History Rage

Latest Episodes:

204. Medieval People Had Table Manners with Dr. Neil Buttery May 04, 2025

Show notes

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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203. Female Spies are not sexy honey traps with Dr. Claire Hubbard Hall Apr 27, 2025

Show notes

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

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

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

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202. Medieval People didn't all die by the age of 30 with Max Adams | Gloucester History Festival Apr 26, 2025

Show notes

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:

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Stay Angry, Stay Informed - History Rage

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201. Vikings were not horned helmeted barbarians with Mark Horton | Gloucester History Festival Apr 24, 2025

Show notes

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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200. Subhas Chandra Bose is hardly a Moral Exemplar with Phil Craig Apr 23, 2025

Show notes

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.

Facebook: History Rage

Twitter: @HistoryRage

Instagram: @historyrage

Stay Angry, Stay Informed - History Rage

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199. Catherine de Medici did not have a 'flying squadron' of seducer ladies-in-waiting with Dr. Una McIlvenna Apr 20, 2025

Show notes

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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198. History is the study of information with Ian Mortimer | Gloucester History Festival Apr 16, 2025

Show notes

In this thought-provoking episode of History Rage, host Paul Bavill is joined by the esteemed medieval historian and author Ian Mortimer, as they explore the complexities of historical methodology and the ever-evolving understanding of the past. Recorded live at the Gloucester Spring History Festival, this engaging conversation dives deep into the principles of history and the challenges historians face in accurately interpreting evidence.

The Festival Experience:

Ian shares his passion for the Gloucester History Festival, highlighting its unique blend of dedicated historians and enthusiastic audiences.

Discover the significance of this event in fostering a community that values the rich tapestry of history.

Unpacking Historical Methodology:

Ian passionately critiques the traditional approaches to history, arguing for a shift towards understanding history as the study of information rather than mere events.

Explore the impact of postmodernism on historical interpretation and how it challenges long-held beliefs in the field.

The Role of AI in Historical Understanding:

Delve into the complexities of artificial intelligence and its implications for the study of history, as Ian discusses its current limitations and future potential.

Learn how AI's reliance on information rather than evidence could revolutionize our understanding of the past.

Personal Reflections on History:

Ian shares his personal journey as a historian and the emotional connections that drive his work, particularly in examining the lives impacted by historical events.

Engage with the idea that the most compelling aspects of history often lie in the stories of individuals and their experiences.

Join us for this enlightening discussion that challenges conventional thinking and encourages a deeper appreciation for the nuances of historical inquiry. For more insights from Ian Mortimer, be sure to check out his latest works and follow him on social media at @Mortimer_ian.

You can support History Rage for just £3 per month on Patreon or Apple for early access to episodes, ad-free listening, and exclusive content. Subscribe at patreon.com/historyrage.

Stay Connected: Follow us on social media:

Facebook: History Rage

Twitter: @HistoryRage

Instagram: @historyrage

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197. Medieval literary texts are still sources with Laura Bailey | Chalke History Festival Apr 14, 2025

Show notes

In this exciting episode of History Rage, host Paul Bavill is joined by the enthusiastic Laura Bailey, programme director for living history and events at the Chalke History Festival. Together, they kick off the festival with a deep dive into the fascinating world of mediaeval literature, challenging the misconceptions that often overshadow this rich historical source.

The Chalke History Festival Unveiled:

Laura introduces listeners to the Chalke History Festival, likening it to "Glastonbury for history nerds" where history enthusiasts can enjoy a week of talks, living history performances, and engaging activities that make the past come alive.

She shares her journey from volunteer to programme director, highlighting the festival's commitment to making history accessible and engaging for all, and the importance of connecting historical narratives to contemporary issues.

Literary Texts as Historical Sources:

Laura passionately argues for the recognition of literary texts as legitimate historical sources, particularly those from the mediaeval period. She discusses the often-overlooked value of texts like the "Roman de Fergus," which, despite being dismissed by some as mere fiction, provides invaluable insights into social dynamics, geography, and the cultural landscape of the time.

Listeners will learn how these texts can illuminate the complexities of courtly life, the significance of language, and the interplay between fiction and history, ultimately enriching our understanding of the mediaeval world.

Challenging Historical Methodology:

Throughout the episode, Laura critiques the traditional reliance on documentary sources, advocating for a more nuanced approach that considers the rich tapestry of narratives found in literary works. She emphasises the importance of examining how these texts reflect the thoughts and experiences of their authors and audiences, urging historians to embrace the multiplicity of perspectives that literature offers.

