape today's world? In HistoryExtra's fortnightly podcast History Behind the Headlines, Matt Elton is joined by regular panellists Hannah Skoda and Rana Mitter and guest experts to explore the historical context you need to understand the latest news.
For more fascinating stories from the past, head to HistoryExtra, the home of ‘History’s Greatest’ podcasts. Find out more at historyextra.com/podcast.
We'd love to know what you think about the podcast, so leave us a review and let us know the topics you think we should be covering. Or, follow us on Facebook, X, Instagram or YouTube to keep in touch.
You can listen ad-free to this podcast and all History Extra podcasts by subscribing to HistoryExtra Plus here: https://historyextra.supportingcast.fm/
This podcast is hosted by Matt Elton with regular panellists Hannah Skoda and Rana Mitter. This series is produced by Jack Bateman and Lewis Dobbs.
Students have been protesting throughout France in recent weeks, with hundreds of thousands of people taking to the streets in cities including Paris and Marseille. It’s far from the first time that students have been involved in such mass demonstrations, and in this episode regular panellists Hannah Skoda and Rana Mitter explore some notable historical parallels.
Plus, as the UK’s politicians gather for their respective annual conferences, we take a look at some key moments that have defined the politics of their era.
------
If you have any questions that you'd like Rana and Hannah to tackle, get in touch: podcast@historyextra.com
For more fascinating stories from the past, head to HistoryExtra, the home of ‘History’s Greatest’ podcasts. Find out more at historyextra.com/podcast/
We'd love to know what you think about the podcast, so leave us a review and let us know the topics you think we should be covering. Or, follow us on Facebook, X, Instagram or YouTube to keep in touch.
You can listen ad-free to this episode and more by subscribing to HistoryExtra Plus here: https://historyextra.supportingcast.fm/
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
23 Sept 2026
What do US-Asia summits reveal about American imperialism?
US President Donald Trump has hosted Chinese leader Xi Jinping for a summit in Washington this week, with topics including AI and international trade up for discussion. But how have such meetings reflected the way in which the United States has thought about Asia? And in what ways do imperial ambitions play into this story? Regular panellists Rana Mitter and Hannah Skoda explore the longer history.
Plus, closer to home: what hidden histories might lurk in a hedgerow near you?
------
If you have any questions that you'd like Rana and Hannah to tackle, get in touch: podcast@historyextra.com
For more fascinating stories from the past, head to HistoryExtra, the home of ‘History’s Greatest’ podcasts. Find out more at historyextra.com/podcast/
We'd love to know what you think about the podcast, so leave us a review and let us know the topics you think we should be covering. Or, follow us on Facebook, X, Instagram or YouTube to keep in touch.
You can listen ad-free to this episode and more by subscribing to HistoryExtra Plus here: https://historyextra.supportingcast.fm/
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
9 Sept 2026
Why is the blockbuster Bayeux exhibition so important?
The British Museum’s major Bayeux Tapestry exhibition finally opens its doors in London this week, following months of build-up and excitement. But why are blockbuster historical events such as this so important in bringing history to a wider audience? And why is the Tapestry such a big deal in the first place?
In this episode, regular panellists Hannah Skoda and Rana Mitter delve into the production, politics and pertinence of the Bayeux Tapestry, and look back at some other moments in which history has captured the imagination of a nation.
-----
GO BEYOND THE PODCAST
You can explore HistoryExtra’s full coverage of the Bayeux Tapestry and the new exhibition, including podcasts, videos and articles, here: https://bit.ly/3V0x2oQ
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Reach and audience
Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.
Apple Podcasts (US)
4.5 / 5
2 ratings
Contact History Behind the Headlines
Guest appearances
Books guests
Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.
Pod Engine is an independent podcast discovery and analytics service and is not affiliated with or endorsed by this podcast. Artwork and show content belong to their owners. Full legal notice.
Explore this show Podcast research with Pod Engine
