In this captivating episode of History Rage, host Paul Bavill welcomes the renowned historian and author Alison Weir, celebrated for her extensive work on the Tudor period. Together, they navigate the tumultuous waters of Henry VIII's reign, debunking myths and uncovering truths about his infamous marital struggles.

The Myth of Henry’s Brain Damage: Alison passionately disputes the widely held belief that Henry VIII suffered from brain damage following a horse riding accident in 1536. She argues that this narrative, stemming from a dubious foreign source, inaccurately portrays a sudden change in the king's character, when in fact, his violent tendencies had been developing for years.

Catherine of Aragon's Marriage: Delve into the complexities of Henry's marriage to Catherine of Aragon as Alison elucidates the arguments surrounding their annulment. She highlights the significant role of canon law and the political pressures faced by Pope Clement VII, shedding light on the genuine motivations behind Henry's desire to divorce.

Anne Boleyn and the Tudor Court: The episode examines the dynamics between Catherine and Anne Boleyn, challenging the romanticised narratives that often pit the two women against each other. Alison offers a nuanced perspective on Anne's character and the political machinations at play during this turbulent period.

Guest Information:

Discover more about Alison Weir’s work by checking out her books on Tudor England. Follow her on Twitter: @alisonweirbooks.

Buy Alison’s latest book: https://uk.bookshop.org/a/10120/9781472278173

Join the conversation and share your historical frustrations on Twitter @HistoryRage. 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.

To catch up on all the rage from bygone times, 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

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Stay Angry, Stay Informed - History Rage

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In this explosive episode of History Rage, Paul is joined by the esteemed historian Tracy Borman to dive headfirst into the tumultuous life of Mary, Queen of Scots. This week, we unravel the myths surrounding Mary, challenging the romanticised narrative of her as a tragic heroine and instead revealing her as a monarch whose decisions led to her own downfall.

The Myth of the Tragic Heroine: Tracy passionately critiques the portrayal of Mary as a victim of circumstance, arguing that her reckless choices and misguided romantic entanglements were the true architects of her fate. From her disastrous marriages to her ill-fated plots against Elizabeth I, Mary’s naivety and arrogance shine through.

Mary's Fatal Decisions:

• Marriages to Misfortune: Tracy dissects Mary’s ill-conceived unions, particularly with Henry Lord Darnley and James Hepburn, Lord Bothwell, showcasing how these choices alienated her from her subjects and sealed her fate.
• Political Naivety: The discussion highlights Mary’s lack of political acumen and her failure to grasp the brutal realities of Scottish politics, which ultimately led to her downfall.

Conspiracies and Intrigue:

• Willing Conspirator or Manipulated Pawn? We explore the various plots Mary became involved in, examining whether she was a willing conspirator, a manipulated pawn, or a victim of Walsingham’s cunning.
• The Gallows Letter: Tracy details the infamous Babington Conspiracy and how Walsingham’s espionage led to Mary’s ultimate demise, illustrating the fine line between conspiracy and entrapment.

Guest Information:

• Follow Tracy Borman on Twitter: @tracyborman.
• Buy the latest book: https://uk.bookshop.org/a/10120/9781399705110

Join the conversation and share your thoughts on Mary, Queen of Scots, and the Tudor era on Twitter @HistoryRage or 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: History Rage
• Twitter: @HistoryRage
• Instagram: @historyrage

Stay Angry, Stay Informed - History Rage

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In this electrifying episode of History Rage, host Paul Bavill is joined by aviation and special forces historian Paul Beaver for a special Chalke History Festival edition. Together, they dive into the captivating and often misunderstood world of espionage, taking a critical look at the romanticised image of spies and the realities behind the myths.

Shaken, Not Stirred:

- Paul and Paul kick off with a spirited debate on the infamous phrase “shaken, not stirred,” exploring how this cocktail culture has infiltrated the public's perception of espionage and its inaccuracies.

