History Rage

The Mercian king history reduced to a ditch—but changed England Most people know Offa of Mercia for one thing: a giant ditch dividing England and Wales. But that familiar image hides a far more powerful—and fascinating—figure. In this episode, host Paul Bavill is joined by Cambridge historian Rory Naismith to challenge the long-standing myth of Offa as a brutal warlord. Instead, we uncover a ruler who helped shape the political, economic, and diplomatic foundations of early England. Why Offa of Mercia deserves a rethink For centuries, narratives shaped by sources like the Anglo-Saxon Chronicle have painted Offa as a violent tyrant. But as Rory explains, that version of history is incomplete—and often biased. Look closer, and a different picture emerges: Offa wasn’t just surviving—he was building something lasting. More than Offa’s Dyke Yes, Offa's Dyke is impressive—stretching coast to coast and rivaling Roman engineering in scale. But it wasn’t simply a defensive ditch. It was: Offa wasn’t just reacting—he was sending a message. The king who connected kingdoms Far from being isolated, Offa operated in a deeply interconnected world. This episode explores: From Rome to Francia, Offa was playing the game of international politics at the highest level. Offa’s real legacy Forget the “bloodthirsty conqueror” cliché. Offa’s greatest achievement was something far more significant: Without Offa, the later successes of rulers like Alfred may not have been possible. Listen More Episode 16 – Eleanor Janega on the Dark Ages: https://pod.fo/e/11c7f3 Episode 240 – Dirk Hoffman-Becking on the Holy Roman Empire: https://pod.fo/e/3330ce Guest details: Rory Naismith 📚 Buy the book “Offa: King of the Mercians” via the History Rage Bookshop: 👉 https://uk.bookshop.org/a/10120/9780300257465 See Rory live 🎤 Gloucester History Festival 📅 Sunday 19th April 🎟️ Tickets: https://www.gloucesterhistoryfestival.co.uk/events/anglo-saxon-kings/ Follow & support History Rage Love the show? Here’s how to keep the rage alive: History RageYour support helps bring more expert guests and untold stories to the surface. History isn’t just what we’re told—it’s what we question. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Cambridge Five were not heroes—just dangerous traitors with devastating consequences The Cambridge Five have long been shrouded in myth, glamour, and intrigue—but what if the truth is far darker? In this explosive episode of History Rage, host Paul Bavill is joined by journalist, historian, and History Book Buffs co-host Antonia Senior to dismantle one of the most persistent legends of the Cold War. From Kim Philby to Guy Burgess, these men have often been portrayed as charming ideologues or romantic anti-establishment figures. Antonia Senior tears that narrative apart, revealing a group defined not by idealism, but by betrayal, violence, and catastrophic consequences. You’ll discover how these well-connected Cambridge graduates infiltrated the highest levels of British intelligence, why their crimes were overlooked for so long, and how their actions directly served Stalin’s brutal regime. This episode goes beyond the spy story—exposing the human cost, the institutional failures, and the dangerous myths that still persist today. If you think you know the Cambridge Five, think again. What We Cover: About the Guest – Antonia Senior: Antonia Senior is a journalist, historian, novelist, and co-host of the History Book Buffs podcast. With a background in intelligence history from Cambridge, she brings deep expertise and sharp analysis to Cold War espionage. Follow Antonia Senior: History Book Buffs Book Recommendation: Antonia’s latest book Stalin’s Apostles uncovers the true story of the Cambridge Five and their role in advancing Soviet strategy. 👉 Buy your copy from the History Rage Bookshop: https://uk.bookshop.org/a/10120/9781399727891 Listen Next: Follow & Support History Rage: 🔥 Love the show? Join the rage! Support the Podcast: https://www.patreon.com/historyrage Stay Connected: If you’re tired of history myths and want the truth—raw, unfiltered, and unapologetic—this is the episode for you. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Forgotten Restoration women reshaped power, culture, and scandal in spectacular ways. Step into a vibrant, myth-busting journey through the 17th century as cultural historian Breeze Barrington joins History Rage to tear down the idea that the only women worth remembering from the Restoration were Charles II’s mistresses. Drawing on her new book The Extraordinary Untold Lives of Women at the Restoration Court, Breeze exposes a world of creativity, politics, sisterhood, and survival that history has long pushed into the shadows. From the resilience of Mary of Modena, to the poetic brilliance of Anne Finch and Anne Killigrew, to the raw force-of-nature independence of Hortense Mancini, this episode pulls you straight into the hidden engines of Restoration court culture—where women shaped politics, art, learning, and identity in ways that changed Britain. You’ll hear: • The truth behind the so-called “tragic” Queen Mary of Modena—and her remarkable resilience. • How mistresses became only one slice of a much bigger story of women’s influence. • The thriving creative world of the Duchess of York’s court. • Why Restoration salons—especially Hortense Mancini’s—were radical, inclusive, and politically dangerous. • How Sarah Churchill’s early years at Maria’s court set the stage for her dominance under Queen Anne. • The explosive religious divide that shaped every personal and political decision of the age. Breeze brings the fury, the humour, and the research to show why these women deserve to be household names—far beyond scandal and stereotype. 