5 podcasts that make history fun

History does not have to be boring, but it sure is easy to make it that way.
For many students, history class was at the bottom of the barrel in terms of enjoyment. Not all history teachers deserve a bad wrap, but regurgitating the same lessons every year isn't conducive to inspiring students to learn.

See also: 12 podcasts that will tell you a fantastic story

Once you're past the whole forced learning aspect of life, you can finally educate yourself on the things you want to learn about, using the medium of your preference.
YouTube videos have changed the way we obtain information, whether it's learning how to fix a leaky faucet or how to make your own Slip N' Slide. But for on-the-go education, podcasts are the perfect way to kill some time during your commute and learn something interesting.

1. Dan Carlin's Hardcore History

Video: YouTube, AllHistories

If there is one educational podcast you have to listen to, it's Dan Carlin's Hardcore History, which sounds more like an epic audiobook rather than a history lesson. Although there are only 13 episodes available, Carlin does not skimp out on content. Some of his podcasts are broken down into multiple parts, each hours long, like his five-part series Wrath of the Khans, which details "one of the most violent outbursts in history."

2. Stuff You Missed in History Class

Image: Tumblr

In 1826, some smuggled eggnog inspired a Christmas party and caused a riot at the United States Military Academy in West Point, New York. Stuff you Missed in History Class, from HowStuffWorks.com takes strange, mostly unknown stories from the past and packs them into a podcast that is easily digestible at under an hour, perfect for the commute to work.

3. Stuff They Don't Want You to Know

Image: Tumblr

What's a little history without a few conspiracy theories, right?
Although Stuff They Don't Want You to Know is presented in a dark, "the world is ending and everyone is out to get you" manner, these short video clips are actually incredibly entertaining. The podcast, which is also produced by HowStuffWorks.com touches on important subjects like "Is Your Boss a Psychopath" and "Does the Devil live in Jersey?" And if anything, it can serve as a great introduction to those who aren't ready to make the leap into something like Hardcore History.

4. A History of the World in 100 Objects

Image: Tumblr

We remember parts of history by the objects we associate with them, such as selfie sticks. A History of the World in 100 Objects from BBC Radio is a 100 episode collection that focuses on specific objects and how they impacted history. The series concluded in May of 2011, however all of the episodes are still available on iTunes.

5. History Extra

Image: Tumblr

Produced by the BBC magazine of the the same name History Extra covers many topics ranging from the first World War to the history of humanity, to Nazi spies. The podcast isn't necessarily for someone who is mildly interested in history, but it is great for someone who may be interested in the magazine, but not yet willing to dish out the subscription fee.
Have something to add to this story? Share it in the comments.