History Rage

Latest Episodes:

184. You don't need foreign wars to keep your Barons in line with Helen Castor Feb 24, 2025

Show notes

In this captivating episode of History Rage, host Paul Bavill is joined by the esteemed historian and author Helen Castor, known for her works "Blood and Roses," "She Wolves," and "The Eagle in the Heart." Together, they embark on a deep dive into the complex world of mediaeval kingship and politics, challenging the simplistic view of mediaeval nobility as mere overgrown toddlers.

Helen Castor's Journey:

A lifelong passion for history, from childhood readings of Jean Plaidy to becoming a renowned author and historian.
Her academic path from Cambridge to narrative history, focusing on the political history of late mediaeval England.

Debunking Myths of Mediaeval Nobility:

Challenging the notion that mediaeval lords were unruly toddlers needing constant distraction through war and gifts.
Exploring the sophisticated political system and the relationship between kings and barons.

Complexity of Mediaeval Politics:

The role of the king as a referee in the political game, managing the ambitions and power of the nobility.
The impact of external wars, such as the Hundred Years War, on internal stability and politics.

The Role of Patronage:

Understanding patronage as a crucial component of mediaeval politics, not just a means of keeping nobles in line.
The importance of personal relationships and the impact of favourites on political dynamics.

Historical Figures and Events:

Examining the reigns of Richard II and Henry VI, highlighting their failures as kings and the resulting political turmoil.
The significance of figures like Warwick the Kingmaker and the impact of usurpation on royal authority.

Helen and Paul engage in a lively discussion, shedding light on the intricacies of mediaeval politics and the human stories behind historical events. Listeners are invited to reconsider the narratives surrounding mediaeval kingship and the true nature of the nobility.

Guest Information:

Explore Helen Castor's works,including "The Eagle and the Hart," available in the History Rage bookshop.
Follow Helen on Twitter: @hrcastor.

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

Support History Rage on Patreon for early episode access, the chance to submit questions to guests, prize draws, and the exclusive History Rage mug at www.patreon.com/historyrage.

Stay Angry, Stay Informed - History Rage

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

183. The Lockhart Plot: British Intelligence is not infallible with Dr. James Crossland Feb 17, 2025

Show notes

Welcome back, ragers, to another explosive episode of History Rage! Today, host Paul Bavill is joined by Professor of International History at Liverpool John Moores University, Dr. James Crossland. James, the author of "Rogue Agent," returns to rage against the myth of British intelligence infallibility during the tumultuous period at the end of the Great War.

Raging Against the Myth: Dr. James Crossland takes us through the intricate web of British intelligence operations in 1918 Russia, debunking the myth that British spies were infallible, and instead revealing a chaotic and often incompetent reality.

Robert Bruce Lockhart: Explore the life of Lockhart, a young and ambitious British agent tasked with navigating the perilous political landscape of post-revolutionary Russia.
The Lockhart Plot: Dive into the covert operation aimed at overthrowing the Bolsheviks, involving a mix of British, American, and French conspirators, and a plan that ultimately ends in disaster.
Soviet Counterintelligence: Understand the role of the Cheka, the Soviet secret police, in outsmarting British intelligence and turning the plot into a propaganda victory for the Bolsheviks.

Post-War Career and Legacy:

Depression and Recovery: Lockhart's struggles with depression in the 1920s and his eventual return to prominence as a journalist and best-selling author.
World War II Contributions: Lockhart's role in the Political Warfare Executive, where he helped shape British propaganda efforts against Nazi Germany.
Lessons Unlearned: How the failures of the Lockhart Plot foreshadowed future intelligence blunders during the Cold War, such as the Bay of Pigs and the Cambridge Five.

Guest Information:

James Crossland's book: "Rogue Agent"
Follow James on Twitter: @DRrJCrossland.

Don't forget to leave a review for History Rage on Apple, Podchaser, Amazon, or wherever you can! And join the 'Angry Mob' on Patreon for early episodes, prize draws, and the History Rage mug. Subscribe at www.patreon.com/historyrage.

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.

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

If you want to get in touch with History Rage then email historyragepod@gmail.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

182. Anne Boleyn was not playing hard to get to become Queen with Dr. Nicola Clark Feb 10, 2025

Show notes

Welcome back, ragers, to another fiery episode of History Rage, where we invite historians to debunk myths and set the historical record straight. I'm your regular host, Paul Bavill, and today we continue our series on the realities of the six wives of Henry VIII. Joining us is Dr. Nicola Clark, senior lecturer at Chichester University and author of "The Waiting Game." Nicky, welcome to History Rage.

