Think history is boring? That’s because you’ve only ever heard the fake version.
On History Rage, professional historians come in swinging — smashing the myths, clichés, and half-truths that keep getting recycled in classrooms, documentaries, and TikToks. Vikings with horned helmets? Nope. Britain standing alone in 1940? Wrong. Medieval people never bathed? Rubbish.
Why listen? Because the truth is way more exciting. You’ll leave every episode with jaw-dropping stories, killer facts to shut down pub bores, and the smug satisfaction of knowing what really happened.
🎧 Episodes drop every Monday.
📲 Follow now and get the history they don’t teach you — raw, raging, and real.
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Think history is boring? That’s because you’ve only ever heard the fake version.
On History Rage, professional historians come in swinging — smashing the myths, clichés, and half-truths that keep getting recycled in classrooms, documentaries, and TikToks. Vikings with horned helmets? Nope. Britain standing alone in 1940? Wrong. Medieval people never bathed? Rubbish.
Why listen? Because the truth is way more exciting. You’ll leave every episode with jaw-dropping stories, killer facts to shut down pub bores, and the smug satisfaction of knowing what really happened.
🎧 Episodes drop every Monday.
📲 Follow now and get the history they don’t teach you — raw, raging, and real.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
This week on History Rage, host Paul Bavill welcomes the insightful Dr. Faith Tibble, a historian specialising in iconography and the author of Crown of Thorns, Humble Gods and Humiliated Kings. Together, they delve into the complex and often misunderstood symbolism of one of Christianity's most iconic images: the crown of thorns. Join them as they unravel the layers of history, art, and theology that have shaped our perception of this powerful symbol.
The Crown of Thorns Reimagined
Beyond the Thorns: Dr. Tibble challenges the conventional belief that the crown was made of sharp thorns, revealing instead its true nature as a wreath of acanthus leaves, symbolising triumph rather than mockery.
Historical Context: Explore the socio-political landscape of first-century Judea and how the Roman perspective on Jesus’ crucifixion plays a crucial role in understanding the symbolism behind the crown.
Art and Iconography
Evolution of Imagery: Discover how the representation of the crown of thorns evolved over centuries, from a symbol of victory to one of suffering, as Christianity shifted its focus towards the passion of Christ.
Royal Connections: Delve into the concept of Christo mimesis, where medieval kings sought to imitate Christ's humility and suffering as a means of legitimising their own rule.
The Relic and Its Impact
The Crown in Paris: Learn about the journey of the purported crown of thorns to Notre Dame and how King Louis IX's veneration of the relic shaped its significance in Christian iconography.
Lasting Legacy: Reflect on how the crown of thorns continues to be a powerful symbol in both art and faith, influencing countless representations of the passion narrative.
Get Involved
Follow Dr. Faith Tibble: Connect with her on Twitter @faithtibble and on Instagram and Bluesky @DrFaithTibble.
Buy Faith’s book: The Crown of Thorns: Humble Gods and Humiliated Kings: https://uk.bookshop.org/a/10120/9780567713223
Support History Rage:
If you’re passionate about this episode, consider joining the 'Angry Mob' on Patreon at patreon.com/historyrage for exclusive content, early access, and the iconic History Rage mug.
Stay Connected
Join the conversation and keep the rage alive! Visit historyrage.com for past episodes and updates.
Follow us on:
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Instagram: @historyrage
Stay passionate, stay curious, and let the rage for historical truth burn brighter!
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This week on History Rage, host Paul Bavill welcomes Tudor historian and author Dr. Joanne Paul to dissect the life and legacy of the enigmatic Thomas More. As they navigate the treacherous waters of Tudor England, they delve into the myths and misconceptions surrounding this controversial figure, aiming to separate fact from fiction.
Episode Highlights:
Join us for a riveting conversation that not only unravels the complexities of Thomas More but also prompts us to reflect on the nature of power, authority, and individual conscience in turbulent times. Dr. Joanne Paul's new book, Thomas More: A Life and Death in Tudor England, is available now, and you can find a link to purchase it in the show notes.
Buy the Book: https://uk.bookshop.org/a/10120/9780008370740
Connect with Dr. Joanne Paul:
- Follow her on X: @joanne_paul_
- Follow her on Instagram: @drjoannepaul
Support History Rage:
If you’re enjoying the show, 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
- Instagram: @historyrage
Stay curious, stay passionate, and most importantly, stay angry!
