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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In this captivating episode of History Rage, host Paul Bavill welcomes Professor Diane Watt, a distinguished scholar of English Literature from the University of Surrey and author of "God's Gentlewoman: The Life of Margaret Paston." Together, they delve into the remarkable life of Margaret Paston, a 15th-century woman who defied the stereotypes of her time and left behind an invaluable collection of letters that provide a window into the lives of mediaeval women.

Challenging Medieval Misconceptions:

- Diane passionately dispels the myth that mediaeval women were entirely subservient, highlighting the autonomy and influence women like Margaret Paston wielded in their domestic and social spheres.

The Life and Letters of Margaret Paston:

- Explore the fascinating life of Margaret Paston, a wealthy heiress who managed estates, engaged in legal disputes, and played a crucial role in her family's social and political manoeuvrings during the Wars of the Roses.

- Discover the balance Margaret maintained between the extraordinary and the mundane, captured vividly in her letters that range from requests for crossbows to grocery lists.

Women in Medieval Society:

- Diane shares insights into the roles and responsibilities that women of Margaret's class undertook, challenging the notion that mediaeval women were devoid of power and independence.

- Learn about the legal and societal structures that allowed women to inherit and manage wealth, and how widows like Margaret could wield considerable influence.

Margaret's Legacy and Influence:

- Understand the significance of Margaret's letters as a historical record, offering a rare glimpse into the lives of mediaeval women and their often-overlooked contributions to history.

- Diane highlights the ongoing project of documenting a feminist literary history of women's writing in Britain and Ireland, furthering the recognition of women's voices throughout history.

Join us as we uncover the life and legacy of Margaret Paston, a woman who defied mediaeval conventions and whose letters continue to educate and inspire. For more on this topic, pick up Diane's book, "God's Gentlewoman," available through the History Rage bookshop.

Follow Diane on Bluesky at dianewatt.bsky.social and on Instagram at medievalist.on.the.run

Support History Rage on Patreon for early access to episodes, ad-free listening, and the exclusive History Rage mug. Subscribe at patreon.com/historyrage.

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

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In this captivating episode of History Rage Live, host Paul Bavill reconnects with SOE historian and author Dr. Kate Vigurs to delve into the remarkable yet often overlooked contributions of women in the Special Operations Executive (SOE) during World War II. With a focus on Kate's new book, "Mission Europe," they challenge the prevailing narratives and shine a light on the brave women who served across various European theatres not just in France.

Episode Highlights:

• - The Motivation Behind "Mission Europe": Kate shares her inspiration for writing the book, revealing her desire to bring the stories of women in the SOE out of the footnotes and into the spotlight.
• - Research Adventures: Discover the extensive research journey Kate undertook, travelling across Europe to uncover untold stories and utilise previously unexamined archives.
• - A Call for Recognition: Kate expresses her frustration with the historical focus on women in France, advocating for the recognition of those who served valiantly in other countries like Belgium, Denmark, and the Netherlands.
• - The Training of SOE Agents: The discussion touches on the rigorous training SOE agents underwent, including the intense mock interrogations designed to prepare them for the harsh realities they might face.
• - Standout Stories of Heroism: Kate recounts the incredible tales of women like Haviva Reich and others who risked their lives to fight against oppression and aid their fellow citizens.
• - The Legacy of SOE Women: Reflecting on the post-war analysis of SOE's impact, they explore the stories of both celebrated and lesser-known agents and the need for their stories to be told.

Join us for an enlightening and passionate discussion that not only celebrates the bravery of these women but also ignites a call to remember and honour their contributions to history. Don't miss the release of "Mission Europe" on 13th May, available in all good bookstores via Yale University Press.

Connect with Dr. Kate Vigurs:

- Follow Kate on Twitter: @Historical_Kate

- Buy the Book: https://uk.bookshop.org/a/10120/9780300272697

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 explosive episode of History Rage, host Paul Bavill is joined by Nathan Hazlehurst, historian and PhD candidate at the University of Salford, to dismantle the myths surrounding Civil Defence during the Second World War. Together, they delve into the often-overlooked yet crucial role of Civil Defence, challenging the popular misconceptions perpetuated by media and fiction.

