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:

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

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This week on History Rage, host Paul Bavill welcomes Tudor historian and author Dr. Joanne Paul to dissect the life and legacy of the enigmatic Thomas More. As they navigate the treacherous waters of Tudor England, they delve into the myths and misconceptions surrounding this controversial figure, aiming to separate fact from fiction.

Episode Highlights:

• - The Man Behind the Myths: Joanne shares her journey into the world of Thomas More, shedding light on his complex character and the historical context that shaped him.
• - The Pope and the People: Discover the truth behind the popular belief that More died in defence of the Pope, as Joanne reveals his nuanced views on authority and governance.
• - Martyr or Tyrant?: The discussion explores the reasons behind More's execution, questioning whether it was a matter of conscience or political necessity.
• - Family Man: Joanne highlights More's role as a devoted family man, challenging the notion that his personal life was overshadowed by his political ambitions.
• - Ideological Legacy: The episode examines how various ideologies have co-opted More’s image, from communism to conservatism, and what this says about our interpretations of history.
• - Debunking the Torture Chamber: Joanne confronts the myth that More had a torture chamber, providing a more accurate portrayal of his actions and beliefs regarding heretics.

Join us for a riveting conversation that not only unravels the complexities of Thomas More but also prompts us to reflect on the nature of power, authority, and individual conscience in turbulent times. Dr. Joanne Paul's new book, Thomas More: A Life and Death in Tudor England, is available now, and you can find a link to purchase it in the show notes.

Buy the Book: https://uk.bookshop.org/a/10120/9780008370740

Connect with Dr. Joanne Paul:

- Follow her on X: @joanne_paul_

- Follow her on Instagram: @drjoannepaul

Support History Rage:

If you’re enjoying the show, 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

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

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In this gripping episode of History Rage, host Paul Bavill welcomes back acclaimed historian Dr Helen Fry to uncover the hidden world of Belgium’s wartime intelligence networks — the unsung heroes of espionage who risked everything to fight from behind enemy lines. Drawing from her new book The White Lady, Helen reveals how Belgian agents shaped the course of both World Wars, often at extraordinary personal cost.

Far from the glamorous myths of spies in tuxedos and coded martinis, this conversation exposes the real stories of courage, sacrifice, and moral complexity. You’ll hear how intelligence flowed from occupied Belgium to Britain, how messages were smuggled in the most ingenious ways, and why Belgium’s location made it one of the most important hubs of wartime espionage.

Helen also explores the vital – and too often overlooked – role of women in intelligence, from couriers and code-runners to key figures in networks like the White Lady. These were ordinary citizens performing extraordinary acts of defiance, held together by trust, loyalty, and an unwavering sense of duty.

If you think WWII espionage was all about the SOE and France, think again. This episode pulls back the curtain on a hidden front of the intelligence war, filled with daring operations, hidden heroes, and a vast archive of untold stories waiting to be rediscovered.

🎧 Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a fan of true espionage, or simply love hearing history’s myths get blown apart — this is one you can’t miss.

📚 Connect with Helen:

• Follow her on Instagram: @drhelenfry

• Find her on X (Twitter): @drhelenfry

• Purchase her book: The White Lady – The Story of Two Key British Secret Service Networks Behind German Lines at Bookshop.org

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• Subscribe for just £3/month on Apple or Patreon

• Unlock additional perks for £5/month: patreon.com/historyrage

• Spread the word and bring more listeners into the Rage!

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In this enlightening episode of History Rage, host Paul Bavill is joined by historian and author Dr. Francis Young to delve into the often overlooked history of Eastern Europe. Together, they challenge the dominant narratives surrounding the region, particularly the misconceptions that arise from a focus solely on the 20th century and the pervasive influence of Russian perspectives.

Episode Highlights:

• - Uncovering the Past: Dr. Young discusses his latest project, Silence of the Gods, which aims to excavate the religious histories of Eastern Europe, highlighting the unique traditions of its lesser-known pagan peoples.
• - The Misunderstood Region: The conversation critiques the tendency to ignore Eastern Europe's rich pre-20th century history and the impact of this historical short-sightedness on contemporary understanding.
• - The Role of Kyivan Rus: Explore the significance of Kyivan Rus and its legacy in shaping modern Ukrainian identity, as well as the historical contestation between Ukraine and Russia.
• - The Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth: Discover the complexities of this once-great state, its unique political structure, and its cultural diversity, which included a multitude of religions and languages.
• - National Identity and Resistance: Dr. Young highlights the resilience of national identities in Eastern Europe, particularly in Poland and Lithuania, amidst the pressures of imperial powers.
• - Recommendations for Further Reading: Gain insights into essential literature that expands on the themes discussed, including works by Robert Frost and Richard Butterwick Pavlikovsky.

