Share
History Rage
Decoding Deceptions: Unmasking Bletchley's Mythical Two-Year Triumph with David Kenyon
In this electrifying instalment of History Rage, we crack open the vault of wartime secrets to confront the enduring myths of Bletchley Park's role in World War II. Dr. David Kenyan, esteemed historian and Bletchley Park insider, joins us to dismantle the widely propagated belief that the codebreakers' work shortened the war by two years. Prepare for a historical upheaval as we decode the truth behind this controversial claim.
Unraveling the Enigma of Bletchley's Impact:
- Dr. Kenyan challenges the entrenched narrative, questioning the validity of the "two-year" assertion and exploring alternative outcomes of the war.
The Real Heroes Behind the Machines:
- Discover the unsung masterminds of Bletchley Park, from the mathematicians who conceived groundbreaking methods to the engineers who turned theory into reality.
The Strategic Mastery of Codebreaking:
- Dive into the strategic prowess of Bletchley's intelligence, which provided the Allies with a comprehensive understanding of Axis forces, shaping pivotal decisions from D-Day to the broader war effort.
The Coventry Conundrum:
- Dr. Kenyan debunks the persistent myth that Coventry was sacrificed to protect Ultra's secrecy, revealing the complexities of wartime intelligence.
A Salute to the Overlooked:
- We spotlight the vital contributions of air section and their meticulous unraveling of Luftwaffe communications, a triumph of intellect that rarely receives its due.
Join us as we navigate the intricate web of wartime intelligence, honor the true architects of Bletchley's success, and give voice to the untold stories that shaped the course of history. For a deeper dive into Dr. Kenyan's research, grab a copy of his illuminating books on Bletchley Park's influence on D-Day and the Arctic convoys from the History Rage Bookshop.
Visit Bletchley Park at https://bletchleypark.org.uk/
Don't let myths cloud your understanding of history. Follow History Rage on Twitter @HistoryRage and share your historical pet peeves using the hashtag #HistoryRage. And if you're craving more rage-fueled revelations, join our 'Angry Mob' on Patreon for exclusive perks, including early episode access and the esteemed History Rage mug.
More episodes
View all episodes
BOOK LAUNCH SPECIAL: Women, Witchcraft, and the War on Healers with Karen Bloom Gevirtz
54:15|Welcome to an electrifying episode of History Rage Live, where we delve into the murky waters of medical history with esteemed guest Karen Bloom Gewirtz. A scholar of early British literature and historian of science, Karen joins host Paul Bavill to challenge the myths surrounding women healers and their alleged ties to witchcraft. Prepare for a riveting exploration of how domestic medicine evolved into a commodified industry, and why the narrative of the witch healer is a misguided myth.Unveiling the Myth:Karen passionately debunks the myth that women healers were frequently accused of witchcraft and executed, arguing that such beliefs undermine the historical role of women in medicine.Discover how practical necessity made women indispensable in early modern communities, providing essential healthcare where professional medical services were scarce.Women in Medicine:Explore the integral role of women in 17th-century medicine, where household remedies and recipe books were the cornerstone of healthcare.Learn about the transition from domestic to professional medicine and the gender dynamics that influenced this shift.The Evolution of Medical Practices:Examine the use of botanicals in historical remedies and their surprising relevance in modern medicine.Understand how the commodification of medicine led to a cultural shift, undermining traditional female roles in healthcare.Quackery and Professional Medicine:Uncover the bizarre and often dangerous practices of professional medicine, from viper wine to laudanum.Reflect on the societal impacts of quack medicine and the enduring myths that continue to shape perceptions of historical medical practices.Join us for a thought-provoking journey through the history of medicine, where Karen Bloom Gewirtz brings her expertise to dismantle myths and reveal the hidden history of women healers. For more insights, be sure to grab a copy of "The Apothecary's Wife" from the History Rage bookshop.Follow History Rage on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook for more updates. Support us on Patreon for exclusive content and the chance to join our 'Angry Mob'. Stay informed, stay passionate, and let the rage for historical truth burn on!Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.5. The Vietnam War Unveiled: The Messy Truth with Dr. Robert Thompson
