The National Archives Podcast Series

Journeys of discovery: surgeons at sea - ADM 101 Research Symposium

Fri, 28 Jan 2011 12:00:00 GMT

Professor Laurence Brockliss, from the University of Oxford, discusses how ADM 101 has been used by his team over the past ten years, and considers how the newly digitised files will aid their future research. This talk was recorded as part of 'The journeys of discovery: surgeons at sea - ADM 101 Research Symposium'.

Damaged, disturbed and dismembered: disability and war in the 20th century

Mon, 24 Jan 2011 12:00:00 GMT

Wars in the 20th century have been responsible for the deaths of millions of people. Still more come back from conflict with permanent disabilities, in body and mind, in need of medical treatment, on-going care and financial support. Drawing on the wide range of materials in the National Archives, Dr Julie Anderson explores the history of people disabled in war in the 20th century. This talk was part of The National Archives' Diversity Week, a series of events and activities aimed at promoting equality and diversity in how we work and what we do. Dr Julie Anderson is a Senior Lecturer in the School of History at the University of Kent.

Titanic: the official story

Wed, 19 Jan 2011 18:00:00 GMT

This talk marks the ninty-eighth anniversary of the sinking of the Titanic. Using documents from The National Archives, James Cronan will take you through the history of the ship, from its construction and launch to its fateful end. James Cronan is a records specialist in diplomatic and colonial records. His interest in all things Titanic stems from the fact that his great-grandfather was a crewman on board the stricken ship. He has worked at The National Archives for 17 years, at Chancery Lane, the Family Records Centre and Kew.

Challenges facing The National Archives

Fri, 14 Jan 2011 09:00:00 GMT

Podcast of an interview which took place on Monday 29 November 2010. Dr Andrew Foster from the Historical Association and also a member of The National Archives Strategic Academic Stakeholder Forum in conversation with Oliver Morley, Acting Chief Executive about the strategic challenges faced by The National Archives in difficult economic times and how The National Archives plans to continue building relationships with the academic and research community.

New files from 1980

Thu, 30 Dec 2010 00:05:00 GMT

An introduction to newly released files from 1980, covering subjects such as economic policy, the European Community Budget, relations with trade unions, the Iranian Embassy siege and the potential boycott of the Moscow Olympics. These files provide a fascinating insight into government 30 years ago. Presented by Mark Dunton, and introduced by Tommy Norton.

Naval medical officers' journals and the history of medicine

Fri, 17 Dec 2010 17:00:00 GMT

Author Daniel Gilfoyle discusses the naval medical officers' journals of ADM 101 provide a coherent view of the beliefs and practices of a body of rank and file medical practitioners during the late 18th and 19th centuries. They provide a valuable source for examining key themes in the history of medicine in the 19th century, such as encounters with tropical diseases and the changing understanding of the causes of disease.

Madame Rachel of Bond Street

Fri, 10 Dec 2010 16:00:00 GMT

Author Helen Rappaport discusses the subject of her newest book, Beautiful For Ever: Madame Rachel of Bond Street – Cosmetician, Con-Artist and Blackmailer. In the talk, Helen reveals Madame Rachel’s startling career path – from fish fryer in Clare Market to proprietor of an exclusive ‘Temple of Renovation’ that promised eternal beauty but was built upon a foundation of lies, treachery and blackmail.

The Cabinet Papers 1915-1979

Fri, 03 Dec 2010 15:00:00 GMT

This talk explores how anyone with an interest in modern history can get the best out of the Cabinet Papers online resource, which provides access to historical records of the key episodes in 20th century British and international history. The talk also looks at the historical development of the Cabinet, how the Cabinet works and the main record series.

Hidden Women: uncovering the veil of silence during the partition of Punjab, India 1947

Mon, 29 Nov 2010 17:00:00 GMT

Dr Pippa Virdee of De Montfort University uncovers the hidden voices of Muslim women during the partition of the Punjab, India in 1947. Using first-hand accounts, Dr Virdee reveals how women, often sheltered from private and public spaces, created their own space during this complex and traumatising time.

The London Gazette: not just the brave and the bankrupt

Fri, 19 Nov 2010 12:00:00GMT

Family History specialist Audrey Collins discusses how researchers can get the most out of the London Gazette, Britain’s oldest continually-published newspaper.

Royal Hospital Chelsea: Soldiers' service documents

Mon, 15 Nov 2010 12:00:00GMT

Military records specialist William Spencer talks about WO 97, one of The National Archives' most popular record series. This series holds detailed and comprehensive military records of over 1.5 million soldiers who served in the British Army between 1760 and 1913.

Forgotten tragedy: The loss of HMT Lancastria

Fri, 05 Nov 2010 15:00:00GMT

On 17 June 1940, HMT Lancastria was sunk by a German bomber while evacuating troops from St Nazaire; over 9,000 troops were packed on board. This talk attempts to explain why so many who were lost will never be accounted for.

Credit crunch histories: records of bankrupts in The National Archives

Fri, 22 Oct 2010 12:00:00GMT

Bankruptcy proceedings have been taking place in England and Wales for over 400 years. In this talk, Chris Cooper describes the bankruptcy records for England and Wales held by The National Archives, indicating the best ways of researching them, and referring to related records elsewhere

Freedom fighters: sources for black loyalists at The National Archives

Fri, 15 Oct 2010 17:00:00GMT

Abi Husainy reveals the African American contribution to the American revolution, using documents and concrete examples found in The National Archives.

A history of the Public Records Office

Fri, 08 Oct 2010 16:00:00GMT

Vanessa Carr takes us through a brief history of the Public Records Office, looking at public records from 1086 to 2003.

Charles Dickens, Warren's Blacking and the Chancery Court

Fri, 01 Oct 2010 15:00:00GMT

At the age of 12, the delicate and genteelly brought up Charles Dickens was plunged into employment in a boot-blacking factory, while his father was incarcerated in Marshalsea debtors' prison. These events traumatised the young Dickens, and greatly influenced his future work. However, as an adult this difficult period was never discussed, and only after his death did his account come out. That account has never been corroborated or challenged, but author Michael Allen has discovered that Dickens' employers at Warren's Blacking were fighting each other in the Chancery Court, revealing a great deal of new information.

The Kitchen Front: domestic life in the Second World War

Fri, 24 Sep 2010 17:00:00GMT

Find out how documents held by The National Archives can reveal a fascinating picture of the domestic lives of ordinary people living through the Second World War.

The first Afghan war

Fri, 17 Sep 2010 15:00:00GMT

In this talk, journalist and historian Jules Stewart will guide us through the 1838-1842 period of Afghan history. Just some of the events explored include the Persian siege of Herat with Russian assistance, which Britain feared would lead to an invasion of India through Afghanistan, and the issuance of the infamous Simla Manifesto that justified the invasion.

Sailors, storms and science: how Royal Navy logbooks help us understand climate change

Fri, 10 Sep 2010 16:00:00GMT

Dr Dennis Wheeler, from the University of Sunderland, discusses the use of historical Royal Navy logbooks in studies of climate change, focusing on the archival resources rather than scientific conclusions.

Catch-up history and the Cold War

Fri, 03 Sep 2010 17:00:00GMT

Professor Peter Hennessy, Attlee Professor of Contemporary British History, Queen Mary, London University, and author of The Secret State, examines the 'particles and patterns of the past' to peer into the part of the post-war British state kept under wraps for the duration of the Cold War.

