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Gloucester History Festival Special #3 - The King Lives? Debating Edward II's Death with Ian Mortimer

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Prepare to have your historical compass recalibrated as we delve into the shadowy labyrinth of medieval politics and unravel a mystery that has perplexed scholars for centuries. In this electrifying episode of History Rage, we're broadcasting live from the Gloucester History Festival, where host Paul Bavill is joined by the esteemed historian and author, Ian Mortimer, a man whose expertise has time-travelled through the corridors of the past, bringing light to the darkest corners of history.


The King's Survival:

- Ian Mortimer challenges the long-held belief that King Edward II met his gruesome end at Berkeley Castle in 1327, a narrative that has been etched into the stone of history, but perhaps is built on foundations of sand.

- Mortimer, armed with his razor-sharp analysis and relentless pursuit of evidence, slices through the tapestry of deception to reveal a startling alternative history.


The Berkeley Castle Conundrum:

- The traditional tale of Edward II's demise is dissected, exposing the inconsistencies and outright fabrications that have been accepted as fact.

- Mortimer presents a compelling argument that not only questions the king's supposed death but also suggests a life beyond the castle walls, one that history has refused to acknowledge.


The Fieschi Letter and Beyond:

- A deep dive into the Fieschi Letter, an overlooked document that may hold the key to understanding Edward II's fate, suggesting a narrative filled with clandestine imprisonment, daring escapes, and royal subterfuge.

- Ian traces the exiled monarch's journey from the depths of Corfe Castle's dungeon to the intriguing possibility of a secret life under the protection of powerful Italian allies.


The Academic Backlash:

- Ian shares his experiences of challenging the status quo, facing the cold front of academic resistance, and the struggle to have his groundbreaking findings recognized amidst a storm of skepticism.


A Truth Rediscovered:

- This episode is not just a quest for the truth about a medieval monarch; it's an exploration of the very nature of historical understanding and the responsibility of historians to distinguish fact from fiction.

Join us as Ian Mortimer ignites the flames of historical inquiry and dares us to question everything we thought we knew about Edward II. This is not just an episode; it's a call to arms for truth-seekers and history enthusiasts alike.


To dive deeper into Ian Mortimer's work, grab a copy of his latest book, "Medieval Horizons: Why the Middle Ages Matter," or any of his acclaimed Time Traveller's Guides, including the revelatory "Medieval Intrigue."


For those who thirst for historical vindication, follow @HistoryRage on Twitter and join our Patreon at patreon.com/historyrage for exclusive content, including early episode access, prize draws, and the illustrious History Rage mug. Stay tuned, stay informed, and let the rage for truth burn bright!

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  • 3. Tanks in the Tropics: Shattering Myths of Burma's Jungle Warfare with Jack Bowsher

    01:07:43||Season 13, Ep. 3
    Dive deep into the sweltering heat and relentless terrain of the Burmese jungle with this explosive episode of History Rage. Host Paul Bavill welcomes the fiercely passionate Jack Bowsher, historian and author of "Forgotten Armour," to blast through the misconceptions of the Burma Campaign during World War II.The Jungle Myth Debunked:- Jack ignites the conversation with a fiery critique of the pervasive myth that the Burma Campaign was solely an infantry slog through monsoon jungles, revealing the untold story of diverse geographical combat and the pivotal role of armoured units.Tanks Take the Spotlight:- Discover how the reliable and robust American-designed tanks like the Stuart, Lee-Grant, and Sherman became the unsung heroes, mastering the art of bunker busting and altering the course of the campaign with their formidable presence.Japanese Resistance Outmanoeuvred:- The episode exposes the Japanese army's failed attempts to adapt to the armoured onslaught, as their outdated anti-tank tactics and desperate measures crumbled against the Commonwealth's mechanized might.Infantry-Tank Synergy:- Jack recounts tales of extraordinary combined operations, where the precise coordination between Commonwealth infantry and tanks led to decisive victories, from the bloody tennis court at Kohima to the strategic thunder run to Meiktila.Forgotten Armour Unveiled:- Get a tantalizing preview of Jack's upcoming book, "Forgotten Armour," which promises to deliver a riveting account of tank warfare in Burma, painting the war from the cramped interior of a tank.Join us as we peel back the layers of history's overlooked battles and pay homage to the steel beasts that broke the back of the Japanese army. For those hungry for more, follow Jack on Twitter @historybowsh and mark your calendars for the release of "Forgotten Armour" this summer.Support the rage that fuels our historical deep dives at patreon.com/historyrage, and don't forget to leave us a review on Apple Podcasts, Podchaser, or Amazon. Stay informed, stay passionate, and let the rage for truth in history rage on! To catch up on all the rage from bygone times go to the website www.historyrage.comIf you want to get in touch with History Rage then email historyragepod@gmail.comFollow 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

