Villains and Virgins History Podcast

Latest Episodes:

Black Amazons: EP 4 The True History of the Dora Milaje Jun 30, 2021

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This episode uncovers the forgotten history of some of the most badass women you've never heard of. The Kingdom of Dahomey in West Africa had all female army units who consistently fought better and more courageously than the men. Their deeds of bravery are recorded by their admiring enemies. These real women are the inspiration for the Dora Milaje of Wakanda in the Marvel movies. Meet the Black Amazons of Benin!

Amazons: EP 3- Shirin and other stories May 21, 2021

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We know the Greek legends of the Amazons, but because the warrior women were real the Greeks were not the only ones telling stories about them. In this episode we uncover legends of women fighters from the Caucasus, and the epic Persian love story of Shirin and Khusraw. Adventure, love, and revenge...these are amazing stories you have probably never heard.

Amazons: Ep 2-- Horse Tribes May 11, 2021

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The legends of the Amazons are based on real women who could ride, hunt, shoot bows, and fight. In this episode we uncover the fascinating archaeological evidence on the horse tribes of the steppe and the women warriors who lived among them. From tattoos to cannabis, there are so many surprising details.

Amazons: Episode 1- The Legend Apr 30, 2021

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Stories of badass warrior women continue to fascinate us today, as they did the ancient Greeks. In Greek stories the Amazons were a tribe of all female warriors who were formidable in combat and fascinating for their bravery, athleticism, and beauty. But the Amazons are not a myth. They were real people in history, and their stories can change the way we look at ourselves. This episode introduces the stories about Amazons, and will be followed by further episodes on their history.

Warrior Queen: EP 3- Boudica's Revenge Mar 13, 2021

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After suffering horrifying violence and theft at the hands of the Romans, Boudica decides enough is enough. This is the story of a woman who led a rebellion against Roman occupation, preferring to risk death in battle rather than a life of slavery. Her battle cry continues to echo through history. Find out why.

Warrior Queen: Episode 2- Rebels and Romans Feb 27, 2021

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What happened when the Romans invaded Britain? What did life under occupation look like for the native tribes? In this episode we cover the Roman policies and projects that changed the face of Britain. A Celtic queen starts an affair and honors an alliance that will end her rule. The Romans decide to teach another uppity Celtic woman a lesson, and inadvertently light a match that explodes into war. Welcome to the world of Boudica, the warrior queen.

Warrior Queen Feb 06, 2021

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What was Britain like before the Romans made contact? The world of the Celts, with its wild blue Northerners, Druids, and sacrifices is painted here, setting the stage for one of the most astonishing female figures in British history. Her name is Boudica, and she is the warrior queen. This is the first of several episodes about her world and her story.

War Games of the Steppe Jan 14, 2021

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Many fierce warrior tribes have emerged from the Eurasian Steppe, from the Huns to the Mongols and many others. What made these people such effective fighters? Learn about Mongolian wrestling, archery, and the most dangerous game on Earth. In this episode we look at the warlike sports that began on the Steppe and continue to this day.

Attila the Hun- Episode 4: Blood on the Plains Dec 17, 2020

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In this final episode of our series, Attila takes a massive army and storms through western Europe to the gates of Orleans, in France. The epic Battle of the Catalaunian Plains unfolds over two days, as old allies become enemies. A shocking twist leads to an ending no one expected.

Attila the Hun- Episode 3: Attila and the Princess Nov 29, 2020

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In this episode we learn about Hunnish women and marriage practices. A sex scandal breaks out in the Western Imperial Court, leading to pregnancy and execution. A Roman princess makes a shocking proposal to Attila that threatens to destabilize the Roman Empire.