MI5 file release August 2010

Thu, 26 Aug 2010 00:05:00GMT

Professor Christopher Andrew introduces the 25th Security Service records release, which contains 170 files, bringing the total number of its records in the public domain to more than 4,500.

Alcohol Consumption in Historical Perspective

Fri, 20 Aug 2010 16:00:00GMT

Dr Phil Withington discusses how historical research - even on the early-modern period - can be used to inform contemporary policymaking on alcohol consumption.

Reforming Central Government: The case of science and technology

Wed, 18 Aug 2010 17:00:00GMT

Professor David Edgerton considers Churchill's approach to science and technology during World War Two and looks at his relationship with the 'Cronies and Technocrats' of the time.

UFO file release August 2010

Thu, 05 Aug 2010 10:00:00GMT

Dr David Clarke, author of The UFO files and senior lecturer in Journalism at Sheffield Hallam University, reveals the importance of the latest batch of UFO files to be released by The National Archives.

Tourists and booking clerks - information for family historians in the Thomas Cook Archives

Fri, 30 Jul 2010 12:00:00GMT

Paul Smith, company archivist of Thomas Cook UK & Ireland, offers a general account of the holdings of the Thomas Cook Archives, with particular reference to records that might prove useful for family historians, such as staff magazines, contracts of employment and passenger lists.

Treaties in The National Archives

Fri, 23 Jul 2010 16:00:00GMT

James Cronan introduces some of the most richly decorated and important documents held at The National Archives.

The pub and the people

Fri, 16 Jul 2010 16:00:00GMT

Simon Fowler use contemporary accounts to look back at the pub ‘experience’ over the last 70 years.

Disclosure, documentary release and candour in government

Fri, 09 Jul 2010 17:00:00GMT

Jonathan Sumption OBE QC considers the issue of government secrecy throughout English history in his lecture to the Friends of The National Archives.

The South African empire

Wed, 07 Jul 2010 12:00:00GMT

Historian Dr Anne Samson explores South Africa's attempt to build an empire over the past century.

Identity and identity theft

Fri, 02 Jul 2010 12:00:00GMT

Steve Hindle of the University of Warwick shows how contemporary issues relating to international migration were also present in 17th century parish migration.

The National Archives goes to the movies

Mon, 21 Jun 2010 12:00:00GMT

Trace the history of cinema in Britain through the collections of The National Archives. From silent classics and lost masterpieces to the controversial cult films of the 1970s, see how politicians and civil servants grappled with the new medium and how the government influenced film in Britain. What film made Marie Stopes threaten the Home Office with legal action? Which groundbreaking British cartoon was financed by the CIA and why did Sir Ranulph Fiennes attempt to blow up the set of Dr. Doolittle? Joseph Pugh is a member of the Education and Outreach team at The National Archives. He has worked for a number of museums and galleries including the National Portrait Gallery and the Petrie Collection and for BBC History. His research interests include comics in the 1950s, how to win a duel and fainting in the 19th century.

Women, darts and the pub in the interwar period

Fri, 04 Jun 2010 12:00:00GMT

Dart historian Patrick Chaplin offers a surprising insight into the role of women in the social history of darts. He challenges the commonly held belief that women in the interwar period rarely participated in darts, or other pub games, because of their restricted access to the 'masculine republic' of the tap room, the public bar and the vault.

This podcast was recorded live as part of the Pub History Society conference on the 20th February 2010 at The National Archives, Kew.

Lost London pubs

Wed, 26 May 2010 12:00:00GMT

'Lost London pubs' looks back at the changing nature and purpose of pubs over the past 250 years, illustrated through speaker Jack Adams' own collection of books about pubs published during this period.

This podcast was recorded live as part of the Pub History Society conference on the 20th February 2010 at The National Archives, Kew. We apologise for any resulting distortion in sound quality.

Tracing marriages in 18th century England and Wales: a reassessment of law and practice

Fri, 21 May 2010 12:00:00GMT

The Clandestine Marriages Act of 1753 marked an important development in the history of marriage by putting the requirements for a valid marriage on a statutory basis for the first time. But what was the situation before 1753, and what practical impact did the Act have on popular practice? This thorough reassessment of law and practice is of particular relevance to those tracing their ancestors. First, the universality of formal marriage increases the likelihood that a record of an ancestor's marriage will exist somewhere; secondly, parish-level studies provide us with a clearer idea of where one may need to look for a marriage; and, thirdly, success or failure in tracing a marriage can be set within the context of the marriage law and practice of the time.

Dependence, intolerance and expulsion: the story of the Jews in England, 1066 - 1290

Wed, 19 May 2010 12:00:00GMT

William the Conqueror invited Jews into England from Normandy around 1070, but the Jewish community of merchants and money lenders formed an uneasy relationship with the English crown and people. Medieval Jews were considered to be the king's property, and received certain protection, despite ruthless exploitation of their finances by the crown. However, their religious beliefs created suspicion that resulted in frequent persecution.

Bara Brith on the pampas: the Welsh in Patagonia

Fri, 26 Mar 2010 10:00:00GMT

In 1865, a Welsh speaking colony was established in the valley of the Chubut River in Patagonia Argentina. The original emigrants sailed from Liverpool on the Mimosa and they were joined in the 1880s by a second wave of emigrants and a further colony was established in the foothills of the Andes. Although measures were later taken to remove some of the colonists to Canada and South Africa, most of the settlers and their descendants remained in Argentina. The National Archives holds a vast amount of material relating to this relatively unknown but fascinating episode in British history. This talk looks at the main records relating to the history and development of the settlement from the earliest days to modern times, and examines why the Welsh travelled to Patagonia, what they encountered when they got there, and how the colony developed over the years.

Counting the people

Fri, 19 Mar 2010 12:00:00GMT

Census returns are among the most popular records used by family historians and other researchers, but many of us give little thought as to what went on behind the scenes every time a census was taken. This talk explores the creation of the census, with the mass organisation of enumerators, temporary clerks, permanent civil service clerks and registrars, as well as the fascinating stories that lie behind each census, to help us better understand the records we think we know so well.

I'm All Right Jack! Britain in 1959

Fri, 12 Mar 2010 12:00:00GMT

The famous Boulting Brothers film 'I'm All Right Jack!' was released just over 50 years ago. The film, in which a blundering innocent causes a nationwide strike, was a satire - but did it also reflect social realities in 1959? Were trade unions and government on a collision course at this time? Does it reflect other trends in post-war Britain? This talk analyses the film and examines related material in the public record of the late 1950s - some of the results may seem surprising from today's perspective.

Highlights of Security Service files released at The National Archives

Mon, 08 Mar 2010 10:00:00GMT

This is the twenty-fourth Security Service records release and contains 196 files, bringing the total number of its records in the public domain to more than 4,300. As with previous releases, around 80% of the records are personal files relating to individuals (KV 2), with a small number of subject files (KV 3), policy files (KV 4), organisation files (KV 5) and list files (KV 6). The files cover subjects from the pre-war period, the Second World War and the post-war period, dealing with a range of groups and subjects. We apologise for the poor sound quality during the first few minutes of the recording.

