In this episode of History Rage, historian Dr. Helen Fry discusses the misconceptions surrounding Mata Hari and Edith Cavell. She reveals that Mata Hari was not a spy, despite popular belief, and that her image as a glamorous femme fatale has overshadowed the contributions of real women in intelligence. On the other hand, Edith Cavell, known as an innocent martyr, was actually involved in espionage and ran her own network behind enemy lines in Belgium. Dr. Fry emphasizes the importance of uncovering the true stories of women in intelligence and dispelling myths that have persisted for decades.

Highlights

• Mata Hari was not a spy, despite popular belief, and her image as a glamorous femme fatale has overshadowed the contributions of real women in intelligence.
• Edith Cavell, known as an innocent martyr, was actually involved in espionage and ran her own network behind enemy lines in Belgium.
• It is important to uncover the true stories of women in intelligence and dispel myths that have persisted for decades.
• The public is hungry for new stories and properly researched history that challenges traditional narratives.

Connect with Dr. Helen Fry:

- Follow Helen on Twitter: @drhelenfry

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.

Helen’s Books

Women in Intelligence

The Walls Have Ears: The Greatest Intelligence Operation of World War II

Spymaster: The Man Who Saved MI6

MI9: A History of the Secret Service for Escape and Evasion in World War Two

The London Cage: The Secret History of Britain's World War II Interrogation Centre

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

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**LANGUAGE WARNING**

In this explosive episode of History Rage, host Paul Bavill is joined by the impassioned Dr. Joseph Quinn, a historian specialising in Ireland and Britain during the Second World War. Together, they tackle one of the most contentious and misunderstood aspects of the war: Irish neutrality. Dr. Quinn, known for his fiery takes, is here to set the record straight on the myths and misconceptions surrounding Ireland's stance during the conflict.

Episode Highlights:

- Dr. Joseph Quinn's Return: Dr. Quinn is back, bringing his expertise on the Second World War and Irish history to the forefront.

- The Roots of Irish Neutrality: Discover how Ireland's decision to remain neutral was not an act of cowardice but a calculated move to preserve national security and avoid civil conflict.

- Debunking Myths: Dr. Quinn dismantles the erroneous belief that Ireland was a haven for Nazi sympathisers and collaborators, providing compelling evidence to the contrary.

- Pro-Allied Neutrality: Learn about the extensive, albeit covert, cooperation between Ireland and the Allied forces, including intelligence sharing and the facilitation of Irish volunteers joining the British military.

- The Book of Condolence: Addressing one of the most persistent myths, Dr. Quinn clarifies the reality behind De Valera's controversial visit to the German representative following Hitler's death.

- Churchill's Critique and De Valera's Response: Delve into the diplomatic tensions between Ireland and Britain, highlighted by Churchill's post-war speech and De Valera's poignant reply.

Join us as we navigate through the murky waters of historical distortion and emerge with a clearer understanding of Ireland's complex role during the Second World War. This episode promises to be a rollercoaster of revelations, challenging long-held beliefs and shining a light on the nuanced reality of Irish neutrality.

Connect with Dr. Joseph Quinn:

- Follow Dr. Quinn on Twitter: @ww2research

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.

Follow the Rage:

- Twitter: @HistoryRage

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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 high-flying episode of History Rage, host Paul Bavill is joined by Jane Gulliford Lowes, historian, author, and co-host of the "Never Mind the Dambusters" podcast, to dismantle the myth that the Lancaster bomber single-handedly won World War II. Jane takes us on a turbulent journey through the skies of the Second World War, passionately advocating for the often-overlooked Handley Page Halifax and other unsung aircraft of RAF Bomber Command. Prepare for a deep dive into the complex and multifaceted history of these wartime workhorses and get ready to challenge the narrow narratives perpetuated by popular media and historical oversights.