Guest Information:

Don't miss the Chalk History Festival running from 23rd to 29th June at Chalk Farm in the picturesque Wiltshire countryside. Tickets are available at chalkefestival.com. Follow the festival on social media: X: Chalkefestival, Instagram: ChalkeHistoryFest.

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 patreon.com/historyrage.

Stay Connected: Join the conversation and keep the rage alive! Visit historyrage.com for past episodes and updates. Follow us on:

Facebook: History Rage

Twitter: @HistoryRage

Instagram: @historyrage

Stay Angry, Stay Informed - History Rage

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196. There are more polar explorer than Scott and Shackleton with Mark Piesing Apr 13, 2025

Show notes

Prepare to journey into the icy realms of Arctic and Antarctic exploration in this chilling episode of History Rage. Host Paul Bavill is joined by historian and author Mark Piesing, as they dive into the frosty depths of polar exploration history beyond the well-trodden tales of Scott and Shackleton. Mark, the author of "N4 Down: The Hunt for the Arctic Airship Italia," brings a fresh perspective on the lesser-known explorers who braved the harsh polar climates.

Episode Highlights:

- Mark Piesing’s Journey: Mark shares his unconventional path to becoming a historian and his passion for uncovering overlooked stories in aviation and polar exploration.

- The Overlooked Explorers: Discover the stories of Fridtjof Nansen, Elisha Kent Kane, and Louise Boyd, among others, who made significant contributions to polar exploration yet remain in the shadows of their British counterparts.

- The Global Race to the Poles: Explore the motivations and challenges faced by explorers from various nations, including the Norwegians, Italians, and Russians, in their quests for polar glory.

- The Role of Aviation: Delve into how aviation pioneers like Roald Amundsen transformed polar exploration, challenging the traditional narratives dominated by sledges and dog teams.

- The Shackleton and Scott Obsession: Mark passionately critiques the overemphasis on Shackleton and Scott in British polar history, advocating for a broader recognition of international contributions.

Join us for an eye-opening exploration of polar history that challenges the conventional narratives and highlights the diverse and daring figures who ventured into the unknown. For more on Mark’s work, grab a copy of his book "N4 Down: The Hunt for the Arctic Airship Italia" and follow him on Twitter @MarkPiesing.

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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195. Enough with 'Great Man' history with Hallie Rubenhold | Gloucester History Festival Apr 09, 2025

Show notes

In this thought-provoking episode of History Rage, host Paul Bavill is joined by the remarkable Hallie Rubenhold, historian and author of "The Five" and her latest work, "Story of a Murder." Together, they embark on a passionate exploration of the need to rethink how we understand and teach history, particularly challenging the long-standing dominance of "great man history."

Rethinking Historical Narratives:

Hallie passionately argues for the abandonment of the "great man" model of history, advocating for a more inclusive approach that recognizes the experiences of ordinary people and their roles in shaping the past.

She emphasizes the importance of social history, which provides a richer, more egalitarian perspective on historical events, moving beyond the narratives of kings and politicians.

The Crippen Murder Reexamined:

Listeners are introduced to Hallie's new book, "Story of a Murder," which delves into the infamous Crippen case of 1910, offering a unique historian's perspective on true crime and its documentation.

Hallie reveals how the details surrounding this murder not only tell a thrilling story but also reflect the societal dynamics of the early 20th century, right on the brink of modernity.

Engaging with History:

Hallie discusses the disconnect between academic history and public understanding, advocating for a more human-centered approach that connects individuals to the past.

She highlights the significance of women's experiences in history, arguing that the suffrage movement is just one slice of a much larger pie that includes economic and social empowerment.

This episode is a compelling call to action for historians, educators, and history enthusiasts alike, urging us all to break free from outdated narratives and embrace a more holistic understanding of our shared past.

Guest Information:

Don't miss Hallie's talk at the Gloucester History Festival on Friday, 25th April at 4 PM. Tickets available at gloucesterhistoryfestival.co.uk.

Purchase a copy of "Story of a Murder" from the History Rage Bookshop.

Follow Hallie on social media: @hallierubenhold on Twitter.

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 patreon.com/historyrage.

Stay Connected: Join the conversation and keep the rage alive! Visit historyrage.com for past episodes and updates.

Facebook: History Rage

Twitter: @HistoryRage

Instagram: @historyrage

Stay Angry, Stay Informed - History Rage

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