📚 About Breeze Barrington Breeze Barrington is a cultural historian specialising in the 17th century. Book: The Extraordinary Untold Lives of Women at the Restoration Court – available from: https://uk.bookshop.org/a/10120/9781526663788 Website: https://breezebarrington.com Instagram: @breeze_barrington 🔗 Links & Further Reading Order Breeze’s book: The Extraordinary Untold Lives of Women at the Restoration Court Recommended episodes: • Ep 127 – Charlotte White on Barbara Villiers • Ep 80 – Linda Porter on Catherine of Braganza 🎧 Follow & Support History Rage Love the show? Help us grow! Follow History Rage: • Twitter (X): @HistoryRage • Instagram: @historyrage Support the Podcast: • Apple Podcasts: Go ad-free for £3/month—tap “Subscribe” • Patreon: Monthly livestream + extras for £5/month 👉 https://patreon.com/historyrage Share the show, tell a friend, and help unleash more historical rage into the world. Until next time—stay angry! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Cleopatra revealed: power, propaganda, and the woman behind the myth Most people think they know Cleopatra — the irresistible seductress who captivated Julius Caesar and Mark Antony. But what if that story is largely fiction, shaped by political spin and centuries of retelling? In this episode of History Rage, host Paul Bavill is joined by acclaimed historian and author Lucy Hughes-Hallett to dismantle the enduring myths surrounding Cleopatra VII — and reveal the formidable ruler hidden beneath the legend. Cleopatra: More Than a Seductress Cleopatra has long been reduced to a caricature — a femme fatale whose beauty brought powerful men to ruin. But as Lucy Hughes-Hallett explains, this version of Cleopatra owes more to Roman propaganda than historical reality. Much of what we “know” comes from sources loyal to Octavian (Augustus), who had every reason to discredit his rival Mark Antony. Portraying Cleopatra as a dangerous, manipulative temptress helped justify his victory — and reshape history. The truth? Cleopatra was a highly capable ruler who: The Politics Behind the Passion While her relationships with Caesar and Antony are often framed as epic romances, this episode explores their political importance. Cleopatra needed Roman military backing. Rome needed Egypt’s immense wealth. Their alliances were strategic — not just romantic. Even the famous “love stories” were later exaggerated to serve narratives about: Beauty, Myth and Misrepresentation Was Cleopatra truly the legendary beauty of popular culture? Ancient sources suggest otherwise. Coins from her reign depict a strong, distinctive profile — not the flawless icon of Hollywood. According to later accounts, her real strength lay in her intelligence, charisma, and political skill. Her story evolved over centuries: Each version reveals more about the storyteller than Cleopatra herself. About Lucy Hughes-Hallett Lucy Hughes-Hallett is an award-winning cultural historian and author, known for exploring how history and myth intertwine. 📚 Book: Cleopatra: Histories, Dreams and Distortions 👉 Buy via the History Rage Bookshop: https://uk.bookshop.org/a/10120/9780008781323 📲 Follow Lucy: 🎤 Live Event: Lucy will be speaking at the Gloucester History Festival on Saturday 18th April. 🎟️ Tickets: https://www.gloucesterhistoryfestival.co.uk/events/cleopatra-life-legend/ Follow & Support History Rage Love the show? Here’s how to stay connected and support the podcast: 🎧 Subscribe & Listen: Available on Apple Podcasts and all major platforms ⭐ Leave a review: Help more listeners discover History Rage 📣 Spread the word: Share the episode with fellow history fans 💥 Support on Patreon: Join the Rage community for just £5/month: 👉 https://www.patreon.com/historyrage 💡 Prefer ad-free listening? Subscribe via Apple Podcasts or Patreon. Related Episodes Cleopatra wasn’t just a seductress. She was a strategist, a ruler, and a master of image in an age defined by power struggles and propaganda. And as this episode proves — history is rarely what it first appears. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Horatio Nelson. Glorious victory. Britain “ruling the waves.” We've all heard the legend — but what if the real story of Trafalgar is far more complicated… and far less heroic… than we’ve been led to believe? In this episode of History Rage, three-time returning rager Dr Zack White tears apart centuries of patriotic mythmaking to reveal the uncomfortable truths behind Britain’s most celebrated naval battle. From propaganda to psychology, from invasion fears to Victorian moralising, Zack makes the case that Trafalgar’s fame owes more to storytelling than strategy. Discover why Napoleon had already abandoned his invasion plan before the battle… why Nelson himself was disappointed… why the French and Spanish navies were nowhere near as formidable as we imagine… and how Victorian historians rewrote the whole saga to craft a national legend of heroic sacrifice and divine destiny. This episode is a masterclass in myth-busting — bold, funny, furious and absolutely packed with historical insight. What You’ll Learn did NOTnation-building mythbefore About Our Guest: Dr Zack White Dr Zack White is a historian, broadcaster and host of The Napoleonic Wars Podcast, exploring every corner of the era from major battles to the strangest personalities. Follow & Contact Zack: 👉 Social media: @zwhitehistory 👉 Listen to The Napoleonic Wars Podcast: available on all major podcast apps Enjoying History Rage? If this episode fired you up, here’s how to stay angry (in the best possible way): Follow & Contact History Rage 📌 Twitter/X: @HistoryRage 📌 Instagram: @HistoryRage Support the Show 🔥 Apple Podcasts: ad-free listening for £3/month 🔥 Patreon: £5/month for live streams, Q&A invitations, and the legendary History Rage Mug Become a supporter at: patreon.com/historyrage Spread the Rage The best way to help us grow is simple: Tell someone else who loves history — or loves arguing about it. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The General Strike wasn’t revolutionary chaos—it was disciplined working-class resistance The 1926 General Strike is often painted as Britain’s near-miss with revolution—but the reality is far more revealing, and far more powerful. In this episode of History Rage, Paul Bavill is joined by historian Geoff Andrews to dismantle the myths and uncover the true story of working-class politics, solidarity, and identity in modern Britain. Far from a Bolshevik uprising, the General Strike was a highly organised, largely peaceful protest rooted in fairness, dignity, and community. Geoff explains how millions of workers mobilised not to overthrow the state, but to defend mining communities facing wage cuts and harsh conditions. The strike wasn’t the beginning of revolution—it arguably marked the end of it. This conversation dives deep into the ethos of the British labour movement: a tradition shaped not just by ideology, but by education, self-improvement, and collective values. From the Workers’ Educational Association to the rise of autodidact culture, the working classes were not passive victims—they were active architects of modern Britain. We also explore: Geoff Andrews challenges the idea that the left was ever truly revolutionary in Britain—and instead reveals a more complex, ethical, and democratic tradition that has been largely forgotten. About the Guest Geoff Andrews is a Senior Lecturer in Politics at The Open University and a leading historian of the British labour movement. His work focuses on the Labour Party, radical traditions, and working-class political culture. 📖 Book: Radicals: The Working Classes and the Making of Modern Britain 👉 Buy via the History Rage Bookshop: https://uk.bookshop.org/a/10120/9780300265897 🎤 Catch Geoff live at the Gloucester History Festival https://gloucesterhistoryfestival.co.uk Listen More from History Rage Follow & Support History Rage 🔥 Patreon (bonus content, livestreams & book giveaways): https://www.patreon.com/historyrage 🍏 Apple Subscriptions (ad-free listening): Available via Apple Podcasts 📩 Newsletter: https://historyrage.substack.com/ 🐦 Socials: Follow History Rage @historyrage across social media for updates, guest announcements, and more historical rants. If you enjoy the show, share it, review it, and bring someone else aboard the rage train. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Renaissance medicine wasn’t ignorant—its cures were stranger and smarter than you think. Step back into a world of blood, bones, bile, and groundbreaking innovation as Dr Alanna Skuse dismantles the biggest myths about Renaissance medicine. From battlefield surgeries and prosthetics, to midwives, quacks, toads, and the four humours, this episode reveals a medical world far more logical, experimental, and effective than popular history suggests. Discover why Renaissance surgeons weren’t reckless, why quacks sometimes worked wonders, and why patients were far from naïve. Packed with bizarre cures, pioneering breakthroughs, and the surprising origins of modern treatments, this is the ultimate guide to the misunderstood world of 16th and 17th-century healing. Whether you're into medical history, social history, early modern England, quackery, midwifery, apothecaries, or surgical innovation, this episode of History Rage delivers deep insight, dark humour, and a fresh perspective. What You’ll Learn in This Episode were not ignorant or cruelastonishing breakthroughstoads, spiders, and boiling puppies About Our Guest: Dr Alanna Skuse Dr Alanna Skuse is a literary scholar, medical historian, and author specialising in early modern disease, surgery, and the cultural history of the body. Her latest trade book uncovers the real experience of staying alive in Renaissance England. 📚 Buy Her Book The Surgeon, the Midwife, the Quack: How to Stay Alive in Renaissance England 👉 https://uk.bookshop.org/a/10120/9781836430773 📨 Contact / Follow Dr Alanna Skuse Website: https://www.dralannaskuse.co.uk/ Twitter / X: @alanna_skuse Instagram: @historian_alanna Explore More Medical History Episodes If this episode left you hungry for more medical history: Ep 161 – Karen Bloom GevirtzEp 56 – Louise Wilkie Follow & Support History Rage 🎙 Follow History Rage: Twitter/X: @HistoryRage Instagram: @historyragepod 💥 Support the Show & Get Bonus Content £3/month£5/monthHistory Rage Mugpatreon.com/historyrage ❤️ Best way to help? Tell a friend about the podcast and get them raging too. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jungle warfare that reshaped the war – and history forgot it Step into the dense, unforgiving jungles of Burma in WWII as Dr Richard Duckett and Duncan Gilmour uncover the astonishing, largely untold story of Lt. Col. Edgar Peacock – the man they argue was Britain’s greatest SOE commander. In this gripping episode of History Rage, we expose the scale, the bravery, and the strategic brilliance of Operation Character, the SOE mission whose impact rivals anything achieved in Europe… yet is almost never discussed. Episode Summary Hear how Peacock’s unique upbringing in the jungles of India and Burma forged a commander with unmatched environmental mastery; how SOE recruited thousands from 19 different ethnic groups; how Operation Character halted entire Japanese divisions; and why internal politics and secrecy kept these achievements out of mainstream military history for decades. This is military history at its rawest and most revealing. What You’ll Learn in This Episode true scaleEdgar Peacock12,000 Japanese