Kindertransport: Britain's rescue plan

Fri, 26 Feb 2010 10:00:00GMT

The Wiener Library holds many personal accounts of children evacuated from Nazi Germany, Austria and Czechoslovakia between December 1938 and September 1939. Using individual first-hand accounts sourced from The Wiener Library and documents held at The National Archives, this talk gives insights into how Britain dealt with the refugee children who arrived on the Kindertransports and the difficulties they faced.

Fashion or ration: Hartnell, Amies and dressing for the Blitz

Thu, 18 Feb 2010 12:00:00GMT

How did the fashionable woman of the Second World War and post war era manage to remain chic in a climate of rationing? Using sources from The National Archives this talk will consider the fashion industry of the time, and reveal how designers Norman Hartnell and Hardy Amies not only contributed to the war effort, but made a lasting impact on British style.

Tracing ancestors in Nelson's Navy

Mon, 08 Feb 2010 13:00:00GMT

An overview of the essential finding aids and documents held by The National Archives which can be used to trace ancestors who served in Nelson's Navy.

Medieval warfare: sources and approaches

Fri, 29 Jan 2010 12:00:00GMT

An exploration of how records created by the crown before 1485 can be used to study medieval armies, campaigns and battles in Britain and France. The talk will focus on the records of key battles such as Bannockburn, Crécy and Agincourt.

New Britons - Immigration to the United Kingdom

Fri, 22 Jan 2010 12:00:00GMT

This talk looks at immigration into Britain from the 16th to the 20th century and the relatively few sources that can be used to trace immigrants entering, and living, in this country. Records discussed can provide vital clues to the overseas origins of denizens or naturalised British citizens, as well as providing insight into their first years in their adopted country.

Shop workers: tracing your retail ancestors

Thu, 14 Jan 2010 12:00:00GMT

We all go shopping, albeit with varying degrees of enthusiasm, and many of us have also worked in shops. It was the same for our ancestors, and although the records may not always be easy to find, they are out there if you know where to look. There is also a wealth of background material to show us what our ancestors' shopping and shopkeeping experience was like.

New files from 1979

Wed, 30 Dec 2009 09:00:00GMT

An introduction to newly releases files from 1979, covering subjects such as the winter of discontent, cuts to the civil service, trade union strikes, and the new Thatcher administration, providing a fascinating insight into government 30 years ago. Other subjects include the Iranian revolution and the British military withdrawal from Malta. Presented by Mark Dunton, and introduced by Frances McDarby.

From cotton spinning to coffins: specifications for patents of invention

Fri, 18 Dec 2009 12:00:00GMT

Patents of invention cover a vast range of ideas, from the industrial and agricultural revolutions, to transport, domestic life and health. Many are bizarre, and some are even horrific, but they all have a fascinating story to tell. The specifications are the written descriptions of how the invention will work, with drawings where appropriate. This talk focuses particularly on the drawings, while explaining the process of enrolling the specifications themselves and exploring a remarkable range of inventiveness.

Education in 1911

Fri, 04 Dec 2009 12:00:00GMT

What was education like for the majority of children in 1911, the year when pupils staged strikes in 62 schools? This talk provides a fascinating glimpse of day-to-day life in an Edwardian school, covering such aspects as lessons, discipline, and examinations. It also touches on the dramatic resignation of the President of the Board of Education.

Transportation to Australia

Mon, 30 Nov 2009 10:00:00GMT

Over 162,000 British and Irish convicts were transported to Australia between 1787 and 1868. This talk explores the reasons behind the policy of transportation and looks at the experiences of the people who were shipped beyond the seas, using case studies from the archives.

The Metropolitan Police: its creation and records of service

Fri, 20 Nov 2009 12:00:00GMT

London's Metropolitan Police service was formed in 1829. This talk provides an overview of how crime was dealt with before this date, and how to trace the records of our Metropolitan Police ancestors at The National Archives.

Railway disasters: an introduction

Fri, 13 Nov 2009 12:00:00GMT

This talk looks at some of the most famous railway accidents and disasters of the 19th and 20th centuries, in particular, the disaster at Quintinshill in 1915, in which 226 people died. The National Archives holds a wide range of documents which record details of accidents and collisions but the talk also considers other useful sources such as railway staff magazines.

Records of births, marriages and deaths

Fri, 06 Nov 2009 12:00:00GMT

This talk explores the sources available for searching for births, marriages and deaths, both at The National Archives and elsewhere, and features fascinating examples of birth, marriage and death records.

The gunpowder plot: key documents and hidden voices

Fri, 06 Nov 2009 13:00:00GMT

The National Archives holds a wide range of documents which tell the story of the Gunpowder Plot and its investigation - but their meaning is hotly contested. James Travers selects some of the key documents and shows that beneath the noise of the ideological debate, we can hear the principal characters speaking in their own words - and a very different view of the plot emerges.

Roll up, roll up: the evolution of the circus 10-in-1 show

Fri, 30 Oct 2009 12:00:00GMT

Circus sideshows have fascinated people for centuries. From the bearded lady to PT Barnum, contortionists to fire eaters, people have flocked to see the peculiarities of the 10-in-1 show. From their early beginnings at Bartholomew Fair to their decline in the politically correct world of the 1960s, this talk will take you on a rollercoaster ride using sources held by The National Archives and other organisations.

Apprenticeship records for family historians

Fri, 23 Oct 2009 12:00:00GMT

In this talk, Mark Pearsall, The National Archives' family history specialist, focuses on the apprenticeship system and how it worked in practice, and covers those records that survive in The National Archives, in particular the Apprenticeship Books in record series IR 1. It also suggests where to look for surviving apprenticeship records in other archives and record offices, as well as other useful sources for tracing apprentices where details of the apprenticeship indentures have not survived.

An introduction to sources for Anglican clergymen

Fri, 16 Oct 2009 00:00:00GMT

Have you found a parson, a rector or a curate amongst your ancestors? This talk will introduce you to the main sources for the history and education of Anglican clergy, at home and abroad, using sources held by The National Archives and a variety of other repositories.

News from the London Family History Centre

Fri, 09 Oct 2009 09:00:00GMT

This talk highlights new features of this popular South Kensington destination, including access to important new databases, more English church records on microfilm, a newly organised collection of resources for Mormon ancestors and significant additions to English probate records - including record copy wills from 1858-1925 from the Principal Probate Registry.

How to win a duel

Thu, 08 Oct 2009 11:00:00GMT

A fight, possibly to the death, over a matter of honour this month. No, we're not just arguing amongst ourselves, the Past Masters team are talking about duelling. Formal duelling evolved from medieval sword fights into pistols at dawn before fading away in the 19th century. We'll be looking at what survives in the Archives from these risky and generally highly illegal fights and finding out what happens to the winners and losers of a duel.

The Truth is in Here: UFOs at The National Archives

Thu, 08 Oct 2009 14:00:00GMT

From ghost rockets in Scandinavia to mysterious spheres tracked over Eritrea, the Past Masters team look at the records of Unidentified Flying Objects held at The National Archives and ask, is the truth in here? The Ministry of Defence is now transferring files on UFOs to The National Archives covering 1978 to 2002. You can keep up with all the new releases at nationalarchives.gov.uk/ufos/. A selection of documents from The National Archives used in this podcast are below.

