History Rage

What if everything you think you know about Ancient Greece is wrong?In this episode of History Rage, bestselling historian Adrian Goldsworthy dismantles the comforting myth of a civilised, philosophical utopia. Forget marble statues and thoughtful men in cloaks — this is a world of bitter rivalries, brutal warfare, political volatility, and communities obsessed with proving they were the best.Drawing on his latest book, Athens and Sparta: The Rivalry That Shaped the Ancient World, Adrian reveals a Greek world far more dangerous, competitive and unstable than most documentaries dare to show.Ancient Greece: 800 Rival States, Not One Noble NationThere was no “Greece” in the modern sense. Instead, there were 800–1,000 fiercely independent city-states, constantly competing for prestige, power and survival.In this episode, we explore:Why the Persian invasions weren’t an attack on a united GreeceWhy more Greeks fought for Persia than against itHow competition — not culture — defined Greek identityWhy colonisation, warfare and rivalry were normalThe performance culture of honour and reputationThis isn’t Plato’s academy come to life. It’s a volatile world where cities needed enemies — but not so destroyed that there was no one left to applaud their victories.Athens vs Sparta: Democracy, Discipline and MythWe also unpack the two giants of the Greek world:Athens – Radical Democracy or Mob Rule?Athens pioneered a form of direct democracy that feels startlingly modern — and terrifyingly unstable.Every male citizen could voteThousands could serve on juriesOffices were filled by lotteryCitizens were paid for political serviceLeaders could be exiled through ostracismAdrian explains how Athenian democracy worked in practice — including how the Assembly once voted to execute an entire rebellious city… and reversed the decision the next day.This was participation politics at its most extreme.Sparta – Military Machine or Misunderstood Society?Sparta’s reputation as a society of full-time soldiers doesn’t tell the whole story.Because the Spartans wrote almost nothing themselves, much of what we “know” comes from outsiders — often centuries later.Adrian challenges the clichés:Were Spartans truly permanent warriors?How rigid was their society in reality?What was life like for the Helots?Why did Sparta’s citizen population collapse?How democratic was Sparta — really?The result is a more complex, less cartoonish Sparta than Hollywood’s 300 ever allowed. About Adrian GoldsworthyAdrian Goldsworthy is a leading historian of the ancient world and bestselling author. Though best known for his work on Rome, he has written extensively on Greece and the classical world.BookAthens and Sparta: The Rivalry That Shaped the Ancient WorldBuy: https://uk.bookshop.org/a/10120/9781800245426🔗 Website: https://www.adriangoldsworthy.comFollow & Support History RageIf you enjoyed this episode, here’s how to support the show:🎧 Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or your favourite podcast app⭐ Leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts – it helps more than you know🔔 Follow to never miss an episode Support the Podcast💷 Become a supporter for just £3 or £5 per month and help keep the rage alive.Support here: https://www.patreon.com/historyrageFollow History Rage🌐 Website: www.historyrage.comAll social media platforms : @historyrageHistory isn’t polite. It isn’t tidy. And it certainly wasn’t pacifist.This is History Rage — where myth gets fed to Charybdis. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

14/06/2026 • 59:36

Think the Black Death was just a medieval European tragedy? Think again.When you picture the Black Death, you probably imagine a third of Europe being wiped out while flagellants marched through British and French villages. But pandemics don’t stop at borders. What if our standard history lessons have completely ignored more than half of the story?In this special episode for the Chalke History Festival, host Paul Bavill sits down with Tom Asbridge, Reader in Medieval History at Queen Mary University of London and author of The Black Death, a Global History. Together, they shatter the Euro-centric myths to reveal a truly global disaster that stretched from Central Asia all the way across the medieval world.Discover how the plague reshaped the wealthy and sophisticated Mamluk Empire. Massive Middle Eastern cities like Cairo—which completely dwarfed London with a population of half a million people—faced unimaginable mass mortality. Tom explains the fascinating doctrinal differences that dictated survival; while Christian Europe viewed the disease as divine punishment that justified flight and abandonment, Islamic doctrine saw it as a merciful martyrdom. This completely altered how communities reacted, locked down, and ultimately collapsed under the weight of the pandemic.From the horrific eyewitness accounts of parents burying their own children to the long-term socioeconomic shifts that triggered peasant revolts and altered workers' rights, this episode zooms out to a global scale and zooms in on the raw human experience. If you want to understand the true scale of history's most terrifying disease, hit play now!About Our GuestTom Asbridge is a professional historian, author, and Reader in Medieval History at Queen Mary University of London.See Tom Live: Catch Tom speaking at the Chalke History Festival on Friday 26th June at 4:00 PM. Grab your tickets at: https://www.chalkefestival.com/Buy the Book: Get your copy of The Black Death, a Global History directly from the History Rage Bookshop to support the show: https://uk.bookshop.org/a/10120/9780241399408Recommended Episodes To Check Out NextEpisode 193: Luke Pepera rages that there is an African history long before any Europeans turned up.Episode 143: Eleanor Janega brings the rage to prove that medieval women absolutely worked.Support and Follow History RageIf you love truth being freed and myth getting a long, slow, brutal death, help us keep the anger alive!Support us on Patreon: Join the inner circle for £5 a month to get entry into our monthly book draws, pitch questions to future guests, access live streams, and grab the coveted History Rage mug: https://www.patreon.com/historyrageFollow us on Twitter/X: https://x.com/HistoryRageVisit our Website: Get the latest updates and episodes directly at https://www.historyrage.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

10/06/2026 • 55:58

Berlin wasn’t blockaded — and that changes everything you think.Was Berlin really “blockaded” in 1948? Or have we been repeating a Cold War myth for nearly eighty years?In this explosive episode of History Rage, cultural historian and author Joseph Pearson dismantles one of the most entrenched narratives of the early Cold War. We all know the story: Stalin sealed off West Berlin, starving its people, and the West heroically saved the city through the Berlin Airlift. But what if Berlin was never truly blockaded at all?Drawing on deep archival research and firsthand accounts from Berliners, Pearson argues that the term “blockade” is historically misleading. While ground and rail access from West Germany was restricted, movement between East and West Berlin continued. Civilians crossed borders. Food flowed in. Even Soviet authorities offered rations. The airlift was real — and extraordinary — but the idea of a city completely sealed off is far more myth than fact.We explore:What a “blockade” actually means — and why the word mattersHow ordinary Berliners experienced the airliftThe women who built Tegel Airport in just 90 daysThe terrifying near-misses that could have sparked World War IIIThe propaganda war that turned former enemies into alliesWhy the Berlin Airlift remains a masterclass in geopolitical brinkmanshipJoseph Pearson, originally from Canada and now based in Berlin, specialises in everyday history — the lived experience behind the headlines. His latest book examines the Berlin Airlift through the eyes of civilians and pilots, revealing a more complex, human and politically charged story.Guest Details:Joseph Pearson is a cultural historian and author based in Berlin.Book: The Airlift: Victories, Myths, and the Berlin BlockadeBuy here: https://uk.bookshop.org/a/10120/9781803998220Follow Joseph on Instagram @writing_josephIf you care about Cold War history, post-war Germany, the Berlin Blockade, the Berlin Airlift, or how propaganda shapes memory — this episode will challenge what you thought you knew.Episode recommendations:Episode 219 – Giles Milton on Post War Berlin - https://pod.fo/e/2f6bc6Episode 103 – Katja Hoyer on East Germany - https://pod.fo/e/21793e Follow & Support History Rage🎙 Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and all major platforms 🌐 Website: www.historyrage.com 📱 Patreon & Apple Subscriptions for early access and exclusives 👉 www.patreon.com/historyrageJoin the conversation on social media and share your rage @historyrage Have a myth you want dismantled? Get in touch via the website.If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts — it genuinely helps more people discover the show.History is human. History is political. And sometimes… history is wrong.Welcome to History Rage. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

07/06/2026 • 55:26

Why history’s greatest Athenian leader may be wildly misunderstood todayWas Pericles really the mastermind behind Athens’ Golden Age — or have historians spent centuries exaggerating his importance?In this explosive episode of History Rage, acclaimed classicist and Cambridge professor Paul Cartledge tears apart the modern obsession with “Periclean Athens” and argues that ancient democracy was far more complex than the story of one great man. From the origins of democracy and demagogues to the brutal realities of Athenian politics, this is a fascinating deep dive into Ancient Greece, the Peloponnesian War, Sparta, rhetoric, and political power.Paul explains why Pericles could never have ruled like a dictator, why Athens executed failed politicians, and why modern comparisons between Pericles and modern autocrats completely miss the point. He also explores the cultural mythmaking around the Parthenon, the famous Funeral Oration, and the role of Thucydides in shaping Pericles’ legendary reputation.The conversation also shines a spotlight on Aspasia of Miletus — often unfairly dismissed as Pericles’ “mistress.” Paul argues passionately that Aspasia was Pericles’ intellectual equal and one of the most misunderstood women in ancient history.If you love Ancient Greek history, classical civilisation, democracy, Sparta vs Athens, Greek philosophy, or the politics of historical memory, this episode is essential listening.In this episode:Was Pericles really responsible for Athens’ Golden Age?How Athenian democracy actually workedWhy the word “demagogue” changed meaningThe truth about Aspasia of MiletusPericles, Sparta and the outbreak of total warAncient rhetoric and political persuasionWhy historians still argue about Pericles todayPaul Cartledge’s book:Pericles: Statesman, Demagogue, EccentricBuy through the History Rage Bookshop:https://uk.bookshop.org/a/10120/9781836392002See Paul at Chalke History FestivalPaul is speaking at the on Wednesday 24th June.Tickets available here:https://www.chalkefestival.com/Follow Paul Cartledge:https://www.classics.cam.ac.uk/directory/paul-cartledgeSupport History Rage:If you enjoy the podcast, you can support History Rage on Patreon for bonus content, livestreams, book giveaways and more:https://www.patreon.com/historyrageFollow History Rage:https://historyrage.comhttps://x.com/historyragehttps://www.instagram.com/historyragepodcast/https://www.facebook.com/historyrage Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