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In this gripping episode of History Rage, host Paul Bavill welcomes back acclaimed historian Dr Helen Fry to uncover the hidden world of Belgium’s wartime intelligence networks — the unsung heroes of espionage who risked everything to fight from behind enemy lines. Drawing from her new book The White Lady, Helen reveals how Belgian agents shaped the course of both World Wars, often at extraordinary personal cost.
Far from the glamorous myths of spies in tuxedos and coded martinis, this conversation exposes the real stories of courage, sacrifice, and moral complexity. You’ll hear how intelligence flowed from occupied Belgium to Britain, how messages were smuggled in the most ingenious ways, and why Belgium’s location made it one of the most important hubs of wartime espionage.
Helen also explores the vital – and too often overlooked – role of women in intelligence, from couriers and code-runners to key figures in networks like the White Lady. These were ordinary citizens performing extraordinary acts of defiance, held together by trust, loyalty, and an unwavering sense of duty.
If you think WWII espionage was all about the SOE and France, think again. This episode pulls back the curtain on a hidden front of the intelligence war, filled with daring operations, hidden heroes, and a vast archive of untold stories waiting to be rediscovered.
🎧 Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a fan of true espionage, or simply love hearing history’s myths get blown apart — this is one you can’t miss.
📚 Connect with Helen:
• Follow her on Instagram: @drhelenfry
• Find her on X (Twitter): @drhelenfry
• Purchase her book: The White Lady – The Story of Two Key British Secret Service Networks Behind German Lines at Bookshop.org
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• Subscribe for just £3/month on Apple or Patreon
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• Spread the word and bring more listeners into the Rage!
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In this enlightening episode of History Rage, host Paul Bavill is joined by historian and author Dr. Francis Young to delve into the often overlooked history of Eastern Europe. Together, they challenge the dominant narratives surrounding the region, particularly the misconceptions that arise from a focus solely on the 20th century and the pervasive influence of Russian perspectives.
Episode Highlights:
Join us for a thought-provoking discussion that not only sheds light on the historical significance of Eastern Europe but also encourages a deeper appreciation for its diverse cultures and identities. Dr. Young's book, Silence of the Gods, is set to be released in June, and you can find a link to pre-order it in the show notes.
Connect with Dr. Francis Young:
- Follow him on X: @rfrancisyoung
Support History Rage:
If you’re enjoying this episode, consider joining the 'Angry Mob' on Patreon at patreon.com/historyrage for exclusive content, early access, and the coveted History Rage mug.
Follow the Rage:
- Twitter: @HistoryRage
- Instagram: @historyrage
Stay curious, stay passionate, and most importantly, stay angry!
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Discover the untold story of the RAF heroes who photographed victory.
What if the intelligence that won World War II didn’t come from Bletchley Park — but from the skies above? In this gripping episode of History Rage, host Paul Bavill is joined by historians and podcasters Dave Robertson and Tony Hoskins from For You The War Is Over to uncover the hidden story of the RAF’s Photographic Reconnaissance Unit (PRU) — the unarmed pilots who risked everything to capture the images that shaped Allied strategy and victory.
These daring aviators, flying stripped-down Spitfires and Mosquitos, gathered over 26 million photographs during the war — producing 80% of all Allied intelligence. But their story remains one of WWII’s least recognised triumphs.
The Untold Legacy of Aerial Intelligence
Enigma cracked codes, but aerial reconnaissance won battles.
Dave and Tony reveal how the PRU began as a handful of maverick pilots before evolving into a highly specialised global intelligence unit that transformed modern warfare. They share the staggering dangers these pilots faced — flying alone, unarmed, and often without armour — at freezing altitudes to capture photos over heavily defended targets.
From the development of stereography and 3D imaging that made D-Day possible, to the astonishing innovation behind Sandy Gunn’s Spitfire, the episode brings to life the courage, technology, and sacrifice of those who turned cameras into weapons of war.
You’ll also hear how today’s historians and engineers are preserving this legacy — including the restoration of Sandy Gunn’s Spitfire (AA810) and the creation of a new memorial in London to honour PRU crews.
Featuring Guests:
🎙️ Dave Robertson & Tony Hoskins
Hosts of For You The War Is Over — the hit WWII podcast exploring POW escapes and forgotten wartime stories.