Anne Boleyn's Myth: Dr. Clark tackles the persistent myth that Anne Boleyn refused to sleep with Henry VIII until he married her, a narrative that refuses to die despite its lack of nuance and factual basis.

· Exploring the complexities of Anne and Henry's relationship over the years.

· Discussing the historical context and the pressures on both Anne and Henry.

· Examining the evidence, including Henry's love letters and the birth of Princess Elizabeth.

Historical Context:

· The political and religious backdrop of 16th century Europe, including Henry's need for a male heir and the broader European political situation.

· The role of ladies-in-waiting and how Anne's position influenced her relationship with Henry.

Modern Interpretations:

· How contemporary gender biases and misconceptions shape our understanding of Anne Boleyn's strategies and character.

· The impact of later historical narratives and the persistent dichotomy of viewing Anne as either a feminist icon or a villain.

· Dr. Clark provides a fascinating and nuanced perspective on Anne Boleyn, challenging the simplistic and often romanticised narratives that have persisted through history. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the Tudor period and the complex dynamics of Henry VIII's court.

Guest Information:

· Pick up Dr. Nicola Clark's book "The Waiting Game"

· Follow Dr. Clark on Twitter: @NikkiClark86

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.

To catch up on all the rage from bygone times go to the website www.historyrage.com - If you want to get in touch with History Rage then email historyragepod@gmail.com

Stay Angry, Stay Informed - History Rage

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

181. Pankhursts didn't single-handedly win women the vote with Shalina Patel Feb 03, 2025

Show notes

EXPLICIT LANGUAGE WARNING

Welcome back to another fiery episode of History Rage! This week, host Paul Bavill is joined by history teacher and author Shalina Patel to delve into the often misunderstood world of Edwardian politics. Together, they tackle the myths surrounding the suffragette movement and the contributions of the Pankhursts.

Debunking the Pankhurst Myth: Shalina passionately argues against the belief that the Pankhursts single-handedly won women the right to vote. She highlights the contributions of other organisations and individuals, including the suffragists, working-class women, and even men who supported women's suffrage.

The Diverse Suffrage Movement:

The NUWSS and WSPU: The peaceful suffragists led by Millicent Fawcett versus the militant suffragettes led by the Pankhursts.

Regional and Religious Groups: From the Birmingham National Society for Women's Suffrage to the Jewish League for Women's Suffrage.

Specialised Groups: The Women's Tax Resistance League, the Young Hot Bloods, and the Actresses' Franchise League.

Working-Class Suffragettes: Shalina sheds light on the often overlooked contributions of working-class women like Selena Martin and Kitty Marion, who faced harsher treatment in prison compared to their middle-class counterparts.

The Role of Men: Men also played a crucial role in the suffrage movement, with groups like the Men's Political Union for Women's Enfranchisement using their influence to support the cause.

Guest Information:

Get Shalina's book "The History Lessons" through the History Rage Bookshop or on Amazon.

Follow Shalina on Twitter: @MS_PatelHistory.

Join the conversation and share your historical vexations on Twitter @HistoryRage or with Paul Bavill @PaulBavill. Use the hashtag #HistoryRage.

Support History Rage on Patreon for early episode access, the chance to submit questions to guests, prize draws, and the exclusive History Rage mug at www.patreon.com/historyrage.

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

If you want to get in touch with History Rage, email us at historyragepod@gmail.com

Follow History Rage on Social Media:

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

Twitter: https://twitter.com/HistoryRage

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

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

Stay Angry, Stay Informed - History Rage

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

180. Katherine of Aragon should not be seen as a failure with Dr. Elizabeth Norton | Katherine of Aragon Festival Jan 29, 2025

Show notes

In this gripping finale of our live specials from the Katherine of Aragon Festival, host Paul Bavill is joined by the brilliant historian Dr. Elizabeth Norton to set the record straight about one of history's most maligned queens. Together, they delve into the life and legacy of Katherine of Aragon, challenging the enduring narrative that paints her as a failure.

The Legacy of a Queen

Unveiling the Myths: Elizabeth passionately argues against the portrayal of Katherine as a failed queen, highlighting her 24-year reign and significant achievements, including her role as a powerful regent during Henry VIII's absence.
Motherhood and Misfortune: Discover the truth behind Katherine's struggles with motherhood and the unfair blame placed upon her for not producing a surviving male heir.