Chalke History Festival Insights:

- Discover the significance of the Chalke History Festival, where history enthusiasts can engage with both established and emerging historians, and learn about the intricate details that often get overlooked in mainstream narratives.

Reality vs. Fiction:

- The duo tears apart the James Bond mythos, discussing how the portrayal of secret agents in popular culture diverges drastically from the truth, particularly in terms of operational realities and the day-to-day lives of intelligence officers.

Defections and Double Agents:

- Gain insights into the complex world of defections, examining the motivations behind them and the challenges faced by those who choose to leave their former lives behind, while also addressing the concept of double agents and their intriguing roles.

The Human Element:

- Paul Beaver emphasises that history is about people, not just events, and highlights how understanding the human element in espionage can reshape our comprehension of historical narratives.

Join us as we peel back the layers of espionage, revealing the truths that lie beneath the surface. Don’t miss the chance to see Paul and Nigel West live at the Chalke History Festival, running from 23rd to 29th June. Tickets are available below:

Tickets: https://www.chalkefestival.com/

Connect with Paul Beaver:

- Follow Paul on X: @beaverwestminst

Support History Rage:

If you enjoy the show, consider supporting us on Patreon for exclusive content, early access, and the iconic History Rage mug. Subscribe at patreon.com/historyrage.

Follow the Rage:

- Twitter: @HistoryRage

- Instagram: @historyrage

- Facebook: History Rage

From all of us at History Rage, stay curious, stay passionate, and most importantly, stay angry!

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This week on History Rage, host Paul Bavill is joined by Dr. Nicholas Morton, an associate professor of history at Nottingham Trent University and author of The Mongol Storm, to unravel the myths surrounding one of history's most formidable empires: the Mongols. Together, they confront the misconceptions that paint these conquerors as mere barbarians, revealing a sophisticated and highly organised society that reshaped the world.

The Mongol Myth

Barbarians or Organised Conquerors?: Dr. Morton challenges the stereotype of the Mongols as chaotic and primitive, illustrating their strategic military organisation and the remarkable efficiency of their army.

Complex Societal Structures: Discover how Mongol society was not only about warfare but also involved intricate systems of governance, trade, and cultural exchange.

Military Prowess

Archery and Tactics: Learn about the Mongol archers, trained from a young age, and their innovative military strategies that made them nearly unstoppable on the battlefield.

Integration and Adaptation: Explore how the Mongols absorbed conquered peoples into their ranks, creating a diverse and formidable fighting force.

Impact on the World

Trade Networks: The Mongols fostered trade across vast distances, leading to what historians call the Pax Mongolica, a period of relative peace and stability that facilitated commerce.

Cultural Exchange: Delve into how the Mongols influenced the cultures and economies of the regions they conquered, including their adoption of paper money and interest in scientific advancements.

As the conversation unfolds, Dr. Morton dispels long-held myths and provides a nuanced understanding of the Mongol Empire's legacy, encouraging listeners to rethink their perceptions of this legendary civilisation.

Get Involved

Support History Rage: For just £3 per month on Patreon or Apple, enjoy early access to episodes, ad-free listening, and exclusive content.

Follow Dr. Nicholas Morton: Stay updated on his work by following him on Twitter @nicholasmorto11 and Instagram @nicholasmorton123.

Buy Nicholas’ book: The Mongol Storm: https://uk.bookshop.org/a/10120/9781399803571

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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In this intense episode of History Rage Live, host Paul Bavill is joined by author and historian Iain MacGregor to explore the harrowing decision to drop the atomic bomb on Hiroshima and its profound implications. Drawing from his latest work, "The Hiroshima Men," Iain shares insights from his extensive research and interviews with survivors, challenging the narratives that have dominated discussions about the bomb's use.

