History Rage

• 252. Thomas More did not die for the Pope with Joanne Paul

  This week on History Rage, host Paul Bavill welcomes Tudor historian and author Dr. Joanne Paul to dissect the life and legacy of the enigmatic Thomas More. As they navigate the treacherous waters of Tudor England, they delve into the myths and misconceptions surrounding this controversial figure, aiming to separate fact from fiction. Episode Highlights:- The Man Behind the Myths: Joanne shares her journey into the world of Thomas More, shedding light on his complex character and the historical context that shaped him.- The Pope and the People: Discover the truth behind the popular belief that More died in defence of the Pope, as Joanne reveals his nuanced views on authority and governance.- Martyr or Tyrant?: The discussion explores the reasons behind More's execution, questioning whether it was a matter of conscience or political necessity.- Family Man: Joanne highlights More's role as a devoted family man, challenging the notion that his personal life was overshadowed by his political ambitions.- Ideological Legacy: The episode examines how various ideologies have co-opted More’s image, from communism to conservatism, and what this says about our interpretations of history.- Debunking the Torture Chamber: Joanne confronts the myth that More had a torture chamber, providing a more accurate portrayal of his actions and beliefs regarding heretics.Join us for a riveting conversation that not only unravels the complexities of Thomas More but also prompts us to reflect on the nature of power, authority, and individual conscience in turbulent times. Dr. Joanne Paul's new book, Thomas More: A Life and Death in Tudor England, is available now, and you can find a link to purchase it in the show notes.Buy the Book: https://uk.bookshop.org/a/10120/9780008370740 Connect with Dr. Joanne Paul:- Follow her on X: @joanne_paul_- Follow her on Instagram: @drjoannepaul Support History Rage:If you’re enjoying the show, consider joining the 'Angry Mob' on Patreon at patreon.com/historyrage for exclusive content, early access, and the iconic History Rage mug.Follow the Rage:- Twitter: @HistoryRage- Instagram: @historyrage Stay curious, stay passionate, and most importantly, stay angry! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  --------  

  43:19

  --------

  43:19
• 251. It’s Not All SOE and France! The Untold Story of Belgian Spies with Helen Fry

  In this gripping episode of History Rage, host Paul Bavill welcomes back acclaimed historian Dr Helen Fry to uncover the hidden world of Belgium’s wartime intelligence networks — the unsung heroes of espionage who risked everything to fight from behind enemy lines. Drawing from her new book The White Lady, Helen reveals how Belgian agents shaped the course of both World Wars, often at extraordinary personal cost.Far from the glamorous myths of spies in tuxedos and coded martinis, this conversation exposes the real stories of courage, sacrifice, and moral complexity. You’ll hear how intelligence flowed from occupied Belgium to Britain, how messages were smuggled in the most ingenious ways, and why Belgium’s location made it one of the most important hubs of wartime espionage.Helen also explores the vital – and too often overlooked – role of women in intelligence, from couriers and code-runners to key figures in networks like the White Lady. These were ordinary citizens performing extraordinary acts of defiance, held together by trust, loyalty, and an unwavering sense of duty.If you think WWII espionage was all about the SOE and France, think again. This episode pulls back the curtain on a hidden front of the intelligence war, filled with daring operations, hidden heroes, and a vast archive of untold stories waiting to be rediscovered.🎧 Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a fan of true espionage, or simply love hearing history’s myths get blown apart — this is one you can’t miss.📚 Connect with Helen: • Follow her on Instagram: @drhelenfry • Find her on X (Twitter): @drhelenfry • Purchase her book: The White Lady – The Story of Two Key British Secret Service Networks Behind German Lines at Bookshop.org🔥 Support History Rage for ad-free episodes and exclusive content: • Subscribe for just £3/month on Apple or Patreon • Unlock additional perks for £5/month: patreon.com/historyrage • Spread the word and bring more listeners into the Rage! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  --------  

  1:03:00

  --------

  1:03:00
• 250. Eastern Europe: Not Just Russia’s Shadow with Francis Young

  In this enlightening episode of History Rage, host Paul Bavill is joined by historian and author Dr. Francis Young to delve into the often overlooked history of Eastern Europe. Together, they challenge the dominant narratives surrounding the region, particularly the misconceptions that arise from a focus solely on the 20th century and the pervasive influence of Russian perspectives.Episode Highlights:- Uncovering the Past: Dr. Young discusses his latest project, Silence of the Gods, which aims to excavate the religious histories of Eastern Europe, highlighting the unique traditions of its lesser-known pagan peoples.- The Misunderstood Region: The conversation critiques the tendency to ignore Eastern Europe's rich pre-20th century history and the impact of this historical short-sightedness on contemporary understanding.- The Role of Kyivan Rus: Explore the significance of Kyivan Rus and its legacy in shaping modern Ukrainian identity, as well as the historical contestation between Ukraine and Russia.- The Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth: Discover the complexities of this once-great state, its unique political structure, and its cultural diversity, which included a multitude of religions and languages.- National Identity and Resistance: Dr. Young highlights the resilience of national identities in Eastern Europe, particularly in Poland and Lithuania, amidst the pressures of imperial powers.- Recommendations for Further Reading: Gain insights into essential literature that expands on the themes discussed, including works by Robert Frost and Richard Butterwick Pavlikovsky.Join us for a thought-provoking discussion that not only sheds light on the historical significance of Eastern Europe but also encourages a deeper appreciation for its diverse cultures and identities. Dr. Young's book, Silence of the Gods, is set to be released in June, and you can find a link to pre-order it in the show notes.Connect with Dr. Francis Young:- Follow him on X: @rfrancisyoungSupport History Rage:If you’re enjoying this episode, consider joining the 'Angry Mob' on Patreon at patreon.com/historyrage for exclusive content, early access, and the coveted History Rage mug.Follow the Rage:- Twitter: @HistoryRage- Instagram: @historyrageStay curious, stay passionate, and most importantly, stay angry! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  --------  