Episode Highlights:

- Jane Gulliford Lowes' Introduction: Jane shares her journey from a much-loathed legal career to becoming a historian and aviation enthusiast, driven by a childhood fascination with the Falklands War and a personal connection to RAF Bomber Command through her great uncle Jack Clyde.

- The Lancaster Myth: Jane passionately debunks the notion that the Lancaster bomber won the war on its own, criticising the "Lancastrification" of World War II history and highlighting the vital roles played by other aircraft, particularly the Halifax.

- The Halifax's Contributions: From strategic bombing to mine-laying operations, SOE missions, and supporting airborne operations, Jane details the extensive and varied contributions of the Halifax, arguing for its rightful place in the annals of aviation history.

- Challenges and Improvements: Jane discusses the early issues faced by the Halifax, its subsequent improvements, and how it evolved to become a formidable aircraft by the time of the Mark III, which rivalled the Lancaster in terms of performance.

- The Overlooked Heroes: Jane calls for a broader recognition of all the aircraft that contributed to the war effort, including the Hamdens, Stirlings, Wellingtons, and Blenheims, urging listeners to appreciate the full spectrum of Bomber Command.

Connect with Jane Gulliford Lowes:

- Grab a copy of Jane's book "Above Us the Stars" from The History Rage Bookshop

- Follow Jane on Instagram @justcuriousjane and Twitter @LydiaJane13

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.

Follow the Rage:

- Twitter: @HistoryRage

- Paul on Twitter: @PaulBavill

Stay Angry, Stay Informed - History Rage

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Step into the tumultuous world of Henry VIII's court as Paul is joined by historian and author Dr. Elizabeth Norton, who is here to set the record straight on one of history's most misunderstood queens: Jane Seymour. Elizabeth, renowned for her extensive work on Tudor women, passionately argues against the common perception of Jane as a dull, submissive figure and reveals the true complexity and significance of her life.

Introducing Dr. Elizabeth Norton:

- Elizabeth shares her background in Tudor history and her latest projects, including a groundbreaking study on Jane Seymour and a book on reigning queens.

Jane Seymour: More Than Just Henry VIII's Wife:

- Elizabeth debunks the myth of Jane Seymour as merely the mother of Henry's son, highlighting her overlooked qualities and achievements.

Early Life and Upbringing:

- Delve into Jane's enigmatic early years, her family background, and the factors that shaped her into a formidable figure at court.

Jane's Rise to Power:

- Explore Jane's strategic ascent to queenship, her court connections, and the political manoeuvres that positioned her beside Henry VIII.

Challenging the Stereotypes:

- Elizabeth counters the portrayal of Jane as a gentle, submissive queen, presenting evidence of her intelligence, ambition, and influence.

Jane's Political and Personal Influence:

- Uncover Jane's role in the dissolution of the monasteries and her daring interventions in Henry's policies, which reveal a more assertive and politically savvy queen.

Jane's Relationships with Her Stepchildren:

- Learn about Jane's nurturing relationships with Mary and Elizabeth, and her significant impact on their lives during her queenship.

Legacy and Misconceptions:

- Elizabeth discusses why Jane Seymour's legacy is often overshadowed and calls for a re-evaluation of her contributions and significance in Tudor history.

Conclusion:

See Jane Seymour in a new light, recognising her as a remarkable and influential figure in her own right

For a deeper dive into Jane Seymour's life, grab a copy of Elizabeth's book Jane Seymour, Henry VIII's True Love from the History Rage Bookshop and follow Elizabeth on Twitter @ENortonHistory.

Share your thoughts on Twitter @HistoryRage using the hashtag #HistoryRage. Join our 'Angry Mob' on Patreon for exclusive perks, including early episode access and the esteemed History Rage mug, at patreon.com/historyrage.

