16 Best History Podcasts to Make the Past Come Alive

Why do so many of us turn to history podcasts today? According to Statista, over 160 million Americans listen to podcasts weekly — and history is one of the most popular genres. That's because stories of people, places, and events don't just belong to the past; they explain who we are today. As historian Dan Snow once noted,

"History is the story of how we got here."

Quick summary of the best history podcasts

In this article, you will:

• Discover world history through unique objects in 'The History of the World in 100 Objects'

• Explore US stories with '1619,' 'Uncivil,' and 'Slow Burn'

• Laugh and learn with 'You're Dead to Me' and 'You're Wrong About'

• Dive deep with Dan Carlin's 'Hardcore History'

• Enrich your curiosity with bite-sized insights from the Headway library

The 16 best history podcasts for every enthusiast

1. 'The History of the World in 100 Objects'

This BBC podcast, hosted by Neil MacGregor, explores human history through artifacts. Each of the 100 episodes tells the story of an object, from the earliest stone tools to modern inventions. 

MacGregor connects these items to the evolution of civilizations and cultures, offering fascinating insights into how objects shaped humanity. The storytelling is rich but accessible, making even complex topics easy to follow.

• Average length: ~15 minutes

• Best for: Learners who enjoy artifacts and world history

• Tags: World history, archaeology, BBC

2. 'The Memory Palace'

'The Memory Palace,' hosted by Nate DiMeo, is a podcast that details forgotten events from history and turns them into stories. Every episode is accompanied by music, creating an extremely immersive listening experience. While even the best podcasts feel like a lecture, 'The Memory Palace' feels like a set of short audiobooks narrated with music.

The stories range from poignant to whimsical, often highlighting forgotten figures. This podcast appeals as much to lovers of literature and art as to history buffs.

• Average length: 10–20 minutes

• Best for: Story lovers who want short, artistic narratives

• Tags: Storytelling, US history, cultural history

3. '1619'

'1619' is a groundbreaking limited series hosted by Nikole Hannah-Jones and produced by The New York Times that discusses how slavery shaped America. Every episode delves into systemic issues and elevates the voices and stories of people often excluded from the history books.

It blends historical reflection with journalism in an intensely personal and potently investigative tone. '1619 is a must-listen for anyone interested in American society's origins.

• Average length: ~30–40 minutes

• Best for: Listeners interested in race, politics, and US foundations

• Tags: American history, social justice, investigative

4. 'Uncivil'

The podcast 'Uncivil' initially appears to be about the American Civil War, but ultimately brings previously untold stories to light. The podcast hosts, Chenjerai Kumanyika and Jack Hitt, employ engrossing narratives and investigative journalism. 

Their podcast is mostly about how the Civil War was large enough to redefine the entire culture and social norms of the United States, not just its politics. Episodes uncover both well-known figures and forgotten voices, adding fresh context to a pivotal era. It's not just about the past — 'Uncivil' draws clear lines to today's society.

• Average length: ~30 minutes

• Best for: History buffs interested in the US Civil War and its legacy

• Tags: American history, politics, war

5. 'Stuff the British Stole'

Journalist Marc Fennell discusses the tales of artifacts stolen during the British Empire. The podcast explores stolen treasures and their significance, taking listeners from Australia to Nigeria and India. Fennell does not avoid the unsettling realities of colonialism and cultural piracy.

Every episode combines elements of a history lesson, travelogue, and investigation. This show offers a viewpoint for anyone interested in Britain's global influence.

• Average length: 25–35 minutes

• Best for: Listeners interested in empire, colonialism, and global history

• Tags: British history, colonialism, culture

6. 'In Our Time'

'In Our Time' has pioneered as a historical and intellectual platform since 1998. Melvyn Bragg hosts the program, which includes panels of experts who analyze everything from politics to ancient philosophy. The tone, which is both academic and approachable, helps general audiences understand complex topics.

With over a thousand episodes, it offers a nearly endless library of knowledge. If you want history with depth and rigor, this podcast is unmatched.

• Average length: ~45 minutes

• Best for: Learners who want in-depth, academic-style discussions

• Tags: World history, philosophy, BBC

7. 'Slow Burn'

Every season of 'Slow Burn' explores a defining episode in modern American history — everything from the Watergate scandal to the tales of Tupac and Biggie. Instead of racing to the headlines, the series takes time to explore the events step-by-step. 

What makes it stand out is the human side — the personal stories, emotions, and ripple effects behind the politics and culture. This series is worth binging if you're drawn to scandals or turning points that shaped society.

• Average length: 30–50 minutes

• Best for: Fans of political scandals and cultural history

• Tags: American history, politics, investigative

8. 'Dan Snow's History Hit'

Dan Snow, a British historian, uses relaxed and educational style to talk about history. Episodes range from the true story of the Peaky Blinders to medieval England.

The show is approachable and frequently has shorter episodes,​​ which is ideal for a coffee break. Snow's passion and knowledge make 'History Hit' a dependable option if you're looking for diversity and international coverage.

• Average length: 20–30 minutes

• Best for: Casual listeners who like variety and global topics

• Tags: British history, world history, popular history

9. 'You Must Remember This'

Karina Longworth's 'You Must Remember This' is about the hidden truths of Hollywood. In podcast episodes, she discusses:

• Scandals

• Forgotten stars

• Lost movies. 

The host also frequently questions what we thought we knew about film history. The narration combines historical narrative with cultural critique and is sophisticated and well-researched. Longworth's unique style makes each episode both entertaining and educational. If you're drawn to film and history, this podcast is an ideal mix of both.

• Average length: 40–60 minutes

• Best for: Movie buffs and fans of Old Hollywood

• Tags: American history, film, pop culture

10. 'Throughline'

Hosts Rund Abdelfatah and Ramtin Arablouei investigate the way history affects the present. The show weaves historical events together with today's issues, such as student loan debt and diverse representation in our media. 

The contemporary and relevant tone of the podcast allows listeners to see the long historical sweep of life perceived as ordinary. 'Throughline' connects journalism and history through interviews and discussions. It's ideal for people seeking to understand today's headlines' historical background.

• Average length: 30–50 minutes

• Best for: Listeners who like modern issues explained through history

• Tags: American history, politics, society

11. 'Hardcore History'

'Hardcore History' by Dan Carlin is well-known for its lengthy episodes. Carlin's passionate narration turns factual happenings into epic tales. He talks about everything from ancient to modern wars and is always impassioned about these subjects. Fans talk about Carlin's authority of storytelling and detail, even if the length seems overwhelming.

• Average length: 3–5 hours

• Best for: Hardcore history fans who love deep dives

• Tags: World history, war, military, long-form

12. 'Lore'

'Lore' tells unforgettable stories — it mixes myths, folklore, and real historical events. The podcast, hosted by Aaron Mahnk, dives into the darker sides of human nature and the past. The formula of true crime + mythology keeps listeners hooked. The podcast became so popular that it inspired books and a TV series.

This podcast is perfect if you enjoy haunting tales with a historical twist.

• Average length: 30 minutes

• Best for: Fans of myths, mysteries, and dark tales

• Tags: Folklore, true crime, mystery

13. 'Making'

Created by WBEZ, Making examines how cultural icons came to be. It follows the success of 'Making Oprah' with episodes on figures like Obama, Beyoncé, and Maya Angelou. Each story contains glimpses into personal histories and larger cultural forces. 

It is a biography and a social commentary. If you are interested in the making of legends, this podcast offers some worthy inspiration.

• Average length: 30–45 minutes

• Best for: Listeners interested in famous figures and cultural icons

• Tags: Biography, American history, culture

14. 'Revisionist History'

'Revisionist History' is a show hosted by Malcolm Gladwell that reconsiders neglected or underappreciated moments. Each episode is a mix of narrative and analysis, linking timeless themes and Gladwell's usual curiosity. It's about many things, including education policies, art, and cultural prejudices.

The show encourages listeners to rethink what they thought they knew. For fans of thought-provoking storytelling, this is history with a twist.