👉 Listen to their show here: For You The War Is Over Podcast
📘 Learn more about their projects and the Spitfire restoration at www.spitfireaa810.co.uk
Join Us Live at the Imperial War Museum Podcast Festival 🎤
Both History Rage and For You The War Is Over will be appearing LIVE at the Imperial War Museum Podcast Live Festival on 1st November.
🎟️ Get your tickets now → https://www.iwm.org.uk/events/podcast-live
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In this thought-provoking episode of History Rage, host Paul Bavill engages with historian and author Ada Palmer, whose book Inventing the Renaissance challenges the romanticised narratives surrounding this revered period in Western history. Together, they dissect the myths of golden and dark ages, revealing the complexities and realities that often go unnoticed.
The Myth of the Renaissance:
Art and Power:
Inquisition and Control:
Guest Information:
If you’re inspired by this 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:
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Stay curious, stay passionate, and most importantly, stay angry!
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Is Tom Hanks too old to storm Omaha Beach?
Host Paul Bavill welcomes Rob Hutton and Duncan Weldon, hosts of the War Movie Theatre podcast, to kick off a series of previews for the Imperial War Museum’s (IWM) Podcast Live Festival. This week, they are raising the curtain on movies in a historical setting with a fierce debate on the one historical inaccuracy that Hollywood keeps getting away with.
Rob and Duncan unleash their rage on the persistent and problematic trend in war cinema: the casting of much older actors as young combat soldiers in World War II movies.
Don't miss this heated discussion!
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This week on History Rage, host Paul Bavill is joined by military historian and expert on Ian Fleming, Dave Roberts, as they delve into the intriguing world of wartime intelligence and the often-overlooked contributions of Fleming during the Second World War. Together, they dismantle the myths surrounding Fleming's role, revealing the truth behind the man who created James Bond and his significant impact on British Naval Intelligence.
The Real Ian Fleming:
Beyond the Desk: Dave discusses the misconceptions that portray Fleming as merely a desk-bound author, highlighting his pivotal role in shaping Naval Intelligence and his innovative ideas that contributed to the war effort.
Wartime Operations: Explore Fleming's involvement in the formation of 30 Assault Unit, an elite intelligence unit tasked with capturing enemy secrets and technology, showcasing his strategic mind and leadership abilities.
Operation Ruthless:
A Wild Plan: The episode reveals the audacious Operation Ruthless, where Fleming proposed a daring scheme to capture German Enigma machines by crash-landing a Heinkel bomber in the English Channel, demonstrating his bold and unconventional thinking.
Capturing Secrets: Learn about the successes of 30 Assault Unit in securing vital intelligence, including Enigma machines and Italian naval charts, that played a crucial role in the Allies' strategic planning.
Fleming's Legacy:
A Man of Influence: Dave articulates how Fleming's charm and connections made him an indispensable figure within British intelligence, proving that his contributions went far beyond his literary fame.
Recognition: The discussion emphasises the need to acknowledge Fleming's wartime achievements, which have been overshadowed by his later success as the author of the iconic James Bond series.
Guest Information:
Discover more about Dave Roberts and his work with 30 Assault Unit at 30au.co.uk.
Follow Dave on Twitter at @ihistorical for insights and updates.
If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review for History Rage on Apple, Spotify, or Podchaser! Join the 'Angry Mob' on Patreon for early episodes, exclusive content, and the coveted History Rage mug. Subscribe at www.patreon.com/historyrage.
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For all the latest episodes and updates, visit our website at www.historyrage.com.
Stay Angry, Stay Informed - History Rage
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Britain’s Cold War story is bigger than you ever knew.
In this explosive episode of History Rage, host Paul Bavill sits down with historian and author Fraser McCallum to uncover the often-overlooked story of Cold War Britain. Too often reduced to a superpower showdown between the United States and the Soviet Union, the Cold War was a global conflict — and Britain was absolutely central to it.
Fraser, author of Cold War Britain: 50 Years in the Shadow of the Bomb, reveals how the Cold War reshaped the UK — from British intelligence and its notorious spy scandals to the rise of protest movements like CND and the Greenham Common protests. He shows how Britain’s nuclear ambitions, NATO involvement, and cultural life all intertwined with a conflict that defined half a century.
You’ll discover:
From the NHS scaling back services to fund the bomb to Margaret Thatcher turning “Iron Lady” into her personal brand, this episode reveals the Cold War as a British story — one of espionage, nuclear strategy, protest, and pop culture.
