Share

cover art for Gloucester History Festival Special #7 - The Myth of Monolithic Empire: England's Fragile Foothold in Mughal India with Nandini Das

History Rage

Gloucester History Festival Special #7 - The Myth of Monolithic Empire: England's Fragile Foothold in Mughal India with Nandini Das

Venture back to the dawn of empire in this riveting episode of History Rage, where host Paul Bavill is joined by the erudite and impassioned Professor Nandini Das. With her award-winning expertise in early modern English literature and culture, Professor Das delivers a masterclass on the misconceptions of the British Empire and its precarious beginnings in Mughal India.


The Rage Unveiled:

- Professor Das dismantles the myth of a predestined British Empire, revealing its early days as a scrambling startup amidst the opulence of the Mughal courts.

- The astonishing reality of 17th-century England, grappling with internal strife, financial woes, and a desperate search for new markets.


Empire's Uncertain Dawn:

- The East India Company's struggle for survival, navigating the treacherous waters of high-risk investment, Portuguese competition, and internal discord.

- How the company's uncertain future was shaped by the intricate power plays of Mughal emperors, savvy empresses, and the shrewd local rulers of India.


Cultural Clashes and Conquests:

- The overlooked influence of India's rich tapestry of kingdoms and cultures in shaping the trajectory of British expansion.

- The pivotal role of Indian agency in the face of colonial ambition, and the power dynamics that defied the colonial narrative.


Rethinking the Roots of Empire:

- Professor Das urges us to reconsider the origins of the British Empire, challenging the idea of its inevitable success and cultural superiority.

- A call to question the deep-seated assumptions about India that have persisted for centuries, rooted in the insecurities of early English adventurers.


Join us as Professor Das passionately unravels the tangled beginnings of the British presence in India, offering a fresh perspective on the complex interplay of culture, power, and empire. To delve deeper into this rich history, grab a copy of her illuminating book, "Courting India: England, Mughal India, and the Origins of Empire," available through the History Rage bookshop.


For more fascinating insights and to join the conversation, follow Professor Das on Twitter @rentravailer. And don't forget to support the rage that fuels our historical curiosity at patreon.com/historyrage for exclusive perks and the coveted History Rage mug.


Stay informed, stay passionate, and let the rage for truth in history rage on!


More episodes

View all episodes

  • 1. Thomas Boleyn: Father, Diplomat, and Misunderstood Figure with Lauren Mackay

    44:12||Season 14, Ep. 1
    Ever 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/historyrageSEE THE RAGE LIVE at IWM Podcast LIVE on Saturday 19th October and IWM London. Tickets available hereFollow History Rage on Social MediaFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/HistoryRageTwitter: https://twitter.com/HistoryRageInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/historyrage/Stay Angry, Stay Informed - History Rage
  • Trailer - 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 Rage
  • 10. 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
  • 9. Zionism was not just about Palestine with Rachel Cockerell

    39:47||Season 13, Ep. 9
    In this enthralling episode of History Rage, host Paul Bavill is joined by Rachel Cockerell, author of "Melting Pot: Family, Memory, and the Search for a Promised Land," to dissect a forgotten chapter of Jewish American history. Together, they unravel the journey of Russian Jews who, instead of heading to the crowded streets of New York, were rerouted to the unlikely destination of Galveston, Texas, in the early 20th century.Rachel Cockerell's Personal Connection: Rachel's exploration into her family's past reveals a story of migration, identity, and the melting pot of American culture.The Galveston Plan: A scheme devised to divert Jewish immigrants away from New York to avoid anti-Semitism, leading to the scattering of communities across the American West.Israel Zangwill and Territorialism: The episode delves into the life of Zangwill, a pivotal figure who coined the term "melting pot" and led the Jewish Territorialist Organization.Zionism's Alternative Histories: Rachel challenges the widely held belief that Zionism was solely focused on Palestine from its inception, highlighting the many other potential homelands considered.Rachel and Paul engage in a lively discussion that not only sheds light on the complexities of Jewish emigration but also questions the notion of land, belonging, and the creation of "holy" spaces. As the conversation unfolds, listeners are invited to reconsider the historical narratives surrounding Zionism and the Jewish diaspora.Guest Information:Get Rachel's book "Melting Pot: Family, Memory, and the Search for a Promised Land" through the History Rage Bookshop or on Amazon.Follow Rachel on Twitter and Instagram: @RachelCockerell.Join the conversation and express your historical vexations on Twitter @HistoryRage or with Paul Bavill @PaulBavill. Share your thoughts using the hashtag #HistoryRage.Support 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 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.socialStay Angry, Stay Informed - History Rage
  • Gloucester History Festival Special #5 - The Real SAS Escapes: Beyond Tunnels and Horses with Damian Lewis