Debunking the Myths:

- Nathan passionately challenges the stereotype of the officious ARP Warden, epitomised by Bill Pertwee's character in "Dad's Army," and reveals the true extent of their responsibilities during air raids.

The Real Civil Defence:

- Discover the vast scope of Civil Defence, from ARP Wardens to the Women's Voluntary Service, and their essential roles in coordinating emergency responses and providing aid during bombings.

Innovations and Ingenuity:

- Explore the groundbreaking practices and innovations that emerged from Civil Defence efforts, many of which laid the groundwork for modern emergency services.

Challenges on the Home Front:

- Understand the immense challenges faced by Civil Defence workers, from the psychological toll of repeated bombings to the logistical hurdles of coordinating responses across the UK.

Prepare to have your perceptions reshaped as Nathan Hazlehurst sheds light on the overlooked heroes of Civil Defence and their enduring legacy. Follow Nathan on Twitter at n_rh1992 for more insights and discussions.

Support History Rage on Patreon at patreon.com/historyrage for exclusive content, early episode access, and the chance to engage with future guests.

Stay connected with History Rage on social media:

Twitter: @HistoryRage

Instagram: @historyrage

Facebook: HistoryRage

Bluesky: historyrage.bsky.social

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

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Welcome to another tantalising episode of History Rage, where truth triumphs and myths are roasted to perfection. This week, host Paul Bavill delves into the rich tapestry of food history with award-winning blogger, podcaster, and author, Dr. Neil Buttery. Known for his deep dive into historical culinary practices, Dr. Buttery is here to debunk the misconceptions about medieval and Tudor dining etiquette.

Refined Dining in the Middle Ages:

- Dr. Buttery challenges the stereotype of mediaeval diners as uncouth and dirty, revealing the meticulous table manners and social rituals that governed their meals.

Table Manners and Social Hierarchy:

- Explore the intricate etiquette that dictated seating arrangements, serving protocols, and the use of cutlery, painting a picture of a society where dining was a reflection of status and civility.

The Art of Baking and Bread:

- Delve into the significance of bread in mediaeval diets, from the status symbol of white bread to the laborious process of bolting flour, highlighting how bread was both sustenance and a mark of wealth.

Pies, Pasties, and Pastries:

- Discover the grandeur of mediaeval pies and pastries, which were not only culinary delights but also symbols of opulence, often featuring elaborate presentations and exotic ingredients.

Subtleties and Culinary Theatre:

- Uncover the theatrical elements of mediaeval feasts, from sugar sculptures to edible artworks, showcasing the creativity and extravagance of the period's culinary displays.

Join us for a journey back in time as we feast on the truths of history and savour the flavours of the past. For those eager to explore further, Dr. Buttery's book "Need to Know" offers a comprehensive look into the history of baking, available at the History Rage bookshop.

Order Knead to Know: A History of Baking

Follow Dr. Neil Buttery on Twitter and Bluesky at @neilbuttery, and on Instagram at @dr_neil_buttery.

Support History Rage on Patreon for early episode access, ad-free listening, prize draws, and the exclusive History Rage mug at patreon.com/historyrage.

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

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In this intriguing episode of History Rage, host Paul Bavill is joined by Dr. Claire Hubbard-Hall, an intelligence historian and author of "Her Secret Service." Together, they delve into the often-overlooked contributions of women in British intelligence, challenging long-standing myths and stereotypes perpetuated by popular culture.

