In this fiery episode of History Rage, host Paul Bavill welcomes back historian, journalist, and author Guy Walters to rage against the sanitized veneration of the Mitford Sisters. These interwar aristocrats have often been glamorized in books, media, and society, but beneath their glittering façade lies a much darker reality.

Fascist Fables:

• Unity Mitford's Obsession with Hitler: Unity stalked Adolf Hitler, met him over 130 times, and became one of his closest British confidantes. Her diaries, recently unearthed and published, reveal her disturbing Nazi sympathies and personal infatuation with the Führer.
• Diana Mitford's Glamour and Extremism: Diana married Oswald Mosley, leader of the British Union of Fascists, in Joseph Goebbels' living room, with Hitler himself in attendance. Despite her aristocratic charm, Diana remained an unrepentant fascist even decades after the war.

The Mitford Dynamic:

• The Extreme Spectrum: With parents steeped in fascist ideology, the Mitford siblings included fascists like Diana and Unity, alongside Jessica Mitford, an avowed communist. Guy explores how political extremism permeated the family’s psyche.
• Romanticisation in Media: From syrupy books to glossy TV dramas, the Mitfords are too often depicted as glamorous, eccentric aristocrats, overshadowing their political extremism and disturbing sympathies.

Guy’s Call to Action:

• Stop the Mitford glorification. Shift your fascination to figures like the women of the SOE—glamorous, courageous, and committed to fighting tyranny, not enabling it.

Join Guy Walters as he dismantles the myths surrounding the Mitford Sisters and rages against the misplaced admiration for these controversial figures.

📝 For more on this topic, follow him on X (formerly Twitter) at @guywalters.

Relevant Links:

Guy’s Book Berlin Games: https://uk.bookshop.org/a/10120/9780719567742

Diana Mitford on Desert Island Discs: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_IPuTSdgeYs

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Stay informed, stay passionate, and keep raging for the truth!

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Prepare to have your preconceptions of the Crusades shattered in this fiery episode of History Rage! Host Paul Bavill is joined by historian and author Dr. Steve Tibble, who takes us on a myth-busting journey through the tumultuous world of the Crusader states. Dr. Tibble, author of "Crusader Criminals: The Knights Who Went Rogue in the Holy Land," delves into the dark and often overlooked aspects of Crusader history, revealing the chaos, criminality, and cultural clashes that defined this era.

The Rage Against Historical Distortion:

- Dr. Tibble debunks the common misconceptions about the Crusades, highlighting the diverse and complex nature of the Crusader states, where Europeans, Arabs, and Armenians intermingled and intermarried.

- Discover how the image of the noble, white knight is far from the reality, as Crusader armies were a melting pot of different ethnicities and religions.

Crusader Criminality Unveiled:

- Explore the seedy underbelly of the Crusader states, where piracy, banditry, and rogue knights were rampant.

- Hear about the shocking tales of pirates who terrorized the seas and bandits who made travel perilous, even for high-ranking officials.

The True Nature of the Crusades:

- Dr. Tibble challenges the notion that the Crusades were purely religious wars, arguing that they were also a clash between nomadic and sedentary societies, driven by climate change and mass migration.

- Learn about the fragmented and competitive nature of the Middle East during the Crusades, where local Muslim rulers often fought each other as much as they did the Crusaders.

Saladin: The Great Conqueror:

- Reevaluate the legacy of Saladin, often portrayed as a unifier and chivalrous leader, but who spent most of his career fighting and conquering his Muslim neighbours.

- Understand the complex and often brutal tactics used by Saladin to maintain his power and expand his territory.

Join us as Dr. Steve Tibble lifts the lid on the chaotic and violent world of the Crusades, challenging the myths and revealing the gritty reality of this historical period. For a deeper dive into his work, be sure to check out his book "Crusader Criminals" and follow him on Twitter at @DrSteveTibble.

For more rage-fuelled historical revelations, support us on Patreon at patreon.com/historyrage for exclusive content and the coveted History Rage mug.

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Stay informed, stay passionate, stay angry!

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Prepare to dive into the tumultuous world of Tudor politics in this special episode of History Rage, brought to you in partnership with the Catherine of Aragon Festival. Host Paul Bavill is joined by Nathan Amin, author, historian, and renowned critic of historical misconceptions, as they embark on a spirited discussion about the often overlooked reign of Henry VII.

The Tudor Tantrum:

- Nathan Amin passionately argues for a re-evaluation of Henry VII's legacy, challenging the prevailing perception of him as a mere bridge between Richard III and Henry VIII.

- Discover why Henry VII's reign deserves more attention, as Nathan details his significant contributions to England's stability and prosperity, overshadowed by his more infamous successors.

