History Rage

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194. Richard III WAS a Good King with Philippa Langley Apr 06, 2025

Show notes

In this riveting episode of History Rage, we journey into the mediaeval past with the indomitable Philippa Langley, historian, writer, and the driving force behind the discovery of King Richard III's remains and delve into the myths and misconceptions surrounding one of history's most debated monarchs, Richard III.

Introducing Philippa Langley:

- Discover Philippa’s transition from a career in advertising to becoming a renowned historian, ignited by a renewed passion for Richard III.

- Learn about her groundbreaking projects, including the "Looking for Richard" project and the "Missing Princes Project."

Richard III's Reign Reassessed:

- A deep dive into Richard III’s legal reforms and their lasting impact on English law, including the presumption of innocence and blind justice.

- Understand Richard's divergence from his brother Edward IV’s policies and his efforts to ensure justice and fairness for all subjects.

Perceptions and Realities:

- Discuss the divide between Richard’s support in the North and opposition in the South, and how these regional differences shaped his reign.

- Examine the popular support Richard garnered as a just ruler and how his northern roots influenced his governance.

Uncovering the Truth:

- Philippa shares insights from the "Missing Princes Project," revealing evidence of the survival of Edward IV's sons beyond Richard's reign.

- Address the challenges of overcoming entrenched historical narratives and the role of young historians in reshaping our understanding of the past.

Join us as Philippa Langley passionately argues for a re-evaluation of Richard III, challenging centuries-old misconceptions with evidence-based research. For more on Philippa’s work, explore her books "The Lost King" and "The Princes in the Tower," and visit revealingrichardiii.com.

You can check out the Richard III Society of Great Britain at www.richardiii.net

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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193. Africa was a global player well before Europeans arrived with Luke Pepera | Gloucester History Festival Apr 02, 2025

Show notes

In this compelling episode of History Rage, host Paul Bavill is joined by the insightful Luke Pepera, broadcaster, anthropologist, and author of "Motherland," as they delve into the rich tapestry of African history that often goes unrecognised. Together, they challenge the pervasive myths surrounding the continent's past, particularly the notion that Africa's significance began only with European contact.

Shattering Misconceptions:

Luke passionately argues against the portrayal of Africa as a mere backdrop to European narratives, highlighting the continent's profound historical relevance and its role in global dynamics long before colonisation.
He emphasises the importance of recognising Africa's diverse civilisations, such as the Nubians and the Mali Empire, which played pivotal roles in trade and cultural exchange.

Exploring Ancient Civilisations:

Listeners are introduced to the remarkable achievements of ancient African societies, including the Kushites and the wealth of the Mali Empire, showcasing their contributions to art, science, and trade.
Luke recounts the story of Mansa Musa, whose legendary wealth and influence reshaped global perceptions of Africa during the 14th century.

Matriarchal Societies and Oral Traditions:

Discover the fascinating matriarchal structures in ancient African societies, highlighting figures like Queen Amanirenas of Nubia, who defied Roman power and exemplified female leadership.
Luke also draws connections between African oral traditions and contemporary cultural expressions, such as rap battles, revealing the enduring legacy of storytelling in African communities.

This episode is a powerful reminder of Africa's rich and complex history, urging listeners to broaden their understanding beyond the confines of colonial narratives. Luke's insights invite us to appreciate the depth of African culture and its lasting impact on the world stage.

Guest Information:

Join Luke Pepera at the Gloucester History Festival on Sunday, 27th April at 6pm. Tickets available at gloucesterhistoryfestival.co.uk.
Purchase a copy of "Motherland" from the History Rage Bookshop.
Follow Luke on social media: @LukePepera on X and Instagram.

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.

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192. Medieval Princesses Had Agency and Power with Emily Murdoch Perkins Mar 30, 2025

Show notes

Welcome to another episode of History Rage, the podcast where we invite historians to cast aside the fairy tales and reveal the raw, unvarnished truth. This week, we delve into the world of medieval princesses, exploring the lives of the queens who never were. Our guide on this journey is historian, novelist, and author of "Regina : The Queens Who Could Have Been," Emily Murdoch Perkins. Emily joins us to rage against the misconceptions surrounding medieval princesses, challenging the notion that they were merely passive, delicate figures.

Debunking the Fairy Tale Princess:

Emily dismantles the stereotype of the medieval princess as a demure and obedient figure, arguing that these women were often politically astute, educated, and active members of society.
She traces the origin of this myth to Victorian nostalgia and the romanticised portrayals in art and media.