casualtiesOperation CharacterSOE’s 723 womendeliberately denied recognition About the Guests Dr. Richard Duckett - Historian, researcher, and leading authority on SOE operations in the Far East. Website & SOE Burma Database: https://www.soeinburma.com Follow Richard on X/Twitter: @RichardDuckett Duncan Gilmour - Author, researcher, and grandson of Lt. Col. Edgar Peacock. Follow Duncan on X/Twitter: @DuncanGilm4133 Discover the full story of Edgar Peacock and SOE’s epic Burma operations in “Jungle Warrior: Britain’s Greatest SOE Commander” https://uk.bookshop.org/a/10120/9781916556843 This is the definitive account of the unseen heroes who helped turn the tide in the Far East. Further Listening not just France Support History Rage If you enjoy the show, spread the word—tell a friend, share the episode, or post online. Independent history podcasts grow because of you. Support History Rage directly: Apple Podcasts:ad-freePatreon:ad-freeHistory Rage mug https://patreon.com/historyrage Follow & Contact History Rage: Twitter/X:Instagram:Email: Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

When a respectable Victorian doctor became Britain’s most feared poisoner Victorian England believed murder belonged to the gutters. Then Dr William Palmer shattered that illusion. In this gripping episode of History Rage, award-winning journalist and author Stephen Bates exposes the dark truth behind the case of William Palmer — the Midlands doctor hanged in 1856 for poisoning his friend John Parsons Cook. Known as the “Rugeley Poisoner”, Palmer was a churchgoing professional, a gambler drowning in debt, and a man suspected of killing far more than the one murder for which he was convicted. His weapon? Newly available strychnine — a terrifying poison that left victims writhing in agony and Victorian society gripped by fear. What You’ll Discover in This Episode Alfred Swaine Taylor Stephen also explores parallels with later cases, including Herbert Rouse Armstrong, the subject of his book The Poisonous Solicitor, and reflects on how professional status has long influenced public perceptions of guilt. This is Victorian true crime at its most unsettling: insurance fraud, gambling debts, missing betting slips, botched inquests, and a public execution witnessed by 30,000 people. About Our Guest – Stephen Bates Stephen Bates is an award-winning journalist and former political correspondent. He is the author of: The Poisoner: The Life and Crimes of Victorian England’s Most Notorious Doctorhttps://uk.bookshop.org/a/10120/9781837730285The Poisonous Solicitorhttps://uk.bookshop.org/a/10120/9781785789601 The Poisoner was shortlisted for the prestigious Agatha Award for True Crime in the United States. 🔗 Website: https://stephenbateswriter.com Why This Case Still Matters Palmer’s trial raises urgent questions that still resonate: From Victorian strychnine to modern medical murderers, the uncomfortable truth remains: monsters don’t always look like monsters. Follow & Support History Rage If you enjoy fearless myth-busting history and passionate debate: 🔥 Join the Rage on Patreon Ad-free listening and livestream access for just £3 per month: 👉 https://www.patreon.com/historyrage 🍎 Prefer Apple? Subscribe directly via Apple Podcasts for ad-free episodes. 📱 Follow History Rage: 📩 Contact: historyragepod@gmail.com The simplest way to support the show? Share the episode and bring someone else aboard the Rage Train. Victorian crime wasn’t just about back alleys and desperation. Sometimes it wore a respectable face, attended church — and carried a vial of poison. Listen now and stay angry. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Britain’s upper class isn’t a relic of the past—it’s still here, still powerful, and still shaping the land beneath our feet. In this gripping episode, journalist and author Eleanor Doughty dismantles the pervasive myth that the aristocracy simply “disappeared” in the 20th century. Spoiler: they didn’t. They just got quieter. Eleanor takes us inside the private estates, inherited titles, and soft power that still define the modern British upper class. With first-hand insight from years spent interviewing dukes, earls, viscounts and secretive landowners, she exposes how much influence remains—and why we’ve failed to notice. What You’ll Learn in This Episode really About Our Guest: Eleanor Doughty Eleanor Doughty is a journalist and the author of 👉 Heirs and Graces: The History of the Modern British Aristocracy Her work explores the lives, estates, and enduring influence of Britain’s hereditary elite. If you’ve ever wondered what really goes on behind the big gates of the great houses, she’s the one to follow. Connect With Eleanor All Social Media:Buy the Book:Heirs and Graceshttps://uk.bookshop.org/a/10120/9781529153040 Looking for more high society rage? Try these: Episode 175 — Guy Walters on the Mitfords: https://pod.fo/e/2a19c6Episode 227 — Anne de Courcy on Coco Chanel : https://pod.fo/e/30f594 Support History Rage Love what we do? Help keep the podcast independent and ad-free. Become a Supporter Apple Podcasts:£3/monthPatreon:£3/month£5/monthHistory Rage mughttps://www.patreon.com/historyrageFollow & Contact Us Twitter / X:Instagram:Website:Email:contact info if applicable And truly—the best support you can give is telling a friend and sharing the rage. If You Enjoyed This Episode… Please leave a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating and a short review on Apple Podcasts. It helps the show reach more curious, angry historians just like you. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The vampire didn’t rise from Transylvania — it crawled out of the Balkans. Forget Count Dracula — before Stoker’s gothic horror came centuries of chilling folklore, blood-soaked superstition, and very real vampire panics. In this spine-tingling episode, travel writer and award-winning author Nick Jubber joins Paul Bavill to rage against the myth that vampires were born in Transylvania. From Serbian graveyards and Croatian legends to the age of Enlightenment and Hammer Horror, Nick traces how fear, politics, and imagination turned the undead into one of history’s most enduring monsters. Discover how the printing press helped spread vampire hysteria, how priests profited from graveyard rituals, and why monsters mirror humanity’s deepest desires and darkest fears. Whether you’re a folklore fan or just love a good supernatural tale, this episode will have you rethinking everything you thought you knew about the vampire myth. 🎙️ In This Episode 👤 Guest: Nick Jubber Nick Jubber is a writer, traveller and author of Monsterland, a journey through history, folklore, and our fascination with monsters. His work has taken him across continents exploring how stories shape societies. 📚 Buy his book: Monsterland: A Journey Around the World’s Dark Imagination https://uk.bookshop.org/a/10120/9781915590299 🌐 Website: www.nickjubber.com 📸 Instagram: @NickJubber 💥 Support History Rage If you’re loving History Rage — help keep the rage alive! Ad-free listening:https://www.patreon.com/historyrage All-access membership:Or simply tell a friend — the best way to support independent history podcasting. 🔗 Follow History Rage 📲 Twitter / X: @HistoryRage 📸 Instagram: @HistoryRage 🌍 Website: www.historyragepod.com 💬 Email: info@historyragepod.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A conqueror, a god, or just a man lost in myth? Alexander the Great: the name conjures images of conquest, charisma, and an empire that stretched from Greece to India. But how much of what we “know” is actually true? In this episode of History Rage, host Paul Bavill is joined by Dr Stephen Harrison, lecturer in Ancient History at Swansea University and author of Alexander: The Lives and Legacies, to rage against the myths that have defined Alexander for over two thousand years. Stephen dismantles the biggest misconceptions about the Macedonian conqueror — from his supposed divine ambitions and romantic legends to the illusion that historians can truly know what drove him. Together, they explore how unreliable ancient sources, political storytelling, and centuries of retelling have turned Alexander into a mythic figure rather than a historical one. This isn’t just another tale of military glory — it’s a journey through evidence, propaganda, and how history becomes legend. 🎧 Listen now to discover: About Dr Stephen Harrison Dr Stephen Harrison is a lecturer in Ancient History at Swansea University. His research explores the legacy of Alexander the Great and the politics of memory in the ancient world. 📘 Book: Alexander: The Lives and Legacies — available now from Bloomsbury. 👉 Order here: https://uk.bookshop.org/a/10120/9781789149975 📸 Follow Stephen on Instagram: @stephenharrisonhistory Support History Rage If you love what we do, help us keep raging against bad history! 🔥 Join our Patreon for ad-free listening and exclusive bonus episodes: patreon.com/historyrage 🍏 Subscribe on Apple Podcasts for ad-free listening (£3/month) 📣 Or simply tell a friend and spread the rage! Follow History Rage 📱 Twitter / X: @historyrage 📸 Instagram: @historyrage 📘 Facebook: facebook.com/historyrage 🌐 Website: historyrage.com 💥 History Rage – where historians demolish myths, one episode at a time. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Forget the katana myth — Japan’s samurai didn’t shun guns, they embraced them. 🔥 Were the samurai really noble warriors who turned their noses up at guns? This week on History Rage, host Paul Bavill sits down with historian, author, and YouTuber Matt Okuhara to demolish the myth of the “honourable warrior.” From matchlocks and martial arts to gun control laws in the 1600s, Matt reveals how Japan’s most famous warriors were some of the earliest adopters of firearms — and how Hollywood got it all wrong. Matt takes us through the real evolution of samurai warfare — from their rise as Japan’s ruling military elite to the fall of their class during the Meiji Restoration. Along the way, he explains why Tokugawa’s gun laws were among the world’s first, how firearms shaped the great battles of Nagashino and beyond, and why the “sword-only” image is pure cinematic fiction. If you’ve ever wondered what happened when the sword met the gun in feudal Japan, this is the history lesson you didn’t know you needed. 🎯 In this episode: did 📚 Guest Info – Matt Okuhara Matt is a British historian, author, interpreter, and YouTuber based in Japan. He’s a member of the Matsumoto Castle Gun Corps, one of Japan’s largest historical shooting teams. His work explores Japanese military history, samurai culture, and the global myths surrounding them. 👉 Find Matt Online: 🌐 Website: gunsamurai.com 📺 YouTube: @Gun_Samurai 📸 Instagram: @gun.samurai 🎧 Listen to Related Episodes: Ep 154 – India in World War IEp 213 – Hiroshima 🔥 Support History Rage Love what we do? Keep the rage alive! History Rage Mug 📲 Follow & Connect: Twitter / X: @historyrage Instagram: @historyrage Facebook: @historyrage Website: historyrage.