Restoring Royal Authority:

- Learn how Henry VII consolidated power and restored royal authority, navigating the treacherous political landscape left by the Wars of the Roses.

- Explore the measures he implemented to centralise government and reduce the influence of overambitious nobles, ensuring lasting peace and stability.

Financial Reforms and Misconceptions:

- Nathan debunks the myth of Henry VII as a miserly king, highlighting his strategic financial policies that strengthened the crown's independence.

- Uncover the truth behind Henry's avaricious reputation and how his financial acumen laid the groundwork for a prosperous Tudor dynasty.

Diplomacy and Foreign Policy:

- Delve into Henry VII's foreign policy strategies, which prioritised peace and alliances over warfare, securing England's continental reputation.

- Understand the significance of his diplomatic ties with France, Scotland, and the Spanish Trastamara dynasty, which bolstered England's position in Europe.

Join us as Nathan Amin sheds light on the complexities of Henry VII's reign, advocating for a more nuanced understanding of this pivotal Tudor monarch. To explore Nathan's work further, visit the History Rage bookshop for his latest book, "Son of Prophecy: The Rise of Henry Tudor," and follow him on social media at @NathanAmin.

Support the rage that fuels our historical deep dives by clicking the Apple Subscription link or at patreon.com/historyrage, and don't forget to leave us a review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts.

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Stay informed, stay passionate, and let the rage for truth in history rage on!

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Prepare for an explosive journey into the heart of medieval misconceptions in this fiery episode of History Rage. Host Paul Bavill is joined by the formidable Dr. Tobias Capwell, historian, author, jouster, and former curator of arms and armour at the Wallace Collection. Together, they dismantle the myths surrounding knights and their armour, revealing the truth behind the legends.

The Truth About Armour:

- Dr. Capwell debunks the pervasive myth that medieval armour was unbearably heavy, explaining its practical design and the rigorous training knights underwent to master its use.

- Discover the reality of medieval knights' mobility and the misconceptions about their need for cranes to mount horses, which Dr. Capwell traces back to Victorian stage plays.

Knights in Action:

- Hear about Dr. Capwell's personal experiences in jousting and how modern armour compares to historical examples, shedding light on the physical demands and engineering marvels of medieval armour.

- Learn about the rigorous training regimes of knights and how their bodies adapted to the demands of wearing and fighting in armour from a young age.

Myth vs. Reality:

- Explore the impact of popular culture on our understanding of medieval knights, from Victorian misconceptions to Hollywood's creative liberties, and how these have shaped modern perceptions.

- Dr. Capwell discusses the importance of respecting historical source material and the dangers of modern interpretations that disregard the true context of medieval life.

Join us as Dr. Tobias Capwell takes up the mantle to correct the record on medieval knights and their armour, offering a fascinating glimpse into the world of chivalry and combat. For more insights, visit Dr. Capwell's academia website and follow him on Instagram at @TobiasCapwell.

Support the rage that fuels our historical deep dives at patreon.com/historyrage, and don't forget to leave us a review on Apple Podcasts, Podchaser, or Amazon. Stay informed, stay passionate, and let the rage for truth in history rage on!

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

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Get ready to ignite your historical curiosity! Host Paul Bavill welcomes early modern historian and teacher of history and politics, Dr. Johanna Strong, to confront the myths and misconceptions surrounding Tudor women, particularly Henry VIII's daughters. Prepare for an explosive discussion that dismantles the infamous reputation of Mary I, often known as "Bloody Mary."

Raging Against the Bloody Narrative:

- Dr. Johanna Strong passionately debunks the myth of "Bloody Mary," arguing for a more nuanced understanding of Mary I's reign and legacy.

- Discover why Mary I is often misunderstood and how her actions were consistent with the norms of her time, despite being vilified by Protestant historians.

Mary's Fight for Legitimacy:

- Learn about the political and religious challenges Mary I faced upon ascending the throne, including her struggle against Lady Jane Grey and the need to assert her legitimacy.

- Explore the complex dynamics of Mary's reign, from her efforts to restore Catholicism to her significant contributions to governance and military reform.

Diplomatic Triumphs and Missteps:

- Understand Mary's diplomatic achievements, including her marriage to Philip of Spain, which positioned her as a powerful European monarch.

- Examine the loss of Calais and its impact on Mary's legacy, as well as her efforts to stabilise England during tumultuous times.

Rewriting Mary's Legacy:

- Delve into how Elizabeth I and later Protestant historians shaped Mary's negative image, overshadowing her accomplishments and contributions.

- Dr. Strong calls for a re-evaluation of Mary's reign, urging listeners to view her within the context of her time and recognise her role in paving the way for Elizabeth I's success.