  • 2. Martyrs and Myths: The Evolution of Patron Saints with Francis Young

    52:54||Season 13, Ep. 2
    Embark on a historical odyssey with us as we unravel the tangled web of patron saints and national identities in the latest episode of History Rage. Our returning rager, Frances Young, a scholar of religious history and folklore, sheds light on the misconceptions surrounding patron saints, particularly those tethered to nations. Join us as we dissect the myths, explore the evolution of these religious figures, and their profound impact on cultural and national identity.Patron Saints and National Identity:- The misconception of a singular, official patron saint for each nation.- How medieval societies understood and engaged with the cult of saints.- The influence of patron saints on the formation of national identity.Saints and Their Surprising Patronages:- The curious associations of saints with various causes and professions.- The role of martyrdom and relics in shaping the veneration of saints.- The fluidity and informality of saints' patronages over time.Saints in the Fabric of National Identity:- The enduring legacy of St. Patrick and his synonymous relationship with Irish identity.- The integration of saintly figures into royal dynasties and their impact on legitimacy and succession.- The role of saints in the devotional formation of national consciousness.Saint George vs. Saint Edmund:- The historical shift from St. Edmund to St. George as England's prominent patron.- The influence of the Reformation and state iconography on this transition.- The reality of multiple patron saints co-existing within a nation's history.Francis Young's Call to Rethink Patron Saints:- Challenging the rigid notions of patron saints and embracing their folkloric nature.- Recognizing the people's role in shaping the cult of saints through popular religion.- The importance of acknowledging the multiplicity of patron saints in reflecting a nation's complex identity.For further enlightenment, delve into Francis Young's profound works on St. Edmund and other aspects of religion and folklore, available through the History Rage bookshop. Follow his prolific musings on Twitter @DrFrancisYoung and engage with the vibrant discussion.Don't forget to review us on your preferred podcast platforms and join the conversation on Twitter @HistoryRage. Support our passionate endeavour on Patreon and become part of the 'Angry Mob' for exclusive content and the treasured History Rage mug at patreon.com/historyrage.Tune in, stay informed, and stay angry

  • 1. The Chronicles of Cruelty: A Deep Dive into Holocaust History with Dr. Waitman Beorn

    01:03:30||Season 13, Ep. 1
    'History Rage' invites you back to the tumultuous landscape of World War II with Dr. Waitman Beorn, as he vents his frustration over the egregious comparisons between Hamas and the Nazis, and the shocking survival of Holocaust denial. Explore the broader scope of the Nazi genocidal project, the heart-wrenching tales of resistance, and the vexing questions surrounding the Allies' response to the Holocaust. This episode is a profound reflection on the responsibilities of historians and the enduring impact of the past on the present.1. Introduction:  - Delve into a comprehensive discussion on WWII and the Holocaust.  - Gain insights from experts as they analyse historical events and perspectives.2. Understanding Perspectives:  - Explore the challenges faced by leaders of Jewish councils in Nazi-occupied territories.  - Learn about the difficult decisions they had to make to protect their communities.3. Escape and Resistance:  - Uncover the strategies employed by prisoners to evade capture and survive.  - Hear inspiring stories of resilience and bravery amidst adversity.4. Allies' Response and Controversies:  - Examine the Allies' knowledge of the Holocaust and their potential interventions.  - Debate the ethical dilemmas surrounding the bombing of Auschwitz and organised rescue efforts.5. Role of Institutions:  - Discuss the actions, or lack thereof, taken by institutions like the Catholic Church during WWII.  - Explore the potential impact of institutional intervention on the outcome of the Holocaust.6. Conclusion:  - Reflect on the importance of public history in understanding and commemorating the Holocaust.  - Discover avenues for further exploration through podcasts, books, and events related to WWII history.Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of WWII and the Holocaust from diverse perspectives, shedding light on this dark chapter of human history.Do check out Waitman’s own Holocaust History Podcast wherever you found us and also follow the podcast on Twitter @HolocaustpodYou can follow Waitman on Twitter @waitmanb 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/historyrageRemember to leave us a review on Apple, Podchaser, or Amazon, and follow us on Twitter @HistoryRage for more historical revelations. Stay passionate, stay informed, and most importantly, stay angry!

