In 1911, the audacious theft of the Mona Lisa shocked the world. Strangely, the painting was not the universally beloved masterpiece we know today. It was this very act of theft that catapulted the Mona Lisa into global fame.

The story centers on Vincenzo Peruggia, an Italian handyman who believed he was reclaiming the painting for his homeland, convinced it had been stolen by Napoleon during his campaigns. However, history tells a different story: Leonardo da Vinci himself brought the Mona Lisa to France, where it became part of the French crown’s collection centuries before Napoleon’s time.

What happened to Alexander the Great’s tomb? In this video, I explore the mystery of Alexander the Great’s final resting place and dive into the intriguing history behind its disappearance.

Joining me is Alex Rowson, the author of The Young Alexander, a captivating book that delves into the childhood and early years of one of history’s greatest leaders.

In this 6-minute clip from a one-hour interview with renowned historian David A. Bell, we unpack Napoleon’s disastrous 1812 invasion of Russia, where he lost 578,000 soldiers in just six months. Was it sheer arrogance or did Napoleon stand a real chance of success? What were the true causes of this catastrophic defeat—brutal winter, stretched supply lines, or Russian strategy? David offers his expert insights into one of history’s most infamous military campaigns and its lasting impact on Europe.

This is a 5-minute clip from my interview with Martin Dugard, New York Times best-selling author of Taking London: The Battle of Britain. In this segment, Martin talks about the incredible morale of Londoners during the Blitz and how they supported each other through unimaginable hardships. From community spirit to small acts of kindness, he explains how their resilience and unity became a beacon of hope in one of history's darkest times.

The astonishing true story of Emperor Caracalla, the infamous Roman ruler whose real-life escapades are far more shocking than anything portrayed in Gladiator II. Known for his ruthless ambition and merciless actions, Caracalla's legacy is steeped in betrayal, violence, and a thirst for power that makes him one of history's most chilling figures.

Niuta Teitelbaum, also known as "Little Wanda with the Braids," was one of the Polish Underground’s most fearless operatives during World War II. Disguised as an innocent girl, she struck fear into the Nazis, assassinating SS officers and Gestapo agents with precision and courage.

From sneaking into Nazi headquarters to taking out her enemies face-to-face, Little Wanda became the Nazis' worst nightmare. Her daring actions, including her role in the Warsaw Ghetto Uprising, cemented her as a true heroine of resistance.

In this interview, Alex Deane discusses his fascinating book "Lessons from History", a joyful exploration of overlooked figures and events that shaped the past. Originally born from his viral #deanehistory stories during lockdown, the book dives into quirky, poignant tales of eccentricity and endeavor. From Stanislav Petrov saving the world to Louis-Napoléon’s forgotten legacy, Alex brings history’s hidden gems to life with wit and insight.

Was Andrew Jackson really America’s worst great president? He’s hailed as a war hero, the champion of the common man, and the tough frontiersman who reshaped American democracy. But behind the accolades, Jackson's presidency casts a long shadow. From his brutal enforcement of the Indian Removal Act—leading to the tragic Trail of Tears—to his relentless war on the Bank of the United States, Jackson’s legacy is a paradox of power, ambition, and unchecked authority.

What does it take to create 50,000 works of art? In this video, we explore the mind and methods of Pablo Picasso, the legendary artist who produced an astonishing body of work over his lifetime. From quick sketches on napkins to iconic masterpieces, Picasso’s relentless drive made him one of the most prolific creators in history.

Discover the daily habits, mindset, and unconventional rules that fueled his creativity and helped him build a legacy of thousands of pieces. Whether you’re an artist, a creator, or just someone looking for inspiration, Picasso’s approach to creativity can teach us all how to unlock our potential and produce more consistently.

Why did the British hold such admiration for Hitler in the 1930s? By the end of the Second World War, Hitler's name became synonymous with unimaginable evil, yet during the early 1930s, he was often viewed simply as another European leader.

Many in Britain, especially within influential circles, saw promise in his achievements. They admired his role in revitalizing Germany's economy, restoring national pride, and suppressing left-wing movements—qualities they believed helped to guard against the spread of Bolshevism across Europe.

In hindsight, it may seem surprising that such admiration existed, given Hitler's later infamy as the most notorious figure of the 20th century, but at the time, many regarded him as a strong leader bringing stability and growth to Germany.