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How has war impacted economies of the past?

There have been plenty of headlines over the past month about the possible financial impact of the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. But what does history tell us about the ways in which the impact of war has been felt far from the battlefield?

• Matt Elton

Published: June 4, 2026 at 7:02 AM

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There have been plenty of headlines over the past month about the possible financial impact of the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. But what does history tell us about the ways in which the impact of war has been felt far from the battlefield? Regular panellists Hannah Skoda and Rana Mitter chronicle some of the most dramatic examples, from medieval England to the Second World War. Plus, with Britain experiencing unprecedented spring heat in recent weeks, we investigate the draw of swimming when the temperature rises – and the surprising role it played in a key moment of international diplomacy.

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Authors

Matt EltonPodcast editor

Matt Elton is the podcast editor at HistoryExtra

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