History Rage Paul Bavill

Episode Summary
In this episode of the History Rage podcast, Calder Walton, author of "Spies: The Epic Intelligence War Between East and West," joins Paul to delve into the historical context of Russian election interference.
Key Topics:
1.     Henry Wallace's Third-Party Bid: Wallace's failed third-party bid in the 1948 election, orchestrated with Stalin's input, reveals early attempts at election interference. Despite meticulous planning, Wallace's campaign imploded.
2.     KGB Operations in the 1984 Election: The KGB's attempts to influence the 1984 U.S. presidential election involved recruiting agents and organizing demonstrations outside the Democratic National Convention. The strategy echoed tactics seen in the 2016 election but lacked the amplification capabilities of today's social media.
3.     Soviet Exploitation of British Intelligence: The recruitment of the Cambridge spies, including Kim Philby, exposed a significant security failure in British intelligence. Soviet intelligence successfully targeted individuals from elite backgrounds who were least likely to be suspected as communist sympathizers.
4.     Oleg Gordievsky's Espionage Feat: Gordievsky's remarkable role as a double agent within the KGB and head of station in London allowed him to brief both sides during crucial diplomatic negotiations. His dramatic escape from Moscow adds a cinematic touch to the espionage narrative.
5.     Putin's KGB Mythology: The discussion dispels myths surrounding Vladimir Putin's KGB career, highlighting its mediocrity. Putin's attempts to project an image of deep cover illegals and elite intelligence involvement are debunked.
6.     Western Covert Action During the Cold War: Efforts to destabilize the Soviet bloc during the Cold War, often through covert actions, faced internal sabotage and operational shortcomings. The asymmetry between open democracies and authoritarian states affected the effectiveness of these operations.
Recommendations and Resources:
·        Calder Walton's book: "Spies: The Epic Intelligence War Between East and West"
·        Texas National Security Review article by Calder Walton: "What's Old is New Again: Russian Disinformation and the 'Active Measures' Campaign"
·        Follow Calder Walton on Twitter: @calder_walton
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

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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
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Stay Angry, Stay Informed - History Rage

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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

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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

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**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

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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

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