History with Jackson

In a thought-provoking conversation, Jackson sits down to talk to Professor Greg Jackson, host of the History That Doesn't Suck podcast and author of Been There, Done That: How Our History Shows What We Can Overcome, dives into the relevance of American history in addressing contemporary issues.

Get a copy of Been There, Done That https://www.htdspodcast.com/book

Keep up to date with Greg https://www.htdspodcast.com

Listen to his podcasts; History That Doesn't Suck and Government That Doesn't Suck here https://www.htdspodcast.com/podcast

In this episode Fraser McCallum joins Jackson to discuss his fantastic new book, Cold War Britain: Fifty Years in the Shadow of the Bomb. In this conversation, he sheds light on Britain’s often-overlooked role in the Cold War and the intricate dynamics of power during that era.

To grab a copy of Cold War Britain head to https://uk.bookshop.org/a/14692/9780008743994

Keep up to date with Fraser head

His Instagram https://www.instagram.com/fraser_mcca11um/

or the IWM events page https://www.iwm.org.uk/wh...

Today, we dive into an intriguing conversation with Mark Kawar about his book *America But Bigger*, which unpacks America's lesser-known attempts at territorial expansion. What started as a map inspired by Donald Trump's interest in buying Greenland has turned into a fascinating exploration of history.

Grab a copy of America, But Bigger and to keep up to date with Mark head to his website https://americabutbigger.com

To support History with Jackson to carry on creating content subscribe to History with Jackson+ on Apple Podcasts or support us on our Patreon! https://patreon...

In this episode, we dive into the remarkable life of Brian Franks, as revealed by Tim Spice in his new biography, An Axe and Four Balloons. Franks, an influential figure in the SAS, led a life filled with adventure and resilience, which Tim recounts for us today!

Grab a copy of An Axe and Four Balloons https://uk.bookshop.org/a/14692/9781999589172

If you want to get in touch with History with Jackson email: [email protected]

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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 historical narratives in the political landscape. Tim emphasizes that Lincoln is often seen as a figure who can be interpreted in many ways. He describes Lincoln as "plastic" and a consummate politician, stating that by the 1960s...

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 Jackson email: [email protected]

To support History with Jackson to carry on creating content subscribe to History with Jackson+ on Apple Podcasts or support us on...

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 copy of Children of the Third Reich here https://uk.bookshop.org/a/14692/9781474622585

If you want to get in touch with History with Jackson email: [email protected]<...

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.gloucesterhistoryfestival.co.uk/

Grab a copy of 'The Graces: The Extraordinary Untold Lives of Women at the Restoration Court' - https://uk.bookshop.org/a/14692/9781526663788

...

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 https://www.gloucesterhistoryfestival.co.uk/

Grab a copy of Entitled https://uk.bookshop.org/a/14692/9780008775490

Keep up to date with Andrew and his work here

Substack - https://andrewlownie.substack.c...

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.theambulist.co.uk/

Grab a copy of Domesday https://uk.bookshop.org/a/14692/9781803284989

If you want to get in touch with History with...

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/14692/9780500299227

If you want to get in touch with History with Jackson email: [email protected]

To support History with Jackson to ca...

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 of 1936 here https://uk.bookshop.org/a/14692/9781399722766

If you want to get in touch with History with Jackson email: [email protected]

To s...

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.instagram.com/simonsebag_montefiore?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsi=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==

X: https://x.com/simonmontefiore?s=20

If you...

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 implications for democracy, and how this phenomenon manifests within the United States.

To keep up to date with Casey head to

Human Rights Foundation's Combating Kleptocracy Program https://hrf.org/program/co...

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 Frontiers," and delve into the historical and political significances of these areas.

Grab a copy of Hinterlands https://uk.bookshop.org/a/14692/9781805225416

Keep up to date with Hannah via her

X https://x.com/hann...

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 Jackson email: [email protected]

To support History with Jackson to carry on creating content subscribe to History with Jackson+ on Apple Podcasts or support...

