History Rage Paul Bavill

In this special D-Day 80th anniversary episode of History Rage, host Paul Bavill is joined by historian Dr. Joseph Quinn to delve into the surprisingly wide access to the plans for Operation Overlord at the time. As the project coordinator for the "Their Finest Hour" initiative, Dr. Quinn shares insights into the extensive digital crowdsourcing efforts aimed at preserving Second World War heritage.
Key Points:
Introduction to "Their Finest Hour" Project:
Overview of the digital crowdsourcing model developed by Dr. Stuart Lee.Efforts to recover and digitally conserve personal recollections and object heritage from the Second World War.Democratisation of Operation Overlord:
The widespread sharing of the invasion plan among junior and mid-ranking officers.Examples of officers like Major George Stidwell who were briefed as early as July 1943.Operation Fortitude:
The grand deception plan to mislead the Germans about the invasion location.Critical roles played by double agents like Juan Pujol Garcia and Duško Popov.Secrecy and Leaks:
Instances of leaks and measures taken to prevent them, such as mail censorship and securing sensitive documents.Guest Information:
Visit the "Their Finest Hour" project at theirfinesthour.org.Follow the project on Twitter @WW2FinestHour and Instagram @their_finest_hour.
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
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/
Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/historyrage.bsky.social
Stay Angry, Stay Informed - History Rage

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this thought-provoking episode, Jackson van Uden joins the History Rage podcast to dissect the nuances of totalitarian regimes, comparing the atrocities committed by Adolf Hitler and Joseph Stalin during the 20th century. The conversation delves into the nature of political terror, genocidal actions, and the dynamics that led to the rise of dictators.
Key Points:

Defining Totalitarian Regimes: Jackson explores the evolution from democracy to dictatorship, authoritarianism, and finally totalitarianism. He cites examples like Juan Peron in Argentina, showcasing the varying degrees of control and power.Comparing Hitler and Stalin: The discussion revolves around the World War II era, drawing parallels between Nazi atrocities and Soviet actions. The episode highlights the Holocaust, Stalin's forced deportation of Crimean Tartars, and the genocidal actions against the kulaks.Stalin's Micromanagement: A crucial distinction is made between Hitler's overseeing approach and Stalin's micromanagement style. The conversation dissects Stalin's direct involvement in political terror, deportation, and decision-making within his regime.The Uncomfortable Alliances: Jackson examines how post-World War II alliances influenced the narrative around Stalin. The surprising portrayal of Stalin as "Uncle Joe" and positive remarks by Western leaders like Roosevelt and Churchill contribute to a skewed historical perspective.Candidates for Totalitarianism: Beyond Hitler and Stalin, Mao's regime and post-revolution France are considered. Mao's Cultural Revolution and the estimates of 30 to 45 million deaths are discussed, emphasizing the different forms of political terror.Jews in the Soviet Union vs. Nazi Germany: The episode highlights the contrasting fates of Jews in the Soviet Union and Nazi Germany. While persecution existed in both, Jackson notes that Soviet actions were often tied to factors beyond religious identity.Airbrushing History: The role of Western powers in airbrushing Stalin's actions from history is explored, questioning the academic bias during the post-World War II period and the social acceptability of communism compared to fascism.Closing Message: Jackson emphasizes the prevalence of political terror in the 20th century and calls for renewed awareness in the 21st century. The commitment to "never again" is challenged, urging people to be mindful of global events and persecution.
Conclusion: This episode provides a comprehensive analysis of totalitarian regimes, shedding light on the complex factors that shaped 20th-century history. Jackson's insights into political terror, alliances, and the selective portrayal of historical figures offer a thought-provoking perspective on the challenges of interpreting the past.
For more in-depth discussions on history, follow Jackson on Twitter @historyWJackson and check out his book, available from Pen and Sword.
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 https://www.patreon.com/historyrage

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this riveting episode of History Rage, host Paul delves into the gruesome details of executions in early modern Britain with the expert insights of historian Blessin Adams. Covering a wide range of topics from heresy trials to the role of executioners, the discussion provides a unique and unsettling perspective on the historical practices of punishment.
Key Points:
Heresy Trials and Executions:
John Foxe, a contemporary theologian, collected accounts of heresy trials and executions, particularly in his work known as "Foxe's Book of Martyrs."The punishment for heresy was intentionally designed to be horrific due to the perceived severity of the crime.Blessin highlights the biases in historical accounts, urging caution in interpreting firsthand narratives.
Burning at the Stake for Heresy:
The descriptions of heretics burning at the stake often glorify the martyrs, with a balance of horror and strange beauty portrayed by Fox.Blessin explores the unintended consequence of encouraging admiration for martyrs, possibly influencing others to face a similar fate.
Petty Traitors and True Crime Presses:
Execution accounts of petty traitors differ significantly from those of heretics, emphasizing societal disgust and fear towards women who committed violent acts.True crime presses in the early modern period sensationalized these executions for entertainment and profit.
Execution Methods:
Blessin discusses the absence of professional executioners like Pierpoint and Marwood in the early modern period.Hangings were a common method, and Blessin describes the disturbing scene of multiple hangings at the Tyburn tree.
Attempts to Hasten Executions:
The discussion touches on historical attempts to hasten death using substances like tar pitch on the condemned's clothes.William Blackstone's argument that women were burned to maintain modesty due to concerns about nudity is explored.
Modesty and Execution Practices:
Blessin shares insights into the strange dichotomy of modesty in executions, citing instances of women being buried alive to maintain decency.The discussion also addresses the myth of the executioner's mask.
Witnessing Executions:
Blessin sheds light on the role of prison ordinaries who had unique access to condemned individuals and provided firsthand accounts of executions.The fascination with executions extended to public interest in final speeches and confessions, leading to a profitable market for printed accounts.
The Harsh Reality of Hangings:
Blessin explores the brutal aspects of hangings, including family members attempting to expedite the deaths of their loved ones and the hangman's involvement.
Connect with Blessin Adams:
WebsiteTwitter: @adams_blessinGreat and Horrible News: Murder and Mayhem in Early Modern Britain [History Rage Bookshop]
Support History Rage on Patreon:
Patreon

