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:
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.
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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.
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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.
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