    27:44|
    Welcome back, ragers, to day five of the Gloucester History Festival! Today, host Paul Bavill is joined by historian, author, and former war reporter Damian Lewis for a riveting discussion about the often misunderstood world of prisoner of war escapes, particularly those involving the SAS and special forces. Damian, known for his extensive work on the SAS, is here to rage against the common misconceptions surrounding these daring escapes. Debunking the Myths: Damian Lewis sets the record straight on the true nature of prisoner of war escapes, moving beyond the clichés of tunnelling and vaulting horses.Understanding the impact of Hitler's Commando Order on special forces and their need for immediate escape.The psychological and strategic reasons for escaping at the moment of capture.Examples of audacious escapes, including the heroic actions of Gerald Hoff in North Africa.Real Escapes and Strategies:The use of tunnels for hiding rather than escape, especially during the Italian armistice in 1943.The dramatic last-minute escapes of Serge Vaculik and Ginger Jones from Nazi execution squads.The formation and operations of the SAS's own Nazi hunter unit post-WWII.Legacy and Justice:The role of the SAS in bringing Nazi war criminals to justice, led by Major Bill Barkworth and his team.The ethical approach to interrogation and the importance of psychological tactics over torture.The transformation from a mission of vengeance to a mission of justice, exemplified by the SAS's war crimes investigations.Guest Information:Damien Lewis's book: "SAS Great Escapes 3"Catch Damien's talk live or on-demand at the Gloucester History Festival: www.gloucesterhistoryfestival.co.uk.Don't forget to leave a review for History Rage on Apple, Podchaser, Amazon, or wherever you can! And join the 'Angry Mob' on Patreon for early episodes, prize draws, and the History Rage mug. Subscribe at www.patreon.com/historyrage.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.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.comStay Angry, Stay Informed - History Rage
  • Gloucester History Festival Special #4 - Beyond the Peasants: The True Faces of the 1381 Revolt with Matt Lewis

    18:14|
    Welcome back ragers, to another electrifying episode of History Rage, live from the Gloucester History Festival! Today, host Paul Bavill is joined by medieval historian and host of the "Going Medieval" podcast, Matt Lewis. Prepare for an eye-opening discussion as Matt dismantles the long-held myths surrounding the Peasants' Revolt of 1381.Rethinking the Peasants' Revolt: Matt Lewis sets the record straight, exposing the misleading term "Peasants' Revolt" and revealing the diverse social classes involved in this historic uprising.Understanding the mediaeval definition of a peasant and why it's a misnomer for this revolt.The role of free and unfree people, and the different classes that participated in the revolt.The True Nature of the Revolt:How the revolt was a targeted effort to destroy legal records and end serfdom.The significant involvement of minor gentry, countryside landowners, and skilled tradesmen.The strategic and militarised organisation of the revolt, influenced by the Hundred Years War.Legacy and Misconceptions:The impact of the revolt and how close it came to achieving seismic social and political change.The government's effort to paint the revolt as a mindless mob and the subsequent harsh retribution.How the revolt's true objectives and near-success have been obscured by history.Guest Information:Matt Lewis's book: "The History Hit Guide to Mediaeval England"Catch Matt's talk or get a digital pass from the Gloucester History Festival: www.gloucesterhistoryfestival.co.uk.Don't forget to leave a review for History Rage on Apple, Podchaser, Amazon, or wherever you can! And join the 'Angry Mob' on Patreon for early episodes, prize draws, and the History Rage mug. Subscribe at www.patreon.com/historyrage.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.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.comStay Angry, Stay Informed - History Rage
  • Gloucester History Festival Special #3 - Forgotten Fronts: The Polish Resistance with Clare Mulley