Join us for a thought-provoking discussion that not only sheds light on the historical significance of Eastern Europe but also encourages a deeper appreciation for its diverse cultures and identities. Dr. Young's book, Silence of the Gods, is set to be released in June, and you can find a link to pre-order it in the show notes.

Connect with Dr. Francis Young:

- Follow him on X: @rfrancisyoung

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 coveted History Rage mug.

Follow the Rage:

- Twitter: @HistoryRage

- Instagram: @historyrage

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

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Discover the untold story of the RAF heroes who photographed victory.

What if the intelligence that won World War II didn’t come from Bletchley Park — but from the skies above? In this gripping episode of History Rage, host Paul Bavill is joined by historians and podcasters Dave Robertson and Tony Hoskins from For You The War Is Over to uncover the hidden story of the RAF’s Photographic Reconnaissance Unit (PRU) — the unarmed pilots who risked everything to capture the images that shaped Allied strategy and victory.

These daring aviators, flying stripped-down Spitfires and Mosquitos, gathered over 26 million photographs during the war — producing 80% of all Allied intelligence. But their story remains one of WWII’s least recognised triumphs.

The Untold Legacy of Aerial Intelligence

Enigma cracked codes, but aerial reconnaissance won battles.

Dave and Tony reveal how the PRU began as a handful of maverick pilots before evolving into a highly specialised global intelligence unit that transformed modern warfare. They share the staggering dangers these pilots faced — flying alone, unarmed, and often without armour — at freezing altitudes to capture photos over heavily defended targets.

From the development of stereography and 3D imaging that made D-Day possible, to the astonishing innovation behind Sandy Gunn’s Spitfire, the episode brings to life the courage, technology, and sacrifice of those who turned cameras into weapons of war.

You’ll also hear how today’s historians and engineers are preserving this legacy — including the restoration of Sandy Gunn’s Spitfire (AA810) and the creation of a new memorial in London to honour PRU crews.

Featuring Guests:

🎙️ Dave Robertson & Tony Hoskins

Hosts of For You The War Is Over — the hit WWII podcast exploring POW escapes and forgotten wartime stories.

👉 Listen to their show here: For You The War Is Over Podcast

📘 Learn more about their projects and the Spitfire restoration at www.spitfireaa810.co.uk

Join Us Live at the Imperial War Museum Podcast Festival 🎤

Both History Rage and For You The War Is Over will be appearing LIVE at the Imperial War Museum Podcast Live Festival on 1st November.

🎟️ Get your tickets now → https://www.iwm.org.uk/events/podcast-live

Follow and Support History Rage

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In this thought-provoking episode of History Rage, host Paul Bavill engages with historian and author Ada Palmer, whose book Inventing the Renaissance challenges the romanticised narratives surrounding this revered period in Western history. Together, they dissect the myths of golden and dark ages, revealing the complexities and realities that often go unnoticed.

The Myth of the Renaissance:

• Golden Ages and Dark Ages: Ada argues against the simplistic notions of history being divided into periods of prosperity and decline, exposing the propagandistic origins of these concepts.
• Historical Narratives: Discover how Renaissance thinkers like Petrarch and Machiavelli grappled with their tumultuous reality, questioning the very nature of progress and the cyclical view of history.

Art and Power:

• Dependency on Wealth: Explore how the creation of iconic art and literature was intrinsically linked to the power dynamics of the time, with artists often reliant on the very tyrants they critiqued.
• The Dark Side of Patronage: Ada reveals the often-ignored darker aspects of artistic patronage, including the violent political upheavals that shaped the environment in which these masterpieces were created.

Inquisition and Control:

• Plurality of Inquisitions: The discussion delves into the various local inquisitions that operated independently, often co-opted by local powers for their own ends, challenging the singular narrative of the Inquisition.
• Corruption and Morality: Ada highlights the complex relationship between the Church and the populace, illustrating how corruption was often accepted as part of the societal fabric.