04/06/2026 • 61:11

When history gets reduced to lazy moral takes, it misses the real Cold War truth.In this episode of History Rage, historian and broadcaster Guy Walters tears into the misunderstandings surrounding Nazi scientists, rocket technology, and one of the most consequential intelligence grabs of the 20th century: the post-war scramble for expertise that became Operation Paperclip.At the heart of the discussion is the extraordinary story of the V2 rocket programme and the Polish resistance operation that recovered an intact missile from occupied territory during the chaos of 1944. That single recovery effort fed directly into Allied intelligence assessments and helped shape how Britain and the United States understood Germany’s technological leap forward in rocketry.Guy argues that the real story isn’t about moral purity—it’s about survival in an emerging Cold War. As the Iron Curtain fell, the question wasn’t whether these scientists were compromised. It was who would get them first: the West or the Soviet Union.From covert recoveries in wartime Poland to the intelligence race over German aerospace expertise, this episode reveals how fragile the balance of power really was in 1945—and how close the Soviets came to dominating early rocket science.Guy also dismantles the idea that Operation Paperclip was uniquely scandalous. In reality, every major power—US, UK, USSR, and others—was racing to absorb German technical knowledge. The Cold War, he argues, was shaped as much by captured minds as by captured territory.The discussion explores:The Polish resistance recovery of a near-intact V2 rocket Why Allied intelligence needed it so urgently Whether Nazi rocket science could have changed WWII or only the Cold War The ethical grey zone of recruiting former Nazi scientists How figures like Wernher von Braun influenced the space race and beyond This is not just a story about rockets. It’s about power, pragmatism, and the uncomfortable truth that technological supremacy often comes with moral compromise.If you think the Cold War was won by ideals alone, this episode will challenge that assumption. If you already suspect history is messier than textbooks suggest, this is a deep dive into exactly how messy it gets.Buy the book featured in this episode📘 Stealing Hitler’s Rocket by Guy Walters 👉 https://uk.bookshop.org/a/10120/9781035910854Follow the guestInstagram: @guyebwalters X / other platforms: @GuyWalters Support History RageIf you enjoy the show and want to help it grow:Support on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/historyrage Or listen ad-free via Apple Subscriptions (£3/month) Tell someone else about the show and spread the Rage In this episode, history doesn’t behave. It collides with ethics, necessity, and Cold War fear—and leaves us with uncomfortable answers about who really shaped the modern world. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

03/06/2026 • 49:51

The Crusades reshaped Europe far beyond Jerusalem — and we’ve forgotten itFor most people, the Crusades begin and end with Jerusalem, Richard the Lionheart and Saladin. But that narrow view hides a far bigger story. In this episode of History Rage, medieval archaeologist Professor Aleks Pluskowski takes aim at the myth that crusading was confined to the eastern Mediterranean — and reveals how crusades transformed northern and eastern Europe in ways that still shape the modern worldDrawing on decades of archaeological research and historical evidence, Aleks explains how the Baltic Crusades were longer, more successful, and ultimately more influential than those in the Levant. From the rise of the Teutonic Order to the foundation of cities like Riga and Tallinn, this conversation exposes a forgotten chapter of European history that fundamentally reshaped societies, borders and identitiesYou’ll hear why crusading was a papally authorised penitential war, how it expanded beyond Jerusalem to target pagans, heretics and political enemies, and why northern Europe became the Crusades’ most enduring battlefield. Aleks also unpacks the diversity of pre-Christian belief systems in the Baltic, the realities of conquest and settlement, and how crusading ideology became a template for later colonialism and modern nationalist mythsThe episode also tackles how the Teutonic Order evolved from a humble hospital in Acre into a powerful military state, why it succeeded where the Levantine Crusader states failed, and how its image was later distorted by 19th-century nationalism and Nazi propaganda. This is not just military history — it’s a story about how Europe learned to dominate, govern and remember its pastIf you think you know the Crusades, this episode will make you rethink everything.Guest: Professor Aleks PluskowskiProfessor of Medieval Archaeology, University of ReadingAleks Pluskowski is a leading authority on crusading in northern Europe, with extensive fieldwork experience across Poland and the Baltic region. His research focuses on material culture, landscapes of conquest, and the long-term impact of crusading societies.BookThe Black Cross: The Medieval Baltic CrusadesBuy here: https://uk.bookshop.org/a/10120/9780300279061About History RageHistory Rage is the podcast that hunts down historical myths and kicks them into the long grass. Hosted by Paul Bavill, each episode invites leading historians to vent their fury at what everyone gets wrong about the past — loudly, passionately, and with evidence.Follow History RageTwitter / X: https://twitter.com/historyrageFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/historyrageInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/historyrageSupport the podcastJoin the rage on Patreon for bonus content, livestreams and early access:https://www.patreon.com/historyrageOr support via Apple Podcasts Subscriptions for ad-free listening and early releases.If you enjoyed this episode, tell a friend and bring someone new aboard the rage train. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

31/05/2026 • 54:14

From exploding kings to civil wars, Britain’s royals were never respectable.Comedy legend, author and podcast host Charlie Higson joins History Rage to dismantle the myth that today’s monarchy is uniquely scandalous. From William the Conqueror’s warring sons to murderous Plantagenets, abusive Hanoverians and Edward VII’s infamous Parisian “sex chair”, Charlie argues the Royal Family has always been gloriously dysfunctional.Drawing from his brilliant new book Willy, Willy, Harry, Stee, Charlie takes Paul Bavill on a whirlwind tour through a thousand years of royal chaos, revealing why modern headlines about Harry, Meghan and Prince Andrew are tame compared to the behaviour of their ancestors.Expect exploding corpses, imprisoned wives, civil wars, royal affairs, fathers and sons at war, and the astonishing truth behind Britain’s longest-running soap opera.In this episode:Why William the Conqueror’s family immediately descended into violence The endless cycle of Plantagenet betrayal and civil war Why Edward II may have been too normal to be king The shocking dysfunction of the Georgian monarchy The real story behind George IV and Queen Caroline Edward VII’s scandalous private life and surprising political successes Why the monarchy survives despite centuries of scandal Charlie also explains why Britain remains fascinated by royalty — and why countries that abolished monarchies still recreate them through celebrity dynasties and political families.Charlie Higson will be appearing at the Chalke History Festival on Sunday 28th June. Tickets available here: https://www.chalkefestival.com/Buy Charlie’s book here: https://uk.bookshop.org/a/10120/9780008741051Follow Charlie Higson:https://x.com/monstroso Follow and support History Rage:https://historyrage.com/ https://www.patreon.com/historyrage https://www.facebook.com/historyragepodcast https://www.instagram.com/historyragepodcast/ https://x.com/historyrage If you enjoy sharp historical debate, outrageous true stories and irreverent takes on Britain’s past, subscribe now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

27/05/2026 • 70:01

Mary Queen of Scots wasn’t stupid — history’s verdict is dangerously wrong.Was Mary, Queen of Scots really a reckless, lovestruck failure — or has history judged her by impossible standards? In this explosive History Rage counter-rage, acclaimed historian Linda Porter takes aim at one of the most persistent myths in British history and argues that Mary was anything but a “bloody stupid woman”.Drawing directly on political context, dynastic logic, gendered double standards, and Scotland’s uniquely volatile sixteenth-century landscape, Linda dismantles the lazy comparison between Mary and Elizabeth I. She reveals why Mary’s marriages made sense at the time, how Scottish politics stacked the odds against her, and why hindsight has been weaponised against a queen ruling in near-impossible circumstances.This episode dives deep into:Why Mary’s upbringing in France is misunderstood — and misused against herThe unfair Elizabeth I vs Mary, Queen of Scots comparisonThe dynastic logic behind the Darnley marriageWhy the Bothwell marriage looks far more like coercion than romanceHow trauma, pregnancy, betrayal, and political violence shaped Mary’s decisionsWhy calling Mary “stupid” says more about historians than historyIf you care about women in power, Tudor and Stuart history, Mary Queen of Scots, or how myths harden into “fact”, this episode is essential listening.About the guest: Linda PorterLinda Porter is one of Britain’s leading historians of the Tudor and Stuart period, known for her sharp analysis and willingness to challenge historical orthodoxies. She has written extensively on queenship, power, and dynastic politics.Buy the Book:The Thistle and The Rose: https://uk.bookshop.org/a/10120/9781801105798About History RageHistory Rage is the no-nonsense history podcast where leading historians get angry about myths, bad history, and lazy storytelling. Hosted by Paul Bavill, the show strips away comforting narratives and replaces them with evidence, context, and expert fury.Follow & support History Rage:🎧 Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favourite podcast app💥 Ad-free listening: £3/month on Apple Subscriptions or Patreon🔥 Full supporter perks (£5/month on Patreon): live streams, asking guest questions, and the coveted History Rage mugSupport the podcast:👉 Patreon: www.patreon.com/historyrage👉 Apple Podcasts subscriptions available in-appIf you enjoy this episode, tell someone. One recommendation keeps independent history alive.Related episodes you might enjoyEpisode 216 — Mary Queen of Scots: What a Bloody Stupid Woman (with Tracy Borman) https://pod.fo/e/2e60bdEpisode 186 — Katherine Parr (with Linda Porter): https://pod.fo/e/2b3cc9Episode 80 — Catherine of Braganza (with Linda Porter): https://pod.fo/e/1ef377Mary, Queen of Scots wasn’t stupid — and after this episode, neither will you be about her. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