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: Statesman, Demagogue, Eccentric here https://uk.bookshop.org/a/14692/9781836392002

If you want to get in touch with History with Jackson email: [email protected]

To...

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, and outcomes that defined it.

Grab a copy of The Fifth Crusade here https://uk.bookshop.org/a/14692/9780300283952

If you want to keep up to date with Tom head to

His website...

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 History of the Wars of the Middle East," we will shed light on the diverse communities that influenced the conflicts, the geopolitical repercussions, and the significance of Jerusalem. 

Grab a copy of The Crusade Storm here https://uk.bookshop.o...

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.

Grab a copy of Scramble for America https://uk.bookshop.org/a/14692/9780008447274

Keep up to date with Clement via his newsletter https://clementknox.substack.com/

"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 Catherine of Aragon’s tragic story, these women’s reigns come just before collapse or conquest. It’s like society is more comfortable removing power from women than sharing it — and once they’re out, they ofte...

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 with History with Jackson email: [email protected]

To catch up on everything to...

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-wing, right-wing, or religious—are often more fragmented than we realise. No monoliths here, just a wild mosaic of factions, motivations, and stories. These figures shaped today’s conflicts in ways many of us overlook—like Bin Laden’s...

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 French village to hiding from enemy soldiers, Frank’s journey was a high-stakes adventure. Adam talks about meeting descendants, visiting crash sites, and walking the mountains where it all happened—seeing his story come 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 beneath these stories lies a complex reflection of ancient gender roles—where women are both disempowered and core to a hero’s glory. It’s a disturbing but fascinating mirror of real ancient life, showing...

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 how ordinary people’s lives are impacted during times of chaos — from factory workers to hotel owners. When history feels distant, these stories remind us how much is at stake in every decision. Worth thinking about...

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 masters. The sheer scale means enslaved people could have their own lives, relationships, even tips and businesses—they had agency, in a system designed to control and exploit at every turn. That’s a far cry from the simpli...

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 docks. The interconnectivity of the Americas reveals a complex history where cultures collided and resistance flourished. These stories of resilience deserve to be known and shared! 

Chalke History Festival is on from the 22nd through to the 28th of June...

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 cheeky details in his masterpieces. Why should art be boring? At its core, art should evoke emotions and laughter, reminding us that it’s all about connection. 

Chalke History Festival is on from the 22nd through...

Why do we picture Henry VIII when we think of England? Let's explore this misconception together! In my conversation with historian Nandini Das, we delve into her new book, *This Little World*, where she challenges the notion of English isolation. Did you know that England’s identity has been shaped by centuries of migration? From the Syrian princesses to Flemish hat makers, the narrative is rich and complex. This period wasn’t just about kings and queens; it was about ordinary people navigating a world of change.

Chalke History Festival is on from the 22nd through to t...

Discover the incredible story of Sergeant Horace Stokes, a key figure in WWII's Special Forces, and his remarkable escapes against all odds. Ideal for history enthusiasts.

In this episode, we delve into the captivating narrative of Sergeant Horace Stokes, an outstanding member of the Special Forces during World War II. His story is not just about survival; it’s a testament to bravery and the indomitable human spirit. Join us as we explore the harrowing escapes that defined his legacy and the historical context surrounding his missions.

Chalke History Festival is on from th...

Discover how Greta Garbo's rise transformed women's self-perception in Hollywood. Learn from Scott Reisfield's insights into her life and impact.

In this episode, we delve into the fascinating life of Greta Garbo and her significant influence on women's roles in Hollywood, as discussed by Scott Reisfield in his book, "Greta Garbo and the Rise of Modern Woman." With insights garnered from his unique relationship with Garbo, Reisfield uncovers how this iconic actress challenged societal norms and reshaped perceptions of femininity.

Keep up to date with Scott and find his book here https://scottreisfield...