Guest Information:

• Buy Ada's book: Inventing the Renaissance: Myths of a Golden Age
• Follow Ada on X: @Adapalmer and on Bluesky: @adapalmer.bskysocial

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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Is Tom Hanks too old to storm Omaha Beach?

Host Paul Bavill welcomes Rob Hutton and Duncan Weldon, hosts of the War Movie Theatre podcast, to kick off a series of previews for the Imperial War Museum’s (IWM) Podcast Live Festival. This week, they are raising the curtain on movies in a historical setting with a fierce debate on the one historical inaccuracy that Hollywood keeps getting away with.

Rob and Duncan unleash their rage on the persistent and problematic trend in war cinema: the casting of much older actors as young combat soldiers in World War II movies.

• The Saving Private Ryan Problem: Discover exactly why Tom Hanks (mid-to-late 40s) as a Ranger Captain, and Matt Damon (27) as Private Ryan, were both fundamentally too old for their D-Day roles—in some cases by 20 years.
• The hosts argue that casting older actors fundamentally changes how we perceive the Second World War, overshadowing the reality that the fighting was overwhelmingly done by fresh-faced 19-year-olds.
• But is historical accuracy the real goal? The discussion turns to the industry's love for "whizzy ideas" and the notorious trope of a writer or director "struggling to get the green light"—and whether this pursuit of a marketable story is the real reason historical truth gets sacrificed for Hollywood blockbusters.
• Find out which TV series, like Band of Brothers, got the ages right, and whether Christopher Nolan's Dunkirk managed to break the mold.
• Plus, a fascinating discussion on how the youthful, risk-taking mindset applies not just to infantry and Luftwaffe pilots, but even to Formula 1 drivers.

Don't miss this heated discussion!

• 
  
• Listen to War Movie Theatre: Find Rob and Duncan’s podcast everywhere you get your podcasts and follow on all social media channels @warmovietheatre
• See them Live: This episode previews the IWM Podcast Live Festival on the 1st of November. Be sure to grab your tickets for the live discussion on movies in a historical setting!
• Tickets available at: https://www.iwm.org.uk/events/podcast-live
• Support History Rage: Love the show? Check the links for how to support Paul Bavill's podcast, including getting ad-free listening and the coveted History Rage mug.
• Subscribe at www.patreon.com/historyrage
• Follow History Rage on Social Media @historyrage 

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This week on History Rage, host Paul Bavill is joined by military historian and expert on Ian Fleming, Dave Roberts, as they delve into the intriguing world of wartime intelligence and the often-overlooked contributions of Fleming during the Second World War. Together, they dismantle the myths surrounding Fleming's role, revealing the truth behind the man who created James Bond and his significant impact on British Naval Intelligence.

The Real Ian Fleming:

Beyond the Desk: Dave discusses the misconceptions that portray Fleming as merely a desk-bound author, highlighting his pivotal role in shaping Naval Intelligence and his innovative ideas that contributed to the war effort.

Wartime Operations: Explore Fleming's involvement in the formation of 30 Assault Unit, an elite intelligence unit tasked with capturing enemy secrets and technology, showcasing his strategic mind and leadership abilities.

Operation Ruthless:

A Wild Plan: The episode reveals the audacious Operation Ruthless, where Fleming proposed a daring scheme to capture German Enigma machines by crash-landing a Heinkel bomber in the English Channel, demonstrating his bold and unconventional thinking.

Capturing Secrets: Learn about the successes of 30 Assault Unit in securing vital intelligence, including Enigma machines and Italian naval charts, that played a crucial role in the Allies' strategic planning.

Fleming's Legacy:

A Man of Influence: Dave articulates how Fleming's charm and connections made him an indispensable figure within British intelligence, proving that his contributions went far beyond his literary fame.

Recognition: The discussion emphasises the need to acknowledge Fleming's wartime achievements, which have been overshadowed by his later success as the author of the iconic James Bond series.

Guest Information:

Discover more about Dave Roberts and his work with 30 Assault Unit at 30au.co.uk.

Follow Dave on Twitter at @ihistorical for insights and updates.

If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review for History Rage on Apple, Spotify, or Podchaser! Join the 'Angry Mob' on Patreon for early episodes, exclusive content, and the coveted History Rage mug. Subscribe at www.patreon.com/historyrage.

Follow the Rage:

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For all the latest episodes and updates, visit our website at www.historyrage.com.