  47:55

  --------

  47:55
• 249. Don’t Overlook the RAF’s Photo Reconnaissance Unit: The Eyes That Won WWII with Dave Robertson and Tony Hoskins of For You The War Is Over – IWM Podcast LIVE

  Discover the untold story of the RAF heroes who photographed victory.What if the intelligence that won World War II didn’t come from Bletchley Park — but from the skies above? In this gripping episode of History Rage, host Paul Bavill is joined by historians and podcasters Dave Robertson and Tony Hoskins from For You The War Is Over to uncover the hidden story of the RAF’s Photographic Reconnaissance Unit (PRU) — the unarmed pilots who risked everything to capture the images that shaped Allied strategy and victory.These daring aviators, flying stripped-down Spitfires and Mosquitos, gathered over 26 million photographs during the war — producing 80% of all Allied intelligence. But their story remains one of WWII’s least recognised triumphs.The Untold Legacy of Aerial IntelligenceEnigma cracked codes, but aerial reconnaissance won battles. Dave and Tony reveal how the PRU began as a handful of maverick pilots before evolving into a highly specialised global intelligence unit that transformed modern warfare. They share the staggering dangers these pilots faced — flying alone, unarmed, and often without armour — at freezing altitudes to capture photos over heavily defended targets.From the development of stereography and 3D imaging that made D-Day possible, to the astonishing innovation behind Sandy Gunn’s Spitfire, the episode brings to life the courage, technology, and sacrifice of those who turned cameras into weapons of war.You’ll also hear how today’s historians and engineers are preserving this legacy — including the restoration of Sandy Gunn’s Spitfire (AA810) and the creation of a new memorial in London to honour PRU crews.Featuring Guests:🎙️ Dave Robertson & Tony Hoskins Hosts of For You The War Is Over — the hit WWII podcast exploring POW escapes and forgotten wartime stories. 👉 Listen to their show here: For You The War Is Over Podcast 📘 Learn more about their projects and the Spitfire restoration at www.spitfireaa810.co.ukJoin Us Live at the Imperial War Museum Podcast Festival 🎤Both History Rage and For You The War Is Over will be appearing LIVE at the Imperial War Museum Podcast Live Festival on 1st November. 🎟️ Get your tickets now → https://www.iwm.org.uk/events/podcast-liveFollow and Support History Rage🔥 Never miss an episode!🎧 Listen on all platforms: Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon, or wherever you get your shows.🐦 Follow on X/Twitter: @HistoryRagePod📸 Instagram: @HistoryRage📘 Facebook: facebook.com/HistoryRage💥 Support History Rage and enjoy ad-free episodes, early access, and exclusive bonus content: 👉 www.patreon.com/historyrageFor press, collaborations, or speaking enquiries: 📩 Email: [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  --------  

  56:22

  --------

  56:22
• 248. The Renaissance Rebuked: Myths, Misconceptions, and Machiavelli with Ada Palmer

  In this thought-provoking episode of History Rage, host Paul Bavill engages with historian and author Ada Palmer, whose book Inventing the Renaissance challenges the romanticised narratives surrounding this revered period in Western history. Together, they dissect the myths of golden and dark ages, revealing the complexities and realities that often go unnoticed.The Myth of the Renaissance:Golden Ages and Dark Ages: Ada argues against the simplistic notions of history being divided into periods of prosperity and decline, exposing the propagandistic origins of these concepts.Historical Narratives: Discover how Renaissance thinkers like Petrarch and Machiavelli grappled with their tumultuous reality, questioning the very nature of progress and the cyclical view of history.Art and Power:Dependency on Wealth: Explore how the creation of iconic art and literature was intrinsically linked to the power dynamics of the time, with artists often reliant on the very tyrants they critiqued.The Dark Side of Patronage: Ada reveals the often-ignored darker aspects of artistic patronage, including the violent political upheavals that shaped the environment in which these masterpieces were created.Inquisition and Control:Plurality of Inquisitions: The discussion delves into the various local inquisitions that operated independently, often co-opted by local powers for their own ends, challenging the singular narrative of the Inquisition.Corruption and Morality: Ada highlights the complex relationship between the Church and the populace, illustrating how corruption was often accepted as part of the societal fabric.Guest Information:Buy Ada's book: Inventing the Renaissance: Myths of a Golden AgeFollow Ada on X: @Adapalmer and on Bluesky: @adapalmer.bskysocial If you’re inspired by this episode, consider joining the 'Angry Mob' on Patreon at patreon.com/historyrage for exclusive content, early access, and the iconic History Rage mug.Follow the Rage:- Twitter: @HistoryRage- Paul on Twitter: @PaulBavillFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/HistoryRageInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/historyrageStay curious, stay passionate, and most importantly, stay angry! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  --------  

  55:04

  --------

  55:04

More Comedy podcasts

Trending Comedy podcasts

About History Rage