History with Jackson

In a recent discussion, Jackson speaks to Tim Galsworthy about his book 'The Republican House Divided' which gives us a dive deep into the complex legacy of Abraham Lincoln and how his image has been moulded by various political figures over time. The conversation reveals the intricate ways in which politicians leverage Lincoln’s memory to support their agendas, highlighting the malleability of hi...

Aristotle’s life is often overshadowed by his towering intellect and profound influence in philosophy and science. However, in this episode of the History with Jackson podcast, Philip Freeman, author of Aristotle the First Teacher , invites us to explore the man behind the ideas. Grab copy of Aristotle https://uk.bookshop.org/a/14692/9780300279948 If you want to get in touch with History with Jack...

In this episode of History with Jackson, Catherine Clay invites us into a profound exploration of her book, Children of the Third Reich: Three Pasts, Three Futures . Through the lens of three individuals, Clay examines the impact of their parents' legacies—one of victimhood and the other of complicity—in a narrative that forces us to confront uncomfortable truths about our shared history. Grab a c...

In this episode, recorded live at Gloucester History Festival, we welcome author and historian Breeze Barrington back onto the podcast to discuss Maria of Modena, James II and their court. In this episode Breeze tells us how Maria ended up in England, what kind of people were attracted to her court, and her life with James II. Grab tickets for Gloucester History Festival https://www.gloucesterhist...

In this Gloucester History Festival Special episode, we delve into a captivating conversation with Andrew Lownie, author of Entitled: The Rise and Fall of the House of York Andrew shares insights into the intriguing dynamics of Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor and Sarah Ferguson's royal marriages and the complexities of public personas versus private lives. Grab tickets for Gloucester History Festival h...

Max Adams returns to the podcast to discuss his latest book, *Doomsday: 1000 Miles on Foot for the England of the Norman Conquest*. This episode is rich with insights into how the Domesday book can be experienced through the lens of walking, what Conquest England looked like and the challenge of authenticity in historical writing To keep up to date with Max head to his website http://www.theambuli...

The Bayeux Tapestry is not just an artwork; it’s a narrative woven into the fabric of history, capturing a pivotal moment in the Norman Conquest of England. In a recent episode of the History with Jackson podcast, host Jackson welcomed author Michael Lewis to discuss the tapestry's origins, purpose, and the stories it tells. Grab a copy of The Bayeux Tapestry here https://uk.bookshop.org/a/14692/9...

In a fascinating conversation, Jackson sits down with Sian Evans to delve into her new book, 1936: The Year of Three Kings . This year was marked by extraordinary events that reshaped the British monarchy and captured the public's imagination, like King Edward’s private life, the death of George V, and Baldwin’s politics all tangled together into one of the wildest royal stories ever. Grab a copy...

In a recent episode of History with Jackson , historian Simon Sebag Montefiore sheds light on his new book, The Cauldron: The Making of the Modern Middle East . His insights unravel the complexities and historical narratives that shape the region today. Grab a copy of the Cauldron head to https://uk.bookshop.org/a/14692/9781399634892 Keep up to date with Simon head to Instagram https://www.instagr...

n recent years, the term "oligarchy" has surfaced more frequently in discussions about American democracy, particularly as wealth inequality widens. But what does it mean for a nation to be governed by a select few wealthy individuals? In this blog post, we delve into insights from historian Casey Michel, author of "United States of Oligarchy" We’ll explore the concept of oligarchy, its implicatio...

In today’s ever-shifting geopolitical landscape, understanding the complexities of Europe’s hinterlands is crucial. These regions, often caught in the web of competing powers and ideologies, reveal much about the tensions that characterize contemporary Europe. In this blog post, we will explore the insights shared by Hannah Lucinda Smith, author of "Hinterlands: Journey Through Europe's Unfinished...

Today we welcome Joseph Kelly to talk about his fantastic new book, "The Biggest Lie: The Prehistory of American Fascism, 1818 to 1915." In this episode, we'll explore the roots of fascism in American history and how they connect to modern political trends. Grab a copy of 'The Biggest Lie' https://www.bloomsbury.com/uk/biggest-lie-9781639732135/ If you want to get in touch with History with Jackso...