24/05/2026 • 57:08

Weimar Was a Real Place Before It Became a Political WarningThe “Weimar Republic” has become shorthand for collapse, extremism, and economic chaos — but as historian and author Katja Hoyer argues in this episode of History Rage, Weimar was first and foremost a real town with a rich cultural history stretching back centuries. Home to Goethe, Schiller, Liszt and Nietzsche, Weimar was long considered the spiritual and intellectual heart of Germany before it ever became associated with democratic failure. In this fascinating conversation, Katja dismantles the clichés surrounding interwar Germany by exploring how ordinary people experienced extraordinary political change. Through the lives of Weimar residents — bookbinders, teachers, social democrats and shopkeepers — she reveals how hope, apathy, fear and economic despair gradually transformed a fragile democracy into a dictatorship. From the optimism surrounding Germany’s first truly democratic elections in 1919 to the devastation of hyperinflation, the Great Depression, and the rise of Nazism, this episode explores how extremism becomes acceptable when people feel abandoned by politics. Katja explains why the Nazis initially remained a fringe movement, how the economic crash of 1929 changed everything, and why so many ordinary Germans convinced themselves to look away from the horrors developing around them. The discussion also examines Weimar’s proximity to Buchenwald concentration camp and the uncomfortable realities of what civilians knew — or chose not to know — as Nazi brutality escalated. This is a powerful exploration of how democratic societies fracture, and why understanding the everyday experience of historical change matters now more than ever. Katja’s new book, Weimar: Life on the Edge of Catastrophe, is available here: https://uk.bookshop.org/a/10120/9780241681244You can also hear Katja on her podcast Reichs and Republics, and follow her work here: Substack: https://www.katjahoyer.uk/X/Twitter: https://x.com/hoyer_kat🎟️ Katja Hoyer will also be appearing at the Chalke History Festival on Friday 26 June. Tickets available here: https://www.chalkefestival.com/If you enjoy History Rage, please follow, rate and review the podcast on Apple Podcasts and Spotify — it genuinely helps new listeners discover the show.You can support the podcast and become an official History Rager here: https://www.patreon.com/historyrageFollow and contact History Rage: Website: https://historyrage.com X/Twitter: https://x.com/historyrage Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/historyrage Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/historyrage Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

21/05/2026 • 56:18

Roman slavery myths shattered with brutal truths historians can’t ignoreRoman slavery is often portrayed as mild, civilised, or even preferable to poverty—but that comforting myth collapses under scrutiny. In this explosive episode of History Rage, historian and author Emma Southon unleashes her fury at the persistent sanitising of Roman slavery and reveals the stark, violent realities behind the Roman Empire’s power.Drawing on archaeological evidence, ancient writings, and modern scholarship, Emma dismantles the comforting fiction that Roman slavery was temporary, humane, or somehow “not that bad.” Instead, she exposes a system built on terror, exploitation, and absolute lack of human rights—where millions lived in constant fear of violence, separation, and death.You’ll hear how people became enslaved—from war captives to children born into bondage—and why slavery was so embedded in Roman society that even modest households often owned enslaved people. Emma also reveals the chilling legal reality: for centuries, enslaved people had virtually no protections, and violence against them was both legal and culturally accepted.From the myth of the “happy slave” taught in school textbooks to the romanticised portrayals in television and fiction, this episode challenges everything you thought you knew about Rome—and shows why understanding slavery is essential to understanding the empire itself.What You’ll Learn in This EpisodeWhy Roman slavery was widespread across every level of societyHow people entered slavery through war, birth, crime, or kidnappingThe reality of daily life under constant threat of violenceThe truth about manumission and why freedom was rarer than often claimedHow myths about Roman slavery developed—and why they still persistWhy slavery may have slowed Roman technological innovationAbout the GuestEmma Southon is a historian specialising in the Roman Empire and the social realities behind its power. She is the author of “Servus: How Slavery Made the Roman Empire”, a groundbreaking exploration of slavery’s central role in Roman society.Emma is also co-host of the History Is Sexy, where she explores the ancient world through stories often overlooked in traditional history.Follow Emma Southon:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emmasouthonBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/emmasouton.bsky.social📚 Buy Emma’s book “Servus: How Slavery Made the Roman Empire “ from the History Rage Bookshop:https://uk.bookshop.org/a/10120/9781399741255Support History RageLove hearing historians destroy popular myths? Here’s how to support History Rage:⭐ Leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts or your favourite app📣 Share this episode with a friend who loves history🎧 Subscribe for ad-free listening via Apple Podcasts🔥 Join the rage community on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/historyrageGet in Touch with History Rage📧 Email: historyragepod@gmail.com🌐 Website: https://www.historyrage.com📱 Follow on social media:Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/historyrageInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/historyrageIf you’ve ever been told Roman slavery “wasn’t that bad,” this episode will leave you questioning everything—and maybe feeling a little angry too. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

20/05/2026 • 56:58

Britain’s past politicians were no better—often far worse—than today’s MPs.Were Britain’s past politicians really more honourable than today’s? Or is nostalgia blinding us to just how corrupt, violent, and self-serving many of them actually were?In this episode of History Rage, host Paul Bavill is joined by historian, author, and Get History founder Debbie Kilroy to rage against one of Britain’s most persistent political myths: that historic MPs were somehow morally superior to the modern lot.Drawing on over 400 years of parliamentary history, Debbie dismantles the rose-tinted view of Britain’s political past, revealing a parade of bigamists, slave traders, duelists, bribe-takers, fraudsters, and outright psychopaths who once sat comfortably in Parliament.From Norman MacLeod kidnapping his own tenants into slavery, to Lord Cardigan’s cruelty, incompetence, and vanity, to the systemic corruption that brought down figures like Francis Bacon and David Lloyd George, this episode exposes how power, privilege, and political protection enabled shocking behaviour—often without consequences.Along the way, Debbie explains:Why we keep romanticising historic politiciansHow corruption adapted rather than disappeared over timeWhy reforms like the 1832 Reform Act only scratched the surfaceHow crowds, riots, and popular protest once held MPs to accountWhy the system itself—not just individuals—remains the problemThis is not a defence of modern politics—but a warning against pretending the past was cleaner, fairer, or more honest. Politicians, Debbie argues, haven’t changed. What’s changed is what they can get away with.About the Guest: Debbie KilroyDebbie Kilroy is a historian, writer, and the creator of the popular history platform Get History. She specialises in British political history, focusing on the human realities behind power, myth, and reputation.She is the author of:📘 Members Behaving Badly: A History of Britain in 52 Parliamentary RoguesA deeply researched and often shocking exploration of Britain’s most notorious MPs, spanning four centuries of corruption, cruelty, and chaos.🔗 Book available via https://uk.bookshop.org/a/10120/9781783969388Connect with DebbieWebsite: Get History: https://gethistory.co.uk/Social media: @debbiekilroyauthor (Instagram, Facebook and most platforms)X (Twitter): @DebbieKilroyRecommended ListeningEpisode 241 – Erica Canella on chaos and dissent in the early Quaker movementEpisode 181 – Shalina Patel dismantles the myths of the PankhurstsAbout History RageHistory Rage is the podcast where professional historians confront popular myths head-on and angrily demand historical honesty.Follow & ContactWebsite: www.historyrage.comSocial media: @HistoryRage on X, Instagram, FacebookPatreon: www.patreon.com/historyrageSupport the PodcastGet ad-free episodes on Apple Podcasts or Patreon for £3/monthJoin monthly live streams with historians via PatreonOr simply help by telling one other person to listenIf you think politicians were better “back then”, this episode may ruin that illusion forever.Stay angry. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

17/05/2026 • 54:50

Cold War Protest Songs, Punk Anthems, and Nuclear Pop Culture CollideWhy did the Cold War produce generations of unforgettable protest songs while today’s crises barely inspire a mainstream anthem? In this electrifying episode of History Rage, host Paul Bavill welcomes back historian, author, and Imperial War Museum senior manager Fraser McCallum to trace the history of protest music from folk ballads and Bob Dylan through punk, hip hop, Live Aid, and Cold War pop classics.From Two Tribes and 99 Red Balloons to Fortunate Son, London Calling, and Born in the USA, Fraser explores how music became the soundtrack to nuclear fear, civil rights, Vietnam, Thatcherism, and the fall of the Berlin Wall. Along the way, the pair discuss why protest songs once dominated Top of the Pops and ask the big question: where have all the decent protest songs gone?Expect passionate debate on:Bob Dylan and the birth of modern protest music Folk traditions, skiffle, and anti-war ballads Vietnam War classics like Fortunate Son and Paint It Black Punk, Thatcherism, and London Calling Nuclear anxiety in Two Tribes and 99 Luftballons Bruce Springsteen, David Bowie, and Cold War Berlin Why modern artists rarely risk overt political protest songs Fraser also shares fascinating insights into how pop culture and Western music seeped through the Iron Curtain, influencing East Germany and the wider Cold War world.Fraser is the author of Cold War Britain.Buy the book from the History Rage Bookshop here: https://uk.bookshop.org/a/10120/9780008743994Listen to Fraser’s specially curated Cold War soundtrack playlists: Apple Music Playlist: https://music.apple.com/gb/playlist/cold-war-britain-the-soundtrack-to-the-book/pl.u-NRp7s3pq7oSpotify Playlist: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/2lZ7HBrKKyBj31wXKXx2nq?si=-jyLeTguToieWb87K3CG3A&pi=0lbsCZu1SV2xV&nd=1&dlsi=0de49b8d828a4db0Fraser will also be hosting the IWM History Festival at IWM Duxford on 13–14 June 2026, featuring leading historians, authors, and live discussions surrounded by iconic wartime aircraft. Tickets available here: https://www.iwm.org.uk/events/iwm-duxford/iwm-history-festivalFollow Fraser McCallum and the Imperial War Museum online: https://www.iwm.org.uk/Love the show? Support History Rage by subscribing, leaving a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, and sharing the episode on social media.Follow and contact History Rage: Website: https://historyrage.com/ X: https://x.com/historyrage Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/historyrage/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/historyrage/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