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Stay Angry, Stay Informed

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Welcome to an electrifying episode of History Rage Live, where we delve into the murky waters of medical history with esteemed guest Karen Bloom Gewirtz. A scholar of early British literature and historian of science, Karen joins host Paul Bavill to challenge the myths surrounding women healers and their alleged ties to witchcraft. Prepare for a riveting exploration of how domestic medicine evolved into a commodified industry, and why the narrative of the witch healer is a misguided myth.

Unveiling the Myth:

Karen passionately debunks the myth that women healers were frequently accused of witchcraft and executed, arguing that such beliefs undermine the historical role of women in medicine.

Discover how practical necessity made women indispensable in early modern communities, providing essential healthcare where professional medical services were scarce.

Women in Medicine:

Explore the integral role of women in 17th-century medicine, where household remedies and recipe books were the cornerstone of healthcare.

Learn about the transition from domestic to professional medicine and the gender dynamics that influenced this shift.

The Evolution of Medical Practices:

Examine the use of botanicals in historical remedies and their surprising relevance in modern medicine.

Understand how the commodification of medicine led to a cultural shift, undermining traditional female roles in healthcare.

Quackery and Professional Medicine:

Uncover the bizarre and often dangerous practices of professional medicine, from viper wine to laudanum.

Reflect on the societal impacts of quack medicine and the enduring myths that continue to shape perceptions of historical medical practices.

Join us for a thought-provoking journey through the history of medicine, where Karen Bloom Gewirtz brings her expertise to dismantle myths and reveal the hidden history of women healers. For more insights, be sure to grab a copy of "The Apothecary's Wife" from the History Rage bookshop.

Follow History Rage on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook for more updates. Support us on Patreon for exclusive content and the chance to join our 'Angry Mob'.

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

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In this fiery episode of History Rage, we delve into the most contentious conflict in American history: the Vietnam War. Host Paul Bavill is joined by Dr. Robert Thompson, historian, documentary maker, and author of "Clear, Hold and Destroy," to dismantle the myths surrounding this divisive war.

Unmasking the Myths:

- Dr. Thompson challenges the simplistic good vs. evil narrative often associated with the Vietnam War.

- We explore the complexities of the conflict, including the roles of the United States, South Vietnam, and North Vietnam.

The Roots of Conflict:

- Discover how America initially got involved in Vietnam, starting from its support of French Indochina to its direct military engagement.

- Dr. Thompson explains the geopolitical stakes and the domino theory that drove U.S. involvement.

South Vietnam's Struggles:

- Examine the internal challenges faced by the South Vietnamese government, including corruption and ineffective leadership.

- Understand the impact of these issues on the broader war effort.

The Role of ARVN:

- Debunking the myth that the Army of the Republic of Vietnam (ARVN) was passive and ineffective.

- Highlighting key battles and contributions of ARVN troops.

American Strategy and Public Opinion:

- A look at the U.S. military strategy and the often misunderstood objectives of battles like Khe Sanh and Hamburger Hill.

- The impact of media coverage and public opinion on the war effort.

My Lai and War Crimes:

- Addressing the infamous My Lai Massacre and its repercussions on American and global perceptions of the war.

- Dr. Thompson discusses the complexities of war crimes and the U.S. military's response.

Conclusion:

- Reflecting on the enduring legacy of the Vietnam War and the importance of understanding its complexities.

- Dr. Thompson urges listeners to look beyond simplistic narratives and appreciate the multifaceted nature of historical events.

For further insights, grab a copy of Dr. Robert Thompson's "Clear, Hold and Destroy" from The History Rage Bookshop and follow him on Twitter @DrRobThompson.

Don't forget to share your thoughts on Twitter @HistoryRage using the hashtag #HistoryRage. Join our 'Angry Mob' on Patreon for exclusive perks, including early episode access and the esteemed History Rage mug, at patreon.com/historyrage.

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Stay Angry, Stay Informed - History Rage

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This week we're delving into the often-overlooked intricacies of the Napoleonic Wars. Joining us is Rory Butcher, a PhD candidate from Leeds University, whose research on the fencible regiments sheds new light on Britain's military history.

