A message from the
Welcome to the Ministry of History! I’m Artie, the Minister in charge, and my mission is simple: to make up for that terrible history teacher you had in school. I believe that we can’t truly know where we’re headed without understanding where we’ve come from, and that’s exactly what this Ministry is here to do. My journey with history began as a tour guide in Berlin, but I wanted to expand beyond just Germany and Europe because every corner of the world has a fascinating story to tell.
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Why not join a Ministry tour? Our mission is to help you uncover and understand the fascinating, tumultuous story of this remarkable city – what we like to call the “Capital of the Twentieth Century.
The Highlights Tour
Looking for all the highlights of Berlin but don’t have much time? This tour is perfect for you! In just two and a half hours, we’ll cover the major landmarks...2 hours
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The Full City Tour
Curious to uncover everything about this remarkable city? On The Full City Tour, you’ll experience all of Berlin’s iconic landmarks while diving deep into its rich history. From its founding...6 hours
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The Nazi Germany Tour
Want to explore the most turbulent chapter in German—and perhaps world—history? Berlin, once a symbol of progress and freedom, became the capital of Nazi Germany from 1933 to 1945. Under...3 hours
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Latest episode of the podcast
Subscribe to the Ministry of History Podcast (formerly “The History Buff”) for captivating
history content! Enjoy bite-sized solo episodes packed with intriguing insights, or dive into
deeper, co-hosted discussions on fascinating historical topics.
Minister's Questions 2: Life in Berlin and More...
In this episode of Minister’s Questions, two ministers and passionate Berlin tour guides tour guides - Artie and Tina - explore Berlin’s share what inspired them to highlight places named after women in the city in the HerStory Buff series, offer expert recommendations for must-see spots, and discuss the impact of living in Berlin.Beyond travel tips, we delve into Germany’s snap general election, debunk persistent myths about the city, and imagine Berlin as a person—what would they be like? Plus, our guests reveal the one day in Berlin’s past they’d love to experience firsthand. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a traveler, or simply curious about Germany’s capital, this episode is full of fascinating insights and engaging conversation.This episode is also available to watch as a video on YouTube.The Ministry of History offers more than just podcast episodes! Check out our blog for engaging historical insights, access transcripts of episodes, subscribe to our newsletter for updates and early access to posts, and explore our digital content. Planning a trip to Berlin? You can even book a history tour with Artie himself! To find all this, simply head to our website. You can also follow us on Instagram, YouTube and TikTok.Artwork by Leila Mead. Check out her website and follow her on Instagram. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Podcast Update: A Pause, Not a Goodbye
A Quick Message from the Minister of History 🎙️📜Hey history buffs! Artie here with a quick update on the podcast. While the Ministry of History isn’t going anywhere, I’m shifting focus to growing our social media presence for now. That means fewer episodes for a bit—but don’t worry, I’ll still be dropping sporadic releases, including the final Tudor episodes and more on East Germany.Want to stay connected? Follow the Ministry on Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube (links in the description)! Stay tuned, stay curious, and keep the history love alive! 🚀📖 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Brazilian Carnival
In this episode, I’m joined by Daniel, an internationalist and passionate carnivalist, to dive deeper into the history and evolution of Carnival. We break down some common stereotypes and I share my personal experiences, recorded just before my second trip to Rio for Carnival!We take a closer look at how this incredible festival transformed from its chaotic, street-fighting origins—shaped by a mix of African, Indigenous, and European influences—into the massive global celebration we know today.A heads-up: the audio quality isn’t perfect as Daniel and I were using some basic equipment, but I promise it’s still a fun and engaging conversation. This episode isn’t strictly historical, but if you’re passionate about Carnival, you’ll love the insights and stories we share!You can get in touch with Daniel on his email at danielporcelbastos@gmail.comThis episode is also available to watch as a video on YouTube.The Ministry of History offers more than just podcast episodes! Check out our blog for engaging historical insights, access transcripts of episodes, subscribe to our newsletter for updates and early access to posts, and explore our digital content. Planning a trip to Berlin? You can even book a history tour with Artie himself! To find all this, simply head to our website. You can also follow us on Instagram, YouTube and TikTok.Artwork by Leila Mead. Check out her website and follow her on Instagram. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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East Germany (Part 3): The 1953 June Uprising