If you’ve ever thought of the Cold War as a distant standoff between Washington and Moscow, Fraser McCallum will change your mind. The story of Cold War Britain is one of courage, compromise, scandal, and survival — and it still shapes our world today.
🎟️ Don’t miss the chance to engage with history live! Join us at the Imperial War Museum Podcast Live Festival on 1st November: https://www.iwm.org.uk/events/podcast-live
📚 Connect with Fraser MacCallum:
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Think the WWII U-Boat War was Britain’s closest brush with defeat? Think again. In this live History Rage special, historian Roger Moorhouse – author of Wolfpack: Inside Hitler’s U-Boat War – joins host Paul Bavill to torpedo one of the Second World War’s most persistent myths.
Drawing on brand-new research from the German perspective, Roger reveals why the Battle of the Atlantic was not the near-disaster Churchill’s famous quote suggests.
He walks us through:
It’s WWII history as you’ve never heard it before — directly from the other side of the periscope. If you’re fascinated by Second World War naval history, military myths, or the Battle of the Atlantic, this episode is a must-listen. Roger Moorhouse blends gripping stories with hard data to show how the real U-boat war unfolded — and why understanding it matters.
Roger’s new book Wolfpack: Inside Hitler’s U-Boat War (out 9 October) is the definitive account of Germany’s submarine campaign told from the inside.
🔗 Listen now to bust the “close-run” myth of the U-boat war.
📚 Pre-order Roger Moorhouse’s book: Wolfpack: Inside Hitler’s U-Boat War
https://uk.bookshop.org/a/10120/9780008644895
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Connect with Roger Moorhouse:
- Follow Roger on Twitter: @roger_moorhouse
Stay connected with History Rage on social media:
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- Instagram: @historyrage
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Stay curious, stay passionate, and most importantly, stay angry!
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In this gripping episode of History Rage, host Paul Bavill is joined by historian and author Jem Duducu, who returns to tackle the myths surrounding the Wild West. Together, they delve into the fantastical narratives spun by Hollywood and how these portrayals have distorted our understanding of American history.
Myth vs. Reality:
- Jem passionately argues that the glorified image of cowboys and gunfights has overshadowed the true complexities of life on the frontier, revealing how the reality was far less glamorous than the movies suggest.
The Role of the US Army:
- Discover the uncomfortable truths about the US Army’s role in the westward expansion and how it contributed to the displacement and suffering of Native American populations.
Rethinking Cowboys:
- Explore the actual duties of cowboys, who were primarily ranch hands, and learn how their portrayal in film has led to a misunderstanding of their lives and contributions.
Hollywood's Influence:
- Jem critiques the Western genre, highlighting how films have shaped popular perceptions of historical events while often sacrificing accuracy for entertainment value.
Unpacking Cultural Representation:
- The conversation also touches on the representation of women and people of colour in Westerns, challenging the simplistic narratives that have dominated the genre.
Join us for an enlightening discussion that not only dissects the myths of the Wild West but also encourages a deeper understanding of the historical realities that shaped it. Jem's latest book, History of Western Movies, will be available this September, and you can catch more of his insights on the Condensed Histories podcast.
Connect with Jem:
- Follow Jem on Instagram: @jemduducu and on Bluesky: @jemduducu
Buy the book: https://uk.bookshop.org/a/10120/9781538177068
Support History Rage:
If you’re enjoying this 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
- Instagram: @historyrage
- Facebook: History Rage
From all of us at History Rage, stay curious, stay passionate, and most importantly, stay angry!
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The Troubles remain one of the most defining and misunderstood chapters in modern British and Irish history. In this powerful episode of History Rage, host Paul Bavill is joined by Oliver Webb-Carter, host of the Aspects of History podcast, to confront the myths, explore the roots of conflict, and reveal why Britain has too often turned a blind eye to Northern Ireland’s past.
Oliver explains how partition, systemic discrimination, and political mismanagement created a cycle of unrest that escalated into 30 years of violence. From the Civil Rights Movement of the 1960s to the IRA split, from Bloody Sunday in 1972 to the shocking events of Mad March 1988—including the Gibraltar shootings, Milltown Cemetery attack, and Enniskillen bombing—this conversation cuts through euphemism to show the real human and political cost of the Troubles.
For Oliver, the rage is clear: too many in mainland Britain still ignore Irish history, even though its legacy shapes politics and society today. His passion is matched with deep historical knowledge, making this essential listening for anyone who wants to understand the path that eventually led to the Good Friday Agreement.