Introduction to Rory Butcher:

- Rory shares his academic journey, from his fascination with muskets to his current PhD research at Leeds University.

- Discover how a conversation with his master's supervisor led Rory to explore the largely uncharted territory of the fencible regiments.

Debunking Napoleonic Myths:

- Rory's rage centres on the misconception that the Napoleonic Wars are solely defined by the Peninsula and Waterloo campaigns.

- He argues for the broader term "French Wars" to encapsulate the 25-year period of conflict from 1792 to 1815.

The French Wars Explained:

- An in-depth look at the seven coalitions and the global nature of the French Wars, involving multiple European powers and theatres of conflict.

- Rory highlights Britain's role beyond just fighting the French, including engagements in North America, the Caribbean, and India.

Britain's Domestic Front:

- Explore the internal challenges Britain faced, from political opposition and suspended civil liberties to naval mutinies and the threat of Irish rebellion.

- Learn about the social and economic impacts of the war on British society, including the role of the militia and the fear of invasion.

The Role of the Fencibles:

- Rory introduces the fencible regiments, tracing their origins from the aftermath of Culloden to their significant contribution during the French Wars.

- Understand how these regiments, initially raised from Scottish clans, evolved to play a crucial role in Britain's military strategy.

Conclusion and Final Thoughts:

- Rory urges a re-evaluation of the Napoleonic period, advocating for a more nuanced understanding that goes beyond the simplistic narrative of Britain's victory at Waterloo.

- He calls for the period to be seen as part of a broader, complex web of global conflicts and alliances.

Follow Rory on Twitter @RMBHistory for updates on his research and insights into the fascinating world of the fencible regiments.

You can follow History Rage on Twitter @HistoryRage or Paul individually @PaulBavill 

You can join our 'Angry Mob' on Patreon as well. £5 per month gets you episodes 3 months early, the invite to choose questions, entry into our prize draws and the coveted History Rage mug. Subscribe at www.patreon.com/historyrage

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Stay Angry, Stay Informed

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Prepare for an adrenaline-fueled journey into the heart of wartime myths as History Rage Live takes you behind enemy lines with the indomitable Damien Lewis. In this electrifying episode, host Paul Bavill is joined by the historian, broadcaster, and war reporter to dismantle the myths surrounding the legendary SAS. With over a decade of experience and a plethora of books on the subject, Damien Lewis brings unparalleled insight into the true nature of these elite warriors.

The Man Behind the Myths:

- Damien Lewis shares his harrowing experiences as a war reporter, from being shot at to surviving tropical diseases, and how these adventures led him to become a prolific author and historian.

- Discover the origins of his latest book, "SAS: Daggers Drawn," and how it fits into a trilogy that unveils the untold stories of the SAS during World War II.

Debunking the Supermen:

- Damien passionately debunks the stereotype of the SAS as six-foot-four muscle-bound supermen, revealing the true diversity and psychological resilience that defines these soldiers.

- Hear gripping tales of SAS soldiers like Des Powell, who defied physical expectations to pass the gruelling selection process twice.

The Birth of the SAS:

- Explore the fascinating history of the SAS's formation during World War II, from their initial operations in North Africa to their pivotal role in the European theatre.

- Learn about the innovative selection process developed by Paddy Main, which emphasised self-discipline and psychological endurance over physical prowess.

Unthinkable Operations:

- Dive into the incredible true story of a daring train rescue mission in Italy, where the SAS hijacked a train to liberate concentration camp inmates, defying all odds and conventional military tactics.

Legends of the SAS:

- Gain insight into the complex characters of Paddy Mayne and David Stirling, their leadership styles, and their contributions to the SAS's enduring legacy.

- Address the controversies and criticisms surrounding these figures, and appreciate their pivotal roles in shaping the regiment.

