History's Devils

James Crossland

Who were the worst people in history? HISTORY'S DEVILS is a weekly deep-dive podcast that investigates the world's most infamous historical figures. Each episode explores the life, actions, and impact of a notorious person from history, examining the facts behind their reputation and the events that shaped their legacy. Hosted by Professor James Crossland, HISTORY'S DEVILS covers dictators, tyrants, war criminals, cult leaders, revolutionaries, con-artists, conspiracy theorists and other controversial historical figures, combining deep research with compelling storytelling to reveal the darker side of human history. Perfect for fans of dark history, history documentaries, historical biographies, and in-depth explorations of the people who changed the world for better - or for worse. All the devils are here. And we are ready to tell their stories.

  1. 2d ago

    Scourge of God or Just a Guy with a "Magical" Sword? Attila the Hun and the Fall of Rome

    Who was Attila the Hun? Did he really bring down the Roman Empire? How much of his reputation as the "Scourge of God" is actually justified?  In this episode, James is joined by Jem Duducu (@jemduducu), author of The Devil's Horsemen: A Thousand Years of Conquest by Eurasian Steppe Horse Archers to separate fact from myth in the life, military campaigns and legacy of Attila the Hun during the final century of the Western Roman Empire. Attila the Hun is one of history's most famous conquerors, but much of what people believe about him comes from later Roman and Christian writers rather than contemporary evidence. As James and Jem show, there's mystery about who the Huns really were, how Eurasian steppe horse archers revolutionised warfare, why Attila became Rome's greatest enemy, and what actually happened during the legendary Battle of the Catalaunian Fields in 451 and Attila's famous meeting with Pope Leo I - events for which Attila became infamous, despite never conquering Rome.  Along the way, we cover the history of why Rome fell, the impact of the barbarian tribes on the frontier, and merits of the composite bow, the legend of Attila's magical "Sword of Mars" and why having a thick set of stone walls is an excellent way to stop a cavalry charge! What's covered in this episode Who Attila the Hun was, why he became known as the Scourge of God, and why modern historians still debate his life because almost every surviving source comes from Roman or Christian writers.How the Huns emerged from the Eurasian steppe, their possible origins near northern China, and why mounted horse archers dominated warfare across Europe and Asia for more than a thousand years.Why the Late Roman Empire looked very different from the Rome of Julius Caesar, including the Crisis of the Third Century, Emperor Diocletian's division of the Roman Empire, and the growing reliance on barbarian federate armies.How the Battle of Adrianople (378 AD) changed European history after Emperor Valens was killed fighting the Goths, whose migration into Roman territory had been driven by the advancing Huns.Why Constantinople's defensive walls protected the Eastern Roman Empire while the Western Roman Empire became increasingly vulnerable to invasion, eventually moving its capital from Rome to Ravenna.How Attila rose to power alongside Bleda, the campaigns of their uncle Ruga, the devastating Battle of the Utus River, and the huge tribute of gold extracted from Emperor Theodosius II.Why Hunnic armies repeatedly defeated larger Roman forces using composite bows, mounted archery, feigned retreats, mobility and psychological warfare instead of traditional battlefield tactics.What the contemporary diplomat Priscus of Panium reveals about Attila's court, including his appearance, leadership, nomadic lifestyle, diplomatic negotiations and the legend of the Sword of Mars.How