13/05/2026 • 69:41

Drones didn’t start in Silicon Valley — they began with Victorians and warDrones feel like the defining weapon of the 21st century — cheap, disposable, and terrifyingly effective. But what if that belief is completely wrong?In this episode of History Rage, aviation historian and journalist Mark Piesing explodes the modern myth surrounding drones and reveals a truth that stretches back more than 120 years. Long before satellites, digital cameras, or GPS, Victorian engineers were already imagining — and building — pilotless weapons designed to change warfare forever.From Nikola Tesla’s radio-controlled boats in the 1890s, to British attack drones planned during the First World War, this episode traces how unmanned warfare evolved through failed experiments, secret Cold War programmes, and nuclear testing — long before the Predator ever flew.Mark explains why the “father of the drone” was a British engineer targeted by German assassins, how Marilyn Monroe began her career on a drone production line, and why US Navy admirals were signing orders for thousands of attack drones before the Battle of Midway. Along the way, Paul and Mark explore why these technologies repeatedly promised to change war — and why military bureaucracy so often held them back.This is not a story of sudden innovation. It’s a story of persistence, secrecy, and ideas far ahead of the technology needed to make them work. And it explains why today’s drone warfare in Ukraine looks eerily familiar to predictions made in 1898.If you think drones are a modern invention, prepare to be very, very angry.Guest: Mark PiesingMark Piesing is an award-winning journalist and aviation historian specialising in unmanned systems, aerospace innovation, and Cold War technology. His work has appeared with the Smithsonian, Royal Aeronautical Society, and major international publications.Read more here: https://markpiesing.com/2025/07/03/i-was-asked-to-write-this-piece-by-history-com-how-drones-have-upended-warfare/Follow & contact MarkTwitter/X: @markpiesingInstagram: @markpiesingwritesFurther listeningHistory Rage Episode 196 – Mark rages against polar explorers: https://pod.fo/e/2c75bdHistory Rage Episode 53 – Nikola Tesla with Iwun Morus: https://pod.fo/e/16c1d5About History RageHistory Rage is the podcast where historians unleash their fury on the myths, half-truths, and bad history we all think we know. Hosted by Paul Bavill, each episode gives an expert one burning misconception to destroy — loudly, passionately, and with evidence.Follow History RageTwitter/X: @HistoryRageInstagram: @historyrageWebsite: www.historyrage.comSupport the PodcastIf you enjoy independent, expert-led history without ads, you can support History Rage in several ways:£3/month – Ad-free listening via Apple Podcasts or Patreon£5/month – Ask questions to future guests and receive the coveted History Rage mug👉 Support the show at patreon.com/historyrageOr simply tell someone else about the podcast — word of mouth keeps History Rage alive. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

10/05/2026 • 52:31

The Blitz myth shattered: courage, crime, and chaos behind stoicismThe familiar story of Britain’s Blitz—calm, united, unshaken—is one of the most powerful myths of the Second World War. But in this gripping episode of History Rage, historian Joshua Levine dismantles the “Keep Calm and Carry On” narrative and reveals a far more complex reality.Drawing on firsthand accounts and deep archival research, Joshua shows how the Blitz was not a single story of resilience, but a patchwork of human experiences. Alongside genuine moments of solidarity—strangers comforting each other under falling bombs—there were also spikes in crime, looting, black marketeering, and deeply personal tragedies driven by desperation.We explore how wartime propaganda helped shape the enduring myth of the “Blitz Spirit,” promoting unity while downplaying panic, fear, and social tension. Even the iconic “Keep Calm and Carry On” poster was barely used during the war, despite becoming a defining symbol decades later.Joshua also uncovers how the Blitz became a turning point in British society. Class boundaries blurred, communities were reshaped, and people lived with an intensity that led to dramatic social change—including what he provocatively describes as a “first sexual revolution.” At the same time, the government’s response to bombing and homelessness laid early foundations for the modern welfare state.This episode challenges everything you thought you knew about wartime Britain—and replaces myth with nuance, humanity, and truth. 👤 About the GuestJoshua Levine is a leading social historian and author specialising in modern British history and the Second World War.📖 The Secret History of the Blitz Buy your copy here (and support independent bookshops):👉 https://uk.bookshop.org/a/10120/9781398550681🎤 Live Event: Joshua will be speaking at the Imperial War Museum History Festival at IWM Duxford on Saturday 13th June.🎟️ Tickets available here: https://www.iwm.org.uk/events/iwm-duxford/iwm-history-festivalCheck out the IWM Sound Archive at: https://www.iwm.org.uk/collections/sound 🎧 Follow History RageStay connected and never miss an episode: 🌐 Website: www.historyrage.com🐦 Twitter/X: @HistoryRage📘 Instagram: @historyrage📩 Email: historyragepod@gmail.com💥 Support the ShowLove what you hear? Become a History Rager on Patreon:👉 £5/month gets you:Entry into the monthly book draw 📚Access to exclusive listener Q&As 🎙️The coveted History Rage mug ☕If you’re tired of oversimplified history, this episode is your antidote—revealing the Blitz as it truly was: messy, contradictory, and profoundly human. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

06/05/2026 • 56:49

Bletchley Park wasn’t built by one man—and history must stop pretending otherwiseFor most people, Bletchley Park means one thing: Alan Turing, Enigma, and a single heroic breakthrough.That story is neat, cinematic—and deeply misleading.In this episode of History Rage, Paul Bavill is joined by historian, author, and Bletchley Park trustee Sir Dermot Turing to dismantle one of Britain’s most comfortable Second World War myths. What follows is a forensic, passionate unpicking of how thousands of codebreakers—most of them women—have been written out of history.This is not an attack on Alan Turing. It’s a demand for accuracy.Sir Dermot explains why Enigma has become a historical obsession, how it eclipses dozens of other vital ciphers, and why reducing Bletchley Park to a single man does a disservice to everyone involved—including Turing himself. From Spanish and Italian diplomatic codes to Japanese military signals, this episode reveals just how broad, complex, and international the intelligence war really was.Crucially, the conversation exposes how women codebreakers were systematically downgraded by job titles, pay grades, and later historians. Clerical assistants, typists, and “support staff” were in reality performing some of the hardest cryptographic work of the war—often better than the men promoted over them. Figures such as Joan Clarke, Wendy White, Helen Hazelden, Marie Rose Egan, and many others emerge not as footnotes, but as central players.This episode also explores:Why Enigma machines themselves were never the real secretHow civil service bureaucracy distorted the historical recordThe hidden importance of German diplomatic intelligenceWhy Bletchley Park was far messier, more political, and more human than popular culture admitsIf you think you know the story of Bletchley Park, this episode will make you angry—for all the right reasons.About the Guest: Sir Dermot TuringSir Dermot Turing is a historian, author, and trustee of Bletchley Park, specialising in intelligence history and overlooked figures of the Second World War. He is the nephew of Alan Turing and a leading voice challenging simplistic narratives around wartime codebreaking.Recommended Reading📘 Misread Signals: How History Overlooked Women CodebreakersAn essential corrective to the Enigma-centric story, uncovering the vital contributions of women across British intelligence.Available here: https://uk.bookshop.org/a/10120/9781803997933Explore More from History Rage🎧 History Rage is the podcast where historians confront the myths that refuse to die.Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and all major platformsFollow History Rage on social media for episode clips, debates, and announcementsSupport the PodcastIf you value independent, ad-free history:£3/month – ad-free listening£5/month – bonus content and the legendary History Rage mug👉 Support the show at patreon.com/historyrage or directly through Apple Podcasts subscriptions.And if you loved this episode?Tell someone. History only changes when the story spreads. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