Darwin's voyage: HMS Beagle 1831-6

Wed, 07 Oct 2009 00:00:00GMT

In 1831, in his twenties and fresh out of university, Charles Darwin set sail aboard HMS Beagle on the expedition of a lifetime, into literally uncharted waters and a series of discoveries that would form the basis of his later pioneering work on the origin of species. Join the Past Masters team as we delve into the Archives to find out where Darwin went, what life on the Beagle was like and to discover how the most exciting gap year in history went on to change the face of science.

Two Crowns, One King: Henry V and the Treaty of Troyes

Wed, 07 Oct 2009 12:00:00GMT

The Past Masters team join Henry V in the battle for France. Henry fought the Hundred Years War on two fronts - military and diplomatic - but was the signing of the Treaty of Troyes in 1420 his greatest victory or just a millstone around England's neck? And more importantly, can we really cover a century of conflict in less than 30 minutes?

Civilian honours and awards

Fri, 02 Oct 2009 10:00:00GMT

The London Gazette is a crucial source for announcements of military and civilian honours and awards. This talk explains how to use and get the best out of the Gazette, and how further information about awards can be found among the records held by The National Archives, many of which are now available online.

Internment

Mon, 21 Sep 2009 12:00:00GMT

On the declaration of war on 3 September 1939, some 70,000 Germans and Austrians resident in the UK became classed as enemy aliens. This talk looks at official papers relating to the tribunals, the policy of internment, individual internees, and the camps in which they were interned.

GIs and POWs: Kew in the Second World War

Wed, 16 Sep 2009 00:00:00GMT

Local historian Christopher May reveals the wartime history of The National Archives' Kew site. American servicemen stationed here created the maps used in the Normandy landings of 1944. Later, the same buildings were used to house Italian prisoners of war who helped to clear bomb damage in London.

The battle that frightened Churchill: the war in the Atlantic

Thu, 10 Sep 2009 11:00:00GMT

On 3 September 1939, the passenger liner Athenia was sunk by U30. So began the Battle of the Atlantic, the longest and most complex campaign of the Second World War. The battle pitted the submariners of the Kriegsmarine against the Allied merchant fleet who were providing Britain's vital life line. This talk follows the changes in fortune of both the Kriegsmarine and the merchant fleet, and explains why Winston Churchill knew that the Battle of the Atlantic was the battle that Britain could not afford to lose.

Forgeries in the archives

Fri, 28 Aug 2009 09:00:00GMT

Forgery has always been a major problem to archivists and librarians - from the great 19th century Shakespearean forgers to more recent examples in the 21st century of people who forged letters about the murder of Himmler and the social life of Noel Coward.

The final balance: researching families and wealth in the 19th century using the death duty records

Tue, 18 Aug 2009 15:00:00GMT

This presentation explores how The National Archives' collection of death duty records can be used to research families and wealth-holding in 19th century Britain. The talk unravels some of the complexities of working with the records and explains how the different records can be linked with other sources of interest to those researching families and wealth.

Upstairs and downstairs in the royal household

Fri, 07 Aug 2009 07:35:00GMT

An introduction to the administration of the Royal Household from the restoration of Charles II to the death of Victoria. The talk is based on the records of the Lord Chamberlain's Department and the Lord Steward's Department, which were responsible for above stairs and below stairs management respectively. All the minutiae of royal life is here, from the granting of warrants to tradesmen, to the daily menus prepared for the kitchens.

Dr Williams' Library: an early birth registry

Fri, 31 Jul 2009 17:00:00GMT

Dr Williams' Library in London is an essential resource for people who are researching the history of protestant nonconformity in England and Wales. But the library has also given its name to an important collection of registers and certificates which were once held there. This talk looks at these fascinating documents which represent an early attempt to introduce a form of civil registration of births.

Summer of '69

Fri, 17 Jul 2009 12:00:00GMT

A look back at the year in which Neil Armstrong took his 'giant leap for mankind', Concorde continued its flight test programme and the hippy culture reached its zenith with the age of the pop festival. However, the summer of '69 also saw Harold Wilson's government wrestling with difficult issues such as the sending of British troops to Northern Ireland. This illustrated talk explores the British take on the summer of '69, using examples from public records to shed light on this eventful time.

Royal Naval medals: an introduction

Fri, 10 Jul 2009 12:00:00GMT

This talk discusses the Royal Naval medal rolls held by The National Archives in record series ADM 171, and explains how to interpret the most commonly used codes and abbreviations found in them. It also demonstrates how the medal rolls can be used to locate other records relating to an individual's Royal Naval service.

Genius on trial: key sources relating to Oscar Wilde at The National Archives

Fri, 03 Jul 2009 12:00:00GMT

The arrest and subsequent imprisonment of Oscar Wilde was one of the most sensational and controversial episodes of the late Victorian era, with far-reaching social and cultural implications. This talk presents the key documents held by The National Archives on Oscar Wilde, and uses them to tell the story of the events which culminated in 1895 in his three trials and a sentence of two years' imprisonment with hard labour.

Researching the British Empire and Commonwealth

Fri, 26 Jun 2009 14:00:00GMT

The British Empire existed for four centuries and, at its height, governed one quarter of the world's population. Mandy Banton introduces the records of British government departments responsible for the administration of colonial affairs from about 1801 to 1968, outlining the expansion of the Empire during this period.

Burial clubs - the unfriendly societies

Thu, 11 Jun 2009 00:55:14GMT

Friendly Societies were popular in the 19th Century, and were regulated by law. Surprisingly, burial clubs, which offered a form of life insurance, didn't always fall into this category, and provided many incentives to commit fraud - and even murder!

Titanic Lives: The Crew of RMS Titanic

Fri, 05 Jun 2009 14:19:03GMT

Much has been written about RMS Titanic, but this has tended to concentrate on the ship and its passengers. Using sources such as crew lists, local newspapers, Titanic Fund minute books and the newly released 1911 census, this talk traces the lives of a crewmen and his family and seeks to answer the question: What was life like for families in Southampton in the aftermath of the tragedy?

Charles Darwin and the Beagle

Fri, 29 May 2009 12:00:00GMT

An investigation into the real reasons behind the celebrated voyage of HMS Beagle (1831-1836) and the momentous decision by Captain Robert FitzRoy to choose Charles Darwin to accompany him.

Prison: five hundred years behind bars

Fri, 22 May 2009 00:00:00GMT

A look at the changing nature of imprisonment over the centuries and the experiences of those who endured it, charting the growth of the national prison system in England and Wales from castle dungeons to purpose-built concrete gaols.

The Great Escape: you've seen the film, now hear the truth

Fri, 15 May 2009 12:00:00GMT

During the night of 24 March 1944, 76 airmen escaped from the Prisoner of War camp Stalag Luft III. Only three made it home and, of the remainder, 50 were murdered on Hitler's orders. This talk will explain what actually happened in the so-called Great Escape, one of the Second World War's most infamous incidents.

Catching Victorian and Edwardian criminals on paper

Fri, 08 May 2009 10:00:00GMT

The problem of serious habitual criminals and how to keep track of them greatly exercised the minds of our Victorian and Edwardian forebears. This lecture focuses on the methods utilised by police and government to record and monitor such offenders, and how the surviving records can beused by present-day historians to investigate both historical and contemporary questions concerning serious and persistent crime.