Join us as Dr. Johanna Strong brings to light the complexities of Mary I's reign, challenging the "Bloody Mary" stereotype and advocating for a more balanced historical perspective. Follow Johanna on Twitter at @jo_strong_ and explore her academic work at drjohannastrong.ca.

Support the rage that fuels our historical deep dives at patreon.com/historyrage, and don't forget to leave us a review on Apple Podcasts, Podchaser, or Spotify.

To catch up on all the rage from bygone times, visit our website at www.historyrage.com

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Stay informed, stay passionate, and let the rage for truth in history rage on!

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Prepare to have your nautical myths shattered in this swashbuckling episode of History Rage! Host Paul Bavill is joined by Liam Gauci, historian and curator of the Malta Maritime Museum, to delve into the murky waters of piracy and privateering in the Mediterranean.

The Corsair Conundrum:

- Liam passionately dismantles the common misconception that corsairs were simply pirates, clarifying the significant legal distinctions that separated privateers and corsairs from their pirate counterparts.

- Discover the intricate international maritime laws that governed corsair activities, turning them into prisoners of war rather than criminals destined for the gallows.

Malta: The Corsair Haven:

- Explore how Malta's strategic location made it a bustling hub for privateers from all over Europe, including British, French, Russian, and Spanish corsairs.

- Learn about the economic and social impact of corsairing on the island, from the service industry to the grand investments that fuelled these maritime ventures.

Tales of the High Seas:

- Liam shares riveting stories of famous Maltese corsairs, like Guglielmo Lorenzi, whose daring exploits earned him a gold medal and a legendary status.

- Hear about the remarkable characters who navigated the fine line between legality and piracy, including magicians, dandy captains, and those who switched allegiances with the changing tides of war.

The End of an Era:

- Understand how the Crimean War and subsequent treaties brought an end to privateering, reshaping Malta's economy and its role in global maritime history.

Join us as Liam Gauci unleashes his rage against historical inaccuracies, advocating for a nuanced understanding of corsairs and their lawful plundering. To dive deeper into this fascinating subject, visit the Malta Maritime Museum at www.maltamaritimemuseum.mt and follow Liam on Twitter @liamgauci13.

Support the rage that fuels our historical deep dives at patreon.com/historyrage, and don't forget to leave us a review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts. Stay informed, stay passionate, and let the rage for truth in history rage on!

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

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In this lively episode of History Rage Live, host Paul Bavill welcomes back the legendary historian, author, and podcaster James Holland. Known for his compelling narratives and deep dives into World War II history, Holland joins the podcast to discuss the often misunderstood Italian Campaign of the Second World War. With a focus on debunking myths and setting the record straight, Holland sheds light on the strategic importance and challenges of the Italian front.

Episode Highlights:

• Mark Clark's Misunderstood Legacy: James Holland passionately defends General Mark Clark, dispelling myths about his role in the Italian Campaign and addressing misconceptions about his decisions and actions.
• The Italian Campaign's Strategic Importance: Explore why the Italian front was crucial for the Allies, focusing on its role in diverting German forces and the significance of capturing the Foggia airfields.
• The Battle of Monte Cassino: Delve into the infamous battle, understanding its strategic complexities and the mountainous terrain that made it a formidable challenge for Allied forces.
• Stalin and the Italian Front: Discover how the Soviet Union viewed the Italian Campaign and their interest in expanding influence in post-war Italy.
• The Challenges of Amphibious Operations: Learn about the logistical constraints faced by the Allies, including the shortage of landing craft and the impact on strategic decisions.
• Evolution of Historical Perspectives: Holland reflects on how his understanding of the Italian Campaign has evolved over two decades, providing insights into the complexities of wartime strategy and the broader context of World War II.

Join us as we unravel the layers of historical distortion and gain a clearer understanding of the Italian Campaign's pivotal role in World War II. James Holland's insights promise to challenge long-held beliefs and illuminate the nuanced realities of this often-overlooked theatre of war.

Connect with James Holland:

- Follow James on Twitter: @James1940

Support the Show:

If you’re fired up 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.

James’s Latest Book: Cassino '44: Five Months of Hell in Italy

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

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In this fiery episode of History Rage, host Paul Bavill welcomes back historian and podcaster Nick Le Huray to dismantle the myth of the "model occupation" of the Channel Islands during World War II. Together, they delve into the harsh realities faced by the islanders under German occupation, a far cry from the benign narrative often portrayed.

The Myth of the Model Occupation:

- Nick passionately debunks the notion that the German occupation of the Channel Islands was a "model" occupation, revealing the severe hardships and brutal treatment endured by the islanders.