03/05/2026 • 59:29

Daniel Defoe wasn’t just a novelist — he helped forge Britain itselfDaniel Defoe is remembered as the author of Robinson Crusoe — but that legacy hides a far more dangerous, politically explosive truth. Long before his novels reshaped literature, Defoe was shaping nations.In this episode of History Rage, Paul Bavill is joined by historian Marc Mierowsky, Fellow and Lecturer in English at the University of Melbourne, to rage against the idea that Defoe was “just” a novelist. Instead, we uncover Defoe as a government propagandist, intelligence agent, and covert operator, working at the very heart of early British state power.Marc reveals how Defoe:Operated as a political fixer and spy for Robert HarleyBuilt one of Britain’s earliest nationwide intelligence and propaganda networksInfiltrated Scottish politics during the crisis years before the 1707 Act of UnionManipulated religious divisions, rebellion, and public opinionHelped sabotage organised resistance to the Union of England and ScotlandThis is a story of dirty tricks, espionage, pamphlet warfare, and political manipulation, all carried out by a man later celebrated as a literary pioneer. It also raises uncomfortable questions about state power, surveillance, and whether the foundations of modern Britain were laid through persuasion — or coercion.If you think you know Daniel Defoe, this episode will leave you furious, fascinated, and questioning everything.About the guestMarc Mierowsky is Fellow and Lecturer in English at the University of Melbourne, specialising in Restoration and early eighteenth-century literature, politics, and espionage. His research focuses on Daniel Defoe’s secret service work, propaganda networks, and the intelligence machinery behind the Anglo-Scottish Union.Marc Mierowsky – links & contactBook: A Spy Amongst Us: Daniel Defoe’s Secret Service and the Plot to End Scottish IndependencePublisher page / book retailers: Available via major academic and online booksellersAffiliation: University of MelbourneWhy this episode mattersDefoe’s story forces us to confront an uncomfortable truth: the modern British state was built using surveillance, propaganda, and manipulation of public opinion. The debates around sovereignty, identity, and union that rage today were already burning in the early 1700s — and Defoe was pouring fuel on the fire.This episode is essential listening for anyone interested in:British historyScottish independence and the Act of UnionEarly modern espionageThe hidden political origins of the novelPropaganda, intelligence, and state powerAbout History RageHistory Rage is the podcast that smashes historical myths and takes cherished assumptions out back and wrecks them. Hosted by Paul Bavill, each episode gives expert historians space to rage about the misconceptions they want destroyed.Follow & contact History RageWebsite: https://historyrage.comTwitter / X: @HistoryRageBluesky: historyrage.bsky.socialEmail: historyragepod@gmail.comSupport the podcastIf you love fearless history without the myths:Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/historyrageApple Subscriptions: Ad-free listening from £3 per month£5 tier: Bonus content and the legendary History Rage mugSupporting the podcast keeps independent, expert-led history alive — and angry.Stay angry. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

26/04/2026 • 50:42

Discover the Spanish Infanta who reshaped Renaissance power from behind the throne.Step into the glittering courts of 16th-century Europe as historian Professor Magdalena Sánchez joins host Paul Bavill to rage against a stubborn myth: that women only matter in history when they command political power. Catalina Micaela — daughter of Philip II of Spain and Duchess of Savoy — has long been treated as a political footnote. But across 3,000 intimate letters, a forceful, devoted, and highly capable woman emerges: one who shaped diplomacy, managed wars, and commanded a court… while enduring ten pregnancies in thirteen years. Professor Sánchez reveals how Catalina: • Asserted her authority as Infanta of Spain, not merely “a duchess” • Governed Savoy during her husband’s campaigns, acting as his lieutenant • Challenged ministers, criticised generals, and organised court life with precision • Maintained deep emotional connection through constant letter-writing and gift-giving • Balanced political influence with religious devotion and motherhood as central duties This episode uncovers Catalina’s love story, her leadership, and the invisible labour of royal women — all of which historians have too often ignored. If you think only queens and rulers shape history, Catalina will change your mind.Further Listening from the History Rage ArchiveFor more on powerful and underestimated women of Renaissance Europe: • Episode 199 — Catherine de’ Medici with Una McElvenna • Episode 232 — Ruling Queens with Elizabeth Norton About Our Guest – Professor Magdalena SánchezProfessor of History at Gettysburg College and author of: Infanta: The Short Remarkable Life of Catalina Michaela (Yale University Press) — the first major biography to spotlight Catalina’s voice and legacy. 📚 Buy the book Infanta: The Short Remarkable Life of Catalina Michaelahttps://uk.bookshop.org/a/10120/9780300282832Listen, Follow & Support History Rage🎧 New to History Rage? We invite leading historians to vent their anger at the myths we keep getting wrong. Follow for more raging truth: → Search History Rage on Apple Podcasts or your preferred app → Find @HistoryRage on social media (search to connect)💥 Support the show and unlock benefits: • Ad-free listening available via Apple Podcasts subscription at £3/month • Join the £5/month Patreon for monthly livestream access — search History Rage Patreon to subscribe 📣 Love this episode? Tell one friend, one colleague, one fellow history-nerd — and help the rage spread. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

19/04/2026 • 45:39

Samuel Pepys exposed: secrets, suppression, and the truth behind his diary. Samuel Pepys Was Not What You Think…EXPLICIT CONTENT WARNING - NOT FOR THE FAINT HEARTED!For generations, Samuel Pepys has been portrayed as a witty observer of Restoration London — a charming administrator who documented plague, fire, and naval reform.But what if that version of Pepys wasn’t the full story?In this explosive Gloucester History Festival Special, historian and author Guy de la Bédoyère joins History Rage to challenge the long-standing myth that Pepys was simply “a man of his time.”Drawing on decades of research — including learning Pepys’s original shorthand — Guy reveals how editors suppressed, mistranslated, and obscured disturbing passages from the diary for over 200 years. What You’ll Discover in This EpisodeThis episode goes beyond familiar Pepys anecdotes and digs into the hidden layers of his diary — and the people who shaped how history remembers him.Inside this episode:Why large sections of Pepys’s diary were deliberately removed or mistranslated How 19th- and 20th-century editors shaped the public image of Pepys The truth behind Pepys’s secret use of foreign languages and coded shorthand Why the phrase “a man of his time” can dangerously excuse behaviour Why Pepys’s record remains unique in early modern history Guy explains how Pepys deliberately buried controversial actions within routine daily entries — making them easy to overlook unless carefully decoded. Why This Episode MattersPepys’s diary is one of the most important personal records in English history — documenting events like:The Great Plague of 1665 The Great Fire of London The Restoration of monarchy after the English Civil Wars But Guy argues that understanding Pepys properly means confronting the uncomfortable details — not sanitising them.This episode challenges the idea that historical figures should be excused simply because of the era in which they lived — and asks what happens when historians uncover what earlier editors chose to hide.About the Guest — Guy de la BédoyèreGuy de la Bédoyère is a bestselling historian, broadcaster, and former Time Team presenter.He is widely known for his work on Roman Britain and historical biography, and his latest research focuses on uncovering suppressed truths within Pepys’s writings.📖 Buy the book here: https://uk.bookshop.org/a/10120/9780349147406Purchasing through the History Rage Bookshop helps support both the podcast and independent booksellers.See Guy Live — Gloucester History Festival🎟 Live Event AnnouncementGloucester History Festival 📅 Saturday 18th April 2026 🎤 The Confessions of Samuel PepysGuy will be speaking live about the hidden realities behind Pepys’s diary and answering audience questions.🎟 Get tickets: https://www.gloucesterhistoryfestival.co.uk/events/the-confessions-of-samuel-pepys/Follow History RageStay connected with the podcast and never miss an episode.📱 Follow History RageTwitter/X: https://twitter.com/HistoryRage Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/historyrage Website: https://www.historyrage.com Newsletter: https://historyrage.substack.com/Support the PodcastIf you enjoy History Rage and want to keep the show going, there are several ways to help:⭐ Leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify — it helps others discover the show. 🎧 Share the episode with friends and fellow history lovers. ☕ Support via Patreon — early access, livestreams, and exclusive extras.👉 Join here: https://www.patreon.com/historyrageSubscribers receive:Early episode releases Monthly livestream access Opportunities to submit questions to guests Exclusive History Rage rewards Listen NextIf you enjoyed this episode, you may also like:Episode 241 — Quakers weren’t peaceful outsiders Episode 284 — The forgotten women of the Restoration court Both continue the theme of challenging historical myths and misconceptions. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

15/04/2026 • 59:27

Titanic myths sink fast when the real evidence finally surfaces.For decades, J. Bruce Ismay has been cast as the Titanic’s cowardly villain—but what if almost everything you think you know is wrong? In this revelatory episode, Paul Bavill is joined by Clifford Ismay, author of Understanding J. Bruce Ismay: The True Story of the Man They Call the Coward of the Titanic, to explore the real man behind the myths.Drawing on family documents, maritime records, witness statements, and newly uncovered letters, Cliff exposes how false press narratives, Hollywood invention, and long-lived conspiracy theories reshaped Ismay’s legacy beyond recognition.What You’ll Learn in This EpisodeWhy the infamous “coward” label doesn’t match documented evidenceHow J. Bruce Ismay actually spent the final hours on the TitanicWhy claims that he forced Captain Smith to speed up are baselessThe truth about “unsinkable” myths and who really said itHow William Randolph Hearst ignited a media assault that changed historyThe bizarre “Olympic switch conspiracy”—and why it’s complete nonsenseHow Ismay lived after the disaster, and why the recluse narrative isn’t trueHow film portrayals from A Night to Remember to Titanic distort the factsThis is Titanic history stripped of melodrama and rebuilt from primary sources—the closest you’ll get to the truth without descending to the wreck yourself.ABOUT THE GUEST – Clifford IsmayClifford Ismay is a maritime historian, museum director, and author specialising in Edwardian shipping history and the legacy of the White Star Line. As a distant relative of J. Bruce Ismay, he brings unparalleled insight into both the man and the myths that engulfed him.Clifford Ismay – Contact & Follow📘 Book: Understanding J. Bruce Ismay👉 Order here: https://uk.bookshop.org/a/10120/9780750998666 Listen Next🎧 Episode 117 – Gareth Russell on Third Class “Locked Below Deck” Myths🎧 Episode 91 – Anne Fletcher on the Widows of the Scott ExpeditionFOLLOW & SUPPORT HISTORY RAGEIf you’re raging right along with us, here’s how to keep the fury flowing:Follow History Rage🐦 Twitter/X: @HistoryRage📸 Instagram: @HistoryRage🌐 Website: https:www.historyrage.com Support the Podcast💷 Apple Podcasts Subscriptions:Ad-free listening for £3/month. Tap Subscribe in the Apple Podcasts app.💷 Patreon:Join for £5/month to getThe monthly live streamExclusive perksThe coveted History Rage mug👉 patreon.com/historyrageSpread the RageIf you enjoyed this episode, tell a friend, share it online, or leave a review. It genuinely helps more listeners discover the show. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