Katherine's Strength

A Spirited Defence: Elizabeth recounts Katherine's remarkable resilience during the Great Matter, showcasing her fierce advocacy for her marriage and her unwavering spirit in the face of adversity.
Political Acumen: Explore how Katherine's upbringing and education shaped her diplomatic skills, allowing her to navigate the treacherous waters of Tudor politics with grace and determination.

Closing Reflections:

Elizabeth calls on listeners to reconsider their views on Katherine, emphasising the importance of viewing her life in its entirety rather than through the lens of her tragic end.
As the episode wraps up, Elizabeth shares insights into her upcoming book, "Women Who Ruled the World," promising to shed light on powerful queens throughout history.

Don't miss this enlightening discussion that reclaims Katherine of Aragon's legacy from the shadows of history. Join us as we celebrate the life of a queen who deserves to be remembered not as a failure, but as a formidable and influential figure in her own right.

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 Elizabeth Norton: Stay updated on her work by following her on Twitter and Instagram @ENortonHistory.

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

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

179. The Pearl Harbour Blame Game is wrong with Ronald Drabkin Jan 27, 2025

Show notes

Welcome back, ragers, to another fiery episode of History Rage! This week, host Paul Bavill is joined by historian and author Ronald Drabkin to delve into the contentious topic of the Pearl Harbour attack. Ronald, known for his gripping book "Beverly Hills Spy," unpacks the myths and misconceptions surrounding this pivotal event in World War II.

Contextual Misunderstandings: Ronald Drabkin expresses his frustration with how historical events are often taken out of context, particularly the notion that various unverified warnings could have predicted the attack on Pearl Harbour.

The infamous story of a Chinese chef allegedly warning the US ambassador about the attack.
The complexities of intelligence and the unreliability of certain sources, such as Agent Tricycle.

The Blame Game:

Admiral Kimmel's unjust scapegoating and the broader implications of the blame placed on him and his team.
The evidence supporting the idea that Washington unfairly singled out the Hawaii-based commanders.
The role of broken Japanese codes and the overlooked warnings that were lost in bureaucratic mishandling.

Japanese Military Strategy:

The meticulous planning and training that went into the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbour.
The effectiveness and innovation of the Japanese Navy, led by Admiral Yamamoto.
The psychological and strategic goals behind the attack, and why the Japanese Navy deserves more credit.

Conspiracy Theories:

Debunking the popular conspiracy theory that Churchill and Roosevelt orchestrated the attack to bring the US into the war.
The kernel of truth in British efforts to sway US public opinion, but the leap to collusion with Japan is unfounded.
The role of declassified documents in shedding light on the true events leading up to Pearl Harbour.

Guest Information:

Ronald Drabkin's book: "Beverly Hills Spy"
Follow Ronald Drabkin on Twitter @DrabkinRon for more insights and updates.

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

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

If you want to get in touch with History Rage then email historyragepod@gmail.com

Stay Angry, Stay Informed - History Rage

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

178. Stop pitting Katherine and Anne against each other with Estelle Paranque | Katherine of Aragon Festival Jan 26, 2025

Show notes

Join us for a thrilling episode of History Rage live from the Katherine of Aragon Festival, as historian Estelle Perron challenges the polarisation of two of history's most famous queens.

Two Queens, One King

Rethinking Rivalries: Estelle discusses the absurdity of pitting Catherine of Aragon against Anne Boleyn, highlighting their shared struggles and strengths in the face of a tyrannical husband.
Henry VIII: The Real Monster: With passion, Estelle exposes the darker side of Henry VIII, arguing that his legacy should not be revered but condemned, as he orchestrated the suffering of his wives and many others.

Empowered Women

Intellectual Equals: Both women were fiercely intelligent and politically savvy, advocating for education and the welfare of the poor, challenging the notion that they were mere pawns in a royal game.
Motherhood and Legacy: Discover how both queens were devoted mothers, fiercely protective of their children, and how their maternal instincts shaped their legacies.

The Untold Connections

Shared History: Estelle reveals the lesser-known connections between Catherine and Anne, including their time in France before the rivalry began, showcasing their similarities rather than differences.
Breaking the Myths: Encouraging a more nuanced understanding of both queens, Estelle calls for a celebration of their unique qualities without the need for competition.

As the conversation unfolds, Estelle challenges listeners to reconsider their views on Henry VIII and the women who endured his reign. Don't miss her compelling insights at the Katherine of Aragon Festival!

