History's Most - TopPodcast.com

47. The Museum of the Wood Age (ft. Max Adams) Nov 14, 2022

In this episode, we talk to Max Adams about his new book, The Museum of the Wood Age. We discuss the relationship and history between humanity and wood, from the invention and use of the wheel, to the mysterious prehistoric monument of Seahenge on the Norfolk coast, and much more.

Thanks so much to Max for coming back on the show! Find his new book here: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Museum-Wood-Age-Max-Adams/dp/1788543505

Check out our YouTube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKgw4BF6xHrYMizb-l1vYkQ

Our Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/historysmost

Our Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/729271677922830

Thank you to our Executive Producers: Barney, Marc Frost, Justus Ebel, and Tony Turrin, to all our Patrons, and to all our listeners.

Artwork: Seahenge, Holme Next The Sea, Norfolk - Historic England Archive Photo Library ref: N990007

46. History's Most Special: Ludendorff and Hindenburg Jan 25, 2022

In the first episode of 2022, we discuss some of the topics seen in Alex's new book Hindenburg, Ludendorff & Hitler, including Erich Ludendorff's post-war writings and memoirs, which allow for a glimpse into his mental state following the harrowing defeat of World War I. As well, we examine Paul von Hindenburg's close relationship with Hitler and the Nazis after they took power, and debunk some popular thoughts about Hindenburg and the Nazis.

Check out Alex's new book here: https://www.pen-and-sword.co.uk/Hindenburg-Ludendorff-and-Hitler-Hardback/p/20139

Check out our YouTube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKgw4BF6xHrYMizb-l1vYkQ

Our Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/historysmost

Our Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/729271677922830

Thank you to our Executive Producers: Marc Frost, Justus Ebel, and Tony Turrin, to all our Patrons, and to all our listeners.

Artwork: Paul V. Hindenburg, Erich Ludendorff, Bundesarchiv, Bild 146-1970-073-47 CC-BY-SA 3.0

45. History's Most Holiday Special: Islands and Micronations (ft. Freddy Clifford) Dec 10, 2021

We're back! In this episode, we are joined by Alex's brother Freddy to have a discussion about the history of some of the most isolated, sparsely populated, and unique places on the planet. From the world's most remote island in the South Atlantic, to an island in the South Pacific inhabited by direct descendants of the Mutiny on the Bounty, to a bizarre 'nation' off the coast of England, this episode of History's Most is full of interesting stories.

Thanks so much to Freddy for coming on the show!

Check out Alex's new book here: https://www.pen-and-sword.co.uk/Hindenburg-Ludendorff-and-Hitler-Hardback/p/20139

Check out our YouTube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKgw4BF6xHrYMizb-l1vYkQ

Our Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/historysmost

Our Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/729271677922830

Thank you to our Executive Producers: Tom McCool, Justus Ebel, and Tony Turrin, to all our Patrons, and to all our listeners.

Music: We Wish You A Merry Christmas (Instrumental Jazz) by E's Jammy Jams Licensed under Creative Commons Attribution 2.0 Generic (CC BY 2.0) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/

44. History's Most Mysterious Religion (ft. Matthew McCarty) Aug 23, 2021

In this episode, we are joined by author, historian, and archaeologist, Dr. Matthew McCarty, for a discussion about one of the most enigmatic religions ever: Mithraism. A religion in stark contrast to the other contemporaries, Mithraism was often practiced in small, dark temples as opposed wide open spaces, and generally, each temple had a relatively small number of worshippers. From its origins in Zoroastrianism, to its spread across Europe and the Middle East, to its downfall and more, we investigate what makes Mithraism History's Most Mysterious Religion.

Thanks so much to Matthew for coming on the show!

Check out our new video series The Crisis, on our YouTube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKgw4BF6xHrYMizb-l1vYkQ

Our Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/historysmost

Our Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/729271677922830

Thank you to our Executive Producers: Tom McCool, Justus Ebel, Jeremy Marcoux, and Tony Turrin, to all our Patrons, and to all our listeners.

43. History's Most Misunderstood Defeat (ft. Chris Millington) Aug 09, 2021

In this episode, we are joined by historian, professor, and author of the book France in the Second World War, Chris Millington. With him, we take a deep, reevaluating look at the 1940 fall of France, questioning the popular narrative of French cowardice, lack of preparation, and inferior military capability as being the reasons for their defeat.

From internal struggles amongst generals, to recognizing that it was not just a French failure, but rather an Allied failure, to looking at how the events during the Summer of 1940 impacted politics around the world in the years after, we explore what makes the fall of France History's Most Misunderstood Defeat.

Thanks so much to Chris for coming on the show! Find his book, France in the Second World War, here: https://www.bloomsbury.com/uk/france-in-the-second-world-war-9781350094970

Check out our new video series The Crisis, on our YouTube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKgw4BF6xHrYMizb-l1vYkQ

Our Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/historysmost

Our Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/729271677922830

Thank you to our Executive Producers: Tom McCool, Justus Ebel, Jeremy Marcoux, and Tony Turrin, to all our Patrons, and to all our listeners.

