First of all, there's the Thomas Jefferson Hour, broadcast on radio stations all over the nation, and podcast for on demand listening.

During the first part of the hour, humanities scholar Clay S. Jenkinson, author of many books, including Becoming Jefferson's People, portrays the third President and author of the Declaration of Independence answering impromptu questions of historical and sociopolitical significance.

The second half of the hour is devoted to an out of character meta-discussion between Jenkinson and "permanent guest host" David Swenson.

Without fail, this hour is a thoughtful and occasionally provocative look at our Jeffersonian heritage, and how modern America measures up to Thomas Jefferson's dream.

Public Domain Image from Wikimedia Commons

Some of my other favorite historical include:

For history with a decidedly international flavor, try the Napoleon 101 podcast on The Podcast Network based Down Under.

TPN founder Cameron Reilly and noted Napoleonic scholar J. David Markham (also a prolific author including Napoleon for Dummies and The Road to St Helena discuss every chapter of Napoleon's life, from his precocious advent as a innovative military leader, to his sad end in sick and lonely exile.

Did you know there was some thought Bonaparte might immigrate to America after he was deposed?

Now there's an alt history series waiting to be written.

Markham and Reilly have spun off another historical podcast, The Biography Podcast.

Their intent in this format is to explore various historical figures-beginning at the beginning, so to speak, with ancient figures including Alexander the Great, Hammurabi of Babylon, and even the mostly mythical Helen of Troy.

They've indicated a desire to make sure the women who've suffered too often in the shadows of history get their time in the spotlight as well.

Wonder if they'll interview me for the entry on Boadicea...

So, what are you listening to lately?

tags: podcasts  podcast fridays  thomas jefferson  thomas jefferson hour  napoleon bonaparte  napoleon 101  the podcast network  clay jenkinson  david swenson  cameron reilly  j david markham  

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