Honoria's proposal to Attila, Pope Leo I's diplomatic meeting with the Hunnic ruler, and Attila's invasion of Gaul led to one of Late Antiquity's most famous battles.Why Flavius Aetius assembled a coalition of Romans, Visigoths, Franks, Burgundians and other allies to fight Attila at the Battle of the Catalaunian Fields (451 AD), often described as Rome's last great military victory.The competing theories surrounding Attila's death, the rapid collapse of Hunnic power after his passing, and why other leaders ultimately played a greater role in the final fall of the Western Roman Empire.Why Attila remains one of history's most misunderstood figures, how Hungary remembers him very differently from Western Europe, and how the Huns influenced medieval warfare, knighthood, the Silk Road and the wider history of Europe.Mentioned in this episode: Attila the Hun, Jem Duducu, James Crossland, The Devil's Horsemen: A Thousand Years of Conquest by Eurasian Steppe Horse Archers, Billy the Kid, Flavius Aetius, Late Roman Empire, Western Roman Empire, Eastern Roman Empire, Roman Empire, Crisis of the Third Century, Diocletian, Constantinople, Byzantium, Ravenna, Rome, Pannonia, Hungary, Danube River, Eurasian Steppe, Huns, Goths, Visigoths, Franks, Burgundians, Saxons, Lombards, Alans, Vandals, Magyars, Avars, Turks, Gokturks, Kipchaks, Naimans, Mongols, Genghis Khan, Timur (Tamerlane), Crusades, Silk Road, Great Wall of China, composite bow, longbow, horse archers, stirrup, spur, falconry, yurts, nomadic societies, barbarian migrations, federati, Battle of Adrianople, Emperor Valens, Battle of the Utus River, Theodosius II, Ruga, Bleda, Priscus of Panium, History of Byzantium, Sword of Mars, Thrace, Gaul, Orléans, Rhine frontier, Valentinian III, Honoria, Pope Leo I (Leo the Great), Battle of the Catalaunian Fields, Battle of Châlons, Battle of the Catalaunian Plains, Battle of Troyes, Alaric, Geseric, Odoacer, Romulus Augustulus, sack of Rome (410), sack of Rome (455), fall of the Western Roman Empire (476), Black Death, bubonic plague, Christian chroniclers, historical myth, historical memory, military history, steppe warfare, mounted warfare, Late Antiquity. Chapters 00:00 – Who was Attila the Hun? Separating history from myth 01:20 – The origins of the Huns and the Eurasian steppe 06:05 – Why Hunnic horse archers changed warfare forever 13:10 – Why the Roman Empire was collapsing before Attila 25:15 – How Attila became ruler of the Huns 28:35 – The military tactics that defeated Roman armies 35:05 – Inside Attila's court: Priscus, diplomacy and the Sword of Mars 41:05 – Honoria, Pope Leo I and Attila's invasion of Gaul 46:20 – The Battle of the Catalaunian Fields explained 51:20 – How Attila the Hun died and why his empire collapsed 54:20 – Why Hungary celebrates Attila the Hun today 58:00 – Did Attila really cause the fall of the Roman Empire? Thanks to SOULFULJAMTRACKS for their tune "Dark Halloween" Follow HISTORY's DEVILS  On Instagram @historysdevils https://www.instagram.com/historysdevils/ On Substack https://jamescrossland.substack.com/ Follow JAMES CROSSLAND On Bluesky @jamescrossland.bsky.social https://bsky.app/profile/jamescrossland.bsky.social Tag HISTORY's DEVILS @historysdevils #HistorysDevils #JamesCrossland #HistoryPodcast #Podcast #History #DarkHistory #HistoricalBiography #TrueHistory #HistoryDocumentary #Deepdive #Storytelling  History's Devils is a history podcast exploring the lives of murderers, charlatans, psychopaths, dictators, war criminals, tyrants, demagogues, revolutionaries, cult leaders, conquerors, fraudsters, and other controversial figures. History's Devils is hosted by James Crossland, professor of international history and author of: Rogue Agent: From Secret Plots to Psychological Warfare, the Untold Story of Robert Bruce Lockhart The Rise of Devils: Fear and the Origins of Modern Terrorism...