Announcement: New Video Series Aug 01, 2021

Hi everyone! We're starting a new video series over on our YouTube channel about Britain's 1931 crisis called The Crisis. In it, we'll be looking at the key figures involved, the decisions they made, and the events as they happened, week by week, and sometimes day by day.

And don't worry: this Podcast will be continuing alongside the video series!

We hope you'll enjoy it.

Check out the first episode here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TUb1yniPOxM

42. History's Most Underrated Government (ft. Stuart Ball) Jul 26, 2021

In this episode, we continue our in-depth discussion with Stuart Ball on Britain in the 1930s, particularly focusing on the actions of the National Government, which we discussed the formation of in the last episode.

From the economic and social reforms they passed, to their rearmament programs, to the outbreak of war, and much more, we take a look at the National Government's actions and legacy.

Thanks to Stuart for joining us again!

Our Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/historysmost

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Thank you to our Executive Producers: Tom McCool, Justus Ebel, Jeremy Marcoux, and Tony Turrin, to all our Patrons, and to all our listeners.

41. History's Most Controversial Crisis (ft. Stuart Ball) Jul 12, 2021

In this episode, we are joined by Stuart Ball, Emeritus Professor of Modern History at Leicester University, for a discussion about Britain's 1931 budget crisis, and the formation of the National Government.

We take a look at the political situation in Britain in the years before, the people involved in the crisis, the critical moments during it, and the fascinating years afterward; including the creation of a National Government, and the landslide victory of that National Government in the October general election.

Thanks so much to Stuart for coming on the show!

Our Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/historysmost

Our Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/729271677922830

Thank you to our Executive Producers: Tom McCool, Justus Ebel, Jeremy Marcoux, and Tony Turrin, to all our Patrons, and to all our listeners.

40. History's Most Forgotten Foreign Intervention (ft. Wesley Livesay from History of the Second World War) Jun 28, 2021

In this episode, we are joined by fellow podcaster Wesley Livesay of History of the Great War and History of the Second World War to discuss one of the most intriguing, historically important, yet oft-forgotten pieces of interwar history: Allied intervention during the Russian Civil War.

With his help, we take a look at the reasons why the Allied powers thought it important to intervene: From Bolshevism being a new and unpredictable form of politics in the world, Wilsonian ideals about the spread of democracy, Japanese expansion in Eastern Russia, to the amazing story of a marooned army of more than 60,000 Czech troops fighting their way across an entire continent East to Vladivostok... to get back to Czechoslovakia.

We also discuss how important the foreign intervention in Russia was on world politics for years to come, why it isn't well-remembered, and why it, along with so many other pieces of interwar history should be.

A huge thanks to Wesley for coming on the show! Check out his podcast, History of the Second World War here: http://historyofthesecondworldwar.com/

Our Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/historysmost

Our Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/729271677922830

Thank you to our Executive Producers: Marc Frost, Tom McCool, Justus Ebel, Jeremy Marcoux, and Tony Turrin, to all our Patrons, and to all our listeners.

39. History's Most Puzzling Century, Pt. 3 (ft. Nick Higham) Jun 07, 2021

In this episode, we are joined by Professor and Author Nicholas Higham to continue our discussion about Britain's 5th century.

We begin to dive into the legend of Arthur, his historicity and how legendary figures can be distorted into factual, historical ones as time passes, even into the 20th century. As well as that, we take a look into Gildas's writings and hear another view on how his work should be interpreted, and much more.

A huge thanks to Nick for coming on the show! Find his latest book, King Arthur: The Making of The Legend here: https://yalebooks.yale.edu/book/9780300254983/king-arthur

Our Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/historysmost

Our Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/729271677922830

Thank you to our Executive Producers: Tom McCool, Justus Ebel, Jeremy Marcoux, and Tony Turrin, to all our Patrons, and to all our listeners.

38. History's Most Puzzling Century, Pt. 2 (ft. Susan Oosthuizen) May 24, 2021

In this episode, we continue our discussion of 5th Century Britain. This time, we are joined by Emeritus Professor of Medieval Archaeology at Cambridge, and author of The Emergence of the English, Susan Oosthuizen.

With her help, we continue to dive down the rabbit-hole of Britain's so-called "Dark Ages", to hear her opinions on change vs. continuity, how British society may have evolved over time gradually following the fall of the Roman Empire rather than an immediate collapse, we look at and discuss the archaeological evidence which supports these hypotheses, and much more.

A huge thanks to Susan for coming on the show! Check out her book, The Emergence of the English, here: https://arc-humanities.org/products/t-84104-115104-28-8316/

Our Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/historysmost

Our Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/729271677922830

Thank you to our Executive Producers: Tom McCool, Justus Ebel, Jeremy Marcoux, and Tony Turrin, to all our Patrons, and to all our listeners.

37. History's Most Puzzling Century, Pt. 1 (ft. Max Adams) May 11, 2021

In this episode, we are joined by archaeologist, historian, and author Max Adams to discuss one of the most fascinating and mysterious periods of time: the 5th Century in Britain.

With very little contemporary sources, the dark ages are a widely debated era, where fact is very hard to separate from myth. But over the next few episodes, we will be talking to multiple historians to help unravel some of those mysteries, and shed some light on what really happened in History's Most Puzzling Century.