Real Princesses, Real Power:

Discover the true stories of medieval princesses like Margaret of England and Eleanor of Woodstock, who defied expectations and wielded influence in their own right.
Explore the concept of "soft power" and how princesses used it to navigate the political landscape of their time.

Modern Parallels:

Emily examines the enduring challenges faced by women in positions of power, drawing parallels between medieval princesses and contemporary figures like Princess Anne.
She highlights the ongoing struggle for autonomy and the right to define one's own role in society.

Join us as Emily passionately argues that medieval princesses were far more complex and influential than the fairy tales suggest. 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 Emily's book, "Regina: The Queens Who Could Have Been" and follow her on social media at @EmilyEKMurdoch

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.

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191. Empress Matilda was not haughty or unlikeable with Sharon Bennett-Connolly | Gloucester History Festival Mar 27, 2025

Show notes

In this enlightening episode of History Rage, host Paul Bavill is joined by the dynamic Sharon Bennett Conley, author of "Women of the Anarchy," to unravel the complexities of the Anarchy in Medieval England. Together, they explore the life and legacy of Empress Matilda, challenging the misconceptions that have clouded her reputation throughout history.

Debunking the Myths:

Sharon passionately argues against the portrayal of Empress Matilda as haughty and aloof, revealing how these perceptions stemmed from her enemies.
She highlights the unfair double standards faced by Matilda compared to her male counterparts, emphasising the hypocrisy of historical narratives.

The Anarchy Explained:

Sharon provides a concise overview of the Anarchy, detailing the power struggle between Empress Matilda and King Stephen, and the significance of this period in English history.
Listeners learn about the pivotal battles, alliances, and the roles of key figures, including Matilda’s husband Geoffrey of Anjou and her loyal supporters.

Leadership and Legacy:

Examines Matilda’s political and military acumen, showcasing her ability to garner loyalty and support in a male-dominated society.
Discusses the impact of her reign on future female rulers and the ongoing relevance of her story in understanding women's roles in history.

Sharon’s insights shed light on the often overlooked Anarchy, urging listeners to appreciate the significance of this tumultuous period and the formidable women who shaped it. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in medieval history and the fight for recognition in a patriarchal society.

Guest Information:

Purchase tickets to Sharon's talks at the Gloucester History Festival on the 26th and 27th of April. https://www.gloucesterhistoryfestival.co.uk/spring-weekend-2025/
Explore her book, "Women of the Anarchy," available at the History Rage Bookshop.
Listen to her podcast, "A Slice of Medieval," wherever you get your podcasts.

Get Involved

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

Follow Sharon Bennett-Connolly: Stay updated on her work by following her on Twitter @thehistorybits and Instagram @sharonbennettconnolly

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

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190. Burying the Enemy: Uncovering the Forgotten War Dead with Professor Tim Grady Mar 25, 2025

Show notes

Welcome back, ragers, to another thought-provoking episode of History Rage Live! This week, host Paul Bavill is joined by Professor of Modern History at Chester University, Tim Grady, to explore the often-overlooked narratives surrounding the war dead from the First and Second World Wars. Tim, author of the upcoming book "Burying the Enemy," shares his insights on how enemy soldiers were treated in death and the complexities of commemoration.

Unearthing the Past: Join us as Tim reveals the surprising history of enemy war graves in the UK, including the story of German POWs who died in captivity and were buried locally, often without the recognition they deserved.

Local Burials: Discover how enemy soldiers were buried in British towns and the public's reaction to these graves.

Commemoration Practices: Explore how communities honoured enemy dead, often integrating them into local remembrance practices.

Vandalism and Attitudes: Delve into the instances of desecration and the changing attitudes towards enemy graves over the decades.

Raging Against Division: Tim expresses his frustration with the continued separation of how we remember the war dead, advocating for a more holistic approach that acknowledges all lives lost in conflict, regardless of their nationality.

Guest Information:

Pre-order Tim Grady's book "Burying the Enemy", released on March 25th here:

https://uk.bookshop.org/a/10120/9780300273977

Follow Tim on Twitter: @tlgrady68.

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.

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Twitter: @HistoryRage

Instagram: @historyrage

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

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189. There was a massive feminist movement before the Pankhursts with Dr. Maureen Wright Mar 24, 2025

Show notes

In this empowering episode of History Rage, host Paul Bavill is joined by Dr. Maureen Wright, a distinguished historian of Victorian and Edwardian Women's Movements. Together, they delve into the often overlooked contributions of Elizabeth Wolstenholme Elmy and her pioneering role in the fight for women's rights. Dr. Wright passionately dismantles the narrow narratives surrounding the suffrage movement, bringing to light the remarkable achievements and enduring impact of Elmy and her contemporaries.