In this third episode of the East Germany series, Artie is joined by Deputy Minister and fellow Berlin tour guide Tina to discuss East Germany’s first major crisis.By the early 1950s, West Germany was booming thanks to American subsidies, while the GDR remained in ruins, burdened by Soviet reparation payments. Living standards had declined, fuelling unrest. When the government ordered a 10% productivity increase without extra pay, anger boiled over. On 16 June 1953, workers in East Berlin went on strike. By the next day, protests had spread nationwide, turning into a full-scale uprising. Crowds stormed government buildings, tore down propaganda, and overpowered security forces. The SED was on the brink of collapse—until Soviet tanks rolled in.The uprising was brutally crushed, killing 55 people, with more subsequently executed after show trials. In response, the GDR expanded Stasi surveillance, cementing its status as one of history’s most oppressive police states.The Ministry of History offers more than just podcast episodes! Check out our blog for engaging historical insights, access transcripts of episodes, subscribe to our newsletter for updates and early access to posts, and explore our digital content. Planning a trip to Berlin? You can even book a history tour with Artie himself! To find all this, simply head to our website. You can also follow us on Instagram, YouTube and TikTok.Artwork by Leila Mead. Check out her website and follow her on Instagram. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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The Tudors (Part 9): Mary I - "Bloody Mary"
Welcome back to the Ministry’s Tudor series! In this episode, Anna and Artie uncover the fascinating—and often tragic—story of Mary I, England’s first crowned queen. Ruling from 1553 to 1558, her short reign is often overshadowed by that of her formidable sister, Elizabeth I. But was Mary truly the ruthless "Bloody Mary" history remembers her as?We dive into her early life, the dramatic power struggles that shaped her rise to the throne, and the challenges she faced as queen. Was her reputation deserved, or has history been unfair to her? And did she leave behind any lasting achievements? Find out in this episode!You can also watch this episode as video on YouTube.The Ministry of History offers more than just podcast episodes! Check out our blog for engaging historical insights, access transcripts of episodes, subscribe to our newsletter for updates and early access to posts, and explore our digital content. Planning a trip to Berlin? You can even book a history tour with Artie himself! To find all this, simply head to our website. You can also follow us on Instagram, YouTube and TikTok.Artwork by Leila Mead. Check out her website and follow her on Instagram. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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East Germany (Part 2): Politics, Power, and the SED
In this second episode of the Ministry of History's East Germany series, we’re diving into the political system, ideology, and leaders of the GDR. East Germany officially called itself a democracy—its full name was the German Democratic Republic (GDR)—and it even held elections. But were they truly democratic? The ruling Socialist Unity Party (SED) tightly controlled the state, ensuring that real political power remained in the hands of a select few. Who were those select few? Just how was the GDR's political system structured? What was contained in its constitution? What was its actual ideology - communist, socialist or something else? Listen to the episode to find out!The Ministry of History offers more than just podcast episodes! Check out our blog for engaging historical insights, access transcripts of episodes, subscribe to our newsletter for updates and early access to posts, and explore our digital content. Planning a trip to Berlin? You can even book a history tour with Artie himself! To find all this, simply head to our website. You can also follow us on Instagram, YouTube and TikTok.Artwork by Leila Mead. Check out her website and follow her on Instagram. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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National Personifications: IRELAND 🇮🇪
🍀 Ériu (or Éire) is the namesake of Ireland and a key figure in Irish mythology.
🇮🇪 She represents the land’s power and sovereignty, and grants kingship to worthy rulers.
✨ Ériu’s presence is said to still linger, watching over the land of Ireland.
#eire #irishmythology #celticgoddess #ancientireland #irishhistory #gaeilge #celticmythology #irishpaganism #goddessworship #tuathadedanann #irishculture #celticheritage #folklore #irishlegend #mysticireland #ireland #ministryofhistory #nationalpersonifications
If you could go back to a day in Berlin history, which would it be?
📹 🎙️ Watch or listen to the full episode of Minister`s Questions involving Berlin tour guides Artie and Tina. Find it wherever you get your podcasts or on the Ministry YouTube channel.
⚒️ Perhaps the fall of the Berlin Wall on 9 November 1989?
🕊️ Maybe the when the world wars ended on 9 November 1918 and 8 May 1945?
