Henry VIII: beloved monarch or mass-murdering tyrant we refuse to confront?

Why do we glorify a king who executed 1% of England and displaced over 10,000 people for his own power?

It’s time to dismantle everything you thought you knew about Henry VIII.

Historian and educator Jackson Van Uden joins History Rage to expose the real Tudor ruler: a man his own contemporaries labelled a tyrant, not the charming Christmas-bauble king of Hampton Court gift shops. Henry didn’t just kill wives — he destroyed lives, seized land, staged show trials, and crushed dissent with Stalin-level brutality.

We dig into:

• How The Act of Supremacy turned Henry into a Caesar-papist dictator
• The Dissolution of the Monasteries and the 0.4% of England suddenly made homeless
• 200 peaceful Protesters executed after the Pilgrimage of Grace for simply disagreeing with the King
• Tudor “big, sexy history” that distracts from a reign built on fear
• How education today still sanitises Henry for the sake of heritage and TV scandals

If pop culture has convinced you Henry was a misunderstood romantic, strap in — Jackson launches a rage that puts Henry in the same moral category as history’s worst dictators.

By the time we’re finished, those Holbein portraits will never look the same again.

Festival Info:

The Katherine of Aragon Festival Talks are on January 31st and February 1st 2026 at Peterborough Cathedral:

Tickets are available at: https://peterborough-cathedral.org.uk/about/history/katharine-of-aragon/kofa_26/

🎙 Guest: Jackson Van Uden

Historian • Teacher • Host of History With Jackson

Katherine of Aragon Festival contributor and organiser

Tickets for the festival via Peterborough Cathedral link in show notes

📌 Listen to History With Jackson wherever you get your podcasts

📱 Follow Jackson:

• Instagram & other socials: @historywithjackson
• X/Twitter: @HistoryWJackson

🙌 Support History Rage & Join the Fight Against Bad History

If you loved this rage, consider helping keep us angry:

💥 Subscribe for bonus episodes and the right to ask questions to future guests from only £3/month

👉 Patreon: patreon.com/historyrage

🛍 Grab your coveted History Rage mug at Patreon’s £5 tier

💬 Or simply tell a friend and get another person aboard the Rage Train!

🔗 Connect with History Rage

• Follow us everywhere @HistoryRage
• Rate & review on Apple Podcasts to help more people discover real history
• Join us live at the Katherine of Aragon Festival for our special recording with Owen Emerson and Alfred Hawkins at Peterborough Cathedral 

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In this exhilarating episode of History Rage, host Paul Bavill takes to the skies with social historian and author Midge Gillies, whose latest book, Atlantic Furies: The Women Who Risked Everything to Be the First to Fly, uncovers the remarkable stories of the female pioneers of early aviation. Join us as we journey through the daring feats and forgotten legacies of women who soared to new heights long before the fame of Amelia Earhart.

Challenging the Narrative:

Midge passionately argues that the contributions of women like Amy Johnson, Beryl Markham, and Ruth Elder are often overshadowed by the singular narrative of Earhart. Discover how these aviators faced societal constraints and media scrutiny while bravely pursuing their dreams of flight, and why it's crucial to acknowledge their stories within the broader context of aviation history.

The Perils of Flight:

As Midge shares the harrowing tales of women who attempted to cross the Atlantic, we delve into the dangers they faced, including harsh weather conditions and the ever-present threat of disappearance. Midge reflects on the tragic fates of pilots like Frances Grayson and Lady Anne Saville, who risked everything in their pursuit of adventure.

Women in Aviation:

Explore the camaraderie and competition among these pioneering women as Midge highlights their relationships and rivalries. Learn how the media of the time played a role in shaping their legacies, and why it’s essential to remember the collective efforts of these remarkable figures who pushed the boundaries of what was possible for women in aviation.

Join us for this thrilling discussion that not only celebrates the bravery of female aviators but also challenges the misconceptions that have long persisted in the annals of history. For more insights into Midge Gillies’ work, be sure to check out her book available in the History Rage bookshop.

Buy the book: https://uk.bookshop.org/a/10120/9781915590527

Follow Midge on Social Media @midgegilles

Stay Connected: Follow History Rage on social media for updates and discussions:

Twitter: @HistoryRage

Instagram: @historyrage

Facebook: History Rage

Support History Rage: 

If you’re passionate about this episode, consider joining the 'Angry Mob' on Patreon at patreon.com/historyrage for exclusive content, early access, and the iconic History Rage mug.

