BBC World Histories Magazine

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Latest articles from BBC World Histories Magazine

This William H. Mumler photograph shows a bearded man seated while a faint female “spirit” appears behind him. Mumler’s images — a blend of portraiture and supposed spirit photography — captivated Victorians eager for proof of the afterlife, even as critics accused him of trickery and photographic manipulation.

Did he photograph the ghost of a president? Meet the scheming Victorian who exploited a grieving America

An illustration of a witch on a broomstick, wearing a pointed hat.

General History

Why do ‘wicked’ witches wear pointed hats? The real history explained

Portrait of Alaric (LEANDER VYVEY) in the day, in armour. Alaric is in battlegear because he leads an army to attack Rome in revenge.

History TV and radio in the UK: what's on our screens this week?

Books of the Year 2025

BBC History Magazine's 2025 Books of the Year37 best books for history lovers

The REAL history behind Tolkien’s Lord of the Rings, The Hobbit and more.

This Roman mosaic depicts gladiators locked in combat. Created to celebrate the spectacle of the arena, it offers a glimpse into one of the most popular, and most brutal, entertainments of the Roman world.

Step inside the ancient Roman empire's gladiatorial arenas, and witness 24 hours of shocking violence

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