Thanks so much to Max for coming on the show! Find his latest book, The First Kingdom: Britain in the Age of Arthur, here: https://www.amazon.com/First-Kingdom-Max-Adams/dp/1788543475/ref=tmm_hrd_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=&sr= (Paperback coming soon!)

Our Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/historysmost

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Thank you to our Executive Producers: Tom McCool, Justus Ebel, Jeremy Marcoux, and Tony Turrin, to all our Patrons, and to all our listeners.

36. History's Most Brazen Assassination (ft. Alan McPherson) Apr 27, 2021

In this episode, we are joined by Professor Alan McPherson to discuss the assassination of Orlando Letelier: the topic of his book Ghosts of Sheridan Circle: How a Washington Assassination Brought Pinochet's Terror State to Justice.

In September 1976, former Chilean ambassador and human rights advocate Orlando Letelier was killed in a car bombing on Embassy Row in Washington DC. The assassination, carried out by the Chilean Secret Police, was the last state-sponsored terrorist attack that took place on American soil. In this episode, we discuss the planning of the assassination, the people involved, and the massive repercussions for the Pinochet regime that came in its aftermath.

A huge thanks to Alan for coming on the show! Find his book Ghosts of Sheridan Circle: How a Washington Assassination Brought Pinochet's Terror State to Justice here: https://uncpress.org/book/9781469653501/ghosts-of-sheridan-circle/

Our Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/historysmost

Our Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/729271677922830

Thank you to our Executive Producers: Tom McCool, Justus Ebel, Jeremy Marcoux, and Tony Turrin, to all our Patrons, and to all our listeners.

Artwork: Photograph of Orlando Letelier, Museum of Memory and Human Rights licensed under CC-BY-SA 3.0

35. History's Worst Civil War (ft. Chris from The History of China) Apr 12, 2021

In this episode, we are joined by fellow podcaster Chris Stewart of The History of China to discuss one of the bloodiest wars in all of human history: the Taiping Rebellion.

We take a look at a timeline of the conflict, from the formation of the Taiping Heavenly Kingdom by its leader, Hong Xiuquan (a man who believed himself to be Jesus's brother), through their growth and expansion throughout eastern China, to some of their conflicts with the Qing Dynasty and eventual defeat.

We also discuss the fascinating religious beliefs that motivated Hong Xiuquan, how he developed them over time, and how they spread to other people within the Heavenly Kingdom, and much more.

A huge thanks to Chris for coming on the show! Find him here: https://thehistoryofchina.wordpress.com/

Check out Alex and plenty of other great content creators at Intelligent Speech! https://www.intelligentspeechconference.com/

Our Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/historysmost

Our Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/729271677922830

Thank you to our Executive Producers: Tom McCool, Justus Ebel, Jeremy Marcoux, and Tony Turrin, to all our Patrons, and to all our listeners.

34. History's Most: Ludendorff Revisited (ft. Jay Lockenour) Mar 29, 2021

Today, we are joined by Professor, Historian, and Author Jay Lockenour to discuss a man we talked about all the way back in Episode 1 of History's Most: Erich Ludendorff.

We discuss his post-war life, including his mental breakdown (and whether it should be considered relevant), close association (and then disassociation) with the Nazis, the creation of the Tannenberg League, how his wife impacted his political beliefs, and much more.

A huge thanks to Jay for coming on the show! Find his new book, Dragonslayer: The Legend of Erich Ludendorff in the Weimar Republic and Third Reich here: https://www.amazon.com/Dragonslayer-Ludendorff-Republic-Battlegrounds-Military/dp/1501754599

Check out Alex and plenty of other great content creators at Intelligent Speech! https://www.intelligentspeechconference.com/

Our Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/historysmost

Our Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/729271677922830

Thank you to our Executive Producers: Tom McCool, Justus Ebel, Jeremy Marcoux, and Tony Turrin, to all our Patrons, and to all our listeners.

Artwork: München, nach Hitler-Ludendorff Prozess, Bundesarchiv, Bild 102-00344A licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0 de

Announcement: Intelligent Speech Conference on the 24th of April Mar 20, 2021

We'd like to invite all History's Most listeners to the Spring 2021 Intelligent Speech Conference on the 24th of April at 10 AM EST/3 PM BST! Hear Alex and many other fantastic content creators talk about fascinating stories from history, all revolving around the theme of 'escape'.

Early bird ticket prices are $20 until March 24th, and you can get a further 10% off (and help support the show) by using the discount code 'WAR' at checkout.

Thanks everyone, and hope to see you at Intelligent Speech!

https://www.intelligentspeechconference.com/

33. History's Most Conflicted Culture (ft. Jack Arscott) Mar 15, 2021

In this episode, we are joined by Jack Arscott, PhD student at the Institute of Modern Languages Research in London, to discuss Weimar journalism, literary culture, patriotism, and many other topics that made up part of Weimar Germany's culture at large.

From the story of Die Weltbühne, a magazine which published several stories about German rearmament in violation of the Treaty of Versailles, to wider discussions about patriotism, nationalism, and much more, we take a look at what made Weimar Germany host to History's Most Conflicted Culture.