Stay passionate, stay curious, and most of all stay angry!

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Jane Boleyn did not orchestrate the downfall of Anne and George Boleyn

In this gripping episode of History Rage, host Paul Bavill is joined by Tudor historian and author Adam Pennington to unravel the tangled web of intrigue surrounding Jane Boleyn, Viscountess Rochford. Adam passionately dismantles the long-held belief that Jane was an evil schemer responsible for the downfall of her husband, George Boleyn, and sister-in-law, Anne Boleyn.

Reassessing Jane Boleyn:

Adam challenges the narrative that paints Jane as a malicious figure, arguing instead that she was a loyal wife and a supportive member of the Boleyn family.

He delves into Jane's background, her marriage to George, and the dynamics of their life at the Tudor court, highlighting the absence of evidence for the claims against her.

The Trials of Anne and George Boleyn:

Exploring the trials of Anne and George, Adam reveals the lack of credible evidence linking Jane to their accusations, urging listeners to reconsider the role she played during this tumultuous period.

He discusses the historical context of their trials and how misconceptions have perpetuated the myth of Jane as a treacherous figure.

The Downfall of Catherine Howard:

As the episode unfolds, Adam examines Jane’s later involvement in the court of Catherine Howard, questioning her motivations and the circumstances that led to her own tragic end.

The discussion highlights the complexities of Tudor court politics and how Jane's actions were often misinterpreted through a modern lens.

Join Paul and Adam as they navigate the murky waters of Tudor history, urging listeners to challenge preconceived notions and seek the truth behind the myths. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the real stories of the Tudor dynasty.

Guest Information:

Check out Adam Pennington's podcast, The Tudor Chest, available on all major platforms.

https://podcasts.apple.com/eg/podcast/the-tudor-chest-podcast/id1704070565

Buy Adam’s book, Henry VIII and the Plantagenet Poles, through the link in the show notes to support independent bookstores.

https://uk.bookshop.org/a/10120/9781399071710

Follow Adam on Social Media @thetudorchest

Support History Rage:

For exclusive content and early access to episodes, consider supporting History Rage on Patreon for just £3 per month at patreon.com/historyrage.

Stay Connected:

Follow us on all social media for updates and more historical discussions @historyrage

Stay angry, stay informed, and let the truth of history prevail!

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💥 Jane Austen wasn’t all tea, weddings, and waltzes — she was writing through war, poverty, and radical politics!

In this episode of History Rage Live, host Paul Bavill is joined by historian and author Dr Helena Kelly to take a sledgehammer to the myths surrounding one of England’s most beloved writers — Jane Austen.

Think Austen only wrote about polite society, balls, and matchmaking? Think again. Dr Kelly reveals how Pride and Prejudice, Sense and Sensibility, and Persuasion are steeped in the Napoleonic Wars, rural poverty, class tension, and even political radicalism. From cousin marriage to enclosure, from naval officers to the fear of French invasion — Austen’s world was anything but tranquil.

Dr Kelly explains how Persuasion unfolds during Napoleon’s exile and return, why Emma explores the politics of land and hunger, and how Austen’s teenage “History of England” may have been a bold critique of monarchy itself. Together, Paul and Helena expose how critics and TV adaptations have softened Austen’s sharp social observations into a genteel myth — and why it’s time to reclaim the radical Jane.

Whether you’re a lifelong Austen fan or “Austen-curious,” this episode will make you see her world — and her wit — in an entirely new light.

About Our Guest — Dr Helena Kelly

📚 Author of Jane Austen: The Secret Radical and The Worlds of Jane Austen

Dr Helena Kelly is a literary historian and acclaimed Austen scholar whose work uncovers the hidden politics and subversive messages behind England’s favourite novelist.

📖 Buy her books:

• Jane Austen: The Secret Radical — https://uk.bookshop.org/a/10120/9781837731237
• The Worlds of Jane Austen — https://uk.bookshop.org/a/10120/9781836004189

📲 Follow Helena:

• Twitter/X & Threads: @msashtondennis

About History Rage

🎙 History Rage is the podcast where historians deliver their anthems for doomed myths — where truth has its mention in despatches and lazy legends are made to listen to all that bloody poetry.

📡 Follow & Contact:

• Twitter/X: @HistoryRage
• Instagram: @historyrage
• Threads: @historyrage
• Facebook: facebook.com/HistoryRage
• Email: [email protected]

💬 Support the Podcast:

Help keep the Rage alive and get early, ad-free episodes, bonus content, and access to live streams!