🎟️ Be part of the conversation live! Get your tickets now for the Imperial War Museum Podcast Live Festival on 1st November at IWM London: https://www.iwm.org.uk/events/podcast-live
📚 Find out more from Oliver Webb-Carter:
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Think Quakers are all pacifism, porridge and quiet meetings? 🕊️🥣 Think again.
In this electrifying History Rage LIVE episode recorded at the Gloucester History Festival, host Paul Bavill welcomes historian Dr. Erica Canela to uncover the shocking, dramatic and often law-breaking beginnings of Quakerism.
From the 17th-century English Civil Wars to miracle attempts on the banks of the Severn, Erica reveals how early Friends were anything but mild-mannered. Discover:
If you’ve only known the Quakers as a peaceful, progressive religious society, this episode will change everything. You’ll gain a fresh, deeper understanding of how a disruptive 17th-century sect transformed into a global movement renowned for social justice, abolitionism and pacifism — what Dr. Canela calls the Quakers’ “incredible glow-up.”
Connect with Dr. Erica Cannella:
- Follow Erica on Social Media: @ericanela
Buy the Book: The Dark Side of the Early Quakers:
https://uk.bookshop.org/a/10120/9781036112141
Support History Rage on Patreon for exclusive content, early access to episodes, and more at patreon.com/historyrage.
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- Twitter: @HistoryRage
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Stay curious, stay passionate, and most importantly, stay angry!
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In this gripping episode of History Rage, host Paul Bavill is joined by historian and podcaster Dirk Hoffman-Becking to challenge one of the most pervasive myths about the Holy Roman Empire. Together, they dissect the infamous quip that it is "neither holy, nor Roman, nor an empire," revealing the rich and complex history that contradicts this oversimplification.
Unraveling the Myth:
- Dirk passionately argues against the misconception that the Holy Roman Empire was irrelevant, highlighting its significance as a political institution that lasted for over a millennium and shaped the course of European history.
The Role of the Emperor:
- Explore the pivotal role of emperors like Charlemagne and Otto I in the development of medieval Christianity and the reform of the Church, showcasing how they were integral to the spiritual and political landscape of Europe.
A Holy Institution:
- Discover how the concept of 'holiness' was intertwined with the empire's legitimacy, as emperors took on the mantle of spiritual leadership during a time of significant church reform.
Roman Legacies:
- Delve into the Roman influences that permeated the empire, from legal frameworks to architectural styles, and understand how these connections shaped the identity of the Holy Roman Empire.
Challenges of Power:
- Dirk discusses the intricate balance of power between the emperor and the pope, revealing the tensions that arose and the consequences of their conflicts for the empire's stability.
Join us as we navigate the intricacies of the Holy Roman Empire, dispelling myths and illuminating the historical truths that deserve recognition. For more insights from Dirk, don't miss his podcast, The History of the Germans, available on all major platforms and at www.historyofthegermans.com
Follow Dirk on social media: Instagram at @history_of_the_germans and on Bluesky at @hotgpod.
Support History Rage:
If you’re enjoying this 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
- Instagram: @historyrage
- Facebook: History Rage
From all of us at History Rage, stay curious, stay passionate, and most importantly, stay angry!
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In this eye-opening episode of History Rage, host Paul Bavill is joined by Professor Hanna Diamond, a leading expert in French history and author of "Josephine Baker's Secret War." Together, they uncover the remarkable and often overlooked wartime contributions of the iconic entertainer and spy, Josephine Baker, who defied expectations and played a crucial role in the Second World War.
Episode Highlights:
Join us for a compelling journey through history that not only celebrates Josephine Baker's extraordinary life but also challenges us to reconsider the narratives we hold about historical figures. For those eager to learn more, Hanna's book "Josephine Baker's Secret War" is a must-read.
Connect with Professor Hanna Diamond:
- Follow Hanna on Twitter: @hannaediamond
- Follow Hanna on Instagram: @hdiamond2010
- Find her on Bluesky: hdiamond.bsky.social
Buy the Book: Josephine Baker’s Secret War: https://uk.bookshop.org/a/10120/9780300279986
Support History Rage on Patreon for early episode access, exclusive content, and the chance to engage with future guests at patreon.com/historyrage.
Stay connected with History Rage on social media:
- Twitter: @HistoryRage
- Instagram: @historyrage
- Facebook: HistoryRage
Stay curious, stay passionate, and most importantly, stay angry!