Get Involved

Explore Estelle's Work: Purchase her book, Thorns, Lust and Glory, to dive deeper into the lives of these remarkable women.
Support History Rage: For just £3 per month on Patreon or Apple, enjoy early access to episodes, ad-free listening, and exclusive content.

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
Bluesky: History Rage

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

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

177. Mary I was not a Tyrant with Peter Stiffel | Katherine of Aragon Festival Jan 25, 2025

Show notes

Peter Stiffel Sets the Record Straight

As the Katherine of Aragon Festival approaches, historian Peter Stiffel delves into the life of Mary I, challenging the myths that label her as a tyrant and a monster.

The Myth of "Bloody Mary"

Debunking the Tyrant Narrative: Peter challenges the image of Mary as a cruel ruler, emphasizing her compassion and commitment to her people.
Mary's Achievements: Explore the often-overlooked reforms Mary implemented, from economic recovery to educational advancements.

Mary’s Legacy

First Female Monarch: Mary I was England’s first queen regnant, setting the stage for future female rulers like Elizabeth I.
Cultural Contributions: Discover how Mary’s reign enriched England’s cultural landscape, supporting artists and influencing its artistic heritage.

The Reality of Her Reign

Political Context: Understand the challenges Mary faced, including political intrigue and religious conflicts that shaped her rule.
Personal Struggles: Gain insights into Mary’s life, including her fraught relationship with Henry VIII and the influence of her mother, Katherine of Aragon.

Celebrate Mary I’s true legacy and dismantle the myths surrounding her reign at Peter’s talk during the Katherine of Aragon Festival on January 25th at Peterborough Cathedral.

Follow Peter on Twitter/X: @PStiffel

Get Involved

Purchase Tickets: Visit peterborough-cathedral.org.uk to join the festival.
Support History Rage: Gain early access and exclusive content by subscribing at patreon.com/historyrage.

Stay Connected

Support our historical explorations by subscribing via Apple Podcasts or Patreon, and leave us a review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite platform.

Visit historyrage.com for past episodes and updates.

Contact Us: Email us at historyragepod@gmail.com.

Follow History Rage:

Facebook: History Rage
Twitter/X: @HistoryRage
Instagram: @historyrage
Bluesky: History Rage

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

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

176. Peterborough is not a dull New Town with Reverend Canon Tim Alban-Jones | Katherine of Aragon Festival Jan 23, 2025

Show notes

Join us on a captivating journey through Peterborough’s rich history in this special History Rage episode, created in partnership with the Katherine of Aragon Festival. Reverend Canon Tim Alban Jones, Vice Dean of Peterborough Cathedral, shares the incredible legacy of this historic city and its iconic cathedral.

Ancient Beginnings

Discover Peterborough’s roots, from Bronze Age Flag Fen to its Saxon founding as Meadhamstead Abbey in 654.
Uncover the Norman impact and the architectural marvel of Peterborough Cathedral, a symbol of resilience through centuries.

Katherine of Aragon’s Legacy

Explore the enduring influence of Katherine of Aragon, buried in Peterborough Cathedral.
Learn how her story shapes the city’s identity and inspires the annual festival celebrating her remarkable life.

Reformation and Resilience

Witness the dramatic Reformation as Peterborough Abbey became a cathedral under figures like John Chambers.
Hear tales of resilience as the city adapted to monumental change.

Victorian Restoration

Appreciate the Victorians’ efforts to save Peterborough Cathedral, including its marble mosaic pavement and uninterrupted views.
Discover how restoration preserved its place as a historical and architectural gem.

Celebrate Peterborough’s vibrant past, from its ancient origins to its Reformation-era transformation and beyond. If you're attending the Katherine of Aragon Festival, don’t miss nearby treasures like the Peterborough Museum and Burghley House.

Get Involved

Learn more about Reverend Canon Tim Alban Jones’s work and book tickets for the festival at peterboroughcathedral.org.uk.
Support our historical deep dives on patreon.com/historyrage or via Apple for exclusive content, early episodes, and the coveted History Rage mug.

Stay Connected

Catch up on all the rage at www.historyrage.com or email us at historyragepod@gmail.com.

Facebook: History Rage
Twitter: @HistoryRage
Instagram: @HistoryRage
Bluesky: historyrage.bsky.social

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

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

175. Stop Sanitising and Glamourising the Mitford Sisters with Guy Walters Jan 21, 2025

Show notes

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

Fascist Fables:

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

The Mitford Dynamic:

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

Guy’s Call to Action:

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

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

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

Relevant Links:

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

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

Follow History Rage on Social Media: