First published in 2011, Simon Sebag Montefiore's book Jerusalem: The Biography charts life in the city across the course of centuries. Now he's returned with an updated version, which extends the story beyond 1967 right up to the present day. Simon speaks to Matt Elton about the importance and challenges of telling such a history, and explains how placing t ... Show More
Sep 24
The Soviet spy who couldn't love
In 1981, a Soviet spy walked into MI6 HQ in Tehran and offered to defect to Britain – if, in return, Britain could help him improve his performance in bed. In this episode, Ben Macintyre introduces Spencer Mizen to an extraordinary agent with a sexual secret – a secret that chang ... Show More
42m 44s
Nov 2023
Israel, Gaza and the West Bank: A History
<p>In light of the complex and tragic situation unfolding in Gaza and Israel, this episode looks at the past 100 years of the history of the region of Palestine. As well as explanation from Dan, we hear from experts who have been on the podcast before to explain the background to ... Show More
1h 4m
Jan 2025
Israel: The Fascinating and Complex History
Explore Israel's rich and turbulent history, from its ancient biblical roots to its establishment as a modern state. We dive into the stories of patriarchs, the building of Jerusalem, the rise of Zionism, and the ongoing challenges of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Perfect for ... Show More
1h 43m
Feb 2024
Daphna Sharfman, "Jerusalem in the Second World War" (Routledge, 2024)
Daphna Sharfman's book Jerusalem in the Second World War (Routledge, 2024) is the first to present the unique story of the city of Jerusalem during the events of the Second World War and how it played a unique role in both the military and civilian aspects of the war. Whilst Jeru ... Show More
1h 27m
Apr 2022
176. The Jews Against Rome (Part 2)
"The destruction of Jerusalem by the Romans: a thrilling, terrible, and blood-soaked story."
Following on from last week's episode on the Crucifixion, Tom and Dominic take us back to Judea to dissect the tumultuous events of the Jewish Revolt.
Tune in to hear the first part of ... Show More
32m 21s
Apr 2022
177. The Jewish Revolt (Part 3)
In the second of two episodes on the Jewish Revolt, Tom and Dominic discuss the burning of the Temple, Vespasian & Titus' triumph, and Masada.
Why was it such a landmark revolt for both Christianity and Judaism? What happened in its aftermath? And what has its historical signifi ... Show More
53m 47s