Catherine the Great stands out from the rulers of Imperial Russia – a 'philosopher empress' whose wit, political savvy, and unyielding ambition transformed her empire into a European powerhouse. Seizing the throne through an audacious coup against her own husband, Catherine wielded her authority with an iron grip, balancing the volatile ambitions of her cour ... Show More
Nov 2024
Catherine of Aragon | Secret Lives of the Six Wives
<p>We know the fates of Henry VIII's wives, but what were these iconic women <em>really</em> like?</p><br><p>In the first episode of this limited series, <em>Secret Lives of the Six Wives</em>, we'll explore the ways that Catherine of Aragon was a formidable queen and leader, and ... Show More
36m 17s
Mar 2025
Catherine of Braganza: Loyalty, Politics, and Heartbreak
<p>Catherine of Braganza, Charles II’s Portuguese queen, faced political turmoil, religious strife, and a scandalous court—yet her influence endured. In this episode, historian <strong>Susan Abernethy</strong> joins me to discuss her book on Catherine’s remarkable life, from roya ... Show More
53m 7s
Dec 2024
Catherine Howard | Secret Lives of the Six Wives
<p>Henry VIII called her his 'rose without a thorn', but the teenage Catherine Howard was to fall out of favour less than 18 months after becoming Queen of England.</p><br><p>Out of all of Henry's wives it could be argued that the young queen, who was a cousin of Anne Boleyn, is ... Show More
37m 38s