Every journey has two ends: using passenger lists

Fri, 01 May 2009 12:00:00GMT

The National Archives' Chris Watts reveals the benefits of using both arrival and departure records when searching for details of our migrant ancestors, as well as demonstrating how the shortcomings of content, indexing and accessibility can be minimised.

From Mountbatten to Patten: the last proconsuls and the ending of the British Empire

Fri, 24 Apr 2009 17:55:00GMT

After the Second World War, the role of governors in Britain's overseas territories changed. This talk examines the colourful personalities and mixed fortunes of these proconsuls, and argues that, in spite of their declining power and authority, they performed a key role in managing imperial retreat.

Naturalisation and alien registration

Thu, 16 Apr 2009 16:00:00GMT

Using records at The National Archives, this talk examines the various Alien Acts that affected the status of foreigners resident in the UK from the 19th century, and the reasons why so many chose to become naturalised British citizens.

Finding company records

Thu, 09 Apr 2009 16:00:00GMT

Historian, Alex Ritchie, looks at the distribution of business records and introduces the finding aids that are available to researchers, as well as revealing some of the less obvious resources that can be used to identify and track down business information.

What can you learn from a DNA test?

Thu, 02 Apr 2009 16:00:00GMT

Chris Pomeroy, of the Pomeroy DNA Project, reviews the history of DNA testing and explains how it can be used by family historians, as well as discussing the experiences of leading family history projects that are using DNA testing to link and verify their family trees.

George Ives: queer lives and the family

Mon, 30 Mar 2009 16:00:00GMT

Cultural historian Matt Cook delves into the diary of George Ives, the early homosexual law reformer, and considers the issue of family, a pertinent and recurrent theme within Ives' diary.

Locality, land and livelihood: sources for early local history

Fri, 20 Mar 2009 09:00:00GMT

An introduction to medieval and early modern sources relating to English and Welsh local history. Sean Cunningham and James Ross explore the vast collection of accounts, surveys, court rolls, inquisitions, deeds and taxation records held at The National Archives.

Tracing your ancestors: a case study featuring the Darwin family

Fri, 13 Mar 2009 12:00:00GMT

A step-by-step guide to tracing your ancestors, using the Darwin family as a case study. Gerry Toop introduces researchers to the most important genealogical sources available at The National Archives and elsewhere, including birth, marriage and death indexes, census returns, wills and death duty records, as well as some of the main websites for family history research.

Tracing Scottish ancestors

Fri, 06 Mar 2009 15:00:00GMT

Holding records for Scotland from the union in 1707, The National Archives holds documents on many of our Scottish ancestors. Find out how to go about discovering them in this talk by Audrey Collins.

Dissecting and cataloguing medical officers' journals in ADM 101

Fri, 27 Feb 2009 15:00:00GMT

Bruno Pappalardo introduces the collection of medical officers' journals found in ADM 101. These journals give a detailed insight into a ship's daily activities, as well as the science and wildlife that was encountered by British Navy medical officers.

Royal Air Force service records

Fri, 20 Feb 2009 12:00:00GMT

Last year saw the 90th anniversary of the establishment of the Royal Air Force. The records of thousands of men (and women) who served in the RAF and its predecessors during the First World War are held by The National Archives. This talk will demonstrate how you can use these records to find out more about your ancestors' lives in this pioneering branch of the armed services.

Kapow! Fifties Britain versus the comics menace

Tue, 17 Feb 2009 15:00:00GMT

In the mid 1950s Britain woke up to the threat of an invasion: "American style" comics were accused of ruining the reading habits of vulnerable children across the country and even inciting racism and violence. Could Captain Marvel cause crime? See the comics condemned as harmful and find out what action the government took to stamp out the comics menace.

Irish land records - British Sign Language video

Fri, 06 Feb 2009 11:00:00GMT

With the loss of the 19th century census returns for Ireland, Sharon Hintze guides us through the alternative sources for family historians researching their Irish ancestors.

Irish land records

Fri, 06 Feb 2009 11:00:00GMT

With the loss of the 19th century census returns for Ireland, Sharon Hintze guides us through the alternative sources for family historians researching their Irish ancestors.

Civil registration and beyond

Fri, 30 Jan 2009 16:00:00GMT

The National Archives' Audrey Collins takes civil registration as her topic and reveals some of the little-known facts and stories behind the records.

Civil registration and beyond - British Sign Language Video

Fri, 30 Jan 2009 16:00:00GMT

The National Archives' Audrey Collins takes civil registration as her topic and reveals some of the little-known facts and stories behind the records.

The Manorial Documents Register - British Sign Language Video

Fri, 23 Jan 2009 11:00:00GMT

Liz Hart, from the National Advisory Service, provides an introduction to the various types of manorial records and offers a practical guide to using the Manorial Documents Register.

The Manorial Documents Register

Fri, 23 Jan 2009 11:00:00GMT

Liz Hart, from the National Advisory Service, provides an introduction to the various types of manorial records and offers a practical guide to using the Manorial Documents Register.

Introducing the 1911 census

Thu, 15 Jan 2009 15:00:00GMT

Mark Pearsall is a family history specialist at The National Archives. Here he provides an introduction to the newly released 1911 census and tells us how invaluable it will be for family historians.

Introducing the 1911 census - British Sign Language Video

Thu, 15 Jan 2009 15:00:00GMT

Mark Pearsall is a family history specialist at The National Archives. Here he provides an introduction to the newly released 1911 census and tells us how invaluable it will be for family historians.

Child emigration to Canada

Fri, 09 Jan 2009 10:00:00GMT

Find out about the British child emigration schemes from 1618 to 1967 as Roger Kershaw examines the reasons and the records behind the schemes to Canada, Australia, South Africa and beyond.

Child emigration to Canada - BSL Sign Language Video

Fri, 09 Jan 2009 10:00:00GMT

Find out about the British child emigration schemes from 1618 to 1967 as Roger Kershaw examines the reasons and the records behind the schemes to Canada, Australia, South Africa and beyond.

New files From 1978

Tue, 30 Dec 2008 12:00:00GMT

Contemporary historian Mark Dunton discusses the release of high-profile records from 1978, which provide fascinating insight into the thinking of key government figures in the run-up to the Winter of Discontent.

New files From 1978 - BSL Sign Language Video

Tue, 30 Dec 2008 12:00:00GMT

Filling the gaps

Thu, 18 Dec 2008 15:00:00GMT

Professor Peter Hennessey presents records officers and information managers as 'unsung heroes' in providing historians, such as himself, with rich collections to use. He also discusses the hugely successful Waldegrave initiative which has led to hundreds of thousands of files being released, creating a new currency for historians.

Merchant Navy operational records

Fri, 12 Dec 2008 12:00:00GMT

Janet Dempsey examines the wealth of records which deal with the tragedy, terror, heroism and honour of the Merchant Navy in both World Wars.

Cabinet Papers, 1915-1977

Thu, 04 Dec 2008 15:00:00GMT

Laura Withey (Project Manager) and Dr. Ed Hampshire (Records Specialist) talk about this exciting new project, the new web pages and the records being made available online for the first time.

The real Little Dorrit: Charles Dickens and the debtors' prison - British Sign Language video

Fri, 28 Nov 2008 15:00:00GMT

David Thomas examines the reality behind Charles Dickens' fiction - what were Victorian debtors' prisons really like and how accurate was Dickens' portrayal of them?