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Discover how drugs shaped empires, creativity, and chaos throughout history. From ancient battlefields to Victorian medicine cabinets, this week’s episode of History Rage dives into the surprising — and often shocking — role of substance use across the ages. Host Paul Bavill is joined by historian and writer Sam Kelly (@humanhistoryondrugs) for a deep, thought-provoking journey through how drugs influenced the world’s most famous figures, ideas, and empires. Together, they uncover how Alexander the Great, Sigmund Freud, Queen Victoria, and even Pope Leo XIII all encountered (and indulged in) mind-altering substances — often with world-changing consequences. From Freud’s cocaine-fuelled psychology to the British Empire’s opium trade, from religious visions to artistic inspiration, Sam and Paul reveal the hidden highs and devastating lows that shaped history’s greatest moments. You’ll learn how drugs were once tools of power and creativity, but also instruments of destruction. And, as Sam reminds us, it’s never a simple story — these substances weren’t inherently good or bad, but they were always influential. If you’ve ever wondered what connects emperors, popes, poets, and programmers — or how LSD helped inspire modern computing — this is an episode you won’t want to miss. 🎧 Episode Highlights 📚 About the Guest – Sam Kelly Sam Kelly is a historian, writer, and host of Human History on Drugs, where he explores the complex and often surprising intersections between humanity and its intoxicants. His work brings wit, nuance, and compassion to a subject too often oversimplified. 👉 Follow Sam on Instagram: @human_history_on_drugs 🎙️ Check out the TikTok Channel: @human_history_on_durgs ________________________________________ 💬 Connect with History Rage 📱 Follow for more history myth-busting and expert rants: Instagram: @historyrage Twitter/X: @historyrage TikTok: @historyrage 📧 Contact Paul Bavill: historyragepod@gmail.com 💥 Support History Rage Love what we do? Help keep History Rage independent: 💰 Join us on Patreon for exclusive episodes, early access, and behind-the-scenes extras: 👉 https://www.patreon.com/historyrage 🎧 Subscribe on your favourite podcast app so you never miss an episode — and leave us a rating or review to help more listeners discover the truth behind the myths. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Anne Boleyn myths destroyed live at Katherine of Aragon Festival Recorded live at the Katherine of Aragon Festival, this special episode of History Rage sees host Paul Bavill joined on stage by Owen Emerson (Assistant Curator, Hever Castle) and Alfred Hawkins (Curator, Tower of London) to challenge the biggest myths surrounding Anne Boleyn, Henry VIII and Tudor England. Anne Boleyn remains one of the most mythologised figures in British history. Was she a ruthless schemer? A Protestant heroine? A tragic innocent? Owen Emerson argues that much of what we “know” about Anne was shaped by Victorian historians. Far from being a woman without substance, she was highly educated, shaped by Renaissance France, politically aware and deeply engaged in religious reform — though not the architect of the English Reformation. The panel explores: Catherine of AragonBreak with Rome Alfred Hawkins also tackles a major misconception: the idea that the Tower of London is simply a grim execution site. While Anne’s death looms large, the Tower was a royal palace, administrative hub, armoury, archive and community for centuries. Reducing it to a Tudor “theatre of death” ignores over 1,000 years of English history. This live discussion is packed with Tudor historiography, debates about historical “expertise”, the limits placed on queenship, and why applying modern labels to early modern women can distort more than it clarifies. If you’re interested in Anne Boleyn, Catherine of Aragon, Henry VIII, the English Reformation, Tudor queens, or the Tower of London, this episode restores complexity to one of the most dramatic periods in British history. Guest Details Owen Emerson Assistant Curator, Hever Castle Visit: https://www.hevercastle.co.uk Alfred Hawkins Curator, Tower of London Visit: https://www.hrp.org.uk/tower-of-london Follow & Support History Rage 🌐 Website: https://www.historyrage.com 📩 Email: historyragepod@gmail.com 📱 Follow on social media: @HistoryRage 🎧 Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify and all major platforms ⭐ Leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts to help others discover the show ❤️ Support via Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/historyrage Recorded live at the Katherine of Aragon Festival. Stay angry. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Desert Fox legend endures, but how much of it is true? In this landmark 200th episode of History Rage, host Paul Bavill is joined once again by military historian and author Peter Caddick Adams to dismantle the enduring myths surrounding one of WWII’s most famous — and most misunderstood — figures: Field Marshal Erwin Rommel, the Desert Fox. Rommel has long been painted as the daring genius of North Africa and even as a “good German” who stood against Hitler. But how much of that is reality, and how much is myth-making? Paul and Peter dig deep into the legend, the propaganda, and the politics that shaped Rommel’s reputation during the war — and long after it. The Strategic Genius? Rommel’s early victories in North Africa cemented his reputation, but Peter reveals the other side: his lack of staff training, his tendency to lead like a battalion commander even at army level, and how much his success relied on captured British equipment, Allied weakness, and signals intelligence. The Propaganda Machine Rommel wasn’t just lucky; he was a propaganda dream. From his days as Hitler’s bodyguard in Poland to his carefully staged desert photographs, he cultivated the Desert Fox image with Nazi backing. Politics and the July Plot Did Rommel oppose Hitler? Peter explains why there’s no evidence he joined the July 20th plot — a post-war myth shaped by biography and politics. The Post-War Reinvention After 1945, Rommel was recast as the “clean Wehrmacht” figure NATO needed. Churchill himself called him “a daring and skilful opponent,” sealing the legend. Packed with anecdotes — from a dachshund in the classroom, to Coronation Street’s “Rommel the cat” — this milestone episode strips away the myth to reveal the complex man behind the Desert Fox. 