Thanks to Jack for joining us! Find him on Twitter: @jackarscott123

Check out Alex and plenty of other great content creators at Intelligent Speech! https://www.intelligentspeechconference.com/

Our Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/historysmost

Our Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/729271677922830

Thank you to our Executive Producers: Tom McCool, Justus Ebel, Jeremy Marcoux, and Tony Turrin, to all our Patrons, and to all our listeners.

32. History's Most Dangerous Conspiracy Theory (ft. George Vascik) Mar 01, 2021

Today, we're joined by Professor and Author George Vascik to discuss the infamous stab-in-the-back myth, a conspiracy theory born out of the loss of World War I, and one that would become entrenched in many aspects of Weimar Germany's culture and politics.

From its quick spread in the early days of the Republic, to its impact on the rise of the Nazis, we take a look at how it began, how it impacted the downfall of Weimar Germany, and how there are surprising parallels with modern day conspiracy theories.

Thanks to George for joining us! Check out his book on this topic here: https://www.bloomsbury.com/us/the-stab-in-the-back-myth-and-the-fall-of-the-weimar-republic-9781474227797/

Check out Alex and plenty of other great content creators at Intelligent Speech! https://www.intelligentspeechconference.com/

Our Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/historysmost

Our Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/729271677922830

Thank you to our Executive Producers: Tom McCool, Justus Ebel, Jeremy Marcoux, and Tony Turrin, to all our Patrons, and to all our listeners.

31. History's Most Interesting Impostors (ft. William B. Taylor) Feb 15, 2021

In today's episode, we are joined by historian and author William B. Taylor to discuss the story behind his new book, Fugitive Freedom: The Improbable Lives of Two Impostors in Late Colonial Mexico.

We take a look at the lives of Joseph Aguayo and Juan Atondo, two men who had impersonated priests during the late Mexican Inquisition, their reasons for doing so, their punishments, and much more in this fascinating story.

Thanks so much to William for reaching out to us! You can find his new book here: https://www.bookdepository.com/Fugitive-Freedom-William-B-Taylor/9780520368569?ref=grid-view&qid=1612025633267&sr=1-1

Our Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/historysmost

Our Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/729271677922830

Thank you to our Executive Producers: Tom McCool, Justus Ebel, Jeremy Marcoux, and Tony Turrin, to all our Patrons, and to all our listeners.

30. History's Most Precarious Democracy, Pt. 4 Feb 01, 2021

In this episode, we conclude our 4-part discussion of Weimar Germany. We take a look at the Great Depression and its effects on Germany, the resumption of political violence and how it came about, the German elections of 1932, and how the decisions made in the final years of the Republic eventually led to its downfall.

Our Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/historysmost

Our Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/729271677922830

Thank you to our Executive Producers: Tom McCool, Justus Ebel, Jeremy Marcoux, and Tony Turrin, to all our Patrons, and to all our listeners.

The propaganda poster mentioned in the episode: https://research.calvin.edu/german-propaganda-archive/images/schockel/schockel30.jpg

Artwork: Berlin, Propaganda zur Reichstagswahl by Georg Pahl, Bundesarchiv, Bild 102-03497A is licensed under CC-BY-SA 3.0 Title of show added.

29. History's Most Precarious Democracy, Pt. 3 Jan 18, 2021

In our first episode of 2021, we continue our exploration of interwar Germany by taking a look at the so-called "Golden Age" of the Weimar Republic. A time of stability only in comparison to the proceeding (and following) years, we take a look at the German economy, and how it recovered from hyperinflation, the way negotiations with the allies impacted Weimar politics, the intricacies of Weimar election systems, and the sudden return of a certain familiar (and influential) face in German history.

Our Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/historysmost

Our Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/729271677922830

Thank you to our Executive Producers, Justus Ebel and Tony Turrin, to all our Patrons, and to all our listeners.

28. History's Most Successful Mutiny (ft. Robert Gerwarth) Nov 30, 2020

In this episode, we are joined by historian and author Robert Gerwarth to discuss the Kiel Mutiny and the German Revolution of 1918. From the long-term causes of the revolution, to the mutiny itself, the revolution that followed, and more, we take a deep look at this complex and still controversial event in history.

Thanks so much to Robert for joining us. Find his latest book, November 1918: The German Revolution here: https://global.oup.com/academic/product/november-1918-9780199546473?cc=us&lang=en&

Our Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/historysmost

Our Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/729271677922830

Thank you to our Executive Producers, Jeremy Marcoux and Justus Ebel, to all our Patrons, and to all our listeners.

Artwork: Novemberrevolution Matrosenaufstand, Bundesarchiv, Bild 183-J0908-0600-002 is licensed under CC-BY-SA 3.0 Title of show added.

27. History's Most Precarious Democracy, Pt. 2 Nov 16, 2020

In the second part of our series on Weimar Germany, we move forward to the early 1920s, a time rife with political assassinations, continued political instability, and economic hardships. We discuss the rise and the actions of Organization Consul, the murder of Walther Rathenau and its aftermath, the occupation of the Ruhr, the period of Germany's severe hyperinflation, and more in this episode of History's Most.