Episode Highlights:

- Introducing Dr. Maureen Wright: Dr. Wright shares her journey from academia to becoming a leading voice on Victorian women's movements, inspired by her research on Elizabeth Wolstenholme Elmy.

- Elizabeth Wolstenholme Elmy Unveiled: Discover the life and legacy of this formidable feminist, whose tireless work for women's emancipation spanned over 50 years, challenging societal norms and advocating for legal reforms.

- Education and Activism: Explore Elmy's significant contributions to education reform, her role in the National Association for the Promotion of Social Science, and her efforts to elevate women's educational opportunities.

- The Contagious Diseases Acts: Learn about the horrific implications of these acts and how Elmy, alongside Josephine Butler, campaigned for their repeal, highlighting the gender inequalities entrenched in society.

- Suffrage Movement Dynamics: Dr. Wright discusses Elmy's involvement in the Victorian suffrage movement, her strategic alliances, and her advocacy for the inclusion of married women in the franchise.

- A Radical Voice in the Boer War: Uncover Elmy's influential writings during the Boer War, which catalysed a shift in feminist thought towards militancy and equality.

Join us as we uncover the untold stories of these pioneering women and challenge the mainstream narratives of the suffrage movement. This episode promises to illuminate the fierce dedication and groundbreaking work of Elizabeth Wolstenholme Elmy, urging us to re-evaluate the history of women's rights in Britain.

Connect with Dr. Maureen Wright:

- Grab a copy of her book Elizabeth Wolstenholme Elmy and the Victorian Feminist Movement: The Biography of an Insurgent Woman from the History Rage Bookshop.

- Follow Maureen on Twitter: @MaureenWrig

- Follow Maureen on Bluesky: @DrMaureenWright

Elizabeth Group Website: https://elizabethelmy.com/

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

- Instagram: @HistoryRage

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

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188. The Civil Wars were not about democracy with Mark Turnbull Mar 17, 2025

Show notes

Join us as we delve into the tumultuous 17th century with Mark Turnbull, host of the Cavalier Cast podcast and author of "Charles I's Private Life." Together with host Paul Bavill, they tackle the misconceptions surrounding the English Civil War, or the War of Three Kingdoms, and its alleged ties to democracy.

Challenging the Myth:

Mark Turnbull disputes the notion that the civil wars were a struggle for democracy, arguing that both royalists and parliamentarians were far from democratic ideals.
He asserts that the wars were more about religious and power struggles rather than any social revolution.

The Role of the Levellers:

Discusses the Levellers as a political movement pushing for more social change than the mainstream parliamentarians and Oliver Cromwell.
Explains how their influence grew within the New Model Army but ultimately did not lead to the democratic changes they desired.

Re-examining Key Battles:

Highlights the Battle of Naseby as a turning point but criticises its portrayal as the birthplace of democracy.
Explores lesser-known but significant battles like Preston and Winwick that had a profound impact on the power dynamics of the time.

The Danger of Oversimplification:

Warns against the glorification of certain battles and figures, which can lead to a skewed understanding of history.
Emphasises the importance of appreciating the complexities and motivations of the time to truly learn from history.

Connect with Mark Turnbull:

Twitter: @1642author
Charles I's Private Life: Available at the History Rage Bookshop.
Listen to the Cavalier Cast for more on 17th-century history.

Follow up on Naseby with the Naseby Battlefield Project

Support History Rage on Patreon:

Join our 'Angry Mob' on Patreon. £5 per month gets you early access to episodes, live stream previews, entry into prize draws, and the exclusive History Rage mug. Subscribe at www.patreon.com/historyrage

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187. Lack of Moral Fibre, Shell Shock and PTSD are not the same thing with Dr. Dan Ellin Mar 10, 2025

Show notes

In this compelling episode of History Rage, host Paul Bavill welcomes Dr. Dan Ellin, historian and digital archivist for the International Bomber Command Centre, to debunk the myths surrounding "Lack of Moral Fibre" (LMF) in the RAF during World War II. Dr. Ellin passionately argues against the misconception that LMF is synonymous with PTSD, providing a nuanced exploration of the term's origins and implications.

Dr. Dan Ellin's Journey:

From mature student to historian, driven by a fascination with mental health and the lives of RAF personnel.

Exploration of RAF ground personnel's harsh working conditions and their overlooked contributions.

Understanding Lack of Moral Fibre (LMF):

LMF as a deterrent, not a medical condition, specific to the RAF between 1940-1945.