12/04/2026 • 47:33

The Mercian king history reduced to a ditch—but changed EnglandMost people know Offa of Mercia for one thing: a giant ditch dividing England and Wales. But that familiar image hides a far more powerful—and fascinating—figure.In this episode, host Paul Bavill is joined by Cambridge historian Rory Naismith to challenge the long-standing myth of Offa as a brutal warlord. Instead, we uncover a ruler who helped shape the political, economic, and diplomatic foundations of early England.Why Offa of Mercia deserves a rethinkFor centuries, narratives shaped by sources like the Anglo-Saxon Chronicle have painted Offa as a violent tyrant. But as Rory explains, that version of history is incomplete—and often biased.Look closer, and a different picture emerges:A king who ruled for nearly 40 years, stabilising a vast kingdom A ruler who centralised power across southern England A leader who pioneered systems later used by kings like Alfred the Great Offa wasn’t just surviving—he was building something lasting.More than Offa’s DykeYes, Offa's Dyke is impressive—stretching coast to coast and rivaling Roman engineering in scale. But it wasn’t simply a defensive ditch.It was:A symbol of power and dominance A political statement to neighbouring Welsh kingdoms Part of a wider strategy to control borders and project authority Offa wasn’t just reacting—he was sending a message.The king who connected kingdomsFar from being isolated, Offa operated in a deeply interconnected world.This episode explores:His rivalry and diplomacy with Charlemagne Trade, coinage, and economic reform across his realm A remarkable gold coin linking Mercia to the Islamic world From Rome to Francia, Offa was playing the game of international politics at the highest level.Offa’s real legacyForget the “bloodthirsty conqueror” cliché. Offa’s greatest achievement was something far more significant:Creating a unified system of kingship Bringing together multiple regions under one authority Laying the groundwork for the future kingdom of England Without Offa, the later successes of rulers like Alfred may not have been possible.Listen MoreEpisode 16 – Eleanor Janega on the Dark Ages: https://pod.fo/e/11c7f3Episode 240 – Dirk Hoffman-Becking on the Holy Roman Empire: https://pod.fo/e/3330ceGuest details: Rory NaismithTwitter/X: https://twitter.com/rory_naismith 📚 Buy the book “Offa: King of the Mercians” via the History Rage Bookshop: 👉 https://uk.bookshop.org/a/10120/9780300257465See Rory live🎤 Gloucester History Festival 📅 Sunday 19th April 🎟️ Tickets: https://www.gloucesterhistoryfestival.co.uk/events/anglo-saxon-kings/Follow & support History RageLove the show? Here’s how to keep the rage alive:🔔 Follow History Rage on your podcast platform ⭐ Leave a review on Apple Podcasts & Spotify 📢 Share the episode with a fellow history fan 🌐 Find more episodes and updates via your preferred podcast app Your support helps bring more expert guests and untold stories to the surface.History isn’t just what we’re told—it’s what we question. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

09/04/2026 • 56:48

The Cambridge Five were not heroes—just dangerous traitors with devastating consequencesThe Cambridge Five have long been shrouded in myth, glamour, and intrigue—but what if the truth is far darker? In this explosive episode of History Rage, host Paul Bavill is joined by journalist, historian, and History Book Buffs co-host Antonia Senior to dismantle one of the most persistent legends of the Cold War.From Kim Philby to Guy Burgess, these men have often been portrayed as charming ideologues or romantic anti-establishment figures. Antonia Senior tears that narrative apart, revealing a group defined not by idealism, but by betrayal, violence, and catastrophic consequences.You’ll discover how these well-connected Cambridge graduates infiltrated the highest levels of British intelligence, why their crimes were overlooked for so long, and how their actions directly served Stalin’s brutal regime. This episode goes beyond the spy story—exposing the human cost, the institutional failures, and the dangerous myths that still persist today.If you think you know the Cambridge Five, think again. What We Cover:Who the Cambridge Five really were—and how they infiltrated British intelligenceWhy they’ve been wrongly romanticised in popular cultureThe devastating impact of their espionage during and after WWIIThe shocking personal behaviour and moral failures behind the mythHow class, privilege, and institutional blind spots enabled their successThe truth about their exposure, confessions, and escapes About the Guest – Antonia Senior: Antonia Senior is a journalist, historian, novelist, and co-host of the History Book Buffs podcast. With a background in intelligence history from Cambridge, she brings deep expertise and sharp analysis to Cold War espionage.Follow Antonia Senior:X (Twitter): @toniseniorPodcast: History Book Buffs (available on all major platforms) Book Recommendation: Antonia’s latest book Stalin’s Apostles uncovers the true story of the Cambridge Five and their role in advancing Soviet strategy.👉 Buy your copy from the History Rage Bookshop: https://uk.bookshop.org/a/10120/9781399727891 Listen Next:Episode 203: Female Intelligence Operatives with Claire Hubbard-HallEpisode 219: Post-War Berlin with Giles Milton Follow & Support History Rage:🔥 Love the show? Join the rage!🎧 Subscribe on your favourite podcast platform⭐ Leave a rating & review on Apple Podcasts to boost visibility📣 Share the episode and spread the rageSupport the Podcast:Patreon (join livestreams & exclusive content): https://www.patreon.com/historyrageApple Subscriptions: Ad-free listening from £3/monthStay Connected:Website: https://historyrage.comNewsletter: https://historyrage.substack.com If you’re tired of history myths and want the truth—raw, unfiltered, and unapologetic—this is the episode for you. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

08/04/2026 • 61:21

Forgotten Restoration women reshaped power, culture, and scandal in spectacular ways.Step into a vibrant, myth-busting journey through the 17th century as cultural historian Breeze Barrington joins History Rage to tear down the idea that the only women worth remembering from the Restoration were Charles II’s mistresses. Drawing on her new book The Extraordinary Untold Lives of Women at the Restoration Court, Breeze exposes a world of creativity, politics, sisterhood, and survival that history has long pushed into the shadows.From the resilience of Mary of Modena, to the poetic brilliance of Anne Finch and Anne Killigrew, to the raw force-of-nature independence of Hortense Mancini, this episode pulls you straight into the hidden engines of Restoration court culture—where women shaped politics, art, learning, and identity in ways that changed Britain.You’ll hear: • The truth behind the so-called “tragic” Queen Mary of Modena—and her remarkable resilience. • How mistresses became only one slice of a much bigger story of women’s influence. • The thriving creative world of the Duchess of York’s court. • Why Restoration salons—especially Hortense Mancini’s—were radical, inclusive, and politically dangerous. • How Sarah Churchill’s early years at Maria’s court set the stage for her dominance under Queen Anne. • The explosive religious divide that shaped every personal and political decision of the age.Breeze brings the fury, the humour, and the research to show why these women deserve to be household names—far beyond scandal and stereotype.📚 About Breeze BarringtonBreeze Barrington is a cultural historian specialising in the 17th century. Book: The Extraordinary Untold Lives of Women at the Restoration Court – available from: https://uk.bookshop.org/a/10120/9781526663788 Website: https://breezebarrington.com Instagram: @breeze_barrington🔗 Links & Further ReadingOrder Breeze’s book: The Extraordinary Untold Lives of Women at the Restoration Court Recommended episodes: • Ep 127 – Charlotte White on Barbara Villiers • Ep 80 – Linda Porter on Catherine of Braganza🎧 Follow & Support History RageLove the show? Help us grow!Follow History Rage: • Twitter (X): @HistoryRage • Instagram: @historyrage Support the Podcast: • Apple Podcasts: Go ad-free for £3/month—tap “Subscribe” • Patreon: Monthly livestream + extras for £5/month 👉 https://patreon.com/historyrageShare the show, tell a friend, and help unleash more historical rage into the world.Until next time—stay angry! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