👉 Join us on Patreon or subscribe via Apple Podcasts.

www.patreon.com/historyrage

📢 If you enjoyed this episode:

Tell a friend, share the rage, and leave us a review — it really helps other history lovers discover the truth behind the myths.

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Hollywood got it wrong: The Spitfire was not the work of one man.

Aviation historian Paul Beaver dismantles the myths created by the Hollywood film, First of the Few. He reveals that while Mitchell was a brilliant engineer, the idea of him single-handedly designing the Spitfire is a fantasy. Instead, the aircraft was the result of a collaborative, unsung team at Supermarine.

Discover how films distort historical truths and why figures like Mitchell and Alan Turing are often misrepresented to create a more dramatic narrative. Paul Beaver exposes a compelling, untold story of engineering genius, collaboration, and a team of unsung heroes who truly built the Spitfire.

A Team, Not a Single Hero

While Mitchell was a brilliant engineer and a visionary team leader, the Spitfire was the product of a dedicated team at Supermarine. Beaver highlights key figures who deserve recognition:

• Alf Faddy: The head of the design team, who sketched the initial plans with Mitchell.
• Beverly Shenstone: An engineer who contributed his expertise in wing design, leading to the aircraft's famous elliptical wing.
• Joe Smith: The man who later became Supermarine's chief designer in 1941.
• George Pickering and Geoffrey Quill: The crucial test pilots who risked their lives to develop the aircraft.

A More Nuanced Legacy

Paul argues for a more truthful understanding of Mitchell's legacy. Mitchell, who died at the age of 42 in 1937, was a prolific engineer with 24 different aircraft types to his name. His work extended far beyond the Spitfire, including designs for bombers and seaplanes. He even famously redesigned a colostomy bag after his surgery, showing his relentless engineering mindset.

Ready to challenge everything you thought you knew about the Spitfire? Listen now and get the full story.

• Follow Paul on X @BeaverWestminst and on Instagram/Threads @pilotbeaver
• Order the Book: To dive deeper into the real history, order Paul Beaver’s book, Father of the Spitfire, from your local independent bookstore via https://uk.bookshop.org/a/10120/9781783969036.
• Support Us: If you love the show, please consider supporting us for a few pounds per month on Apple or Patreon. Your support gives you access to early episodes, ad-free listening, and exclusive content like the sneak preview live stream, invites to submit questions for future guests, and even a coveted History Rage mug. You can subscribe at patreon.com/historyrage.
• Connect: Follow us on social media for more historical insights:
• Twitter: @historyrage
• Facebook: History Rage
• Instagram: @historyrage

Stay curious, stay passionate, and let the rage for historical truth burn on!

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This week on History Rage, host Paul Bavill welcomes the brilliant mythologist and author Natalie Haynes, to unravel the tangled web of Greek mythology and challenge the male-centric narratives that often dominate our understanding of these ancient tales.

Myth vs. Reality: Natalie passionately argues that the stories from ancient Greece are not as male-dominated as they are often portrayed. She encourages listeners to reconsider the powerful roles women play in these myths, particularly through figures like Medea and Hera, who defy the traditional expectations of their time.

The Argo and Its Heroes: Dive into the legendary quest for the Golden Fleece as Natalie dissects the dynamics of the Argonauts. Are they truly a cohesive unit or merely a collection of egos? Discover the complexities of their relationships and the conflicts that arise as they embark on their perilous journey.

Women in Mythology: Explore the surprising strength and agency of female characters in Greek mythology. Natalie highlights how goddesses like Athena and Artemis offer a stark contrast to the often flawed male heroes, challenging the notion that women were merely passive figures in these ancient stories.

Hollywood’s Take: The conversation takes a critical turn as Natalie examines the portrayal of Greek myths in popular culture, particularly in films like Jason and the Argonauts and Disney’s Hercules. She reveals how these adaptations often strip away the complexity and richness of the original tales, reducing powerful female figures to mere side characters.

Support History Rage on Patreon for exclusive content and early episode access at www.patreon.com/historyrage.