🎧 Celebrate 200 episodes of History Rage with a myth-busting deep dive into Rommel’s real legacy. Guest Information: Follow Peter Caddick Adams on X: @militaryhistori and Instagram: @pcaddickadams Support History Rage: Ad-free listening and exclusive content for just £3/month on Apple or Patreon. For £5/month, unlock even more perks at patreon.com/historyrage. Contact History Rage: 📧 Email: historyrage@gmail.com 🐦 Twitter/X: @HistoryRage 📸 Instagram: @HistoryRage 🌐 Website: www.historyrage.com 👉 Help us challenge the myths of history — share this episode and spread the rage! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Why history lessons drain passion – and how we can fix it History should ignite curiosity, creativity and connection. Instead, too often, it does the opposite. In this powerful History Rage Live episode, host Paul Bavill is joined by medievalist, broadcaster and historian Professor Janina Ramirez to rage against the way history is taught – and how rigid curricula, “great man” narratives and siloed subjects are snuffing out a lifelong love of the past. Drawing on her own personal journey, Janina explains how school history almost drove her away from the subject she loved, why women and ordinary people remain marginalised in classrooms, and how our education system has all but killed the polymath. From medieval walls to modern smartphones, she makes a passionate case for interdisciplinary history that reflects real human lives – not just battles, kings and dates. Along the way, the conversation ranges widely: • Why women’s history is still treated as optional or tokenistic • How figures like Christine de Pizan and Hildegard of Bingen challenge everything we think we know about the past • Why timelines matter – but rigid periodisation often doesn’t • How digital access could create a new generation of polymaths • And why rewriting history isn’t about politics, but accuracy This episode is essential listening for teachers, students, parents, historians and anyone who’s ever felt bored by history lessons – and wondered why. If you’ve ever loved history but felt pushed away by how it’s taught, this rage is for you. About the guest: Professor Janina Ramirez Professor Janina Ramirez is a medievalist, art historian and broadcaster, and President (for life) of the Gloucester History Festival. She is renowned for bringing interdisciplinary, people-centred history to wide audiences through books, television and public scholarship. Books 📘 Legenda: The Real Women Behind the Myths That Shaped Europe Available here: https://uk.bookshop.org/a/10120/9780753560419 Follow & contact Janina Ramirez @drjaninaramirezhttps://www.gloucesterhistoryfestival.co.uk More History Rage with Janina Ramirez 🎧 Episode 82 – Medieval women written out of history: https://pod.fo/e/1ef944 🎧 Episode 147 – Life inside a medieval convent: https://pod.fo/e/269598 About History Rage History Rage is the podcast where historians vent their frustrations and dismantle the myths we were taught at school. Hosted by Paul Bavill, each episode challenges comfortable narratives and puts passion back into the past. Follow History Rage @HistoryRagehttps://www.historyrage.com Support the podcast ❤️ Join Patreon for live streams and exclusive content: 👉 https://www.patreon.com/historyrage 🎧 Listen ad-free on Apple Podcasts for just £3 per month via Apple Subscriptions ⭐ And if you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review or recommend History Rage to a friend – it really helps the podcast grow. Stay angry. History depends on it. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Why are we still obsessed with the Tudors? In this lively episode of History Rage, host Paul Bavill is joined by the brilliant comedian and World War II historian Al Murray to tackle the relentless fixation on the Tudor dynasty. With a blend of humour and historical insight, Al argues that it’s high time we move beyond the soap opera of Henry VIII and his six wives to explore the far more transformative events of the 17th century — namely, the English Civil War. Join us as we delve into: - Tudor Fatigue: Al’s candid thoughts on why the Tudors have overstayed their welcome in popular history. - The English Civil War: Discover why Al believes this tumultuous period is far more relevant and interesting than the Tudor saga. - Revolutionary Ideas: How the Civil War set the stage for modern British governance and the ongoing struggle between power and the people. - Historical Narratives: The importance of perspective in history and how personal biases shape our understanding of the past. - Fresh Approaches: Al shares insights from his writing, including how to approach historical events without the burden of hindsight. With Al's unique blend of comedy and historical analysis, this episode is a call to arms for history enthusiasts to broaden their horizons and explore the rich tapestry of our past beyond the Tudors. Get ready for a passionate discussion that challenges the status quo of historical storytelling! 📚 Connect with Al Murray Check out his latest book Victory 45 co-authored with James Holland: https://uk.bookshop.org/a/10120/9781472146360 Follow Al on social media: Instagram/Threads: @thealmurray | Twitter/Bluesky: @almurray ❤️ If you’re enjoying this episode, support the show on Patreon for exclusive content, early access, and the iconic History Rage mug. Subscribe at www.patreon.com/historyrage 🔗 Follow History Rage on Social Media: Twitter: @HistoryRage Instagram: @historyrage Facebook: History Rage Join us for a spirited debate that’s sure to ignite your passion for history and challenge your views on what truly matters in our past! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