The stigma and social impact on aircrew labelled as lacking moral fibre.

The role of eugenics and class perceptions in the interpretation of LMF.

Debunking Myths and Misconceptions:

Distinguishing LMF from PTSD and other historical combat stress conditions.

The RAF's procedural response to aircrew unwilling to fly and the psychological pressures involved.

Challenging the narrative of LMF as a permanent mark on one's military career.

Guest Information:

Engage with the IBCC digital archive through the University of Lincoln.

Follow Dr. Dan Ellin on Twitter: @danmadmorgan.

Join the conversation and express your historical frustrations on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, and Bluesky at @HistoryRage or with Paul Bavill @PaulBavill. Share your thoughts using the hashtag #HistoryRage.

Support History Rage on Patreon for early episode access, exclusive content, and the coveted History Rage mug at www.patreon.com/historyrage.

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186. Katherine Parr was neither the frumpy matron nor the Protestant firebrand with Linda Porter Mar 03, 2025

Show notes

In this captivating episode of History Rage, host Paul Bavill welcomes back historian and author Linda Porter to delve into the often misunderstood legacy of Katherine Parr. Known for her scholarly works, including "The Remarkable Life of Katherine Parr" and "The Thistle and the Rose," Dr. Porter is here to challenge the misconceptions surrounding Henry VIII's sixth wife.

Exploring Katherine Parr's True Legacy:

Dispelling the Victorian myth of Katherine Parr as a frumpy matron.
Critiquing the recent film "Firebrand" and its portrayal of Parr as a Protestant zealot.
Highlighting Katherine's intellectual prowess and her role as a patron of the arts.

The Historical Context:

Understanding Katherine's influence on Henry VIII and her stepchildren, particularly Mary and Elizabeth.
Addressing the inaccuracies in popular media and historical narratives.
Exploring Katherine's life before and after her marriage to Henry VIII.

Katherine Parr's Publications and Influence:

Examining her contributions to religious literature, including "Psalms and Prayers" and "The Lamentations of a Sinner."
Discussing her impact on Elizabeth I and the broader religious landscape of England.

Linda Porter provides a nuanced and well-researched perspective on Katherine Parr, urging listeners to look beyond the myths and appreciate the complex, multifaceted woman behind the historical figure. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in Tudor history and the overlooked contributions of one of its most intriguing queens.

Guest Information:

Explore Linda Porter's books, including "The Remarkable Life of Katherine Parr."
Follow Linda on Twitter: @DrLindaPorter1.

Join the conversation and express your historical frustrations on Twitter @HistoryRage or with Paul Bavill @PaulBavill. Share your thoughts using the hashtag #HistoryRage.

Support History Rage on Patreon for early episode access, exclusive content, and the coveted History Rage mug at www.patreon.com/historyrage.

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185. James I's relationships with men were far from platonic with Gareth Russell Feb 27, 2025

Show notes

In this explosive episode of History Rage, Paul Bavill welcomes historian Gareth Russell, author of Queen James: The Life and Loves of Britain's First King, to unpack the truth behind James I’s relationships and sexuality—beyond centuries of speculation.

The Court of Intrigue

🔥 James’s Loves – Gareth reveals the six key relationships that shaped James’s life, including his marriage to Anne of Denmark and passionate affairs with male favourites.

🔥 Scandal & Perception – From whispered court gossip to pamphlets branding him an "enthusiastic buggerer," we explore how his love life influenced his rule.

Historical Context

⚖️ Law & Sexuality – Homosexuality carried the death penalty in 17th-century Britain, yet enforcement was rare. How did James navigate this?

🗣 Public Reaction – Did people care? Gareth dissects the moral, religious, and political gymnastics used to justify—or condemn—James’s relationships.

The Queen’s Perspective

👑 Anne of Denmark – A sharp political player, Anne adapted to court dynamics and outmaneuvered favourites threatening her status.

⚔️ Power Plays – How James’s favourites shaped (and sometimes destabilized) the monarchy.

Gareth Russell challenges us to see James I as more than a caricature, exposing the real power, passion, and politics behind his reign.

📖 Pre-Order "Queen James" – Get your copy now! https://uk.bookshop.org/a/10120/9780008660857

🎧 Support History Rage – Enjoy early, ad-free episodes for just £3/month! Subscribe: www.patreon.com/historyrage

🔗 Follow Us

Twitter: @HistoryRage | Instagram: @historyrage | Facebook: History Rage

🔥 Stay curious. Stay passionate. Keep the rage alive!

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