Follow History Rage on Social Media:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HistoryRage

Twitter: https://twitter.com/HistoryRage

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/historyrage/

Buy the Book: No Friend to this House: https://uk.bookshop.org/a/10120/9781529061543

Listen to Natalie Haynes Stands Up For the Classics: https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b077x8pc/episodes/player

Follow Natalie

Instagram: @nataliehaynesauthor

Twitter: @officialnhaynes

Bluesky: @nataliehaynes.bsky.social

Stay Angry, Stay Informed - History Rage

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This week on History Rage, host Paul Bavill is joined by historian and author Mark Ellis, known for his gripping Frank Merlin detective novels and his latest work, Boom Time: True Crime in World War II London. Together, they traverse the shadowy underbelly of wartime Britain, revealing the grim realities that lay beneath the celebrated Blitz spirit.

The Dark Side of the Blitz: Mark passionately confronts the myth that the British public maintained a dignified composure during the war. He unveils the shocking truth: crime surged by 60% from 1939 to 1945, with ordinary citizens engaging in looting, black market dealings, and even violent crime amidst the chaos.

Notorious Criminals: Delve into the lives of infamous figures like Gordon Cummins, the 'Blackout Ripper', and John Haig, the 'Acid Bath Killer', whose heinous acts thrived in the cover of darkness. Mark shares harrowing accounts of wartime crimes that challenge the narrative of British resilience.

The Black Market Boom: Explore the expansive black market that flourished during the war, as spivs and organised gangs capitalised on rationing and scarcity. Mark explains how these operations were not merely opportunistic but well-planned criminal enterprises that included everything from armed robberies to the theft of military supplies.

Police Struggles: With police numbers dwindling as many officers enlisted, Mark discusses the challenges faced by law enforcement in combating this surge in crime. The episode highlights the corruption and complicity within the ranks, as some officers became entangled in the very criminal activities they were meant to suppress.

American Influence: The arrival of American troops brought both camaraderie and chaos, introducing their own brand of crime and racial tensions to the streets of London. Mark reveals how the differing legal systems between the UK and the US created unique challenges for law enforcement and military justice.

Join us for this eye-opening exploration of crime in wartime Britain, where the reality of human behaviour starkly contrasts with the glorified myths of the Blitz. Stay tuned for more episodes of History Rage, where we continue to uncover the hidden truths of our past.

Support History Rage on Patreon for exclusive content and early episode access and the coveted History Rage Mug at www.patreon.com/historyrage.

For more historical insights, visit our website www.historyrage.com.

If you want to get in touch with History Rage, email us at [email protected].

Follow History Rage on Social Media:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HistoryRage

Twitter: https://twitter.com/HistoryRage

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/historyrage

Stay Angry, Stay Informed - History Rage

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This week on History Rage, Paul is joined by historian, archaeologist, and author Dr. Simon Elliott, who takes us on an enlightening journey through the life of Septimius Severus, the often-overlooked African emperor of Rome. Together, they challenge the prevailing myths surrounding Julius Caesar and explore the rich tapestry of Severus's reign.

Debunking Caesar: Simon passionately argues against the common misconceptions about Julius Caesar, asserting that he was never an emperor and highlighting the true origins of his name. From his PR genius to his military campaigns, Simon dismantles the romanticised narratives that have persisted for centuries.

The Rise of Septimius Severus:

Discover the dramatic rise of Severus, who seized power during the tumultuous Year of the Five Emperors. Simon recounts how Severus, with sword drawn, commanded respect from the Senate and established the Severan dynasty, leaving a profound impact on Roman history.

Military Might and Legacy: As a military historian, Simon delves into Severus's extensive campaigns, including his ambitious invasion of Britain. Learn how Severus expanded the Roman Empire's territorial reach and the monumental statements he made through his military conquests.

North African Heritage: Simon highlights the significance of Severus's North African roots and how they shaped his approach to governance and military leadership. This episode sheds light on the cultural dynamics of the Roman Empire and the importance of inclusivity in its ranks.

Guest Information:

Explore Dr. Simon Elliott's work by purchasing his book, The African Emperor: The Life of Septimus Severus, through the History Rage Bookshop at https://uk.bookshop.org/a/10120/9781837731725

Follow Simon on X: @simonelliott20 and on Instagram: @simonelliott8671.

Join the conversation and share your historical rants on Twitter @HistoryRage . Use the hashtag #HistoryRage.

Support History Rage on Patreon for early episode access, ad-free listening, and exclusive perks at www.patreon.com/historyrage.

For more historical insights, visit our website www.historyrage.com.

If you want to get in touch with History Rage, email us at [email protected].