05/04/2026 • 58:19

Cleopatra revealed: power, propaganda, and the woman behind the mythMost people think they know Cleopatra — the irresistible seductress who captivated Julius Caesar and Mark Antony. But what if that story is largely fiction, shaped by political spin and centuries of retelling?In this episode of History Rage, host Paul Bavill is joined by acclaimed historian and author Lucy Hughes-Hallett to dismantle the enduring myths surrounding Cleopatra VII — and reveal the formidable ruler hidden beneath the legend.Cleopatra: More Than a SeductressCleopatra has long been reduced to a caricature — a femme fatale whose beauty brought powerful men to ruin. But as Lucy Hughes-Hallett explains, this version of Cleopatra owes more to Roman propaganda than historical reality.Much of what we “know” comes from sources loyal to Octavian (Augustus), who had every reason to discredit his rival Mark Antony. Portraying Cleopatra as a dangerous, manipulative temptress helped justify his victory — and reshape history.The truth? Cleopatra was a highly capable ruler who:Stabilised Egypt’s economy during crisis Built powerful political alliances Ruled independently in a male-dominated world Understood and deployed propaganda just as effectively as her enemies The Politics Behind the PassionWhile her relationships with Caesar and Antony are often framed as epic romances, this episode explores their political importance.Cleopatra needed Roman military backing. Rome needed Egypt’s immense wealth. Their alliances were strategic — not just romantic.Even the famous “love stories” were later exaggerated to serve narratives about:Power and masculinity in Rome Fear of powerful women Suspicion of foreign rulers The dangers of “losing control” to desire Beauty, Myth and MisrepresentationWas Cleopatra truly the legendary beauty of popular culture?Ancient sources suggest otherwise. Coins from her reign depict a strong, distinctive profile — not the flawless icon of Hollywood. According to later accounts, her real strength lay in her intelligence, charisma, and political skill.Her story evolved over centuries:Medieval writers like Geoffrey Chaucer recast her as a model of devotion Renaissance dramatists, including William Shakespeare, emphasised passion and tragedy Each version reveals more about the storyteller than Cleopatra herself.About Lucy Hughes-HallettLucy Hughes-Hallett is an award-winning cultural historian and author, known for exploring how history and myth intertwine.📚 Book: Cleopatra: Histories, Dreams and Distortions 👉 Buy via the History Rage Bookshop: https://uk.bookshop.org/a/10120/9780008781323📲 Follow Lucy:Twitter: https://twitter.com/LucyHH Instagram: https://instagram.com/hugheshallett 🎤 Live Event: Lucy will be speaking at the Gloucester History Festival on Saturday 18th April. 🎟️ Tickets: https://www.gloucesterhistoryfestival.co.uk/events/cleopatra-life-legend/Follow & Support History RageLove the show? Here’s how to stay connected and support the podcast:🎧 Subscribe & Listen: Available on Apple Podcasts and all major platforms ⭐ Leave a review: Help more listeners discover History Rage 📣 Spread the word: Share the episode with fellow history fans💥 Support on Patreon: Join the Rage community for just £5/month:Entry into the monthly book draw Submit questions to future guests Access exclusive livestreams Get your hands on the History Rage mug 👉 https://www.patreon.com/historyrage💡 Prefer ad-free listening? Subscribe via Apple Podcasts or Patreon.Related EpisodesAlexander the Great with Steven Harrison Septimius Severus with Simon Elliott Cleopatra wasn’t just a seductress. She was a strategist, a ruler, and a master of image in an age defined by power struggles and propaganda.And as this episode proves — history is rarely what it first appears. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

01/04/2026 • 59:15

Horatio Nelson. Glorious victory. Britain “ruling the waves.” We've all heard the legend — but what if the real story of Trafalgar is far more complicated… and far less heroic… than we’ve been led to believe?In this episode of History Rage, three-time returning rager Dr Zack White tears apart centuries of patriotic mythmaking to reveal the uncomfortable truths behind Britain’s most celebrated naval battle. From propaganda to psychology, from invasion fears to Victorian moralising, Zack makes the case that Trafalgar’s fame owes more to storytelling than strategy.Discover why Napoleon had already abandoned his invasion plan before the battle… why Nelson himself was disappointed… why the French and Spanish navies were nowhere near as formidable as we imagine… and how Victorian historians rewrote the whole saga to craft a national legend of heroic sacrifice and divine destiny.This episode is a masterclass in myth-busting — bold, funny, furious and absolutely packed with historical insight.What You’ll LearnWhy Trafalgar did NOT end the French invasion threatHow Nelson’s death became the backbone of a nation-building mythThe real state of the French and Spanish fleetsHow British naval supremacy was already secured before TrafalgarWhat actually changed the balance of power in the Napoleonic WarsWhy Victorian writers reshaped Nelson’s story — and erased the uncomfortable bitsHow propaganda shaped the way Britain remembers its “great men”Why battles like Copenhagen and the Nile mattered just as much — if not moreAbout Our Guest: Dr Zack WhiteDr Zack White is a historian, broadcaster and host of The Napoleonic Wars Podcast, exploring every corner of the era from major battles to the strangest personalities.Follow & Contact Zack: 👉 Social media: @zwhitehistory 👉 Listen to The Napoleonic Wars Podcast: available on all major podcast appsEnjoying History Rage?If this episode fired you up, here’s how to stay angry (in the best possible way):Follow & Contact History Rage📌 Twitter/X: @HistoryRage 📌 Instagram: @HistoryRage Support the Show🔥 Apple Podcasts: ad-free listening for £3/month 🔥 Patreon: £5/month for live streams, Q&A invitations, and the legendary History Rage Mug Become a supporter at: patreon.com/historyrageSpread the RageThe best way to help us grow is simple: Tell someone else who loves history — or loves arguing about it. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

29/03/2026 • 63:54

The General Strike wasn’t revolutionary chaos—it was disciplined working-class resistanceThe 1926 General Strike is often painted as Britain’s near-miss with revolution—but the reality is far more revealing, and far more powerful. In this episode of History Rage, Paul Bavill is joined by historian Geoff Andrews to dismantle the myths and uncover the true story of working-class politics, solidarity, and identity in modern Britain.Far from a Bolshevik uprising, the General Strike was a highly organised, largely peaceful protest rooted in fairness, dignity, and community. Geoff explains how millions of workers mobilised not to overthrow the state, but to defend mining communities facing wage cuts and harsh conditions. The strike wasn’t the beginning of revolution—it arguably marked the end of it.This conversation dives deep into the ethos of the British labour movement: a tradition shaped not just by ideology, but by education, self-improvement, and collective values. From the Workers’ Educational Association to the rise of autodidact culture, the working classes were not passive victims—they were active architects of modern Britain.We also explore:Why the myth of a “revolutionary working class” distorts historyThe real role of figures like Churchill in escalating tensionsHow the Labour Party evolved from Lib-Lab roots into a political forceThe enduring impact of adult education on political cultureWhy figures like Ramsay MacDonald remain so controversialWhat today’s political landscape has lost from its working-class rootsGeoff Andrews challenges the idea that the left was ever truly revolutionary in Britain—and instead reveals a more complex, ethical, and democratic tradition that has been largely forgotten.About the Guest Geoff Andrews is a Senior Lecturer in Politics at The Open University and a leading historian of the British labour movement. His work focuses on the Labour Party, radical traditions, and working-class political culture.📖 Book: Radicals: The Working Classes and the Making of Modern Britain 👉 Buy via the History Rage Bookshop: https://uk.bookshop.org/a/10120/9780300265897🎤 Catch Geoff live at the Gloucester History Festival https://gloucesterhistoryfestival.co.ukListen More from History RageEpisode 189: Maureen Wright on Victorian feministsEpisode 181: Shalina Patel on the Pankhursts and women’s suffrageFollow & Support History Rage 🔥 Patreon (bonus content, livestreams & book giveaways): https://www.patreon.com/historyrage🍏 Apple Subscriptions (ad-free listening): Available via Apple Podcasts📩 Newsletter: https://historyrage.substack.com/🐦 Socials: Follow History Rage @historyrage across social media for updates, guest announcements, and more historical rants.If you enjoy the show, share it, review it, and bring someone else aboard the rage train. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

26/03/2026 • 46:41

Renaissance medicine wasn’t ignorant—its cures were stranger and smarter than you think.Step back into a world of blood, bones, bile, and groundbreaking innovation as Dr Alanna Skuse dismantles the biggest myths about Renaissance medicine. From battlefield surgeries and prosthetics, to midwives, quacks, toads, and the four humours, this episode reveals a medical world far more logical, experimental, and effective than popular history suggests.Discover why Renaissance surgeons weren’t reckless, why quacks sometimes worked wonders, and why patients were far from naïve. Packed with bizarre cures, pioneering breakthroughs, and the surprising origins of modern treatments, this is the ultimate guide to the misunderstood world of 16th and 17th-century healing.Whether you're into medical history, social history, early modern England, quackery, midwifery, apothecaries, or surgical innovation, this episode of History Rage delivers deep insight, dark humour, and a fresh perspective.What You’ll Learn in This EpisodeWhy Renaissance medical practitioners were not ignorant or cruelHow surgeons made astonishing breakthroughs long before modern medicineWhy patients demanded treatments like bloodlettingThe strange power of quacks—and why some were surprisingly effectiveHow apothecaries, midwives, and women healers shaped everyday healthcareThe bizarre logic behind cures involving toads, spiders, and boiling puppiesThe truth about syphilis nose reconstruction, battlefield prosthetics, and chemical medicineWhy the four humours actually made intuitive senseWhat Renaissance medical thinking still influences todayWhat future historians will find horrifying about modern treatmentsAbout Our Guest: Dr Alanna SkuseDr Alanna Skuse is a literary scholar, medical historian, and author specialising in early modern disease, surgery, and the cultural history of the body. Her latest trade book uncovers the real experience of staying alive in Renaissance England.📚 Buy Her BookThe Surgeon, the Midwife, the Quack: How to Stay Alive in Renaissance England👉 https://uk.bookshop.org/a/10120/9781836430773📨 Contact / Follow Dr Alanna SkuseWebsite: https://www.dralannaskuse.co.uk/Twitter / X: @alanna_skuseInstagram: @historian_alannaExplore More Medical History EpisodesIf this episode left you hungry for more medical history:Ep 161 – Karen Bloom Gevirtz on 17th-century healer-womenEp 56 – Louise Wilkie on Robert Liston & Victorian surgeryFollow & Support History Rage🎙 Follow History Rage:Twitter/X: @HistoryRageInstagram: @historyragepod💥 Support the Show & Get Bonus Content£3/month – Ad-free listening on Apple & Patreon£5/month – Monthly livestreams + the coveted History Rage MugJoin Here: patreon.com/historyrage❤️ Best way to help?Tell a friend about the podcast and get them raging too. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