    16:45|
    Welcome back, ragers, to day four of the Gloucester History Festival! Today, host Paul Bavill is joined by author and historian Clare Mulley for a riveting discussion about the often-overlooked Polish resistance during World War II. Clare, known for her work on women in the resistance, delves into the remarkable life of Elzbieta Zawacka, the subject of her book "Agent Zo." Join us as we rage against the historical neglect of Eastern European resistance and celebrate the extraordinary achievements of women like Elżbieta.Spotlight on Polish Resistance:Clare Mulley shares the incredible story of Elzbieta Zawacka, the only woman to serve as an emissary of an Allied army and the sole female courier to traverse nearly a thousand miles of occupied territory during WWII.Uncover the harsh realities and heroics of the Polish Home Army, the largest underground resistance movement in Nazi-occupied Europe.Examine the strategic importance of the Warsaw Uprising and the continued struggle against Soviet-imposed communism post-WWII.Raging Against Historical Neglect:Clare's frustration with the Western focus on the French resistance while Eastern European efforts, particularly in Poland, remain underappreciated.The critical role of Polish women in the resistance, from intelligence gathering to frontline combat, and the systemic erasure of their contributions.Elzbieta Zawacka's Legacy:Elżbieta's daring missions, including her parachute jump into Nazi-occupied Poland and her relentless fight within the Warsaw Uprising.Her post-war imprisonment and torture under the Soviet regime, and her continued resistance, educating young women and supporting the Solidarity movement.Guest Information:Clare Mulley's book: "Agent Zo"Catch Clare's talk live or on-demand at the Gloucester History Festival: www.gloucesterhistoryfestival.co.uk.Don't forget to leave a review for History Rage on Apple, Podchaser, Amazon, or wherever you can! And join the 'Angry Mob' on Patreon for early episodes, prize draws, and the History Rage mug. Subscribe at www.patreon.com/historyrage.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.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.comStay Angry, Stay Informed - History Rage
  • Gloucester History Festival Special #2 - The Templar Truths: Debunking Myths with Steve Tibble

    25:36|
    Welcome back, Ragers, to a special live edition of History Rage from the Gloucester History Festival! Today, host Paul Bavill sits down with medievalist crusader historian, Steve Tibble, to rage against the mountains of misinformation surrounding the Templars. Discover the true, extraordinary story of the Templars and why the wild conspiracy theories about them are not only unnecessary but downright insulting.Unveiling the Real Templars: Steve Tibble sets the record straight on the Templars, debunking myths and highlighting their genuine historical significance.The origins and true mission of the Templars in the Holy Land.Their role as peacekeepers, diplomats, and agriculturists in Western Europe.Their unique combination of piety and military prowess.Templar Accomplishments and Misconceptions:The Templars' contributions to banking, logistics, and state-building.Their disciplined, regimented lifestyle and the real reasons behind their bravery.The absurdity of conspiracy theories from medieval times to the present day.Templar Legends and Modern Myths:The medieval and modern-day conspiracy theories that plague the Templars' legacy.Why the Templars do not need fabricated stories to be fascinating.Their genuine historical impact versus the fictional accounts of treasure hunting and secret religions.Guest Information:Steve Tibble's book: "Templars: The Knights Who Made Britain"Catch Steve's live talk from the Gloucester History Festival: www.gloucesterhistoryfestival.co.uk.Don't forget to leave a review for History Rage on Apple, Podchaser, Amazon, or wherever you can! And join the 'Angry Mob' on Patreon for early episodes, prize draws, and the History Rage mug. Subscribe at www.patreon.com/historyrage.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.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.comStay Angry, Stay Informed - History Rage
  • 8. Vikings: Not just horned helmets and raiding with Alex Harvey

    52:58||Season 13, Ep. 8
    **EXPLICIT LANGUAGE WARNING** Strap in, Ragers, as we set sail to the tumultuous seas of Viking misconceptions with host Paul Bavill and special guest, Alex Harvey, a postgrad and PhD candidate from York University and author of "Forgotten Vikings: New Approaches to the Viking Age." Prepare for a historical onslaught as they dismantle the stereotypical image of bloodthirsty Norsemen and explore the multifaceted reality of Viking society. Unpacking Viking Myths: Alex challenges the pop culture portrayal of Vikings, from blood eagles to horned helmets, and sets the record straight with a blend of wit and scholarly insight.The true nature of Viking raids and their economic motivations.The literary origins of the blood eagle and other misconceptions.Viking Society and Influence:Insights into the social structure of Viking communities.The impact of Viking trade and exploration across the globe, from the icy north to the shores of the Mediterranean.Viking Culture and Legacy:Alex's quest to present Vikings in a new light, balancing their pragmatic nature with their more mundane aspects.The importance of understanding Vikings within their own historical context, rather than through modern lenses.Guest Information:Alex Harvey's book recommendation: "Forgotten Vikings: New Approaches to the Viking Age."Connect with Alex on Twitter: @AlexHarvv.Don't forget to leave a review for History Rage on Apple, Podchaser, Amazon, or wherever you can! And join the 'Angry Mob' on Patreon for early episodes, prize draws, and the History Rage mug. Subscribe at www.patreon.com/historyrage. 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.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.comStay Angry, Stay Informed - History Rage