In our latest episode, historian Dan Lyndon-Cohen shares his journey from a curious student to the director of the School's History Project. He emphasises the importance of a diverse history curriculum and how it connects to today’s world.

His insights shed light on how we can engage students by connecting historical events to their lives, making learning meaningful and relevant. It's not just about dates and events; it's about understanding the past to navigate the future.

Chalke History Festival is on from the 22nd through to the 28th of June grab tickets fr...

Explore the captivating world of hoaxes in the 18th century, revealing how they shaped society's understanding of truth. Learn why these tales matter today.

In the 18th century, a captivating yet chaotic narrative unfolded, marked by deception and intrigue. Hoaxes were not merely tricks; they were a reflection of the societal tensions and aspirations of the time. This blog post explores the fascinating insights shared by Madeleine Pelling in her recent book, *Hokes, Truth and Lies in the Age of Enlightenment*, shedding light on how hoaxes influenced perceptions of truth and reality during a pivotal era.<...

Discover the untold stories of Pompeii's residents, revealing their daily lives, struggles, and humanity before the great disaster. Explore the depths of history with Dr. Jess Venner.

Pompeii is often remembered for the catastrophic eruption of Mount Vesuvius in AD 79, which buried the city and its inhabitants under layers of ash. But what about the lives of the people who lived there? In this episode, we delve into the vibrant stories of the residents of Pompeii, as shared by Dr. Jess Venner in her remarkable new book. You'll learn about the daily lives, relationships, and societal...

In this episode, we explore the life and work of Plato, one of history's most influential philosophers. Why is it important to examine Plato not just as a thinker but as a person deeply embedded in the social and political fabric of his time? We’ll delve into his dialogues, the context in which they were written, and what they reveal about his views on democracy, philosophy, and civic life.

Grab a copy of Plato: A Civic Life https://uk.bookshop.org/a/14692/9781836392057

If you want to get in touch with History with Ja...

Discover the complex legacy of Cleopatra, from political propaganda to gender dynamics, as explored in Lucy Hughes-Hallett's insightful book. 

In this episode, we’ll delve into the intriguing perspectives on Cleopatra as discussed by Lucy Hughes-Hallett in her book, *Cleopatra: Histories, Dreams, and Distortions*. Cleopatra has often been a subject of fascination, yet her life has been marred by propaganda and distortion. This exploration will reveal not only her story but also the societal attitudes towards women, power, and race.

Grab a copy of Cleopatra https://uk.bookshop.org/a/14692/9780008781323

Kee...

In the world of espionage, few stories are as captivating and controversial as that of the Cambridge Five. This group of British spies, who sold secrets to the Soviet Union during the Cold War, has been romanticized in popular culture as heroic figures battling against the establishment. But what if the truth is far more complex? In this blog post, we explore the myths surrounding the Cambridge Five, their true motivations, and how they fit into Stalin's overarching strategy for Europe.

Grab a copy of Stalin's Apostles https://uk.bookshop.org/a/14692/9781399727891

If...

In this episode Jackson sits down to discuss American history with historian and author Beverley Gage through some of its forgotten tourist attractions and historic locations!

Grab a copy of This Land Is Your Land https://uk.bookshop.org/a/14692/9781836430582

If you want to get in touch with History with Jackson email: [email protected]

To support History with Jackson to carry on creating content subscribe to History with Jackson+ on Apple Podcasts or support us on our Patreon - https://patreon.com/HistorywithJackson?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source...

Why would a psychiatrist connect with one of history's most notorious figures? In this post, we delve into the remarkable story of Dr. Douglas M. Kelley and his interactions with Hermann Göring during the Nuremberg trials. You'll learn how Kelly's experiences shaped his understanding of morality and human behavior, and why this matters for our perception of evil today.

Grab a copy of The Nazi and the Psychiatrist here https://uk.bookshop.org/a/14692/9781610391573

Keep up to date with Jack head to his website - https://www.el-hai.com/

I...