🇩🇪 Or perhaps when Germany came into existence on 18 January 1871?
⚽ Or maybe even as recent as 15 July 2014, when Germany won the FIFA World Cup!
🗓️ And yes... a lot of things happened on 9 November in German history!
Do you have a day in Berlin history you would have like to have experienced? Let us know in the comments!
#berlinhistory #famousdays #berlinmoments #historyfacts #germanytrip #travelberlin #berlincity #historicplaces #onthisday #visitgermany #worldhistory #europeantravel #berlinwall #culturetrip #berlinlife #cityvibes #tellmeyourstory #favoritehistory #whatsyourfavorite #history #9november1989 #falloftheberlinwall #wwi #wwii #historyblogger #historynerd #historiansofinstagram
Tina tells us the history of one of the largest women’s centres in Europe—the Schokofabrik in Kreuzberg! 🏢💜 A space for support, empowerment, and community, this Berlin landmark has been making history for decades.
🍫 Once a chocolate factory, now a hub for women’s rights!
🧘♀️ Workshops, support networks & wellness spaces.
✊ A pillar of feminist activism in Kreuzberg.
♀️ A safe space for all women, regardless of background.
Have you been to Schokofabrik? Tell us your thoughts below! ⬇️
#berlin #kreuzberg #schokofabrikkreuzberg #schokofabrik #frauenzentrumschokofabrik #feminism #womensupportingwomen #womensrights #herstory #history #berlinhistory #feministberlin #womenempowerment #community #solidarity #genderjustice #equality #activism #chocolatefactory #womenscentre #supportwomen #herstorybuff #womeninhistory #trailblazers #ministryofhistory
🇧🇷 Brazilian Carnival is not a date, it’s a feeling ✨
In the latest episode of the Ministry of History Podcast, guest Daniel reads a quote from a pretty perfect description of Brazilian Carnival by Ricardo Scarpa.
You can watch the rest of Ricardo`s wonderful reel on his Instagram page: @ricardoscarpa.two
📹 🎙️ You can watch the podcast episode on YouTube or listen to it wherever you get your podcasts.
🔗 Link in bio.
#brazilianhistory #brazil #history #ministryofhistory #carnivalhistory #braziliantradition #sambaculture #riohistory #carnivalroots #afrobrazilianheritage #sambaschools #culturalhistory #brazilianfestivals #carnivalorigins #streetcarnival #historyofcarnival #brazilianmusic #brazilianculture
The reason why I haven’t been very active the past few weeks… but I’m back!
#holidays #brazil #carnival #ministryofhistory
The memorial to one of the darkest chapters in French history.
⛓️ The Vel d`Hiv (short for "Velodrome d`Hiver") roundup of July 1942 saw the arrest of over 13,000 Jews in Paris by French police, who were interred at the cycling stadium and then deported to Nazi camps.
🤝 It was one of the clearest examples of collaboration between French authorities and the Nazi occupiers.
🚲 The original stadium was demolished after the war in the 1950s; no trace remains today.
🕊️ The "Monument commémoratif de la rafle du Vél` d’Hiv" honors victims near Quai de Grenelle.
👨👩👧👦 A bronze sculpture depicts innocent Jews, young, old, and ill, capturing the event’s human tragedy.
#holocaustremembrance #historymatters #neverforget #wwii #parishistory #veldhiv #lestweforget #jewishhistory #memorial #darkhistory #nazioccupiedfrance #frenchcollaboration #ministryofhistory #wwiihistory #holocaust
Why Paris wasn`t destroyed during the Second World War
🛑 Von Choltitz refused to carry out Hitler’s order to destroy Paris as the Allies approached.
🏰 He recognised the city`s cultural and architectural significance.
🤝 Choltitz engaged in talks with the resistance instead of escalating destruction.
⚖️ He likely feared post-war consequences and chose to avoid mass destruction.
#history #ww2 #paris #france #worldwar2 #hitler #nazigermany #resistance #liberation #wartimehistory #untoldhistory #didyouknow #onthisday #militaryhistory #europeanhistory #parishistory #francehistory #ww2stories #wartimeparis #historicplaces #historyfacts #historicalfigures #ww2events #urbanhistory #wartimeheroes #parisww2 #voncholtitz #occupationhistory #hiddenhistory #ministryofhistory
The first big crisis of East Germany`s existence...