  • Trailer - Intro to Series 13

    01:59|
    Strap in for a tempest of truth as History Rage returns with Series 13, unleashing a torrent of untold tales and myth-busting fervor that will challenge what you thought you knew about history. Our cadre of impassioned historians bring their expertise to the fore, tackling misconceptions and falsehoods that have long skewed our understanding of the past.Unraveling Historical Misconceptions:- The Holocaust and its complex legacy, often wielded as a rhetorical weapon in contemporary debates with Waitman Beorn- Debunking the myth of national patron saints and their perceived official status in society with Francis Young- Rethinking warfare beyond the stereotype of monsoon-mired infantry, revealing a more nuanced reality with author Jack Bowsher- The unexpected truth about early Quakers, shattering the image of peaceful simplicity with Dr. Erica CanelaDispelling Myths of the Middle Ages:- The idea that medieval women were solely homemakers is dismantled, revealing their diverse roles in society with Eleanor Janega- Confronting the misconception of medieval Europeans' diet, exposing the fallacy of their supposed love for spoiled meats with Thom Ntinas of the Delicious Legacy PodcastRevisiting Historical Figures:- Correcting the portrayal of Antonio Salieri, often cast as a bitter rival to Mozart, and revealing the man behind the myth with Musicologist Dr. Kristin Franseen of Concordia University- Reassessing the Viking image, stripping away the blood-soaked caricatures to reveal a more complex society with Alex HarveyChallenging Historical Narratives:- Questioning the singular focus on Palestine in discussions of Zionism's history with author Rachel Cockerell- Shining a light on the Indian Army's extensive and often overlooked contributions beyond the Western Front in World War I with Dr. Adam Prime of the Western Front AssociationJoin us as we stoke the fires of inquiry with ten more episodes featuring fiery historians ready to set the record straight. Series 13 drops on General Release on July 29th. Tune in, turn up the volume, and let the historical fury flow!Support History Rage:Follow on Twitter: @historyrageIndividual accounts: @PaulBavillDon't forget to leave reviews on Apple Podcasts, Podchaser, or Amazon.Stay Angry, Stay Informed - History Rage

  • 10. The Olympic Illusion: How Jesse Owens Didn't Spoil Hitler's Party with Guy Walters

    44:37||Season 12, Ep. 10
    In this fiery episode of History Rage, prepare to have your perceptions of the 1936 Berlin Olympics incinerated as returning provocateur Guy Walters ignites a historical inferno. Delving deep into the spectacle that was both a sporting and Nazi extravaganza, Guy dismantles the myth of Jesse Owens' victories as a blow to Hitler's Germany. He exposes the harsh reality of American attitudes towards Owens upon his return, the political machinations behind the scenes, and how the games were a resounding propaganda success for the Third Reich. Get ready to confront uncomfortable truths about the intersection of sports, politics, and racism, and how the Berlin Games set the precedent for the modern Olympics as a global stage for national showcase and diplomatic manoeuvring. This episode is a marathon of revelations, sprinting past simplistic narratives to reveal the complex legacy of the 1936 Olympics and the dangerous illusion of sport being above politics.Episode Highlights:- Guy Walters' Return: Guy brings his expertise back to History Rage with a focus on interwar Germany and the 1936 Berlin Olympics.- The Myth of Jesse Owens: Guy debunks the popular belief that Jesse Owens' triumphs humiliated Nazi Germany and Hitler.- Political and Propaganda Triumph: An exploration of how the Olympics served as a successful political and propaganda tool for the Nazis.- America's Reaction: A look at the contrasting treatment of Jesse Owens versus white athletes in America post-Olympics.- The First Modern Olympics: Guy explains why the Berlin Games were the first to truly harness the Olympics as a global event and a showcase for the host nation.- The Olympic Pause: Insights into how Nazi Germany sanitized its image during the games to hide signs of anti-Semitism and other discriminatory practices.- The Impact of Non-Boycott: The implications of the world's participation in the Berlin Games and what a potential boycott might have meant for Hitler's regime.Join us as we race through a track of historical distortions and cross the finish line with a clearer understanding of one of the most controversial Olympic Games in history.Links:- Guy Walters' Book "Berlin Games" available in The History Rage Bookshop- Follow Guy on Twitter @guywalters- Join our 'Angry Mob' on Patreon at patreon.com/historyrage for exclusive content and the coveted History Rage mug.Remember to leave us a review on Apple, Podchaser, or Amazon, and follow us on Twitter @HistoryRage for more historical revelations. Stay passionate, stay informed, and most importantly, stay angry!