• Average length: 30–40 minutes

• Best for: Fans of thought-provoking analysis and Gladwell's work

• Tags: World history, social science, storytelling

15. 'You're Dead to Me'

Sarah Marshall does a deep dive into the stories and characters you may believe you already know. Episodes cover everything from pop culture fads (Y2K, for example) to conversations about justice and social issues. Marshall has new and different perspective that helps form assumptions and raise alternate readings. 

The tone is conversational yet welcoming, with academic research that keeps it interesting, stimulating, and meaningful. This is the type of podcast that makes you reconsider the "common knowledge" that history has taught you.

• Average length: 40–60 minutes

• Best for: Critical thinkers and those who like fresh perspectives

• Tags: American history, culture, society

Sarah Marshall does a deep dive into the stories and characters you may believe you already know. Episodes cover everything from pop culture fads (Y2K, for example) to conversations about justice and social issues. Marshall has new and different perspective that helps form assumptions and raise alternate readings. 

The tone is conversational yet welcoming, with academic research that keeps it interesting, stimulating, and meaningful. This is the type of podcast that makes you reconsider the "common knowledge" that history has taught you.

• Average length: 40–60 minutes

• Best for: Critical thinkers and those who like fresh perspectives

• Tags: American history, culture, society

Five extra history podcasts worth your time: Beyond the big list

We highlighted some of the biggest players in history podcasts, but there are plenty more programs that should definitely make it onto your playlist. These honorable mentions shouldn't go unattended!

17. 'American History Tellers'

If you want US history that feels like a storybook, 'American History Tellers' is a great choice. Produced by Wondery, each season dives into a different era — from the Cold War to the Civil Rights Movement — and plays it out almost like a play. You don't just hear about the events; you feel part of them.

• Average length: 40–50 minutes

• Best for: Listeners who want immersive, dramatic US history

• Tags: American history, culture, politics

18. 'The Rest Is History'

Historians Dominic Sandbrook and Tom Holland prove that history doesn't have to be dry. In 'The Rest Is History', they cover everything from the fall of empires to the quirks of modern politics — all with sharp insight and plenty of humor. Their chemistry keeps every episode lively, even when the topic is based on 20th-century events.

• Average length: 45–60 minutes

• Best for: People who like wit and banter alongside serious analysis

• Tags: World history, British history, culture

19. 'The History of Byzantium'

Fans of Mike Duncan's podcast, 'The History of Rome,' will enjoy this continuation. 'The History of Byzantium' starts where Duncan finished and recounts the thousand years of the Eastern Roman Empire. It is rich, informative, and ideal listening for anyone interested in a diverse and important slice of history that tends to be overlooked.

• Average length: 30–50 minutes

• Best for: Listeners interested in medieval and Byzantine history

• Tags: Byzantine Empire, world history, medieval history

20. 'BBC Radio 4: In Our Time — History'

This BBC Radio 4 spin-off program emphasizes topics of historical significance and is hosted by the endlessly inquisitive Melvyn Bragg. Each episode includes expert guests who clarify complex issues for the audience. Listening to this show is like attending a university seminar without doing any homework.

• Average length: ~45 minutes

• Best for: Learners who want structured, expert-led discussions

• Tags: World history, BBC, academic

Together with giants like Dan Carlin's Hardcore History and NPR favorites like Throughline (known by some fans as TOW), these shows prove that history podcasting is as diverse as history itself. No matter what angle you're into — epic wars, cultural shifts, or forgotten empires — there's always another story waiting to grab your imagination.

No time for full podcasts? Headway is the way out

Many historical podcasts run 30–90 minutes (sometimes hours!). If you want to study history in less time, Headway has you covered. 

The app turns the world's best nonfiction books into 15-minute summaries in text and audio formats.

Explore moving stories like 'Midnight in Chernobyl' by Adam Higginbotham or biographies of icons like Supreme Court legend Ruth Bader Ginsburg or an inspiring leader and politician, Nelson Mandela.

Turn every moment into a history lesson with Headway!

If you want to step into history and better understand the world today, these are the best podcasts on history to start with. From lighthearted comedy shows to in-depth investigations, there's a podcast for every type of listener.

But when time is short, you can still learn from history. With Headway's book summaries, you'll get the most important insights from top nonfiction titles in just 15 minutes. Download the Headway app and start your journey today!