Killing Victoria

1. The Monster

Killing Victoria

Show Notes

The dramatic story of the first assassin, a fame-seeking teenager named Edward Oxford.

More from Killing Victoria

Feb 26, 2026

If journalism is the first draft of history, what happens if that draft turns out to be flawed? The History Bureau revisits the defining stories of our times with the reporters who first covered them. What did they get right first time around? And, in the chaos and confusion of unfolding events, what did they miss? Season 1: Putin and the Apartment Bombs. In September 1999, just weeks after a 46-year-old Vladimir Putin became Prime Minister, four bombs blew up four apartment buildings across Russia, killing hundreds of people while they slept. The attacks plunged the country into panic. Families fled their homes. Residents patrolled their blocks around the clock. An entire nation paralyzed by fear. But who did it? It's a mystery that has fuelled some chilling theories. The government blamed Chechen militants. Many reporters agreed. But then the whispers started. Was something even more sinister going on? Listen to The History Bureau on BBC.com or wherever you get your podcasts. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

May 1, 2023

The story of the assassin who attempted to kill Victoria on her way to Windsor Castle.

Apr 24, 2023

The young rebel who broke into Buckingham Palace holding a list of demands and a pistol.

Apr 17, 2023

A soldier named Robert Pate undertakes the most serious attack on Queen Victoria yet.

Apr 10, 2023

In the crowd marking Victoria’s 30th birthday is an out of work bricklayer and he’s armed

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