James I wasn’t weak, stupid, or slobbering — history got lazy James I has gone down in history as a disappointment, a fool, a drunken slob — a king wedged awkwardly between Elizabeth I and Charles I and remembered largely for what others did to him. But what if almost everything you think you know about James I is wrong? Historian and author Gareth Russell returns for a record-breaking fifth appearance to dismantle the enduring caricature of James I of England and VI of Scotland. From supposed physical deformities and “slobbering” table manners to accusations of cowardice, weakness, and religious extremism, Gareth takes aim at centuries of lazy myth-making and historical snobbery. Drawing directly on contemporary sources, Gareth explains why the image of James as a grotesque failure tells us far more about xenophobia, propaganda, and bad history than it does about the man himself. This episode explores: “unpopular in-between king”weptDaemonologieKing James Bible This is not an exercise in rehabilitation or hero-worship. As Gareth makes clear, James I was deeply flawed — but he was also intelligent, scholarly, peace-driven, and far more effective than history likes to admit. If you’ve ever repeated the myths, laughed at the caricature, or dismissed James I outright — this episode is your invitation to rage at bad history and demand better. Live Appearance Announcement 📍 Gareth Russell is speaking at the Katharine of Aragon Festival 🗓 31 January & 1 February 🎟 In-person tickets and digital passes available here: https://peterborough-cathedral.org.uk/about/history/katharine-of-aragon/kofa_26/ Gareth’s festival talk explores the powerful and emotionally complex relationship between James I and his mother, Mary Queen of Scots, whose remains were once held at Peterborough Cathedral. About the Guest: Gareth Russell Gareth Russell is a historian, broadcaster, and bestselling author specialising in early modern Britain and Europe. Books: Queen James: The Life and Loves of James I https://uk.bookshop.org/a/10120/9780008660857The Palace: 500 Years of History at Hampton Court https://uk.bookshop.org/a/10120/9780008437015Podcast: Single Malt History with Gareth Russell: https://open.spotify.com/show/1WESbOrpImFKKF55tfYYYjFollow Gareth Russell: https://www.garethrussell.co.uk About History Rage History Rage is the podcast where professional historians come armed with evidence — and fury — to tear down historical myths, misinformation, and lazy storytelling. Hosted by Paul Bavill, History Rage challenges everything you think you know about the past and demands better standards from popular history. Follow History Rage: Support the podcast: History Rage is proudly independent. You can support the show, access bonus content, and help keep historians raging by backing the podcast on Patreon. www.patreon.com/historyrage If you care about truth, nuance, and calling nonsense what it is — this one’s for you. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Templars weren’t the greatest, the longest-lasting, or even the most useful of the medieval military orders. ⚔️ Forget the Bloody Templars. It's Time for the Knights Hospitaller. In this fiery episode of History Rage, host Paul Bavill is joined by historian Rory MacClellan (author of Warrior Monks: Politics and Power in Mediaeval Britain) to tear down the Templar myth and put the spotlight where it belongs—on the far more fascinating Knights Hospitaller. 🔥 The Hospitallers: Beyond the Crusades Rory rages against the obsession with Templars in films, books, and conspiracy theories. He argues the Hospitallers were more interesting and important, with a much longer history, existing as an active military force for almost 600 years. Unlike their rivals, the Hospitallers had a dual purpose: they founded hospitals to care for pilgrims and the sick, a function they maintained throughout their history, from Jerusalem to Rhodes to Malta. After losing the Holy Land in 1291, they successfully reinvented themselves as a naval power, while the Templars failed to adapt and were wiped out. 🏰 Politics, Intrigue, and Beheadings Far from being mere crusaders, the Hospitallers were significant landowners and powerbrokers across Europe, a role that drew them into local politics. Rory shares gripping stories of their deep entanglement in royal courts, civil conflicts, and even assassination plots. Key examples include: Prior Robert Hales: Prior John Langstrother: 💡 Legacy That Outlived the Hype So why did the Hospitallers survive when the Templars burned? They acquired their own independent base on Rhodes, which was far away from rulers like the King of France who went after the Templars. They also had a reputation for charity and ran a big network of hospitals, a function the Templars did not have. The Hospitallers' legacy as both warriors and caregivers kept them relevant for 600 years. Today, their legacy is still alive—long after the Templars vanished into myth. 📚 Guest Info Find more from Rory MacClellan in Warrior Monks: Politics and Power in Mediaeval Britain. Support independent bookshops and authors through this link : https://uk.bookshop.org/a/10120/9781803996776 Follow Rory on X: @RFMacLellan ❤️ Support History Rage Enjoying the rage? Back us on Patreon or Apple for early episodes, bonus content, and the coveted History Rage mug. 👉 www.patreon.com/historyrage 🔗 Follow History Rage Twitter: @historyrage Facebook: History Rage Instagram: @historyrage Stay angry. Stay curious. And never stop questioning the myths. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.