Follow History Rage on Social Media:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HistoryRage

Twitter: https://twitter.com/HistoryRage

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/historyrage

Stay Angry, Stay Informed - History Rage

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This week on History Rage, host Paul Bavill is joined by historian and author Rachel McCarthy James, the mind behind the intriguing book "Whack Job: A History of Axe Murder." Together, they delve into the infamous case of Lizzie Borden, a crime so notorious it has inspired nursery rhymes and countless myths.

Debunking the 40 Whacks: Rachel sets the record straight on the infamous rhyme, revealing that Lizzie did not deliver 40 whacks, but rather a significantly lower number—18 to her stepmother and 10 to her father. This episode challenges the sensationalism surrounding the case, highlighting how historical narratives can be distorted over time.

The Axe Myth: Explore the myth surrounding the weapon itself. Rachel argues that the axe attributed to Lizzie was almost certainly not the murder weapon, as the prosecution's case hinged on dubious evidence and assumptions rather than concrete facts.

Life of Lizzie Borden: Discover who Lizzie Borden was, the tensions within her household, and the societal constraints she faced as an upper-class woman in the late 19th century. Rachel provides a vivid picture of the events leading up to the murders and the aftermath that left Lizzie both infamous and isolated.

Guest Information:

Purchase Rachel McCarthy James’ book "Whack Job: A History of Axe Murder" through the History Rage Bookshop at https://uk.bookshop.org/a/10120/9781837733286.

Follow Rachel on Bluesky: @rmccarthyjames.bsky.social

Join the conversation and share your thoughts on Lizzie Borden and historical myths on Twitter @HistoryRageor directly with Paul Bavill @PaulBavill. Use the hashtag #HistoryRage.

Support History Rage on Patreon for early episode access, the chance to submit questions to guests, prize draws, and the exclusive History Rage mug at www.patreon.com/historyrage.

For more historical rants and insights, visit our website www.historyrage.com.

If you want to get in touch with History Rage, email us at [email protected].

Follow History Rage on Social Media:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HistoryRage

Twitter: https://twitter.com/HistoryRage

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/historyrage

Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/historyrage.bsky.social

Stay Angry, Stay Informed - History Rage

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This week on History Rage, host Paul Bavill welcomes the insightful Dr. Faith Tibble, a historian specialising in iconography and the author of Crown of Thorns, Humble Gods and Humiliated Kings. Together, they delve into the complex and often misunderstood symbolism of one of Christianity's most iconic images: the crown of thorns. Join them as they unravel the layers of history, art, and theology that have shaped our perception of this powerful symbol.

The Crown of Thorns Reimagined

Beyond the Thorns: Dr. Tibble challenges the conventional belief that the crown was made of sharp thorns, revealing instead its true nature as a wreath of acanthus leaves, symbolising triumph rather than mockery.

Historical Context: Explore the socio-political landscape of first-century Judea and how the Roman perspective on Jesus’ crucifixion plays a crucial role in understanding the symbolism behind the crown.

Art and Iconography

Evolution of Imagery: Discover how the representation of the crown of thorns evolved over centuries, from a symbol of victory to one of suffering, as Christianity shifted its focus towards the passion of Christ.

Royal Connections: Delve into the concept of Christo mimesis, where medieval kings sought to imitate Christ's humility and suffering as a means of legitimising their own rule.

The Relic and Its Impact

The Crown in Paris: Learn about the journey of the purported crown of thorns to Notre Dame and how King Louis IX's veneration of the relic shaped its significance in Christian iconography.

Lasting Legacy: Reflect on how the crown of thorns continues to be a powerful symbol in both art and faith, influencing countless representations of the passion narrative.

Get Involved

Follow Dr. Faith Tibble: Connect with her on Twitter @faithtibble and on Instagram and Bluesky @DrFaithTibble.

Buy Faith’s book: The Crown of Thorns: Humble Gods and Humiliated Kings: https://uk.bookshop.org/a/10120/9780567713223

Support History Rage: 

If you’re passionate about this episode, consider joining the 'Angry Mob' on Patreon at patreon.com/historyrage for exclusive content, early access, and the iconic History Rage mug.

Stay Connected

Join the conversation and keep the rage alive! Visit historyrage.com for past episodes and updates.

Follow us on:

Facebook: History Rage

Twitter: @HistoryRage

Instagram: @historyrage

Stay passionate, stay curious, and let the rage for historical truth burn brighter!

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