Join us as Damien Lewis brings history alive with his vivid storytelling and profound knowledge of the SAS. For more thrilling insights, follow Damian on Twitter @authordlewis and grab a copy of "SAS: Daggers Drawn" along with his other riveting books.

To catch up on all the rage from bygone times, visit www.historyrage.com. If you want to get in touch with History Rage, email [email protected].

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

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Welcome to another sizzling episode of History Rage, the podcast where historians let off steam and dismantle myths and misconceptions. Today, we plunge into the world of medieval hygiene with our guest, historian, and author of "Fake History: 101 Things That Never Happened," Jo Hedwig Teeuwisse. Jo joins us to rage against the stubborn myth that medieval Europeans were a dirty, unwashed lot. Prepare to have your perceptions of the Middle Ages turned on their head!

Debunking the Dirty Middle Ages:

- Jo takes on the persistent myth that medieval Europeans didn't bathe, revealing the truth about their hygiene practices and the importance they placed on cleanliness.

Bathhouses and Daily Washing:

- Discover the role of bathhouses in medieval communities and how daily washing was a common practice, even among the working class.

The Evolution of Cleanliness:

- Learn how perceptions of hygiene evolved over the centuries and the impact of medical and scientific understanding on these practices.

Soap and Detergents:

- Explore the various types of soap used in the medieval period and how they were made, debunking the notion that soap was a luxury item.

Victorian Influence:

- Understand how Victorian attitudes and misconceptions have shaped our modern view of medieval hygiene and why it's time to set the record straight.

Join us as Jo passionately argues that medieval people were far more concerned with cleanliness than we've been led to believe. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in uncovering the realities of medieval life and challenging long-held historical myths.

For more insights, check out Jo's book, "Fake History: 101 Things That Never Happened," and follow her on Twitter at @fakehistoryhunt

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

You can join our 'Angry Mob' on Patreon as well. £5 per month gets you episodes 3 months early, access to livestreams, the invite to choose questions, entry into our prize draws and the coveted History Rage mug. Subscribe at www.patreon.com/historyrage

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Stay Angry, Stay Informed - History Rage

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**EXPLICIT LANGUAGE WARNING**

Join us as we uncover the fascinating and complex life of Catherine Howard, the fifth wife of Henry VIII, who has often been unfairly defined by her relationships

with men. Gareth Russell challenges the conventional narratives that paint Catherine as either a "rambunctious strumpet" or a perpetual victim, advocating for a better understanding of her life.

Key Points:

The Misunderstood Girl:

• Gareth Russell disputes the simplistic labels often attached to Catherine Howard, arguing for a more balanced view of her life and actions.
• He presents evidence against the notion that Catherine was merely a victim or a promiscuous figure, highlighting her individuality and circumstances.

Theories and Misconceptions:

• Russell critiques the rapid acceptance of the theory that Catherine was a victim of childhood and adolescent sexual abuse, which he believes lacks substantial evidence.
• He discusses how this theory became entrenched, often overshadowing other aspects of Catherine's life.

Catherine's Relationships:

• Highlights how Dereham's persistent and coercive behaviour post-relationship contributed to Catherine's downfall.

Historical Context and Sexual Morality:

• Discusses the sexual morals of the Tudor period, including the concept of pre-contracts and the varying degrees of sexual permissiveness.

The Howard Family:

• Clarifies that the Howard family, including the Duke of Norfolk, did not actively push Catherine forward as a queen candidate.

Connect with Gareth Russell:

• Twitter: @garethrussell1
• Young, Damned and Fair: The Life and Tragedy of Catherine Howard [History Rage Bookshop]

Support History Rage on Patreon:

You can join our 'Angry Mob' on Patreon as well. £5 per month gets you episodes 3 months early, the invite to choose questions, entry into our prize draws and the coveted History Rage mug. Subscribe at www.patreon.com/historyrage

Follow History Rage on Social Media

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Stay Angry, Stay Informed - History Rage

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