Check out Alex's new book, Fighting for Spain here: https://www.pen-and-sword.co.uk/Fighting-for-Spain-Hardback/p/17936

Our Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/historysmost

Our Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/729271677922830

Thank you to our Executive Producers, Jeremy Marcoux and Justus Ebel, to all our Patrons, and to all our listeners.

26. History's Most Precarious Democracy Nov 02, 2020

In the first episode of this series on interwar Germany, we discuss the first perilous years of the Weimar Republic. From the last days of World War I and the outbreak of revolution in Germany, the abdication of the Kaiser, the signing of the Treaty of Versailles and more, we take a look at the early days of History's Most Precarious Democracy, Weimar Germany, and the seemingly endless list of problems that it was mired in.

Check out Alex's new book, Fighting for Spain here: https://www.pen-and-sword.co.uk/Fighting-for-Spain-Hardback/p/17936

Our Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/historysmost

Our Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/729271677922830

Thank you to our Executive Producer, Jeremy Marcoux, to all our Patrons, and to all our listeners.

25. History's Most Special: Perfidious Albion in the Spanish Civil War (ft. Scott Ramsay and Stephen Rainbird) Oct 20, 2020

Today, we are joined by Scott Ramsay and Stephen Rainbird, PhD students at University of Leeds, who are researching Anglo-Iberian relations, to discuss Britain's role in the Spanish Civil War. We take an in depth look at British foreign policy during the Civil War and its aftermath and ask: Was Perfidious Albion responsible for Franco's victory and survival in Spain?

Thanks so much to Scott and Stephen for coming on the show. You can find an article from Scott on this topic here: https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/09592296.2020.1721059

Check out Alex's new book, Fighting for Spain here: https://www.pen-and-sword.co.uk/Fighting-for-Spain-Hardback/p/17936

Our Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/historysmost

Our Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/729271677922830

Thank you to our Executive Producer, Jeremy Marcoux, to all our Patrons, and to all our listeners.

24. History's Most Corrupt Political Class (ft. Paul Preston) Oct 05, 2020

In this special, anniversary episode of History's Most, we are joined by author, historian, and Hispanist, Sir Paul Preston to discuss the political history of Spain, particularly the corruption and political incompetence that plagued Spanish politics during the late 19th century, and throughout the 20th century. From the Turno Pacifico, Primo de Rivera's reign, the Second Spanish Republic, to Franco and more, we take a hard look at History's Most Corrupt Political Class.

A huge thanks to Paul for coming on the show. Find his newest book here: https://www.amazon.com/People-Betrayed-Corruption-Political-Incompetence-ebook/dp/B085RG7BDH

Check out Alex's new book, Fighting for Spain here: https://www.pen-and-sword.co.uk/Fighting-for-Spain-Hardback/p/17936

Our Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/historysmost

Our Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/729271677922830

Thank you to our Executive Producer, Jeremy Marcoux, to all our Patrons, and to all our listeners who supported us through the past year, and who helped make this episode possible.

23. History's Most Forgotten Fighters (ft. Séan Scullion) Sep 22, 2020

In this episode, we are joined by Hispanist Séan Scullion to discuss the fascinating story of Spaniards who fought in the British Army during World War II. Following the Spanish Civil War, many Republicans fled Spain and began serving in the French military. Following the fall of France, those same Republicans ended up in the British Army. Join us as we take a look at their experiences, where they served, what units they were in, and much more.

Big thanks to Séan for coming to us with this topic! Find him here: https://twitter.com/sean_f_scullion

Check out Alex's new book, Fighting for Spain here: https://www.pen-and-sword.co.uk/Fighting-for-Spain-Hardback/p/17936

Our Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/historysmost

Our Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/729271677922830

Photo credit: 2 SAS, Italy Detachment, September 1945, (shows Frank Williams/Francisco Jeronimo and Raphael Ramon) from Airborne Assault Archive

Thanks to our Executive Producer, Jeremy Marcoux, and to all our Patrons as well for helping make this episode possible!

22. History's Most Unlikely Warriors (ft. Richard Baxell) Sep 07, 2020

In today's episode, we are joined by author of the book Unlikely Warriors, and research fellow at the London School of Economics, Richard Baxell, to discuss the International Brigades in the Spanish Civil War. From how the Brigades were formed, to why and how people flocked to Spain, the battles they fought, and the people who served in them, we go in depth about how these men became History's Most Unlikely Warriors.

A big thanks to Richard for joining us. Find his book Unlikely Warriors here: https://www.quartoknows.com/books/9781781312339/Unlikely-Warriors.html

Check out Alex's new book, Fighting for Spain here: https://www.pen-and-sword.co.uk/Fighting-for-Spain-Hardback/p/17936

Check out a recording of Alex's virtual book launch here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C0RtvcAw0Yk

Our Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/historysmost

Our Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/729271677922830

Thanks to our Executive Producer, Jeremy Marcoux, and to all our Patrons as well for helping make this episode possible!