23/03/2026 • 54:03

Jungle warfare that reshaped the war – and history forgot itStep into the dense, unforgiving jungles of Burma in WWII as Dr Richard Duckett and Duncan Gilmour uncover the astonishing, largely untold story of Lt. Col. Edgar Peacock – the man they argue was Britain’s greatest SOE commander. In this gripping episode of History Rage, we expose the scale, the bravery, and the strategic brilliance of Operation Character, the SOE mission whose impact rivals anything achieved in Europe… yet is almost never discussed.Episode SummaryHear how Peacock’s unique upbringing in the jungles of India and Burma forged a commander with unmatched environmental mastery; how SOE recruited thousands from 19 different ethnic groups; how Operation Character halted entire Japanese divisions; and why internal politics and secrecy kept these achievements out of mainstream military history for decades.This is military history at its rawest and most revealing.What You’ll Learn in This EpisodeThe true scale of SOE activity in Burma—far larger than in EuropeWhy Lt. Col. Edgar Peacock may be the most effective SOE commander of the warThe astonishing numbers: 12,000 Japanese casualties for just 22 Allied (Caucasian) lossesThe pivotal role of Operation Character in enabling 14th Army’s race to RangoonThe overlooked role of SOE’s 723 women working behind the linesHow ethnic groups long thought incapable of cooperation fought side-by-sideWhy Peacock and his officers were deliberately denied recognitionThe brutal post-VJ Day fighting few histories ever mentionHow secrecy and missing archives buried Burma’s SOE achievements for 80 yearsAbout the GuestsDr. Richard Duckett - Historian, researcher, and leading authority on SOE operations in the Far East.Website & SOE Burma Database: https://www.soeinburma.comFollow Richard on X/Twitter: @RichardDuckettDuncan Gilmour - Author, researcher, and grandson of Lt. Col. Edgar Peacock.Follow Duncan on X/Twitter: @DuncanGilm4133Discover the full story of Edgar Peacock and SOE’s epic Burma operations in“Jungle Warrior: Britain’s Greatest SOE Commander”https://uk.bookshop.org/a/10120/9781916556843This is the definitive account of the unseen heroes who helped turn the tide in the Far East.Further ListeningEpisode 126 – Richard Duckett on why SOE is not just FranceEpisode 150 – Claire Mulley on the Polish Home ArmySupport History RageIf you enjoy the show, spread the word—tell a friend, share the episode, or post online. Independent history podcasts grow because of you.Support History Rage directly:Apple Podcasts: £3/month for ad-free listeningPatreon: £5/month for ad-free episodes, monthly livestreams, and the coveted History Rage mug → https://patreon.com/historyrageFollow & Contact History Rage:Twitter/X: @HistoryRageInstagram: @HistoryRageEmail: historyragepod@gmail.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

16/03/2026 • 55:46

When a respectable Victorian doctor became Britain’s most feared poisonerVictorian England believed murder belonged to the gutters. Then Dr William Palmer shattered that illusion.In this gripping episode of History Rage, award-winning journalist and author Stephen Bates exposes the dark truth behind the case of William Palmer — the Midlands doctor hanged in 1856 for poisoning his friend John Parsons Cook.Known as the “Rugeley Poisoner”, Palmer was a churchgoing professional, a gambler drowning in debt, and a man suspected of killing far more than the one murder for which he was convicted. His weapon? Newly available strychnine — a terrifying poison that left victims writhing in agony and Victorian society gripped by fear.What You’ll Discover in This EpisodeWhy Victorian Britain refused to believe a middle-class doctor could be a killerHow strychnine changed the landscape of 19th-century murderThe explosive Old Bailey trial that required a special Act of ParliamentThe role of celebrity pathologist Alfred Swaine TaylorHow press sensationalism helped create one of Britain’s first “serial killer” panicsThe disturbing class bias in Victorian (and modern) murder trialsStephen also explores parallels with later cases, including Herbert Rouse Armstrong, the subject of his book The Poisonous Solicitor, and reflects on how professional status has long influenced public perceptions of guilt.This is Victorian true crime at its most unsettling: insurance fraud, gambling debts, missing betting slips, botched inquests, and a public execution witnessed by 30,000 people.About Our Guest – Stephen BatesStephen Bates is an award-winning journalist and former political correspondent. He is the author of:The Poisoner: The Life and Crimes of Victorian England’s Most Notorious Doctorhttps://uk.bookshop.org/a/10120/9781837730285The Poisonous Solicitorhttps://uk.bookshop.org/a/10120/9781785789601The Poisoner was shortlisted for the prestigious Agatha Award for True Crime in the United States.🔗 Website: https://stephenbateswriter.comWhy This Case Still MattersPalmer’s trial raises urgent questions that still resonate:Do we judge murder differently depending on class?Are professionals given more benefit of the doubt?How much does media coverage shape public opinion before a verdict is reached?From Victorian strychnine to modern medical murderers, the uncomfortable truth remains: monsters don’t always look like monsters.Follow & Support History RageIf you enjoy fearless myth-busting history and passionate debate:🔥 Join the Rage on PatreonAd-free listening and livestream access for just £3 per month:👉 https://www.patreon.com/historyrage🍎 Prefer Apple? Subscribe directly via Apple Podcasts for ad-free episodes.📱 Follow History Rage:Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/historyrageInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/historyrageBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/historyrageFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/historyrage📩 Contact: historyragepod@gmail.comThe simplest way to support the show? Share the episode and bring someone else aboard the Rage Train.Victorian crime wasn’t just about back alleys and desperation. Sometimes it wore a respectable face, attended church — and carried a vial of poison.Listen now and stay angry. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

12/03/2026 • 49:08

Britain’s upper class isn’t a relic of the past—it’s still here, still powerful, and still shaping the land beneath our feet. In this gripping episode, journalist and author Eleanor Doughty dismantles the pervasive myth that the aristocracy simply “disappeared” in the 20th century. Spoiler: they didn’t. They just got quieter.Eleanor takes us inside the private estates, inherited titles, and soft power that still define the modern British upper class. With first-hand insight from years spent interviewing dukes, earls, viscounts and secretive landowners, she exposes how much influence remains—and why we’ve failed to notice.What You’ll Learn in This EpisodeWhy the British aristocracy never died out—and why people think it didHow 3 million acres of the UK remain in hereditary handsThe difference between the “Premier League” and “Super League” of landownersWhy stately homes aren’t all romance and Downton glamourHow Wentworth Woodhouse became ground zero for political and industrial conflictWhat domestic service really looked like—far from the usual Upstairs/Downstairs tropesWhy land, not politics, is the true modern source of aristocratic powerHow soft power, titles, and inherited prestige shape British society even todayAbout Our Guest: Eleanor DoughtyEleanor Doughty is a journalist and the author of👉 Heirs and Graces: The History of the Modern British AristocracyHer work explores the lives, estates, and enduring influence of Britain’s hereditary elite. If you’ve ever wondered what really goes on behind the big gates of the great houses, she’s the one to follow.Connect With EleanorAll Social Media: @brushingbootsBuy the Book: Heirs and Graces – https://uk.bookshop.org/a/10120/9781529153040(Supporting the author via your preferred retailer helps independent journalism thrive!)Looking for more high society rage? Try these:Episode 175 — Guy Walters on the Mitfords: https://pod.fo/e/2a19c6Episode 227 — Anne de Courcy on Coco Chanel : https://pod.fo/e/30f594Support History RageLove what we do? Help keep the podcast independent and ad-free.Become a SupporterApple Podcasts: Ad-free listening for just £3/monthPatreon: From £3/month, or £5/month for bonus content & the coveted History Rage mug👉 https://www.patreon.com/historyrageFollow & Contact UsTwitter / X: @HistoryRageInstagram: @historyrageWebsite: www.historyragepod.comEmail: contact info if applicableAnd truly—the best support you can give is telling a friend and sharing the rage.If You Enjoyed This Episode…Please leave a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating and a short review on Apple Podcasts. It helps the show reach more curious, angry historians just like you. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

09/03/2026 • 61:50

The vampire didn’t rise from Transylvania — it crawled out of the Balkans.Forget Count Dracula — before Stoker’s gothic horror came centuries of chilling folklore, blood-soaked superstition, and very real vampire panics. In this spine-tingling episode, travel writer and award-winning author Nick Jubber joins Paul Bavill to rage against the myth that vampires were born in Transylvania.From Serbian graveyards and Croatian legends to the age of Enlightenment and Hammer Horror, Nick traces how fear, politics, and imagination turned the undead into one of history’s most enduring monsters. Discover how the printing press helped spread vampire hysteria, how priests profited from graveyard rituals, and why monsters mirror humanity’s deepest desires and darkest fears.Whether you’re a folklore fan or just love a good supernatural tale, this episode will have you rethinking everything you thought you knew about the vampire myth.🎙️ In This EpisodeThe real Balkan origins of the vampire legendHow Enlightenment science and superstition collidedWhy Bram Stoker didn’t invent Dracula’s fangs — he borrowed themWhat connects Byron, Polidori, and the birth of gothic horrorWhy monsters never die — they just evolve with us👤 Guest: Nick JubberNick Jubber is a writer, traveller and author of Monsterland, a journey through history, folklore, and our fascination with monsters. His work has taken him across continents exploring how stories shape societies.📚 Buy his book: Monsterland: A Journey Around the World’s Dark Imaginationhttps://uk.bookshop.org/a/10120/9781915590299 🌐 Website: www.nickjubber.com 📸 Instagram: @NickJubber💥 Support History RageIf you’re loving History Rage — help keep the rage alive!Ad-free listening: from just £3/month on Apple Podcasts or Patreonhttps://www.patreon.com/historyrageAll-access membership: £5/month gets you early releases, bonus episodes, and the coveted History Rage mug ☕Or simply tell a friend — the best way to support independent history podcasting.🔗 Follow History Rage📲 Twitter / X: @HistoryRage 📸 Instagram: @HistoryRage 🌍 Website: www.historyragepod.com 💬 Email: info@historyragepod.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

02/03/2026 • 49:52