01:01:12||Season 14, Ep. 5In this fiery episode of History Rage, we delve into the most contentious conflict in American history: the Vietnam War. Host Paul Bavill is joined by Dr. Robert Thompson, historian, documentary maker, and author of "Clear, Hold and Destroy," to dismantle the myths surrounding this divisive war.Unmasking the Myths:- Dr. Thompson challenges the simplistic good vs. evil narrative often associated with the Vietnam War.- We explore the complexities of the conflict, including the roles of the United States, South Vietnam, and North Vietnam.The Roots of Conflict:- Discover how America initially got involved in Vietnam, starting from its support of French Indochina to its direct military engagement.- Dr. Thompson explains the geopolitical stakes and the domino theory that drove U.S. involvement.South Vietnam's Struggles:- Examine the internal challenges faced by the South Vietnamese government, including corruption and ineffective leadership.- Understand the impact of these issues on the broader war effort.The Role of ARVN:- Debunking the myth that the Army of the Republic of Vietnam (ARVN) was passive and ineffective.- Highlighting key battles and contributions of ARVN troops.American Strategy and Public Opinion:- A look at the U.S. military strategy and the often misunderstood objectives of battles like Khe Sanh and Hamburger Hill.- The impact of media coverage and public opinion on the war effort.My Lai and War Crimes:- Addressing the infamous My Lai Massacre and its repercussions on American and global perceptions of the war.- Dr. Thompson discusses the complexities of war crimes and the U.S. military's response.Conclusion:- Reflecting on the enduring legacy of the Vietnam War and the importance of understanding its complexities.- Dr. Thompson urges listeners to look beyond simplistic narratives and appreciate the multifaceted nature of historical events.For further insights, grab a copy of Dr. Robert Thompson's "Clear, Hold and Destroy" from The History Rage Bookshop and follow him on Twitter @DrRobThompson.Don't forget to share your thoughts on Twitter @HistoryRage using the hashtag #HistoryRage. Join our 'Angry Mob' on Patreon for exclusive perks, including early episode access and the esteemed History Rage mug, at patreon.com/historyrage.Follow History Rage on Social MediaFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/HistoryRageTwitter: https://twitter.com/HistoryRageInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/historyrage/Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/historyrage.bsky.socialStay Angry, Stay Informed - History Rage4. Pre-Napoleonic Conflicts: The French Wars Exposed with Rory Butcher
51:05||Season 14, Ep. 4This week we're delving into the often-overlooked intricacies of the Napoleonic Wars. Joining us is Rory Butcher, a PhD candidate from Leeds University, whose research on the fencible regiments sheds new light on Britain's military history.Introduction to Rory Butcher:- Rory shares his academic journey, from his fascination with muskets to his current PhD research at Leeds University.- Discover how a conversation with his master's supervisor led Rory to explore the largely uncharted territory of the fencible regiments.Debunking Napoleonic Myths:- Rory's rage centres on the misconception that the Napoleonic Wars are solely defined by the Peninsula and Waterloo campaigns.- He argues for the broader term "French Wars" to encapsulate the 25-year period of conflict from 1792 to 1815.The French Wars Explained:- An in-depth look at the seven coalitions and the global nature of the French Wars, involving multiple European powers and theatres of conflict.- Rory highlights Britain's role beyond just fighting the French, including engagements in North America, the Caribbean, and India.Britain's Domestic Front:- Explore the internal challenges Britain faced, from political opposition and suspended civil liberties to naval mutinies and the threat of Irish rebellion.- Learn about the social and economic impacts of the war on British society, including the role of the militia and the fear of invasion.The Role of the Fencibles:- Rory introduces the fencible regiments, tracing their origins from the aftermath of Culloden to their significant contribution during the French Wars.- Understand how these regiments, initially raised from Scottish clans, evolved to play a crucial role in Britain's military strategy.Conclusion and Final Thoughts:- Rory urges a re-evaluation of the Napoleonic period, advocating for a more nuanced understanding that goes beyond the simplistic narrative of Britain's victory at Waterloo.- He calls for the period to be seen as part of a broader, complex web of global conflicts and alliances.Follow Rory on Twitter @RMBHistory for updates on his research and insights into the fascinating world of the fencible regiments.You can follow History Rage on Twitter @HistoryRage or Paul individually @PaulBavill You can join our 'Angry Mob' on Patreon as well. £5 per month gets you episodes 3 months early, the invite to choose questions, entry into our prize draws and the coveted History Rage mug. Subscribe at www.patreon.com/historyrageFollow History Rage on Social MediaFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/HistoryRageTwitter: https://twitter.com/HistoryRageInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/historyrage/Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/historyrage.bsky.socialStay Angry, Stay InformedBook Launch Special: Behind Enemy Lines: The Real Faces of the SAS with Damien Lewis