The real Little Dorrit: Charles Dickens and the debtors' prison

Fri, 28 Nov 2008 15:00:00GMT

David Thomas examines the reality behind Charles Dickens' fiction - what were Victorian debtors' prisons really like and how accurate was Dickens' portrayal of them?

Radicalism and unrest

Fri, 21 Nov 2008 12:00:00GMT

From the early trade unions of the 18th century, through to the Luddites and Chartists of the 19th century, there was a profound desire to protect or improve living standards. This talk looks at what ordinary people really thought about their world and what types of records we should be exploring to discover how they tried - and sometimes succeeded - in changing their part of it.

God's Wonderful Railway - British Sign Language video

Fri, 14 Nov 2008 11:00:00GMT

Find out how the development of the railways transformed the landscape of Great Britain and became the agent of enormous social change. Bruno Derrick explores the early years of the Great Western Railway, from its foundation to the death of Isambard Kingdom Brunel in 1859, and brings to light the vast collection of records in the custody of The National Archives.

God's Wonderful Railway

Fri, 14 Nov 2008 11:00:00GMT

The parish: administration and records - British Sign Language video

Fri, 07 Nov 2008 11:00:00GMT

For hundreds of years the parish was the most important unit of local government. This talk covers the historical administration of the parish, its officials and their records, as well as showing you how you can use these records to trace your ancestors and find out more about their local community.

The parish: administration and records

Fri, 07 Nov 2008 11:00:00GMT

Customs and Excise service records

Thu, 30 Oct 2008 11:00:00GMT

Everyone hates taxes! Find out what Dr Johnson thought of them in this illustrated talk in which Janet Dempsey reveals how to hunt down the revenue collectors in your family.

Unfinished business: Britain and the European Community

Fri, 24 Oct 2008 12:00:00GMT

Focusing on Britain's changing relationship with the European Community between 1945 and 1975, Contemporary Specialist Mark Dunton guides us through the key documents that reveal the attitudes of leading figures, the diplomatic process and public perceptions of an evolving Europe.

Merchant Navy service records

Thu, 16 Oct 2008 09:00:00GMT

Was your ancestor one of the hundreds of thousands of men who served in the Merchant Navy, keeping Britain fed and watered? This talk looks at the Merchant Navy records held at The National Archives and how to use them.

Victorian women prisoners

Thu, 09 Oct 2008 09:00:00GMT

This talk looks at a series of records of women prisoners dating from 1853 to 1887 - records of females released early on licence. It also focuses on particular individuals in order to tell their tales, and illustrate the depth of information available.

Railway staff records

Thu, 02 Oct 2008 16:00:00GMT

Historian Bruno Derrick offers guidance on how to trace ancestors who worked on the railways during the Victorian era, both at home and abroad. Discussing the extensive collection of railway staff records held at The National Archives, this talk looks at various company records, accident records and railway magazines, and offers advice on the best ways to approach and use these resources.

Introduction to Family History - British Sign Language video

Thu, 25 Sep 2008 09:00:00GMT

Need advice on how to begin tracing your family's past? Presented by Audrey Collins, this talk is for anyone new to family history. As well as advising on good research habits, the speaker provides an overview of the main resources available to family historians, such as birth and marriage certificates, online and offline resources, parish records, military records and newspapers.

Introduction to Family History

Thu, 25 Sep 2008 09:00:00GMT

Scandals in the family

Thu, 18 Sep 2008 09:00:00GMT

Who needs fiction when there are so many true stories of scandal and intrigue? This talk looks at the misdeeds of the members of one family, through records held at The National Archives and elsewhere; featuring fraud, extortion, adultery, gambling debts and much more. (We apologise for the poor sound quality during the last ten minutes of the recording.

How the Society of Genealogists can help you

Thu, 11 Sep 2008 09:00:00GMT

The Society of Genealogists offers a unique combination of research material, guidance and support for those interested in family history and the lives of earlier generations. The charity's broad objectives are to "promote, encourage and foster the study, science and knowledge of genealogy".

Divorce records after 1858

Thu, 04 Sep 2008 09:00:00GMT

An in-depth and light-hearted look into divorce records, put in context by an introduction to the very antiquated divorce laws pre-1858. Hear about the famous feminist and family planning crusader Marie Stopes' high-profile divorce. At the other end of the scale, hear the numerous reasons cited for divorce including going out without a bonnet!

Security Service document releases

Sun, 31 Aug 2008 00:05:00GMT

Over 150 Security Service files dating from around the time of the Second World War have now been opened. Professor Christopher Andrew, Official Historian of the Secret Service, talks about German and Soviet agents and intelligence officers, right-wing extremists and Communists, amongst others.

The 'Fleet Registers' or irregular marriage registers of 17th and 18th century London

Thu, 28 Aug 2008 07:00:00GMT

More than 200,000 clandestine or irregular marriages were performed in London between 1667 and 1754. The area around the Fleet Prison in the City of London was particularly notorious, hence the name 'Fleet Registers', and at least one of the registers is known to be a forgery, as explained by Audrey Collins.

The National Register of Archives

Wed, 20 Aug 2008 07:00:00GMT

This talk introduces users to the structure and content of the National Register of Archives (NRA). The NRA contains information on the nature and location of manuscripts and historical records that relate to British history. The speaker demonstrates search techniques to make best use of its indexes and other resources.

The Special Operations Executive, the French Resistance and the D-Day landings

Thu, 14 Aug 2008 07:00:00GMT

This talk looks at the results and effectiveness of the British Special Operations Executive, or SEO, and the French Resistance in supporting the Second World War D-Day landings.

Using the London Family History Centre

Thu, 07 Aug 2008 07:00:00GMT

Director of the London Family History Centre, Sharon Hintze, gives an in-depth talk about the excellent facilities available for family historians at the centre. The centre is one of more than a hundred in the British Isles, run by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

The annual Ancestors Lecture: our 17th century ancestors

Thu, 24 Jul 2008 07:00:00GMT

Once we go back beyond the period of civil registration, census returns and uniform parish registers, it becomes more difficult to trace a family tree. This talk will look at early parish registers, wills, apprenticeship records, hearth tax returns and other records to see how progress might be made when the going gets tough.

Tracing World War One ancestors

Thu, 17 Jul 2008 07:30:00GMT

William Spencer takes you through the key records for tracing your World War One ancestors, including records of women who were nurses or in the Women's Army Auxiliary Corps.

Solving census problems

Thu, 10 Jul 2008 07:30:00GMT

David Annal takes a practical approach to overcoming the most common problems faced by family historians when using the 19th century census returns. It may seem that some of your ancestors are missing from the returns - this talk aims to convince you that, if your ancestors were living in England or Wales at the time of the census, they were almost certainly recorded and you should be able to find them. The odds are firmly stacked in your favour.

Was Richard II mad?

Thu, 03 Jul 2008 08:00:00GMT

Terry Jones, 'Python', historian, broadcaster, actor, director and comedian, has called King Richard II a "victim of spin". Here he sets out to rescue his reputation and lift the lid on the turbulent world of 14th century politics.

Emigration records

Thu, 26 Jun 2008 08:00:00GMT

This talk explains the reasons behind the emigration of some 16 million people since the 17th century. It discusses the most popular destinations for emigrants as well as sources, such as outgoing passenger lists, passport records, and a host of emigration schemes supported and fostered by the Government. It also features the various child migration schemes that have been responsible in migrating some 150,000 children from the UK between 1618 and 1967. Particular reference is made to the growing number of online sources relevant to this subject.