- Explore the evidence that contradicts the idea that the Germans behaved themselves on British soil, including deportations, hostages, and severe restrictions on daily life.

Life Under Occupation:

- Discover the day-to-day struggles of the islanders, from food shortages and confiscated property to the constant threat of imprisonment and deportation.

- Hear about the acts of defiance and resistance, including illicit newspapers and sabotage, that challenged the German occupiers despite the immense risks involved.

Uncovering the Truth:

- Nick shares his extensive research from unpublished diaries, family stories, and newly available archives that paint a vivid picture of the true nature of the occupation.

- Learn about the impact of Nazi racial policies on the islanders, including the deportation of Jews and the horrific treatment of slave workers.

The Legacy of Resistance:

- Understand the long-lasting consequences for those accused of collaboration and the efforts to mitigate German demands by the local civilian government.

- Nick highlights the importance of challenging the simplistic narratives and recognising the complex and often brutal reality of the occupation.

Prepare to have your perceptions shattered as Nick Le Huray brings to light the untold stories of defiance and suffering during the German occupation of the Channel Islands. For more on this topic, check out Nick's blog at islandfortress.com and his podcast, Islands at War, available on all major platforms.

Follow Nick on Twitter @nickleh

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

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Step into the tumultuous world of the Tudor court with this riveting episode of History Rage. Host Paul Bavill is joined by Heather Darsie, author of "Anna: Duchess of Cleves" and "Children of the House of Cleves," as well as the upcoming "Stuart Spouses," to debunk the myths surrounding Anne of Cleves and shed light on the reality of her life and legacy.

The Misunderstood Queen:

- Heather Darsie tackles the persistent and unfair label of Anne of Cleves as the "Flanders Mare," revealing the true origins and inaccuracies of this nickname.

Historical Catfishing Unveiled:

- Discover the truth behind Henry VIII's annulment from Anne, including the political and personal motivations that led to this decision, and why Anne was never actually called "ugly" by Henry.

Anne's Early Life and Education:

- Heather delves into Anne's upbringing in the German court, debunking myths about her education and revealing the rich cultural context of her youth.

Political Intrigues and Alliances:

- Explore the complex political landscape of the Holy Roman Empire and how Anne's marriage was intended to solidify alliances, rather than being a simple Protestant match.

Life After the Annulment:

- Learn about Anne's life post-annulment, her status as Henry's "beloved sister," and her relationships with Mary I and Elizabeth I, as well as the challenges she faced during Edward VI's reign.

Reevaluating Anne's Legacy:

- Heather calls for a more nuanced understanding of historical figures, urging listeners to see Anne of Cleves as a real person with a complex life, rather than a caricature.

Join us for this enlightening episode as we strip away the layers of myth and misrepresentation to reveal the true story of Anne of Cleves. For those eager to dive deeper, Heather's books offer a treasure trove of insights and are available through the History Rage bookshop.

Order Anna, Duchess of Cleves: The King's 'Beloved Sister'

Follow Heather on Twitter @hdarsiehistory, and on Instagram at hdarsiehistory. You can also read her articles at maidensandmanuscripts.com.

Support our quest for historical truth on Patreon. For £5 per month, gain early access to episodes, livestreams, entry into prize draws, the chance to pose questions to future guests, and the coveted History Rage mug. Subscribe at patreon.com/historyrage.

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

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Welcome to Series 15 of History Rage! A massive thank you to everyone who has supported us on this journey—your encouragement means the world. Here's a sneak peek at the fiery topics we'll be tackling over the next ten weeks. Get ready to challenge everything you thought you knew about history.

Upcoming Rages:

• Heather Darsie takes on Anne of Cleves and the 'Flanders Mare' myth
• Nick Le Huray gets his rage on at the 'Model Occupation' of the Channel; Islands
• Museum Curator Liam Gauci of the Malta Maritime Museum rages that Corsairs and Pirates are very different
• Johanna Strong is sick to death of the Bloody Mary tag
• Tobias Capwell rages that armour is for fighting in, of course you can move in it
• Steve Tibble argues about the realities of the Crusades and their mission
• Author Ron Drabkin takes a new look at the Pearl Harbour blame game and who was at fault
• Shalina Patel shouts that there are many more suffrage campaigners than the Pankhursts
• Nicola Clark rages that Anne Boleyn did not withhold sex to become Queen
• James Crossland explores the farce that is the Lockhart plot and that British Intelligence is not infallible

The ragefires will burn again with general release on 16th December. See you then!

Stay Connected:

Follow us on Twitter: @HistoryRage

Join the conversation with Paul Bavill: @PaulBavill

Share your thoughts using 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 [email protected]

Stay Angry, Stay Informed - History Rage

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