45:00|Prepare for an adrenaline-fueled journey into the heart of wartime myths as History Rage Live takes you behind enemy lines with the indomitable Damien Lewis. In this electrifying episode, host Paul Bavill is joined by the historian, broadcaster, and war reporter to dismantle the myths surrounding the legendary SAS. With over a decade of experience and a plethora of books on the subject, Damien Lewis brings unparalleled insight into the true nature of these elite warriors. The Man Behind the Myths:- Damien Lewis shares his harrowing experiences as a war reporter, from being shot at to surviving tropical diseases, and how these adventures led him to become a prolific author and historian.- Discover the origins of his latest book, "SAS: Daggers Drawn," and how it fits into a trilogy that unveils the untold stories of the SAS during World War II. Debunking the Supermen:- Damien passionately debunks the stereotype of the SAS as six-foot-four muscle-bound supermen, revealing the true diversity and psychological resilience that defines these soldiers.- Hear gripping tales of SAS soldiers like Des Powell, who defied physical expectations to pass the gruelling selection process twice. The Birth of the SAS:- Explore the fascinating history of the SAS's formation during World War II, from their initial operations in North Africa to their pivotal role in the European theatre.- Learn about the innovative selection process developed by Paddy Main, which emphasised self-discipline and psychological endurance over physical prowess. Unthinkable Operations:- Dive into the incredible true story of a daring train rescue mission in Italy, where the SAS hijacked a train to liberate concentration camp inmates, defying all odds and conventional military tactics. Legends of the SAS:- Gain insight into the complex characters of Paddy Mayne and David Stirling, their leadership styles, and their contributions to the SAS's enduring legacy.- Address the controversies and criticisms surrounding these figures, and appreciate their pivotal roles in shaping the regiment. Join us as Damien Lewis brings history alive with his vivid storytelling and profound knowledge of the SAS. For more thrilling insights, follow Damian on Twitter @authordlewis and grab a copy of "SAS: Daggers Drawn" along with his other riveting books. To catch up on all the rage from bygone times, visit www.historyrage.com. If you want to get in touch with History Rage, email historyragepod@gmail.com. Follow History Rage on Social MediaFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/HistoryRageTwitter: https://twitter.com/HistoryRageInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/historyrage/Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/historyrage.bsky.social Stay informed, stay passionate, and let the rage for historical truth burn on!3. Scrubbing the Past: Medieval Cleanliness Exposed with Jo Hedwig Teeuwisse
49:51||Season 14, Ep. 3Welcome to another sizzling episode of History Rage, the podcast where historians let off steam and dismantle myths and misconceptions. Today, we plunge into the world of medieval hygiene with our guest, historian, and author of "Fake History: 101 Things That Never Happened," Jo Hedwig Teeuwisse. Jo joins us to rage against the stubborn myth that medieval Europeans were a dirty, unwashed lot. Prepare to have your perceptions of the Middle Ages turned on their head!Debunking the Dirty Middle Ages:- Jo takes on the persistent myth that medieval Europeans didn't bathe, revealing the truth about their hygiene practices and the importance they placed on cleanliness.Bathhouses and Daily Washing:- Discover the role of bathhouses in medieval communities and how daily washing was a common practice, even among the working class.The Evolution of Cleanliness:- Learn how perceptions of hygiene evolved over the centuries and the impact of medical and scientific understanding on these practices.Soap and Detergents:- Explore the various types of soap used in the medieval period and how they were made, debunking the notion that soap was a luxury item.Victorian Influence:- Understand how Victorian attitudes and misconceptions have shaped our modern view of medieval hygiene and why it's time to set the record straight.Join us as Jo passionately argues that medieval people were far more concerned with cleanliness than we've been led to believe. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in uncovering the realities of medieval life and challenging long-held historical myths.For more insights, check out Jo's book, "Fake History: 101 Things That Never Happened," and follow her on Twitter at @fakehistoryhuntYou can follow History Rage on Twitter @HistoryRage or Paul individually @PaulBavill and let us know what you wish people would just stop believing using the Hashtag #HistoryRage.You can join our 'Angry Mob' on Patreon as well. £5 per month gets you episodes 3 months early, access to livestreams, the invite to choose questions, entry into our prize draws and the coveted History Rage mug. Subscribe at www.patreon.com/historyrageFollow History Rage on Social MediaFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/HistoryRageTwitter: https://twitter.com/HistoryRageInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/historyrage/Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/historyrage.bsky.socialStay Angry, Stay Informed - History Rage2. Catherine Howard - More than the Victim with Gareth Russell
52:47||Season 14, Ep. 2**EXPLICIT LANGUAGE WARNING**Join us as we uncover the fascinating and complex life of Catherine Howard, the fifth wife of Henry VIII, who has often been unfairly defined by her relationshipswith men. Gareth Russell challenges the conventional narratives that paint Catherine as either a "rambunctious strumpet" or a perpetual victim, advocating for a better understanding of her life.Key Points:The Misunderstood Girl:Gareth Russell disputes the simplistic labels often attached to Catherine Howard, arguing for a more balanced view of her life and actions.He presents evidence against the notion that Catherine was merely a victim or a promiscuous figure, highlighting her individuality and circumstances.Theories and Misconceptions:Russell critiques the rapid acceptance of the theory that Catherine was a victim of childhood and adolescent sexual abuse, which he believes lacks substantial evidence.He discusses how this theory became entrenched, often overshadowing other aspects of Catherine's life.Catherine's Relationships:Highlights how Dereham's persistent and coercive behaviour post-relationship contributed to Catherine's downfall.Historical Context and Sexual Morality:Discusses the sexual morals of the Tudor period, including the concept of pre-contracts and the varying degrees of sexual permissiveness.The Howard Family:Clarifies that the Howard family, including the Duke of Norfolk, did not actively push Catherine forward as a queen candidate.Connect with Gareth Russell:Twitter: @garethrussell1Young, Damned and Fair: The Life and Tragedy of Catherine Howard [History Rage Bookshop]Support History Rage on Patreon:You can join our 'Angry Mob' on Patreon as well. £5 per month gets you episodes 3 months early, the invite to choose questions, entry into our prize draws and the coveted History Rage mug. Subscribe at www.patreon.com/historyrageFollow History Rage on Social Media· Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HistoryRage· Twitter: https://twitter.com/HistoryRage· Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/historyrage/Stay Angry, Stay Informed - History Rage1. Thomas Boleyn: Father, Diplomat, and Misunderstood Figure with Lauren Mackay
43:33||Season 14, Ep. 1Ever wondered if history got it wrong? In this episode of History Rage, host Paul Bavill dives into the treacherous waters of Tudor politics with the brilliant historian and author Lauren Mackay. Known for her works "Inside the Tudor Court" and "The Wolf Hall Companion," Lauren is here to clear the name of one of history's most misunderstood figures, Thomas Boleyn.Key Points:Meet Lauren Mackay:Lauren Mackay is a celebrated Tudor and early modern historian with three published books.Raging Against the Myths:Debunk the myth that Thomas Boleyn was a pimp who exploited his daughters for personal gain.Unravel the misconceptions about Thomas Boleyn's background and his rise in the Tudor court.Thomas Boleyn: The Man and His Family:Thomas Boleyn's noble lineage and influential connections.His genuine care for his children's wellbeing and interests, particularly Anne and Mary Boleyn.Diplomatic Brilliance:Explore Thomas Boleyn's diplomatic achievements and his reputation as a skilled ambassador.Understand his ability to navigate the complex power dynamics of the Tudor court.Misunderstood Motivations:Dispel the myth of Thomas Boleyn's involvement in the downfall of Anne and George Boleyn.Guest Information:Lauren Mackay's book recommendation: "Inside