Criminal ancestors: trial records at The National Archives

Thu, 19 Jun 2008 12:00:00GMT

Nigel Taylor takes us through a short introduction into the records that can be used to trace criminal ancestors.

Tracing pre-1914 army ancestors

Thu, 12 Jun 2008 12:00:00GMT

Covering the period from 1760 to 1913, William Spencer discusses the service records of army officers and other ranks.

Royal Navy service records

Thu, 05 Jun 2008 12:00:00GMT

Mark Pearsall covers the main sources for officers and ratings service records in this introductory talk about Royal Navy service records from the late 18th century to the early 20th century.

1968: Year of revolutions

Thu, 29 May 2008 08:00:00GMT

Mark Dunton takes you back in time to a tumultuous year, using key documents to show the British Government's take on the dramatic events of 1968, and its own particular preoccupations.

UFO files from the UK Government

Thu, 22 May 2008 12:00:00GMT

Listen to Dr David Clarke, an expert in UFO history, as he explains the significance of the released UFO files.

Secrecy and government records

Thu, 15 May 2008 09:00:00GMT

Professor Foot is a noted historian and academic. He is the official historian for the Second World War Special Operations Executive (SOE) and has an extensive knowledge of the background to the requirements for secrecy in government records. This is a rare opportunity to hear the views of a person who has lived with the secrecy of such records for many decades.

Britain and the challenge of Fascism: saving Europe at a cost

Tue, 08 Apr 2008 11:00:00GMT

How did Britons weigh up the decision to go to war in the 1930s and did things turn out as they expected? Professor David Stephenson from the London School of Economics and Political Science explains how the British Government and the British public responded differently to the rise of Fascism in Europe.

Britain and the challenge of Fascism: saving Europe at a cost (Part 2)

Tue, 08 Apr 2008 12:00:00GMT

In the second part of this two part podcast for A-Level students a chief examiner from one of the major examination boards discuss the British policy of appeasement towards the fascist regimes of Hitler and Mussolini. Chief Examiner of GCE History at Edexcel looks at how students traditionally tackle this question and how historians have grappled with it over 60 years.

Losing Orton in the archives

Thu, 13 Mar 2008 08:00:00GMT

The tangled history of the papers of the playwright Joe Orton is unwoven by Dr Matt Cook. Here he reveals the extraordinary sources that survive on the writer's life, and the perhaps even more extraordinary ones that remain stubbornly missing. Warning: the following material may not be suitable for all listeners.

Security Service document releases

Fri, 29 Feb 2008 08:00:00GMT

From astrologers to oil barons: Professor Christopher Andrew, official historian for the Security Service, talks about espionage and tracking enemy agents.

Security Service document releases

Fri, 29 Feb 2008 08:00:00GMT

From astrologers to oil barons: Professor Christopher Andrew, official historian for the Security Service, talks about espionage and tracking enemy agents.

The Navy Board project

Thu, 21 Feb 2008 10:00:00GMT

Archivist Sue Lumas describes the painstaking cataloguing and conservation of naval records held at The National Archives.

Watch the birdie and say 'cheese'

Thu, 14 Feb 2008 10:00:00GMT

Conservator Stephen Harwood looks at the invention and development of photography, describing all the major photographic processes and explaining how anyone can identify different photographic types from the earliest photogenic experiments to today's sophisticated gelatine-silver prints.

Research and collections at The National Archives

Thu, 31 Jan 2008 09:00:00GMT

Caroline Williams describes how the new Research and Collections Development department is contributing to The National Archives' research, collections and academic agenda, and its benefit internally and beyond The National Archives.

'Living the poor life': poverty and the workhouse in the 19th century

Thu, 24 Jan 2008 09:00:00GMT

Paul Carter's talk explores the poor life in 19th-century England and Wales. Using records from The National Archives, he presents allegations of cruelty to paupers, accounts of political and Chartist activities and much more.

Closing the last day: death, memory and landholding in the Inquisitions Post-Mortem, 1216 - 1660

Thu, 17 Jan 2008 08:00:00GMT

Sean Cunningham tells us how the Inquisitions Post-Mortem (IPMs) or inquests taken after the death of people who were tenants of The Crown reveal a great deal about land use, local customs, and how communal memory had an important social function for our English and Welsh ancestors. This talk looks at how these manuscripts help to paint a picture of local life and land use during the Medieval and Early Modern periods.

20th century Cabinet records: digitising a core collection of modern political records

Fri, 04 Jan 2008 08:00:00GMT

Ed Hampshire discusses the Cabinet records digitisation project, explaining how the innermost records of government will soon be made fully available online and what visitors to the site can expect when the project is completed.

Sources for army officers' commissions

Thu, 20 Dec 2007 08:00:00GMT

Mark Dunton looks at the system for purchasing and selling commissions as it worked from 1800 - 1871. He covers first appointments, promotions, exchanges, retirement, the payment process and the activities of the 'army agents'. He uses document examples to illustrate the talk.

The road to Jamestown - part 2

Thu, 13 Dec 2007 08:00:00GMT

The second part of Sean Cunningham's talk about how and why English sailors and the English Crown turned their attention to the New World of America in the 16th century. This talk explores how piracy, greed, religion and warfare became the foundations of Elizabethan attempts to settle America.

The road to Jamestown - part 1

Thu, 06 Dec 2007 08:00:00GMT

Sean Cunningham talks about how and why English sailors and the English Crown turned their attention to the New World of America in the 16th century. This talk explores how piracy, greed, religion and warfare became the foundations of Elizabethan attempts to settle America.

The making of the Stalinist state 1928-1941 - part 2

Thu, 29 Nov 2007 08:00:00GMT

The second part of this talk in which Dr Jane McDermid puts Joseph Stalin's Russia under the microscope from the first of the Five-Year Plans to the outbreak of the Second World War.

The making of the Stalinist state 1928-1941 - part 1

Thu, 22 Nov 2007 08:00:00GMT

Dr Jane McDermid puts Joseph Stalin's Russia under the microscope from the first of the Five-Year Plans to the outbreak of the Second World War.

Modern sources for immigration - part 2

Tue, 13 Nov 2007 08:00:00GMT

The second part of Roger Kershaw's talk looks at key immigration sources at The National Archives such as inwards passenger lists, certificates of arrival and alien registration cards.

Modern sources for immigration - part 1

Tue, 18 Sep 2007 08:00:00GMT

Part one of an in-depth look at key immigration sources at The National Archives from inwards passenger lists and certificates of arrival to alien registration cards, records of internment, and citizenship papers.

Sex, lies and civil registration

Tue, 28 Aug 2007 08:00:00GMT

When you have been researching family history for even a short time, you will realise that the information shown on certificates is not always completely accurate! Sometimes this is the result of an honest mistake, or misinterpretation of the question; sometimes people are being 'economical with the truth'; and sometimes they just tell outright lies. Why? The answer is usually to do with money or sex, and sometimes both.

In the name of God, Amen: wills for family history

Thu, 19 Jul 2007 08:00:00GMT

Whether your ancestors owned large swathes of land in the north of England or came from a more humble background in the West Country, the chances are that somewhere along the line some of them will have left wills. In this talk, Dave Annal looks at how to access wills and how you can use them to get a better understanding of what life was really like for your ancestors.