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In this riveting episode of History Rage, host Paul Bavill welcomes ancient historian and author Alexandra Sills to explore the captivating world of gladiators in ancient Rome and Greece. Together, they cut through the myths and misconceptions surrounding these iconic figures, offering a fresh perspective on their roles in society and the true nature of the games.
Setting the Record Straight:
- Alexandra passionately debunks the Hollywood portrayal of gladiators as mere mindless killers, arguing instead that the reality was far more complex and nuanced.
Gladiators: More Than Just Fighters:
- Discover how gladiators were not just slaves, but often free citizens and even members of the elite, challenging the stereotype that has long persisted in popular culture.
The Spectacle of the Games:
- Learn about the diverse forms of entertainment in ancient Rome, from chariot races to naval battles, and how gladiatorial combat was just one part of a larger spectacle designed to engage and enthral the audience.
Trauma and Entertainment:
- Explore the idea that gladiatorial games were a form of mass trauma response, a way for Romans to cope with the psychological impact of military defeats and societal upheaval.
Women in the Arena:
- Alexandra reveals the scant evidence of female gladiators, discussing their portrayal and the cultural implications of their presence in the arena.
Join us for a thought-provoking discussion that challenges preconceived notions and sheds light on the true nature of gladiatorial combat and its significance in ancient society. Follow Alexandra on Bluesky at @belovedofoises for more insights into her research.
Support History Rage on Patreon at patreon.com/historyrage for exclusive content, early episode access, and the chance to engage with future guests.
Stay connected with History Rage on social media:
Twitter: @HistoryRage
Instagram: @historyrage
Facebook: HistoryRage
Bluesky: historyrage.bsky.social
Stay curious, stay passionate, and most importantly, stay angry!
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In this captivating episode of History Rage, host Paul Bavill is joined by medievalist and author Dr. Steve Tibble to dissect the mythos surrounding two of history's most notorious groups: the Assassins and the Templars. With a blend of scholarly insight and engaging storytelling, Steve explores the realities of these enigmatic factions, challenging the misconceptions that have arisen over centuries.
The Origins of the Assassins:
Steve delves into the historical context of the Nizari Ismailis, known as the Assassins, revealing their roots as a persecuted religious minority during the tumultuous period of the Crusades. He explains how their survival strategy involved the projection of power through targeted assassinations, countering the myth that they were merely drug-crazed fanatics.
The Templars: Myth vs. Reality:
Examining the Templars, Steve illuminates their role as a military order within the Christian community, highlighting their fierce commitment to their cause and the complexities of their interactions with the Assassins. He draws parallels between the two groups, showcasing their similarities in tactics and the shared experience of being outnumbered in a violent world.
Notable Assassination Attempts:
Listeners will be enthralled by recounts of failed assassination attempts, including the botched attack on Prince Edward, which underscores the human side of these historical figures and their often chaotic methods. Steve's anecdotes bring to life the drama and unpredictability of medieval politics.
The Legacy of the Assassins and Templars:
As the discussion unfolds, Steve reflects on the enduring legacy of both groups and their impact on contemporary perceptions of loyalty, commitment, and the nature of power. He invites listeners to consider the broader implications of their stories in today's world.
Join Paul and Steve for an engaging exploration that promises to challenge your understanding of these legendary figures. This episode is a reminder of the complexities of history and the individuals who shaped it.
Guest Information:
Follow Dr. Steve Tibble on Twitter: @drstevetibble and on Instagram @stevetibble
Pre-order Steve's upcoming book, Templars and Assassins, launching on September 9th, through the History Rage bookshop:
https://uk.bookshop.org/a/10120/9780300282122
Support History Rage on Patreon for exclusive content and early access to episodes and the History Rage Mug at www.patreon.com/historyrage.
You can also subscribe on Apple for £3 per month to get ad-free access and early releases.
Follow History Rage on Social Media:
Twitter: @HistoryRage
Facebook: History Rage
Instagram: @historyrage
Stay curious, stay informed, and keep the rage for historical truth alive!
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Forget Korean Air 007: GPS was always meant for civilians.
What if everything you thought you knew about GPS was wrong? Far from being a secret military tool reluctantly unlocked after tragedy in 1983, GPS was designed with civilian use in mind from the very beginning — and surveyors were using it years before most of us had heard of it.