  • 9. Dogfights and Deceptions: Shattering the Chivalry of the Skies with Michael Terry

    01:06:49||Season 12, Ep. 9
    In this electrifying episode of History Rage, host Paul Bavill is joined by the fervently knowledgeable Michael Terry, a writer and PhD candidate who's about to obliterate the romanticized myth of chivalric air combat during World War I. Strap in as Michael takes us on a high-octane flight through history, targeting the widely held but erroneous belief in the "Knights of the Air" with a barrage of historical evidence and passionate critique. Prepare for a turbulence-free truth ride as we dissect the reality behind the myth, exploring the motivations and actions of the aces who have been reduced to one-dimensional symbols. Get ready to challenge your perceptions and honour the complexity of these extraordinary individuals beyond the clichés. It's time to confront the legends head-on and rediscover the true essence of these pilots, not as mere symbols, but as people.Episode Highlights:- Michael Terry's Fiery Introduction: Michael sets the scene for a myth-busting discussion on the supposed chivalry of World War I aerial combat.- The Fighter Pilots' Dilemma: Exploring the disconnect between the pilots' actions and the glorified myth of chivalric warfare.- The Reality of Aerial Combat: Michael provides gripping accounts from pilots that reveal the ruthless and strategic nature of dogfights, far from the chivalrous duels of legend.- The Birth of the Myth: Delving into the interwar period, Michael uncovers how a combination of marketing tactics and public fascination with aviation gave rise to the enduring myth.- The Legacy of the Aces: Michael argues for a re-examination of the aces as complex individuals, advocating for a deeper understanding of their motivations and actions beyond the myth.- Conclusion: Michael's call to action for a more nuanced and respectful remembrance of World War I pilots, challenging listeners to look beyond the clichés and honor their true stories.Connect with Michael Terry:- Read Michael's article on Epoch magazine- Follow Michael on Twitter @ushgarak1977Support the Show:If you're captivated by this myth-shattering 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: @PaulBavillFrom all of us at History Rage, stay curious, stay passionate, and most importantly, stay angry!

  • 8. Great Misconceptions: The Dickens You Didn't Know with Dr. Helena Kelly

    54:54||Season 12, Ep. 8
    Prepare to have your Victorian illusions shattered in this enthralling episode of History Rage, where we rip the veil off the scandalous secrets of Charles Dickens. Our host, Paul Babel, is joined by Dr. Helena Kelly, author of "The Life and Lives of Charles Dickens," to dissect the myths surrounding one of literature's most enigmatic figures.Dickens Unveiled: The Truth Behind the Affair (00:02:15):- Helena challenges the long-held belief that Dickens was preoccupied with keeping his affair with Ellen Turner a secret.- We unravel the complexities of Dickens' personal life, from his questionable relationships with younger women to the potential existence of a secret child.The Breakdown of a Marriage (00:20:05):- Dive into the tumultuous marriage of Charles and Catherine Dickens, exploring the factors that led to their eventual separation.- Helena provides insight into the societal pressures and personal struggles that marred their union.Dickens and the Media: A Love-Hate Relationship (00:35:10):- Examine how Dickens' fame and the Victorian media's portrayal of his private life influenced public perception.- Helena discusses the Staplehurst rail accident and its implications for Dickens' and Ellen's reputations.Debunking Platonic Theories (00:45:53):- Helena addresses the skeptics and presents compelling evidence to counter the notion of a purely platonic relationship between Dickens and Turner.- We confront the various biographical interpretations and the challenges of piecing together a historical love affair.Conclusion (00:58:40):- This episode offers a raw look at the darker side of Dickens' life, challenging the sanitized image of the beloved author.- Join us as we peel back the layers of secrecy and discover the true Dickens – a man as flawed as he was talented.For further enlightenment, grab a copy of Helena's penetrating book on Dickens from The History Rage Bookshop and follow her on Twitter @MSAshtonDennis.Don't forget to unleash 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.