21. History's Most Varied Career (ft. Dr. Guy Perry) Aug 24, 2020

In today's episode, we are joined by Dr. Guy Perry to discuss the unique story of John of Brienne. From being a nobleman in France, to becoming the King of Jerusalem, leading a Crusade, to eventually becoming the Emperor of Constantinople, John of Brienne's life was full of surprises, and he can definitely lay claim to having History's Most Varied Career.

A big thanks to Guy for joining us this episode. Find his biography on John here: https://www.bookdepository.com/John-Brienne-Guy-Perry/9781316620298

Our Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/729271677922830

Our Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/historysmost

A huge thanks to all our Patrons, and our Executive Producer, Jeremy Marcoux for helping make this episode possible.

Announcement: Free Virtual Book Launch 27th August Aug 18, 2020

We'd like to invite History's Most listeners to the virtual launch of Alex's new book, Fighting for Spain! To sign up, send an email to fightingforspain@gmail.com to book your place for free.

Thursday, 27th of August at 7:30 PM BST

20. History's Worst Colonial War (ft. Mark from Record of Arms) Aug 10, 2020

In this episode, we are joined by Mark Seven of the Record of Arms Podcast to talk about one of the most important events in the history of both Spain and Morocco: The Rif War. We take a look at Spain's presence in North Africa before the war, the reasons it happened, the sheer brutality of the conflict itself and the impact it had on the people fighting it, and what impact it would have on Spain's future, both long term and short term.

BIG thanks to Mark Seven from the Record of Arms Podcast. Find it here: https://recordofarms.buzzsprout.com/

Pre-order Alex's new book: https://www.pen-and-sword.co.uk/Fighting-for-Spain-Hardback/p/17936

Our Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/historysmost

Our Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/729271677922830

Music: Sergei Rachmaninoff - String Quartet No. 2 as recorded by Steve's Bedroom Band and Steve Jones licensed under Creative Commons 4.0.

19. History's Most Complicated Man (ft. Martyn Bennett) Jul 27, 2020

In this episode, we return to Oliver Cromwell to discuss what we weren't able to in Episode 17: Cromwell's politics, and his tenure as Lord Protector. Taking us through his complex life and political career is Martyn Bennett, Professor at Nottingham Trent University, and author of the book Cromwell at War. With him, we take a look at what makes Cromwell so complicated: from his beliefs of religious freedom clashing with his actions in Ireland, to his desire for a democracy in spite of his absolute power over the country, and much more.

Martyn's book: https://www.bloomsbury.com/uk/cromwell-at-war-9781786722478/

Music: Sergei Rachmaninoff - String Quartet No. 2 as recorded by Steve's Bedroom Band and Steve Jones licensed under Creative Commons 4.0.

18. History's Worst Stalemate (ft. Fredrick Clifford) Jul 15, 2020

In today's episode, Alex's brother joins us to discuss History's Worst Stalemate: the Isonzo Front of 1915-1918. We take a look at all 12 battles of the front, discussing the tactics, the equipment used, and the sheer incompetency of the leadership that brought them to 12 battles to begin with.

Alex's interview on the WW2 podcast: http://ww2podcast.com/ww2-podcast/120-the-peoples-army-in-the-spanish-civil-war/

Music: Sergei Rachmaninoff - String Quartet No. 2 as recorded by Steve's Bedroom Band and Steve Jones licensed under Creative Commons 4.0.

17. History's Most Underrated General Jun 29, 2020

In this episode, we discuss the military career of one of the most important, controversial, and divisive figures in British history: Oliver Cromwell. From his early days as a landowner and as a member of Parliament, to raising some of the best cavalry troops ever seen and ultimately creating the New Model Army, we take an in-depth look at the man, the battles he commanded to victory, and the impact he has on the modern world.

Music: Sergei Rachmaninoff - String Quartet No. 2 as recorded by Steve's Bedroom Band and Steve Jones licensed under Creative Commons 4.0.

16. History's Most Sweeping Expulsion (ft. Brad from Air, Land & Sea) Jun 16, 2020

In this episode, we take a look at inquisition-era Iberia, particularly Portugal, and the experiences and stories of the Sephardic Jews from during, and after the Portuguese Inquisition. Joining us is Brad Pomerance, host of the show Air, Land & Sea on Jewish Life TV. He guides us through the fascinating history of Jews in Portugal and Spain, from the golden age of Jewish culture in Iberia, through the inquisition, and up to the modern day.

A HUGE thanks to Brad from JLTV. Check out his show at http://www.jltv.tv/shows.php?id=65 And find him on Twitter @bradpomerance

Music: Sergei Rachmaninoff - String Quartet No. 2 as recorded by Steve's Bedroom Band and Steve Jones licensed under Creative Commons 4.0.

15. History's Most Underrated Civilization (ft. Robin from The History of Byzantium) Jun 01, 2020

In today's episode, we take an in depth look at one of the most important and influential civilizations in all of history: Byzantium. And guiding us through this storied and complex civilization is Robin Pierson, host of The History of Byzantium podcast. From its vast, thousand-year history, to parallels with the modern world, we discuss what makes Byzantium History's Most Underrated Civilization.