In the realm of ancient Greek history, few figures loom as large as Pericles, whose leadership and vision helped shape the very foundations of democracy in Athens. In this blog post, we delve into the life and legacy of Pericles, exploring his unique blend of statesmanship, demagoguery, and eccentricity, and how these traits influenced the trajectory of Athenian society. Grab a copy of Pericles: S...

In this episode, we explore the often-overlooked Fifth Crusade, focusing particularly on its campaign in Egypt. This period of history is integral to understanding the evolution of the Crusades and the geopolitical landscape of the Near East during the thirteenth century. By shedding light on this fascinating crusade, historian Thomas Smith provides us with insight into the motivations, challenges...

In this episode, we will delve into the multifaceted history of the Crusades, exploring the various perspectives that shaped these monumental events. The Crusades are often simplistically viewed as a clash between Christians and Muslims, but this narrative overlooks the intricate dynamics and numerous factions involved. By examining Nicholas Morton's recent work, "The Crusader Storm: A Global Hist...

Ever wonder how the US became an empire without anyone really noticing? We are led to believe in the peaceful, founding story of America, is instead a relentless scramble for land and power from the Louisiana Purchase to the conquest of California, this wasn’t just expansion— it was an empire in disguise. This history challenges everything you think you know about the US's borders and sovereignty....

"Why do female rulers often end up as the ‘last’ of their empires or kingdoms?" In studying queens from Cleopatra to Hawaii’s last monarch, Kate noticed a pattern: women often mark the final chapters of empires. Why? Because historically, societies have been quick to see women as threats—politically and physically. Whether it’s Cleopatra’s last stand, the Queen of Hawaii’s quiet resistance, or Cat...

In this episode we speak to Zack White about the American Revolution, the role that the Spanish played in it, how it affected the colonies and the native Americans! Grab your tickets for Chalke History Festival here which is held between the 22rd of June to the 28th! To learn more about Chalke and grab tickets head to their website , TikTok , Instagram , X or Facebook ! If you want to get in touch...

Uncover the truth about revolutionaries who hijacked the 70s — and why they’re still shaping our world today. Have you ever wondered what fuels radicals to become what we call terrorists? Jason's new book, The Revolutionists , digs into the mindsets, characters, and global movements that blurred those lines in the 60s and 70s. In this episode we discuss the way revolutionary ideas—whether left-win...

Ever wondered what it takes to retrace a WWII hero’s daring escape? Adam great grandfather, Frank's story isn’t just tales of bravery; it’s about the unbelievable journey from crash to freedom, crossing mountains and dodging enemies, all while risking everything. Why? Because some stories aren’t just history—they’re lessons in resilience and kindness, shared across generations. From crashing in a...

Why are women such a central obsession in Greek myths, often portrayed as obstacles or prizes? In Homer’s world—myth and history blend, creating a paradox. Women are both silenced and mythologized, seen as prizes or obstacles, and yet, they're essential to the story’s very fabric. For example, Helen’s obsession drives the Trojan War, while women like Penelope symbolize loyalty and silence. But ben...

In this episode with Katja Hoyer I learned how Weimar’s choice as the new republic’s capital wasn’t random; it was strategic. Small, cultural, and safe from political upheaval, it symbolized a fresh start. But beneath that veneer, extremism was already brewing — Nazis testing their power, violence simmering just beneath the surface. The town’s evolution shows how politics and culture collide, and...

Most history books only scratch the surface of Roman slavery, portraying it as just manual labor. But Emma Southon new book 'Servus: How Slavery Made the Roman Empire' reveals a hidden world—slavery that reached into every corner of society, even high finance and bureaucracy. Imagine slaves running entire provinces, managing banks, or even owning property, yet still legally ‘property’ of their mas...

Ever wondered how history shapes our present? Let's dive into the untold stories of resistance against slavery.  In this episode, we explore Carrie Gibson's insights from her book *The Great Resistance*, highlighting the rich tapestry of enslaved people's struggles across the Americas. It's not just about plantations—enslavement permeated all aspects of life, from urban settings to the d...

Ever wondered why art history feels so dry? Let's dive into the hilarious chaos behind it! 🤔🎨  Art isn’t just about dates and terminology; it’s about wild stories and unforgettable characters. From the Renaissance to today, artists have always pushed boundaries and behaved in outrageous ways.  Take Michelangelo, who mixed it up between styles and even poked fun at his critics with chee...