Episode Highlights:

• - The Catalyst for the Book: Iain recounts the moment that sparked his interest in the atomic bomb's history, linking the devastation of Hiroshima with the horrors of Stalingrad.
• - Emotional Toll of Research: Discover the challenges Iain faced while interviewing survivors and the emotional weight of uncovering their stories.
• - The Impact of Oppenheimer: Iain expresses his frustrations with the portrayal of the atomic bomb in popular media, particularly the film "Oppenheimer," and its lack of Japanese perspectives.
• - Truman's Dilemma: The discussion delves into President Truman's decision-making process, exploring whether the bomb was truly necessary to end the war.
• - Juxtaposing Perspectives: Iain reveals how his book interweaves the experiences of American pilots with the harrowing accounts of those who suffered in Hiroshima.
• - The Legacy of Hiroshima: Reflecting on the moral implications of the bomb, Iain calls for a deeper understanding of the event's historical significance and the ongoing debates surrounding it.

Join us for a thought-provoking conversation that not only examines the past but also challenges us to reflect on the moral complexities of war. Iain's book "The Hiroshima Men" is set to be released on 5th June, and you can pre-order it through our Patreon page.

Buy the Book: https://uk.bookshop.org/a/10120/9781408719503

Connect with Iain MacGregor:

- Follow Iain on Instagram: @Iain_macgregor

Support the Show:

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

Follow the Rage:

- Twitter: @HistoryRage

- Paul on Twitter: @PaulBavill

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

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

Stay curious, stay passionate, and most importantly, stay angry!

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In this thought-provoking episode of History Rage, host Paul Bavill engages in a compelling discussion with historian, author and BAFTA winning maker of “The Nazis: A Warning from History” Laurence Rees. Together, they explore the alarming parallels between historical events and contemporary society, focusing on the lessons we can draw from the past to safeguard our future.

Episode Highlights:

• - The Importance of History Festivals: Laurence shares his thoughts on the significance of the Chalke Valley History Festival, highlighting its role in engaging young people with history and fostering a community of history enthusiasts.
• - The Nazi Mind: Delve into Laurence's latest book, "The Nazi Mind: 12 Warnings from History," as he discusses the critical insights it offers on the mentalities of the Nazis and the implications for today's society.
• - Understanding Fragility: Laurence emphasises the fragility of democratic institutions and the importance of recognising early warning signs that could threaten our freedoms.
• - The Role of Ideology: Explore how ideology can influence individuals to commit unspeakable acts, revealing the psychological mechanisms that enable such actions within a society.
• - Lessons for Today: The conversation touches on the relevance of historical warnings in contemporary politics, urging listeners to remain vigilant against the erosion of civil liberties and the rise of populism.
• - A Call to Action: Laurence encourages listeners to engage with history actively, advocating for the importance of understanding our past to shape a better future.

Join us for an enlightening discussion that challenges our perceptions of history and its relevance to current events. Don't miss the chance to hear Laurence Rees speak at the Chalke History Festival, running from 23rd to 29th June. Tickets are available through the festival's website.

Tickets: https://www.Chalkeefestival.com/

Connect with Laurence Rees:

- Buy his book: The Nazi Mind: 12 Warnings from History from the History Rage Bookshop:

https://uk.bookshop.org/a/10120/9780241740811

Support History Rage:

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

Follow the Rage:

- Twitter: @HistoryRage

- Instagram: @historyrage

From all of us at History Rage, stay curious, stay passionate, and most importantly, stay angry!

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This week on History Rage, host Paul Bavill is joined by historian and author Keith Lowe to explore the tumultuous aftermath of the Second World War, focusing on the liberation of Naples in 1944 and the chaos that followed. Keith, known for his insightful works including Naples 1944, shares his perspective on the misconceptions surrounding the war and its consequences.

The Myth of Liberation

• Self-Liberation: Keith discusses how Naples liberated itself from German occupation, challenging the narrative that the Allies were the sole saviours of the city.
• Destruction and Chaos: The aftermath of the liberation revealed a city in ruins, with essential services devastated, leading to a struggle for survival among the residents.