the Tudor Court."Follow Lauren on Twitter: @Regina_SabaYou can follow History Rage on Twitter @HistoryRage or Paul individually @PaulBavill and let us know what you wish people would just stop believing using the Hashtag #HistoryRage.You can join our 'Angry Mob' on Patreon as well. As a full £5 per month member you get access to the book preview livestream, episodes 3 months early, the invite to choose questions, entry into our prize draws and the coveted History Rage mug. Subscribe at www.patreon.com/historyrageFollow History Rage on Social MediaFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/HistoryRageTwitter: https://twitter.com/HistoryRageInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/historyrage/Stay Angry, Stay Informed - History RageTrailer - Intro to Series 14
01:58|Welcome to Series 14 of History Rage! A massive thank you to everyone who has supported us on this journey—your encouragement means the world. Here's a sneak peek at the fiery topics we'll be tackling over the next ten weeks. Get ready to challenge everything you thought you knew about history.Upcoming Rages:Debunking the myth that Thomas Boleyn was a pimp who exploited his daughters with Lauren Mackay.Re-examining the portrayal of Catherine Howard being defined solely by men with Gareth Russell.Challenging the misconception that medieval Europeans were backward and unclean with Jo Hedwig Teeuwisse.Revisiting the Napoleonic Wars beyond just the Peninsula and Waterloo with Rory Butcher.Questioning the simplistic good guy vs bad guy narrative of the United States in the Vietnam War with Robert Thompson.Dispelling the notion that Jane Seymour was the "boring queen" with Elizabeth NortonRaging against the idea that the Lancaster bomber single-handedly won the war with Jane Gulliford-Lowes.Confronting stereotypes about Southern Ireland's neutrality during WWII with Joseph Quinn .Revealing the truth about Mata Hari not being a spy, but Edith Cavell being one with Helen Fry.Correcting the misconception that D-Day sailors simply dropped off the army and went home with Nick Hewitt.The ragefires will burn again with general release on 7 October. See you then!Stay Connected:Follow us on Twitter: @HistoryRageJoin the conversation with Paul Bavill: @PaulBavillShare your thoughts using the hashtag #HistoryRageSupport History Rage on Patreon for early episode access, the chance to submit questions to guests, prize draws, and the exclusive History Rage mug at www.patreon.com/historyrage.To catch up on all the rage from bygone times, visit our website www.historyrage.comIf you want to get in touch with History Rage, email historyragepod@gmail.comStay Angry, Stay Informed - History Rage10. The Unforgotten Force: India's Pivotal Role in WWI with Dr. Adam Prime
47:28||Season 13, Ep. 10**EXPLICIT LANGUAGE WARNING** In this fiery episode of History Rage, host Paul Bavill is joined by Dr. Adam Prime, a historian and trustee of the Western Front Association, who is here to dismantle the myth that the Indian Army's role in World War I is forgotten or was limited to the Western Front. Prime brings a passionate and informed perspective to the table, revealing the extensive and crucial contributions of Indian soldiers across all major theaters of the war. Introduction to Dr. Adam Prime:Background in military history and the Indian Army.Work with the University of Leicester and the Western Front Association.Indian Army's Overlooked Contributions:Dispelling the myth of the Indian Army's "forgotten" role.Significant presence in multiple theaters beyond the Western Front.Recruitment and Motivation:Volunteer-driven force and motivations for joining the war effort.The impact of martial race theory on recruitment practices.Gallantry and Recognition:Over 9,200 awards for bravery, including 18 Victoria Crosses.Recognition of individual acts of heroism by Indian soldiers.WWI vs. WWII Indian Army:Comparing the roles and contributions in both world wars.Increased numbers, awards, and the evolution of the nationalist movement.Final Plea:Dr. Prime urges recognition of the Indian Army's extensive contributions without diminishing them as "forgotten."Encourages further exploration of the subject with a wealth of reading recommendations.Guest Information:Follow Dr. Adam Prime on Twitter: @PrimeAdamLearn more about the Western Front Association and their support for students at www.westernfrontassociation.com.You can follow History Rage on Twitter @HistoryRage or Paul individually @PaulBavill and let us know what you wish people would just stop believing using the Hashtag #HistoryRage.You can join our 'Angry Mob' on Patreon as well. £5 per month gets you episodes 3 months early, the invite to choose questions, entry into our prize draws and the coveted History Rage mug. Subscribe at www.patreon.com/historyrage