Episode Highlights:

• - The Misrepresentation of Female Spies: Dr. Hubbard Hall expresses her frustration with the portrayal of women in intelligence as seductive femme fatales, arguing that most were more akin to Miss Marple than the glamorous figures depicted in films.
• - The Real Roles of Women in Intelligence: Discover the diverse and crucial roles women played, from handling spy communications to organising complex travel plans for agents, as exemplified by Rita Windsor and Ena Molesworth during World War II.
• - The Lunn Sisters: Explore the fascinating story of the Lunn sisters, whose family was divided by ideology during the Russian Revolution, with some members working for British intelligence.
• - Recruitment of Women in Intelligence: Learn how women were recruited into the intelligence services, often through social connections or professional roles, defying the traditional gentleman's club network.
• - The Influence of James Bond: Discuss the impact of James Bond on the perception of female spies and how it continues to overshadow the real stories of women in intelligence.
• - Millicent Bagot and Kim Philby: Delve into the role of Millicent Baggot in raising suspicions about Kim Philby and the challenges faced by women in being heard within the male-dominated intelligence community.

Join us for a riveting discussion that sheds light on the true stories of women in intelligence, breaking down stereotypes and highlighting their invaluable contributions to history.

Connect with Dr. Claire Hubbard Hall:

- Follow Claire on Twitter: @spyhistory

- Follow Claire on Instagram: @clairehubbardhall

- Buy the Book: Her Secret Service from the History Rage Bookshop

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

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/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 lively episode of History Rage, host Paul Bavill broadcasts live from the Gloucester History Festival, joined by renowned historian and archaeologist Max Adams. Together, they embark on a journey to challenge the enduring myth that everyone in the past died young, delving into the realities of life expectancy in early medieval England.

Episode Highlights:

Unpacking the Mercian Chronicles: Max introduces his book, "The Mercian Chronicles," aiming to illuminate the often-overlooked kingdom of Mercia and its pivotal role in the formation of early England.

The Archaeology vs. History Debate: Explore the differences and intersections between archaeology and history, as Max argues for a more integrated approach to understanding our past.

Debunking the 'Everyone Died Young' Myth: Max passionately argues against the misconception that life was short in the past, highlighting evidence that many individuals lived into their 60s, 70s, and beyond.

Infant Mortality and Life Expectancy: The discussion examines the impact of infant mortality on average life expectancy figures and how surviving adolescence significantly increased the likelihood of living a long life.

Historical Figures Who Defy the Myth: Max shares fascinating examples of historical figures, such as Archbishop Theodore and King Offa, who lived long and impactful lives, challenging the narrative of early death.

Join us for an engaging conversation that not only uncovers the truths behind life in medieval times but also inspires us to rethink the narratives we accept about our history. Don't miss the Gloucester History Festival, where you can still catch live streams of the talks until Sunday, 25th May. Tickets are available at gloucesterhistoryfestival.co.uk.

Support History Rage: For just £3 per month, enjoy ad-free access and early releases of episodes on Patreon or Apple. Upgrade to £5 per month for exclusive live stream access and the coveted History Rage mug. Join us at patreon.com/historyrage.

Stay Connected: Follow History Rage on social media for updates and more historical insights:

- Twitter: @HistoryRage

- Instagram: @historyrage

- Facebook: History Rage

- Bluesky: @historyrage

Stay Angry, Stay Informed - History Rage

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In this electrifying episode of History Rage, host Paul Bavill welcomes the esteemed archaeologist and pro Vice Chancellor of the Royal Agricultural University, Professor Mark Horton. Together, they embark on a passionate exploration of the often-misunderstood Vikings, challenging the barbaric stereotypes that have long plagued their legacy.

Episode Highlights:

- A Viking Passion: Mark shares his lifelong fascination with the Vikings, starting from his first excavation at the significant site of Repton, where he uncovered the Viking winter encampment.

- The Gloucester History Festival: Discover why the Gloucester History Festival holds a special place for Mark, as he discusses the rich and often overlooked history of Gloucester and its significance in the narrative of England.

- Debunking Viking Myths: Mark passionately argues against the portrayal of Vikings as mere raiders, emphasizing their role as traders, explorers, and pioneers of urbanism in medieval Europe.

- The Role of Archaeology: Delve into how archaeological findings challenge historical narratives, revealing the Vikings as skilled metalworkers and agriculturalists, and highlighting their contributions to trade and society.

- The Viking Legacy: Explore the vast trade networks established by the Vikings, connecting regions from North America to the Islamic world, and how these interactions shaped modern Europe.