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

**EXPLICIT LANGUAGE WARNING**
In this captivating episode, Charlotte White explores the tumultuous life of Barbara Villiers, a woman who wielded unparalleled influence at the heart of Charles II's court. From her strategic manoeuvres in politics to her controversial love affair with the king, Barbara's story is one of power, passion, and scandal.
Key Points:
Introduction to Barbara Villiers:Mother of five children with Charles II.Intricate details of her relationships and influence.Barbara vs. Clarendon and Stewart:Barbara's role in removing key figures like the Earl of Clarendon and Francis Stewart.Insights into Charles II's obsession with Francis Stewart.Barbara's Relationship with Charles II:Charles's infatuation and Barbara's tantrums.Complications arising from Charles's pursuit of a 15-year-old Frances Stewart.Barbara's Political Manoeuvres:Her involvement in politics and influence over Charles's ministers.The Carbel and Buckingham's ambitions.The Artistic and Cultural Legacy of Barbara:Barbara as a pin-up girl and her influence on art.Support for playwright John Dryden and promotion of the arts.Long-Term Consequences:
Legacy in Royal Lineage:Prince William as a descendant of Charles II and Barbara Villiers.The intricate family tree and the long-term impact on the monarchy.Comparison with Nell Gwyn:Nell's enduring popularity compared to Barbara.Barbara's controversial actions and her portrayal in history.Barbara: The Uncrowned Queen:Barbara's power surpassing the Queen's.Controversial incidents, such as hanging her underwear in the privy gardens.Historical Challenges in Portraying Barbara:Struggles in writing a biography of Barbara Villiers.The complexity of interpreting her actions in modern terms.Conclusion:
Encouragement to delve into Barbara Villiers' life and legacy.The richness and wildness of Barbara's story, often overlooked in history.Guest Information:
Charlotte's book recommendation: "Kings and Queens" by Ian Dale.Follow Charlotte on Twitter and Instagram: @restorationcake.
You can see the painting Paul and Charlotte talk about here:
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

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Series 12 trailer is here. Starting on 20th May on General Release we'll be bringing you Authors Blessin Adams, Calder Walton, Jim Leary, David Kenyon, Helena Kelly and Guy Walters, Podcasters Charlotte White, Jackson van Uden and Penny Griffiths Morgan and from Academia WW1 Aviation Historian Michael Terry.
Support the show
You can follow History Rage on Twitter @HistoryRage 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

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of the History Rage Podcast, host Paul Bavill interviews Richard Duckett, author of "The Special Operations Executive in Burma." The discussion delves into the lesser-known aspects of the Special Operations Executive (SOE) in the Far East during World War II.
Key Points:
Diversity of Operations: Richard sheds light on SOE's operations in Burma, covering a diverse range of ethnic groups involved, including Chinese, Kachin, Karen, and more. The narrative dispels the misconception that all factions in Burma sided with the Japanese.
Survival Stories: The conversation explores epic stories of survival by British prisoners of war (POWs) in Japanese camps. Richard highlights the brutalities faced by British agents, emphasizing the risks and challenges unique to the Far East theatre.
Major Hugh Seagram: Richard recounts the heroic actions of Major Hugh Seagram, who surrendered to the Japanese to halt atrocities against the Karen people. The narrative extends to individuals like Saw Polar, a lieutenant with a remarkable escape and survival story.
Operations Dilwin and Billet: Richard unveils significant SOE operations like Dilwin, a prolonged venture in Kachin territory, and Billet, focused on the Burma Independence Army. These operations contributed significantly to intelligence gathering and securing the Burmese resistance.
Challenges in the Far East: The discussion explores the unique challenges faced by SOE in the Far East, including adapting to diverse ethnic groups, navigating the complex colonial context, and overcoming logistical hurdles in the vast and challenging environment.
Collaboration with OSS: Richard shares insights into the collaboration between SOE and the Office of Strategic Services (OSS), highlighting the forging of relationships that laid the foundation for future cooperation between British and American special forces.
Resistance Movements: The episode touches upon the various resistance movements in Burma, encompassing Burmese nationalists, communists, and smaller ethnic groups. The complexities of these movements and their alliances are discussed in the context of the broader wartime narrative.
Please subscribe to the History Rage Podcast on your favourite platform and consider supporting us on Patreon to get early access to episodes and exclusive perks. Join the conversation on Twitter
You can buy Richard’s book “SOE in Burma” at Amazon and you can follow Richard on Twitter @richard_duckett
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

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.