Paul Bavill welcomes writer and researcher Richard Easton, co-author of GPS Declassified: From Smart Bombs to Smartphones. With a unique perspective — his father, Roger Easton, is one of GPS’s credited inventors — Richard debunks the biggest misconceptions about GPS and reveals the surprising story of its development.
You’ll discover:
Join us for a myth-busting conversation that rewrites the story of GPS, replacing legends with the truth of politics, persistence, and surprising civilian allies. To dive deeper, grab Richard’s book GPS Declassified: From Smart Bombs to Smartphones.
👉 https://uk.bookshop.org/a/10120/9781640123076
Support the show on Patreon for early access, exclusive content, and of course, the iconic History Rage mug: patreon.com/historyrage
Follow the Rage:
Twitter: @HistoryRage
Facebook: History Rage
Instagram: @historyrage
From all of us at History Rage: stay curious, stay passionate, and above all — stay angry!
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Discover how invisible ink, codes, and women shaped early modern espionage.
Paul Bavill is joined by historians Nadine Akkerman and Pete Langman, co-authors of Spycraft: Tricks and Tools of the Dangerous Trade from Elizabeth I to the Restoration, to expose the myths and realities of Tudor and Stuart espionage. In partnership with the Gloucester History Festival, they explore the hidden world of spies, secret codes, and the overlooked women who shaped Britain’s first intelligence wars.
Breaking the Myth:
Spying wasn’t a men-only game. Nadine and Pete challenge the enduring assumption that espionage in this period was dominated by Walsingham and Cecil, revealing the crucial roles played by women—often underestimated, unseen, and therefore the perfect agents.
The Tricks of the Trade:
Listeners are taken deep into the techniques of early modern spycraft. From invisible inks and counterfeit seals to origami-like folded letters and even messages swallowed in wax balls, the sophistication of Tudor and Stuart espionage is laid bare.
Plots and Intrigue:
From the Babington Plot and the downfall of Mary Queen of Scots to the near-success of the Gunpowder Plot, Nadine and Pete uncover how these intelligence networks worked—and how luck, deception, and paranoia often decided the fate of monarchs.
Forgotten Figures:
Far beyond the famous “spymasters,” we meet Arthur Gregory, an inventive genius who poisoned himself in pursuit of better forgery methods, and Lady Carlisle, a double agent whose true loyalties remain mysterious. These overlooked individuals demonstrate the real breadth of Britain’s first intelligence wars.
This episode reveals espionage not as a primitive sideline to Tudor politics, but as a dangerous, ingenious, and often deadly world—where women played a far greater role than history usually admits.
Guest Information:
Catch Nadine Akkerman and Pete Langman at the Gloucester History Festival on Wednesday, 17th September at 8:00 pm. Tickets are available at 👉 https://www.gloucesterhistoryfestival.co.uk/events/spycraft/
Buy their book Spycraft: Tricks and Tools of the Dangerous Trade from Elizabeth I to the Restoration: https://uk.bookshop.org/a/10120/9780300267549
Follow Nadine on X (Twitter): @misswalsingham
Follow Pete on X (Twitter): @elegantfowl
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Stay informed, stay passionate, and let the rage for historical truth burn on!
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The smooth Tudor–Stuart handover? One of history’s biggest lies..
In this fiery live episode of History Rage, Paul Bavill is joined by Tracy Borman, chief historian of Historic Royal Palaces, to tear apart the enduring myth of a smooth Tudor–Stuart succession. With her explosive new book Stolen Crown about to be released, Tracy reveals how one of the most famous “peaceful handovers” in English history was anything but. Behind the curtain lay conspiracy, forgery, rival claimants — and a king desperate enough to rewrite history itself.
You’ll hear how:
This is not the story of a smooth succession, but of a stolen crown and the dangerous lies that cemented a dynasty.
📚 Connect with Tracy Borman
Pre-order her book: Stolen Crown: https://uk.bookshop.org/a/10120/9781399732888
Follow Tracy on Instagram/Threads: @tracy.borman
Follow Tracy on Twitter/Bluesky: @tracyborman
❤️ Support the Show
If this episode fired you up, join the Angry Mob on Patreon for exclusive content, early access, and the iconic History Rage mug. Subscribe at www.patreon.com/historyrage or join through Apple Subscriptions
🔗 Follow the Rage
Twitter: @HistoryRage
Instagram: @historyrage
Facebook: History Rage
Step inside the storm of 1603, where crowns were stolen, rivals silenced, and history itself forged to suit a king.
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