A HUGE thank you to Robin from The History of Byzantium Podcast. Check him out at https://thehistoryofbyzantium.com/

Music: Sergei Rachmaninoff - String Quartet No. 2 as recorded by Steve's Bedroom Band and Steve Jones licensed under Creative Commons 4.0.

14. History's Most Complicated Revolution (ft. Gary from The French History Podcast) May 19, 2020

In today's episode, we are diving down the rabbit hole of the causes of History's Most Complicated Revolution: The French Revolution. Guiding us down this rabbit hole is Gary Girod, host of The French History Podcast, helping us to understand the intricacies of what exactly caused the world-changing revolution. From France's financial situation at the time, to a new breed of writers, thinkers, and philosophers, we take a deep look at the roots of this incredibly important event.

A HUGE thank you to Gary from The French History Podcast. Please check out his show at: https://www.thefrenchhistorypodcast.com/

Music: Sergei Rachmaninoff - String Quartet No. 2 as recorded by Steve's Bedroom Band and Steve Jones licensed under Creative Commons 4.0.

13. History's Worst Friendly Fire Incident May 05, 2020

In this episode of History's Most, we return to the Crusades, specifically taking a look at the Fourth Crusade; one of the most shocking and bizarre stories we've discussed on the show so far. A story of bad decisions, a lack of funding, and self-interested and deceptive leaders, which culminates in History's Worst Friendly Fire Incident: an attack on one of the most important cities (and a fellow Christian power) in the world; Constantinople, the center of the Eastern Orthodox Church.

Music: Sergei Rachmaninoff - String Quartet No. 2 as recorded by Steve's Bedroom Band and Steve Jones licensed under Creative Commons 4.0.

12. History's Worst Misconception Apr 20, 2020

Was Hitler a socialist? Were the Nazis, who were allied with people like Franco and Mussolini actually leftists? Do modern liberalism and fascism "share the same intellectual roots"? The answer to these questions is a resounding no. In this episode of History's Most, we discuss where these questions have come from, why they're being asked more often, and explain precisely why the answer to all of them is no.

Music: Sergei Rachmaninoff - String Quartet No. 2 as recorded by Steve's Bedroom Band and Steve Jones licensed under Creative Commons 4.0.

11. History's Most Successful Freedom Fighter (ft. Jacob from Podcast on Germany) Apr 06, 2020

In this very special episode, we are going further back than History's Most has ever gone before: back to 9 CE to discuss one of the most important people in German and Roman history, Arminius. Taking us through his life is Jacob Collier, a fellow podcaster, from Podcast on Germany. From early days in Rome, to his decisive victory at Teutoburg Forest, we go through what truly makes Arminius History's Most Successful Freedom Fighter.

A VERY big thank you to Jacob for joining us. Find him at: https://www.podcastongermany.com/

Music: Sergei Rachmaninoff - String Quartet No. 2 as recorded by Steve's Bedroom Band and Steve Jones licensed under Creative Commons 4.0.

10. History's Most Democratic Fascist Mar 23, 2020

In this episode, we offer a final addendum to our series on 20th century Spain. After 40 years of fascism under the rule of Francisco Franco, Spain looks to a young new leader, Adolfo Suárez, to take up the mantle and to lead Spain forward. Propped up by years of being a well-liked figure within the Francoist ranks, Suárez would seem to be the man for the job to carry the party into the future. But as the title of this episode suggests, his vision for Spain might not be what the old guard were expecting...

Our interview with Chat History: https://chathistory.org/2020/03/06/chat-history-with-alex-and-peter-of-historys-most-podcast/

Footage of the 23-F coup: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pcc0_8i0CYs

9. History's Most Complicated War, Pt. 2 Mar 09, 2020

In this episode, we conclude our series on 20th century Spain by discussing the most important event in modern Spanish history: The Spanish Civil War. We discuss the politics of both Franco's nationalists and the Republicans, the foreign support for both sides, the role of the International Brigades, and more about what makes this truly History's Most Complicated War.

Purchase Alex's new book here: https://www.pen-and-sword.co.uk/The-Peoples-Army-in-the-Spanish-Civil-War-Hardback/p/17104

His article on HistoryHit: https://www.historyhit.com/why-did-the-republicans-lose-the-spanish-civil-war/

His interview with Cris Alvarez: https://warscholar.org/spanish-civil-war-military-history-book-the-peoples-army-in-the-spanish-civil-war-pen-sword-books-2020-alex-clifford-interview/

Music: Sergei Rachmaninoff - String Quartet No. 2 as recorded by Steve's Bedroom Band and Steve Jones licensed under Creative Commons 4.0.

8. History's Most Complicated War, Pt. 1 Feb 24, 2020

In this episode, as part of our series on 20th Century Spain, we discuss the Second Spanish Republic. Finally free from the shackles of the corrupt turno parties, the monarchy, and Primo de Rivera's dictatorship, the formation of a true republic could signal a new era for Spain... But with clashing ambitions from the left and right, and the great depression impacting the world economy, it certainly won't be easy for the new government to find its footing. And on the horizon, something else looms for Spain...