Allies vs. Civilians

• Contrasting Experiences: Explore the vastly different experiences of Allied soldiers and Neapolitan civilians as they navigated the shifting power dynamics post-liberation.
• Reality of Occupation: Keith sheds light on the initial enthusiasm for the Allies, which soon faded as the harsh realities of occupation set in.

Rebuilding a Nation

• Engineers as Heroes: Discover the vital role of engineers in restoring Naples’ infrastructure, highlighting their often-overlooked contributions to the war effort.
• Economic Mismanagement: Keith critiques the Allies' failure to utilise local resources effectively, leading to unnecessary suffering among the population.

The Lingering Effects of War

• Generational Trauma: The discussion delves into the concept of 'replacement children' and how the legacy of loss continues to impact societies long after the fighting ends.
• Post-War Violence: Keith highlights the ongoing conflicts in Europe post-1945, including civil wars and the brutal realities of power vacuums left by the war.

Guest Information:

• Keith Lowe's book: https://uk.bookshop.org/a/10120/9780008339593
• Follow Keith on Twitter and Instagram @keithloweauthor for more insights and updates.

Leave a review for History Rage on Apple, Podchaser, Spotify! Join the 'Angry Mob' on Patreon for early episodes, prize draws, and the coveted History Rage mug. Subscribe at www.patreon.com/historyrage.

You can follow History Rage on Twitter @HistoryRage and Instagram @historyrage or Paul individually @PaulBavill and let us know what you wish people would just stop believing using the Hashtag #HistoryRage.

To catch up on all the rage from bygone times go to the website www.historyrage.com

If you want to get in touch with History Rage then email [email protected]

Stay Angry, Stay Informed - History Rage

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In this enlightening episode of History Rage, host Paul Bavill reunites with historians and co-authors of "Ring of Fire," Alex Churchill and Nicolai Eberholst, to explore the often-overlooked narratives of the First World War. Together, they challenge the traditional Western-centric perspectives and delve into the complexities of the war's global impact, particularly focusing on the Eastern Front and the contributions of lesser-known nations.

Revisiting the Great War:

- Alex and Nicolai discuss their motivations for writing "Ring of Fire," aiming to provide a more balanced account of the war that includes the significant events and actors often omitted from mainstream narratives.

Unpacking the Myths:

- The duo passionately critiques the oversimplified narratives that dominate First World War literature, highlighting how the war's origins and battles in the East are frequently ignored.

Global Perspectives:

- Discover the surprising roles played by countries such as Japan and the Ottoman Empire, as well as the impact of colonial forces in Africa and Asia, challenging the notion that the war was solely a European affair.

The Human Cost:

- Alex and Nicolai share harrowing accounts of ordinary soldiers and civilians, illustrating the brutal realities of war and the emotional turmoil experienced across various fronts.

Challenging Neutrality:

- The conversation also touches on the complexities of neutrality, with insights into how countries like Denmark and Sweden navigated their positions amidst the chaos of war.

Join us as we unravel the multifaceted narratives of the First World War, shedding light on the stories that deserve to be told. "Ring of Fire" is available for purchase, and can be bought below:

Buy the Book: Ring of Fire: A New Global History of the Outbreak of the First World War

https://uk.bookshop.org/a/10120/9781035903429

Don't miss the chance to catch Alex at the Chalke History Festival, running from 23rd to 29th June and tickets are available from:

Tickets: https://www.chalkefestival.com/

Connect with Alex and Nicolai on Social Media:

- Follow the guys on X, Instagram and Bluesky: Alex at @Churchill_Alex and Nicolai at @PikeGrey1418.

Support History Rage:

If you enjoy the show, consider supporting us on Patreon for exclusive content, early access, and the iconic History Rage mug. Subscribe at patreon.com/historyrage.

Stay informed, stay passionate, and most importantly, stay angry!