Stay Angry, Stay Informed - History Rage

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Britain’s Cold War story is bigger than you ever knew.

In this explosive episode of History Rage, host Paul Bavill sits down with historian and author Fraser McCallum to uncover the often-overlooked story of Cold War Britain. Too often reduced to a superpower showdown between the United States and the Soviet Union, the Cold War was a global conflict — and Britain was absolutely central to it.

Fraser, author of Cold War Britain: 50 Years in the Shadow of the Bomb, reveals how the Cold War reshaped the UK — from British intelligence and its notorious spy scandals to the rise of protest movements like CND and the Greenham Common protests. He shows how Britain’s nuclear ambitions, NATO involvement, and cultural life all intertwined with a conflict that defined half a century.

You’ll discover:

• Why Britain’s role in the Cold War was far greater than most people realise
• How the UK was vital to the creation of NATO and the success of the Berlin Airlift
• The devastating truth behind British nuclear weapons testing and its human cost
• How British intelligence in the Cold War was rocked by class privilege and spy scandals such as the Cambridge Five
• The way Cold War protests like Aldermaston and Greenham Common shaped politics and public debate
• How the Cold War left its mark on British culture, television, music, and everyday life
• Why the Cold War’s legacy still influences British politics and society today

From the NHS scaling back services to fund the bomb to Margaret Thatcher turning “Iron Lady” into her personal brand, this episode reveals the Cold War as a British story — one of espionage, nuclear strategy, protest, and pop culture.

If you’ve ever thought of the Cold War as a distant standoff between Washington and Moscow, Fraser McCallum will change your mind. The story of Cold War Britain is one of courage, compromise, scandal, and survival — and it still shapes our world today.

🎟️ Don’t miss the chance to engage with history live! Join us at the Imperial War Museum Podcast Live Festival on 1st November: https://www.iwm.org.uk/events/podcast-live

📚 Connect with Fraser MacCallum:

• Follow him on Instagram: @fraser_mcca11um
• Find him on X (Twitter): @fmcca11um
• Purchase his book: Cold War: 50 Years in the Shadow of the Bomb: https://shop.iwm.org.uk/products/cold-war-britain-fifty-years-in-the-shadow-of-the-bomb?srsltid=AfmBOoobMcNPt3aIzk7bpNozuodXXP973Amue5pjiI7NddhTvz9l-No-

🔥 Support History Rage for ad-free episodes and exclusive content:

• Subscribe for just £3/month on Apple or Patreon
• Unlock additional perks for £5/month: patreon.com/historyrage
• Spread the word and bring more listeners into the Rage!

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Think the WWII U-Boat War was Britain’s closest brush with defeat? Think again. In this live History Rage special, historian Roger Moorhouse – author of Wolfpack: Inside Hitler’s U-Boat War – joins host Paul Bavill to torpedo one of the Second World War’s most persistent myths.

Drawing on brand-new research from the German perspective, Roger reveals why the Battle of the Atlantic was not the near-disaster Churchill’s famous quote suggests.

He walks us through:

• Why most English-language histories ignore the German side of the U-boat campaign.
• How a brief “happy time” in 1940–41 shaped Britain’s self-image as plucky underdog.
• The statistics showing how Liberty ships and countermeasures reversed the threat.
• Inside the cramped, stressful life aboard a Type VII U-boat — from “tin can rage” to PTSD-like symptoms.
• The propaganda, recruitment and astonishing casualty rates of the Kriegsmarine’s submarine arm.
• Enigma, aerial radar, hedgehog mortars and other Allied innovations that made 1943 the turning point.

It’s WWII history as you’ve never heard it before — directly from the other side of the periscope. If you’re fascinated by Second World War naval history, military myths, or the Battle of the Atlantic, this episode is a must-listen. Roger Moorhouse blends gripping stories with hard data to show how the real U-boat war unfolded — and why understanding it matters.

Roger’s new book Wolfpack: Inside Hitler’s U-Boat War (out 9 October) is the definitive account of Germany’s submarine campaign told from the inside.

🔗 Listen now to bust the “close-run” myth of the U-boat war.

📚 Pre-order Roger Moorhouse’s book: Wolfpack: Inside Hitler’s U-Boat War

https://uk.bookshop.org/a/10120/9780008644895

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Connect with Roger Moorhouse:

- Follow Roger on Twitter: @roger_moorhouse

Stay connected with History Rage on social media:

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

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