From Magna Carta to the parliamentary state: the Fine Rolls of King Henry III 1216-1272

Fri, 13 Jul 2007 08:00:00GMT

Professor David Carpenter talks about this unique resource preserved at The National Archives and how the records are being made accessible on the web.

Sources for First World War army ancestry

Thu, 21 Jun 2007 08:00:00GMT

Mark Dunton focuses on the prime sources at The National Archives for documenting First World War army service, covering both the officers and other ranks of the British Army.

Tracing your Irish ancestors at The National Archives

Thu, 14 Jun 2007 08:00:00GMT

Less than a century ago all of Ireland was part of the United Kingdom; six of its northern counties, making up Northern Ireland, still are. Many records relating to our ancestors are to be found in the UK and not in Ireland. In this talk, Audrey Collins explores some of the hidden treasures at The National Archives.

Medieval criminals and the law

Thu, 07 Jun 2007 08:00:00GMT

An introduction to the formidable collection of documents that relate to the law and criminals during the medieval period using case studies. James Ross provides practical tips on how to access the collections, as well as shedding some light on one of the most fascinating areas of medieval society.

What at first was plunder: tracing records of excisemen

Thu, 31 May 2007 08:00:00GMT

James Cronan examines sources for tracing excisemen, including staff lists and joining papers, and will use case studies such as Thomas Paine. He will also consider the role of an excise officer and how the excise service developed.

King John and Magna Carta

Wed, 23 May 2007 01:00:00GMT

History has portrayed King John as a tyrannical monarch whose arbitrary conduct forced his barons into rebellion and the eventual restriction of his powers in the iconic charter of liberties, Magna Carta. Using original sources held at The National Archives, Adrian Jobson explores some of the key crises and events of the reign before asking whether King John really deserves his reputation as one of England's worst kings.

Henry VIII: dynasty and power in Tudor England

Fri, 27 Apr 2007 10:00:00GMT

An introduction to the documents of Henry VIII's reign through the story of his struggles to secure personal power, to make the right marriage, and to pass the crown to a male heir.

'In deadly hate?' Richard III and the War of the Roses

Thu, 12 Apr 2007 09:00:00GMT

The conflict for the crown in the 15th century has created many of English history's most vivid characters and thanks to Shakespeare, we have one of our greatest villains in the shape of Richard III. This talk looks at the key sources for this period of civil war, and investigates whether Richard III really did resemble Shakespeare's destructive monster.

The creation of the Iraqi state: 1914 to 1974

Wed, 04 Apr 2007 09:00:00GMT

A lecture by Dr Charles Tripp, Reader in Politics, School of Oriental and African Studies, University of London, to mark the launch of Thomson Learning's online edition of his selection of files on the history of Iraq. Dr Tripp, author of the Cambridge History of Iraq, considers the consequences of British state-building for Iraq's future.

Jermynology: how genealogy can change history

Thu, 15 Mar 2007 09:00:00GMT

Anthony Adolph talks about his research into the life of Henry Jermyn, 1st Earl of Saint Albans (1605-1684) and the founder of the West End.

Workhouse records for family historians

Fri, 09 Mar 2007 09:00:00GMT

Prepare to be revolted as Simon Fowler considers conditions in 19th century workhouses and suggests ways you can research the poor unfortunates who lived there.

Marriages at sea - fact or fiction?

Wed, 21 Feb 2007 09:00:00GMT

There is a rumour in the family that an ancestor was married at sea! How often have we heard this? Is it fact or fiction? Were marriages at sea permitted and, if so, where are records of them to be found? In this talk Dr Christopher Watts examines the range of records, both at The National Archives and elsewhere, that help us trace such events.

Tracing births and deaths at sea

Thu, 14 Dec 2006 09:00:00GMT

Ships carrying our ancestors to faraway places often arrived with more, or less, passengers than they they set out with. In this talk Dr Christopher Watts examines the vast range of records, both at The National Archives and elsewhere, that help us to trace such events.

Star Chamber stories: using records of the early modern equity courts

Tue, 12 Dec 2006 09:00:00GMT

The National Archives holds a vast collection of Chancery Court and other equity legal records from the early modern courts of Star Chamber and Requests. In this talk Sean Cunningham introduces the records created by the courts, and offers advice on how to make the most of these sources.

Going, going, almost gone: the vanishing face of the traditional English pub

Thu, 07 Dec 2006 09:00:00GMT

The pub has undergone enormous changes in the past 40 years. This talk examines what remains of unaltered pubs and what this tells us about their social history. Geoff Brandwood is an architectural historian, co-author of English Heritage's recent book, Licensed to Sell: the History and Heritage of the Public House, and is chairman of the Victorian Society.

Colin Jackson: my journey into the past

Tue, 28 Nov 2006 09:00:00GMT

As part of The National Archives Caribbean Family History Day, Colin Jackson CBE, world record hurdler, discusses the experience of tracing his family history.

Creating a legacy from your family history

Tue, 28 Nov 2006 09:00:00GMT

A panel discussion that took place at The National Archives Caribbean Family History Day. The contributors were Colin Jackson CBE, Jackie Osei-Tutu (producer of Colin Jackson's Who Do You Think You Are?), Patrick Vernon (Director of Every Generation Media and Foundation) and family history specialists, Kathy Chater and Paul Crooks. The panel addressed the process of embracing and understanding personal heritage, and creating a legacy for future generations.

Was the Cromwellian Protectorate a military dictatorship?

Mon, 27 Nov 2006 09:00:00GMT

Professor Barry Coward, President of the Historical Association and the Cromwell Association discusses the nature of the republican government of Britain's most controversial head of state.

The dichotomies of drink

Thu, 28 Sep 2006 09:00:00GMT

Presented by Philippa Glanville, Senior Research Fellow at the V&A Museum. The event was held at The National Archives to accompany our temporary on-site exhibition, which she curated, entitled, Drink: the History of Alcohol 1690-1920.

Sahib, the British soldier in India, 1750 - 1914

Mon, 17 Jul 2006 09:00:00GMT

Well-known military historian Professor Richard Holmes examines Indian soldiering in peace and war. He addresses the experience of ordinary soldiers, why they joined up, how they got to India and what they made of it when they arrived.

Inventions in 18th century Britain

Fri, 28 Apr 2006 09:00:00GMT

Maxine Berg, Professor of History at the Eighteenth Century Centre, University of Warwick, explores the inventions and the making and buying of goods in 18th century Britain.

A bag of secrets

12:00:00GMT

Dr. Tracey Sowerby of Pembroke College, Oxford, introduces listeners to the records of Tudor government held at The National Archives. She examines records of Parliament, delves into the murky treason trials of Henry VIII's regime and even demonstrates how the files can take us inside Henry's art collection and his library.

This podcast is part of The National Archives A level Masterclass series.

The problem of the poor: faith, science and poverty in 19th century Britain

16:00:00GMT

Dr. John Shaw discusses Victorian attitudes to the poor and how they developed over the 19th century. As the Church tried to decide whether charity was the solution or part of the problem, Victorian science afraid of 'degeneration' in Britain began to suggest some sinister solutions of its own. This podcast is part of The National Archives A level Masterclass and is particularly suitable for AS and A2 students who are considering studying History to degree level.