  • Chalke Festival Special - Churchill Unmasked: Flaws and Triumphs with Dr. Peter Caddick Adams

    47:22|
    Live from the Chalke History Festival, History Rage returns with a blistering episode featuring the indomitable Dr. Peter Caddick-Adams. Broadcasting from the picturesque Broad Chalke countryside, we dive into the complex legacy of Winston Churchill, unmasking the man behind the myth. Dr. Caddick-Adams, a titan of military history, joins us to rage against the rose-tinted view of Churchill, revealing his flaws and triumphs alike. Debunking the Churchill Myth:- Dr. Caddick-Adams challenges the glorified image of Winston Churchill, highlighting his overlooked flaws and providing a balanced perspective on his legacy. Churchill's Early Years:- Explore Churchill's Victorian roots and his evolution from a young, old-fashioned figure to a symbol of a bygone era. The Impact of Gallipoli:- Understand the profound effect the Gallipoli campaign had on Churchill, shaping his decisions and hesitations during World War II, particularly regarding D-Day. Churchill's Role in the Bengal Famine:- Dr. Caddick-Adams defends Churchill against accusations of negligence during the Bengal famine, arguing that he did everything humanly possible given the wartime constraints. The Legend Maker:- Delve into Churchill's self-crafted legend, his extensive writings, and his ability to shape his own historical narrative. The Lasting Appeal of Churchill:- Discover the reasons behind Churchill's enduring legacy, from his transatlantic popularity to his multifaceted life as a writer, painter, and politician.Guest Information:Peter's book : "Winston Churchill: The Prime Ministers Series"Follow Peter on Twitter: @militaryhistoriYou 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/Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/historyrage.bsky.socialStay Angry, Stay Informed - History Rage

  • 7. Defying Dickens: Demystifying the Workhouse with Penny Griffiths-Morgan

    55:36||Season 12, Ep. 7
    **EXPLICIT LANGUAGE WARNNIG**This week on History Rage, we're tearing down the grim facade of the Victorian workhouse and revealing the truths that lie beneath its infamous reputation. Historian, writer, and host of the Haunted Histories podcast, Penny Griffiths Morgan, joins us to dismantle the Dickensian narrative and shed light on the realities of this early welfare institution.**Part 1: The Workhouse Myths**- Debunking the myth of the workhouse as a prison for the poor.- Understanding the voluntary nature of workhouse entry and the concept of the "workhouse test."**Part 2: The Daily Grind**- A look at the regimented but purposeful daily life within the workhouse walls.- Exploring the work assigned to able-bodied residents and the support provided for the elderly and infirm.**Part 3: From Casuals to Inmates**- The stark contrast between the treatment of casuals (vagrants) and long-term workhouse residents.- How the workhouse system evolved over time, including improvements in healthcare and education.**Part 4: Beyond the Stereotypes**- Challenging the long-held stigmas and uncovering the workhouse's role in the development of modern welfare.- The surprising amenities and opportunities that the workhouse provided.**Part 5: Conclusion and Takeaways**- Reflecting on the complex history of the workhouse and the importance of historical context.- Encouraging a re-evaluation of Victorian welfare and the legacy of institutions like workhouses.Join us as Penny passionately argues that the workhouse, while far from perfect, was not the draconian institution of popular belief, but rather a flawed yet crucial step towards the social safety nets we recognize today.Discover more about Penny's intriguing blend of history and the paranormal on the Haunted Histories podcast and follow her on Twitter @PGMorg.You can also follow History Rage on Twitter @HistoryRage and share your thoughts using the hashtag #HistoryRage.Don't forget to join our 'Angry Mob' on Patreon. For £5 per month, you'll get early episode access, invites to engage with guests, entry into prize draws, and the coveted History Rage mug.