Share
History Rage
Tanks in the Tropics: Shattering Myths of Burma's Jungle Warfare with Jack Bowsher
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- The episode exposes the Japanese army's failed attempts to adapt to the armoured onslaught, as their outdated anti-tank tactics and desperate measures crumbled against the Commonwealth's mechanized might.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.com
If you want to get in touch with History Rage then email historyragepod@gmail.com
Follow History Rage on Social Media
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HistoryRage
Twitter: https://twitter.com/HistoryRage
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/historyrage/
More episodes
View all episodes
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 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/historyrage9. Zionism was not just about Palestine with Rachel Cockerell
39:47||Season 13, Ep. 9In 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 RageGloucester 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 RageGloucester 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 RageGloucester 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 RageGloucester 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 Rage8. 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 RageGloucester History Festival Special #1 - Medieval Misconceptions: The True Lives of Nuns with Prof. Janina Ramirez
39:41|Welcome to a special live edition of History Rage, recorded on-site at the Gloucester History Festival! For our opening episode, we are thrilled to be joined by the festival president, medieval historian, and self-proclaimed goth, Professor Janina Ramirez. Dive into a compelling discussion about the festival's growth, the diverse line-up of speakers, and the innovative ways history is being shared with a global audience through live streaming.Festival Highlights:- Discover how the Gloucester History Festival has evolved from the brink of closure during the pandemic to a thriving bi-annual event with global reach.- Learn about the diverse programme, featuring speakers like Tom Kerridge on the history of food, Stuart Lee on comedy, and David Olusoga on history wars.- Explore the festival's commitment to inclusivity and the democratisation of historical knowledge through City Voices and digital technology.Raging Against Historical Misconceptions:- Professor Janina Ramirez shares her rage about the misconception that becoming a nun in the medieval period was a fate worse than death.- Uncover the rich, influential lives of medieval nuns who contributed significantly to art, music, politics, and intellectual thought.- Delve into the nuanced history of monastic life, from the benedictine revival to the powerful roles women played within these communities.The Impact of the Reformation:- A passionate discussion on how the Reformation dismantled monastic institutions, stripping women of their opportunities and forcing them back into domestic spheres.- Examine the systematic deconstruction of monasteries and the long-term effects on women's roles in society.Join us as we rage against historical inaccuracies and celebrate the often-overlooked contributions of medieval women. Don't miss the chance to catch the Gloucester History Festival talks live or on-demand at www.gloucesterhistoryfestival.co.uk.Stay connected with History Rage on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook @HistoryRage. Support our mission to bring historical truths to light by subscribing to our Patreon at patreon.com/historyrage, where you'll get early episode access, live stream invites, and the iconic History Rage mug.Stay informed, stay engaged, and most importantly, stay angry!