🎙️ Find out more about the 1953 June Uprising on the Ministry of History Podcast. Available wherever you get your podcasts.
✊ Workers in East Germany rose up against the GDR government on 16-17 June 1953.
⚒️ The uprising began with builders calling a general strike in East Berlin protesting increased work quotas.
🚨 The protests spread across the country, with hundreds of thousands demanding reforms and free elections.
🪖 The Red Army crushed the uprising with tanks and troops, killing dozens.
⛓️ The GDR government arrested thousands, blaming the West for instigating the unrest.
#history #worldhistory #coldwar #soviethistory #communism #berlin #germany #europeanhistory #eastgermany #gdrhistory #1953uprising #ddrgeschichte #workersuprising #berlinhistory #socialisthistory #juneuprising1953 #volksaufstand1953 #historynerd #historyblogger #historian #historypodcast #ministryofhistory #17juni1953 #revoltsthroughhistory
The `Haussmannisation` of Paris - why Paris looks the way it does
🤝 In 1853 Emperor Napoleon III instructed architect Georges-Eugène Haussmann to redesign Paris to make it brighter, airier (and some said to make it easier for the authorities to crush rebellions!).
🏛 Iconic five-story buildings with wrought-iron balconies and cream-coloured facades became the Parisian standard.
🌳 Haussmann added green spaces like Parc des Buttes-Chaumont and massively expanded the sewer system for better sanitation.
🚧 Wide streets weren’t just for beauty—they also made it harder for revolutionaries to build barricades.
🌍 Without Haussmann, the postcard-perfect, grand boulevards of Paris as the world knows it wouldn’t exist today!
#paris #france #history #haussmann #parishistory #architecture #urbanplanning #citydesign #beautifulcities #europe #travel #parisianstyle #oldparis #historicalfacts #learnsomethingnew #parisianhistory #frenchhistory #historyblogger #historyreels #ministryofhistory #historynerd
Global South communism was different to Eastern Bloc communism...
✊ Unlike the Eastern Bloc`s Soviet-backed socialism, Global South communist movements (e.g., Cuba 🇨🇺, Angola 🇦🇴, Vietnam 🇻🇳) blended the class-struggle with their struggle for independence from their colonial oppressors .
🇻🇳 Vietnam`s struggle was led by Ho Chi Minh against the French and Americans.
🇨🇺 Cuba`s struggle was led by Fidel Castro against a US-backed dictatorship, and then a US embargo.
🇦🇴 Angola fought a 13 year war of independence against Portuguese rule.
#communism #globalsouth #coldwar #castro #hanoihilton #vietnamwar #hcmc #hochiminh #angola #cuba #socialism #marxism #anticolonialism #revolution #proxywar #coldwarhistory #ussr #guerrillawarfare #historyreel #leftisthistory #ministryofhistory #historyofsocialism #socialisthistory
The mystery of the Basque language 🧐
1️⃣ Basque (Euskara) is a language isolate, meaning it has no known relatives and predates Indo-European languages in Europe.
📜 It may be the last surviving language from before Indo-European migration, possibly dating back thousands of years.
🔡 Unlike most European languages, Basque uses ergative-absolutive grammar, making it structurally distinct.
🌍 Its words have no clear links to Latin, Germanic, or Slavic languages, making it completely different from its neighbours.
✊ Despite centuries of suppression, Basque has survived and is now co-official in the Basque Country (Spain).
#history #basque #basquecountry #euskara #linguistics #languagehistory #rarelanguages #prehistoric #languageisolate #hiddenhistory #europeanhistory #iberianpeninsula #baskonia #endangeredlanguages #indigenouslanguages #oldworld #mystery #historicalroots #languagepreservation #uniquehistory #ministryofhistory #historyoflanguage #historyblogger #historianoninstagram #euskara
When you broke with Rome for Wifey, but she hasn’t provided any male heirs and so she keeps fussing over you so you don’t send her to the chopping block 🪓
📺 Watch ‘Having Fun with the Tudors’ on the Ministry of History YouTube channel.
#henryviii #anneboleyn #historymemes #tudorhumor #royaldrama #divorcedbeheaded #sixwives #historicalbanter #medievaltea #tudorshenanigans #thetudors #tudors #history #historyblogger #historymemes #ministryofhistory
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