History is one of the most popular subjects, but only after people finish school. Research shows that a lot of people – 40 percent in fact - regret their choice of course at college, showing that when we’re in our youth we don’t really know what we’re interested in. History tends to be one of those fields that people turn to at a later date, wishing they’d paid more attention in high school. That might be why there are so many historical apps out there to choose from, giving people the chance to learn all the stuff they may have missed out on before. Here are some of the best ways to get some historical action on a smartphone or tablet.
History Adventures, World of Characters
History Adventures, World of Characters is widely considered to be the best history app on the market. The offering from Spencer Striker is an integrated app that aims to provide a fresh approach to history learning. There are some elements that are similar to reading, but this is combined with a number of interactive options that literally help the characters and stories to jump off the page. After going through beta testing in a number of colleges throughout 2020, the title has been rolled out to worldwide audiences in 2021.
The app covers a range of historical periods from 1750 to 1900. It includes 3D experiences, unique and interesting sounds, and easy-to-comprehend data graphs. At the end of each section, users are able to test their knowledge by completing a quiz. The great thing about this app is that it accounts for a range of learning styles, and has features that will appeal to each of them. This means that visual and audible elements are combined for an all-round experience.
BBC History Magazine
The BBC History Magazine has been published in physical format since 2000 and, more recently, it has become available in app format. Users can sign up for a subscription that allows instant access to the entire back catalog, along with new editions as soon as they are released. Because the publication has been around for so long, it has been able to cover a vast amount of history. Therefore, users who sign up to the full package will be able to study from a wide range of time periods.
The editor, Rob Attar, recommended some of the best articles to choose from in the magazine’s rich history. These included a poignant piece on the reaction of the nation upon hearing the news of Princess Diana’s death, an article about how Victorians embraced vegetarianism, and a feature on whether William the Conqueror was a war criminal. A lot of the articles in the BBC History Magazine put forth a perspective not often found in traditional history books.
Historical Themed Games
For some people, the best way to involve themselves with history and feel immersed is to play games relating to it. There are plenty of gaming apps that allow people to do just that, with a great variety in almost every game genre. These can be used as a way to simply feel as if you’ve been transported back to periods in history, or to help spark an interest in a particular event or time.
The online casino industry probably has the biggest selection when it comes to historical games. One of the most popular periods of history for mobile slots is ancient Egypt. Cleopatra is a standout example, and the classic slot focuses on one of the most famous rulers ever to have existed. Aside from that game, there are others that are centered on the exploration side of archeology. Rich Wilde and the Book of Dead and Book of Ra are two examples of games that use this theme.
There are plenty of other offerings for mobile that can stir up people’s curiosity about history as well. For people who are interested in the warfare side of history, there are a few MMOs that would definitely be of interest. These include offerings like Sparta: War of Empires, Rome: Total War, and Call of War. For more lighthearted games that teach a bit of history, Railway Empire and The Time Tribe are well worth checking out.
Historical Audiobooks and Podcasts
For people who just prefer to listen to things from their phone, perhaps when driving or walking, there are a few fantastic audiobooks and podcasts about history. One of the most popular podcasts to have emerged in recent years is You’re Dead to Me, from Greg Jenner. Each episode focuses on a different period of history, and features a history expert along with a comedian. This results in some lighthearted and enjoyable discussion.
As for history audiobooks on Audible, the choice on offer is astounding. There are more general options such as Yuval Noah Harari’s Sapiens: A Brief History of Humankind, and A History of The World in 6 Glasses by Tom Standage. Alternatively, there are offerings that center on particular time periods such as S.P.Q.R: A History of Ancient Rome by Mary Beard, and The Rise And Fall of The Third Reich by William L. Shirer.
Mobile users have access to an endless array of sources that can spark an interest in history. Depending on your learning preference, there is almost certainly going to be something out there to suit your needs. So if you want to fill some gaps in your knowledge, you should download a history app and get learning.