Purchase Alex's new book here: https://www.pen-and-sword.co.uk/The-Peoples-Army-in-the-Spanish-Civil-War-Hardback/p/17104

Music: Sergei Rachmaninoff - String Quartet No. 2 as recorded by Steve's Bedroom Band and Steve Jones licensed under Creative Commons 4.0.

7. History's Most Benevolent Dictator Jan 30, 2020

In this episode, we explore the fascinating character of Miguel Primo de Rivera, the Spanish dictator who ruled from 1923 to 1930. Often regarded as a populist and a paternalist, and calling himself an "Iron Surgeon", Primo de Rivera is one of the most fascinating dictators of 20th century Europe, and one of the most fascinating people of 20th century Spain as well. With Spain's best interests at heart, he set out to revitalize the country from the old days of the turno pacifico, root out the political corruption prevalent in the Spanish political system, quell the civil unrest, and deal with the war in Morocco. We dive into each of these topics, and more, in this character study of what we believe to be History's Most Benevolent Dictator.

Purchase Alex's new book here: https://www.pen-and-sword.co.uk/The-Peoples-Army-in-the-Spanish-Civil-War-Hardback/p/17104

Music: Sergei Rachmaninoff - String Quartet No. 2 as recorded by Steve's Bedroom Band and Steve Jones licensed under Creative Commons 4.0.

6. History's Worst Democracy Jan 10, 2020

This episode is the first in a trilogy on 20th century Spain and tells the story of the unbelievably corrupt Turno system installed in the late 1800s which survived up to 1923. Bribery and coercion determined the results of elections as two official parties peacefully alternated in office to give the illusion of democracy. Amidst staggering levels of incompetence and egotism, the system began to break down in the 1910s as the Turno parties fell apart and the effects of the Great War began to be felt even in neutral Spain. Failing on practically every front, when the system finally collapsed in 1923, its passing was mourned by no one.

Pre-order Alex's upcoming book here: https://www.pen-and-sword.co.uk/The-Peoples-Army-in-the-Spanish-Civil-War-Hardback/p/17104

Music: Sergei Rachmaninoff - String Quartet No. 2 as recorded by Steve's Bedroom Band and Steve Jones licensed under Creative Commons 4.0.

5. History's Most Christmas Special Dec 14, 2019

This episode of History's Most is our Christmas special! Join us as we discuss three small "stocking filler" stories from history, followed by a few recommendations for historical books, movies, and shows, that we've enjoyed, and that we think our listeners will enjoy as well!

Happy holidays and a very merry Christmas from History's Most!

Pre-order Alex's upcoming book here: https://www.pen-and-sword.co.uk/The-Peoples-Army-in-the-Spanish-Civil-War-Hardback/p/17104

Music: We Wish You A Merry Christmas (Instrumental Jazz) by E's Jammy Jams Licensed under Creative Commons Attribution 2.0 Generic (CC BY 2.0) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/

4. History's Most Unlikely Victory Dec 01, 2019

Today we go back nearly 1000 years to the First Crusade for History's Most Unlikely Victory. How did a ragtag, multinational army of Western knights, nobles and peasants reconquer much of Asia Minor and the Holy Land against a numerically superior enemy, without clear leadership or planning, in the face of crippling supply and desertion issues and despite a multitude of setbacks and disasters. This episode tells the ultimate story of a victory against all odds.

Music: Sergei Rachmaninoff - String Quartet No. 2 as recorded by Steve's Bedroom Band and Steve Jones licensed under Creative Commons 4.0.

3. History's Most Disastrous Voyage, Pt. 2 Nov 17, 2019

History's Most Disastrous Voyage comes to a terrible end at the Battle of Tsushima, May 1905. Somehow, Rozhestvensky's fleet makes it to the Pacific, only for more mistakes and mishaps to lead to a deadly clash with the Japanese Imperial Navy. If you thought last episode was bad, things are about to get a whole lot worse...

Music: Sergei Rachmaninoff - String Quartet No. 2 as recorded by Steve's Bedroom Band and Steve Jones licensed under Creative Commons 4.0.

2. History's Most Disastrous Voyage, Pt. 1 Nov 03, 2019

This episode of History's Most brings us to 1904, where we follow the Russian Navy's 18,000 mile long journey from the port of Saint Petersburg in the Baltic Sea to the Tsushima Strait off the coast of Japan. We dive in-depth to each mishap and incident along the way, discussing what truly made this journey History's Most Disastrous Voyage.

Music: Sergei Rachmaninoff - String Quartet No. 2 as recorded by Steve's Bedroom Band and Steve Jones licensed under Creative Commons 4.0.

1. History's Most Guilty Man Oct 07, 2019

Our first episode investigates Erich Ludendorff, Germany's World War One general. We examine his fascinating life, and explore the fateful decisions he made which had dire consequences for European history. We discuss his accountability for unleashing the Bolshevik Revolution, unnecessarily prolonging WWI, undermining German democracy and aiding the fledgling Nazi movement. Ludendorff's story takes us on a 20th Century odyssey of war, plots, conspiracy theories, political extremism and mental health.

Music: Sergei Rachmaninoff - String Quartet No. 2 as recorded by Steve's Bedroom Band and Steve Jones licensed under Creative Commons 4.0.

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