Join us for a riveting discussion that sheds light on the true legacy of the Vikings, urging us to reconsider our perceptions of this fascinating culture. Don't miss Professor Horton's talk at the Gloucester History Festival on Sunday, 27th April at 7:30 PM, where he will unveil exciting new discoveries. Tickets are available at gloucesterhistoryfestival.co.uk.

Connect with History Rage:

- Twitter: @HistoryRage

- Instagram: @historyrage

- Facebook: History Rage

- Bluesky: @historyrage

Support us on Patreon for exclusive content, early access, and the coveted History Rage mug. Stay informed, stay passionate, and keep the rage alive!

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In this gripping episode of History Rage Live, host Paul Bavill welcomes back historian and author Phil Craig to dive deep into the complexities of the Far East during the Second World War. Phil, a familiar voice from the podcast, returns to discuss his upcoming book, "1945: The Reckoning," set to release on April 24th. Together, they unravel the tangled narratives surrounding Subhas Chandra Bose and the Indian National Army, challenging the glorified myths that have emerged around his legacy.

Key Discussion Points:

The Controversial Legacy of Subhas Chandra Bose: Phil critiques the idolization of Bose, arguing that his alliances with Nazi Germany and Imperial Japan overshadow his contributions to India's independence.

Real Heroes of Independence: The episode contrasts Bose's actions with those of General Kodendira Sabaya Thimaya, who played a crucial role in the Indian Army's efforts against the Japanese forces, highlighting the often overlooked figures in the fight for freedom.

The Role of Propaganda: Phil discusses how the narrative surrounding Bose has been shaped by media portrayals, including a recent Amazon Prime series that romanticizes his life while ignoring the darker truths.

Red Fort Trials and Their Impact: The conversation examines the significance of the Red Fort trials in shaping public perception of Bose and his lieutenants, as well as their implications for Indian nationalism.

Modern Relevance: Paul and Phil explore how Bose is perceived in contemporary India, particularly in the context of political figures like Prime Minister Modi, and the implications of celebrating a controversial figure.

Guest Information:

Pre-order Phil Craig's book "1945: The Reckoning" here: https://uk.bookshop.org/a/10120/9781399714495

Follow Phil on Twitter: @philmcraig

Check out the Scandalmongers podcast on YouTube and your favorite podcast platforms.

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

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 Angry, Stay Informed - History Rage

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This week I welcome Dr. Una McIlvenna, historian and senior lecturer at the Australian National University, to dismantle the myths surrounding one of Renaissance Europe's most iconic women: Catherine de Medici. We delve into the misconceptions that have plagued Catherine's legacy, particularly the myth of her "flying squadron" of seductive ladies-in-waiting.

Episode Highlights:

Introducing Dr. Una McIlvenna: Una shares her journey from her doctoral thesis on the French court of Catherine de Medici to her current research on execution ballads as news media.

The Myth of the Flying Squadron: Una passionately debunks the myth that Catherine de Medici employed a troupe of seductive women to manipulate noblemen for political gain, arguing that it is a sexist and reductive fantasy.

Catherine's True Political Influence: Discover how Catherine navigated the treacherous waters of French politics, exercising power through relentless negotiation and strategic marriages, despite the constraints of Salic Law.

The Medici Legacy: Explore why the Medici family, with their rapid rise to power and influence, became the subject of so many conspiracies and myths, rivalling even the infamous Borgias.

Art Patronage and Legacy: Catherine's contributions to art and architecture, including the magnificent spectacles she organized, are highlighted as part of her enduring legacy.

Join us as we peel back the layers of myth and uncover the true story of Catherine de Medici, a woman whose political acumen and relentless dedication have been overshadowed by centuries of historical distortion.

Connect with Dr. Una McIlvenna:

Purchase her book "Scandal and Reputation at the Court of Catherine de Medici"

Twitter: @UnaMcIlvenna and Bluesky: @unamcilvenna.bsky.social

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

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

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

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

Stay Angry, Stay Informed - History Rage

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