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Embark on a revelatory journey through medieval Europe in this episode of History Rage, where host Paul Bavill is joined by historian, YouTuber, and author Luke Daly. Together, they dismantle the myth of unwavering religious devotion in the Middle Ages, revealing a complex tapestry of belief and scepticism.

Challenging Blind Faith:

- Luke Daly passionately debunks the notion that medieval Europeans were blindly devoted to God, exposing the nuanced relationship between the populace and the Church.

- Discover how lords, knights, and even churchmen themselves often critiqued and deviated from the Church’s teachings, challenging the simplistic narrative of universal piety.

Relics, Miracles, and Saints:

- Explore the contentious world of relics and saints, where faith, folklore, and financial motivations intertwined, leading to both genuine veneration and sceptical criticism.

- Uncover the Church’s struggles to control and capitalise on popular worship practices, often clashing with theological doctrines.

The Church’s Power and Influence:

- Delve into the real influence of the medieval Church, questioning its perceived omnipotence and exploring its interactions with other religions.

- Understand the Church’s responses to internal and external threats, from usurious loans to the Crusades, and how it navigated the complex socio-religious landscape of the time.

Join Luke Daly as he brings Old Testament fury to Rage Towers, challenging long-held misconceptions and illuminating the intricate realities of medieval faith. To dive deeper, grab a copy of Luke’s book, Mediaeval Saints and Their Sins, and tune into the Daly Medieval Podcast on YouTube.

Buy the Book: https://uk.bookshop.org/a/10120/9781399050623

Follow Luke on Twitter LukeDaly99 and on Instagram @TheDalyMedievalPodcast.

Support History Rage on Patreon at patreon.com/historyrage for exclusive content and the iconic History Rage mug.

Follow History Rage on Social Media:

Twitter: @historyrage

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

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

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

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

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EXPLICIT LANGUAGE WARNING - In this episode of History Rage, we present a special for the Chalke History Festival as I am joined by food historian, broadcaster, and author, Dr. Annie Gray. Together, we tackle the pervasive myth that British food has always been bland and uninspired, diving into the rich and diverse culinary history of the nation.

Episode Highlights:

• - Challenging the Blandness Myth: Dr. Gray passionately argues against the stereotype that British food lacks flavour, citing historical evidence of the vibrant and varied diets enjoyed by people throughout the ages.
• - Vegetables in Historical Diets: Discover the truth about the consumption of vegetables in the past and how misconceptions have led to the belief that they were rarely eaten, despite their crucial role in the diet.
• - The Role of Cookbooks: Explore how historical cookbooks reflect the aspirations and realities of food in Britain, revealing a complex relationship between class, culture, and culinary practices.
• - Culinary Influences: Delve into the impact of foreign influences on British cuisine, from medieval Islamic flavours to Georgian innovations, and how these have shaped modern perceptions of British food.
• - Seasonal Eating and Preservation: Understand the significance of seasonality in historical diets and how preservation techniques allowed people to enjoy a variety of foods year-round.
• - A Historical Feast: Dr. Gray shares her vision for a historical banquet that showcases the complexity and flavours of British cuisine, challenging listeners to rethink their assumptions about the past.

Join us for a delectable discussion that not only uncovers the truth about British food but also inspires a newfound appreciation for its rich history. Don't miss the chance to catch Dr. Annie Gray at the Chalke History Festival, running from 23rd to 29th June and tickets are available from:

Tickets: https://www.chalkefestival.com/

Connect with Dr. Annie Gray:

- Follow Annie on Instagram: @dranniegray

- Follow Annie on Bluesky: @dranniegray

- Buy her Book: The Bookshop, the Draper, the Candlestick Maker: A History of the High Street from the History Rage Bookshop:

https://uk.bookshop.org/a/10120/9781800812246

Support History Rage:

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

Follow the Rage:

- Twitter: @HistoryRage

- Instagram: @historyrage

From all of us at History Rage, stay curious, stay passionate, and most importantly, stay angry!

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