  2. Jul 21

    America's Forgotten King: James Jesse Strang and the Mormon Cult of Beaver Island

    James Jesse Strang, the only man in U.S. history to crown himself a king, is the focus of this podcast episode exploring his rise as a Mormon schismatic leader, cult founder, and self-declared monarch on Beaver Island, Michigan. Joined by Peter Zablocki (History Shorts Podcast), James uncovers the shocking story of Strang’s transformation from a sickly but highly ambitious child in upstate New York into a lawyer, journalist, and self-proclaimed prophet who broke away from the early Latter Day Saint movement after the death of the founder of the Mormon Church, Joseph Smith. The episode examines how Strang used a disputed letter allegedly naming him Smith’s successor to gain followers, before establishing his own religious offshoot, the Strangites, and relocating them to a remote frontier island in northern Michigan. There, he built a tightly controlled theocratic community that blended religion, law, and authoritarian rule. The discussion also covers how Strang escalated his authority into monarchy, crowning himself King of the Kingdom of Earth and Heaven in 1850, and how his rule over Beaver Island became increasingly violent and controlling, leading to violent conflicts with local fishermen, enforcement of strict moral and dress codes, the controversial introduction of polygamy, and clashes with U.S. authorities, all set against the broader backdrop of frontier populism and 19th-century American expansion. Covered in this episode: James Jesse Strang’s childhood in Scipio, New York, including illness, intellectual ambition, a coded diary, and early fantasies of monarchy, Napoleon, and political power Strang’s early careers as a lawyer, journalist, and Baptist preacher, alongside his self-described atheism and drive for status and authority The origins of Mormonism under Joseph Smith, including the angel Moroni, the golden plates, and the creation of the Book of Mormon as context for Strang’s later claims The 1844 killing of Joseph Smith and Hiram Smith in Carthage, Illinois, and the ensuing succession crisis within the early Mormon movement Strang’s disputed claim to leadership via a letter allegedly written by Joseph Smith naming him successor, supported by selective followers including members of Smith’s family Formation of the Strangite movement and break with Brigham Young’s main Mormon faction, which migrated west to establish Salt Lake City, Utah Establishment of the Voree community in Wisconsin, discovery of “bronze plates,” and publication of The Book of the Law of the Lord Relocation to Beaver Island, Michigan, where Strang founded St. James and created a frontier theocratic settlement Strang’s 1850 coronation as king, complete with crown, scepter, and ceremonial loyalty pledges from followers Escalating authoritarian governance on Beaver Island, including flogging, banishment, taxation, public punishment, and strict control of dress and behavior Conflicts with local non-Mormon fishermen and loggers, including accusations of piracy, violence, and interference with mail delivery Introduction of controversial religious practices such as polygamy, baptism for the dead, and ritual animal sacrifice Strang’s brief but significant political career as a Michigan state representative and his use of populist rhetoric about frontier independence and eastern elites His eventual assassination in 1856 on Beaver Island, followed by the collapse of his kingdom and the dispersal of his followers The survival of the Strangite movement into the modern era in small communities in Wisconsin and Michigan Mentioned in this episode: James Jesse Strang, History’s Devils, James Crossland, Peter Zablocki, Joseph Smith, Hiram Smith, Brigham Young, Mormonism, Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Strangites, Angel Moroni, golden plates, Book of Mormon, Voree plates, Book of the Law of the Lord, Beaver Island, St. James settlement, Michigan state legislature, 1844 Mormon succession crisis, Carthage jail killings, polygamy, theocracy, frontier populism, Andrew Jackson, USS Michigan, Lake Michigan frontier, United States mail system, Wingfield W. Watson, Thomas Bedford assassination of Strang Chapters:  00:00 James Jesse Strang and the making of a self-proclaimed king  01:18 Introduction to History’s Devils and Strang’s legend  02:06 Early life in Scipio, New York and ambitions of power  03:33 The coded diary and early visions of monarchy  05:07 Early careers: law, journalism, and Baptist preaching  07:18 Atheism, ambition, and conversion to Mormonism  08:45 Joseph Smith, golden plates, and the origins of Mormonism  10:29 Persecution of Mormons and Joseph Smith’s death  12:07 Strang’s claim as successor and leadership crisis  14:36 Voree Plates and angelic revelation in Wisconsin  16:04 Formation of the Strangite movement and break from Brigham Young  17:26 Voree community and the Book of the Law of the Lord  22:51 Migration to Beaver Island and founding of St. James  25:57 Strang’s coronation as King of Beaver Island  27:45 Governing Beaver Island and rising conflict with locals  31:31 Mail interference and federal attention  35:48 Political career, trial, and public legitimacy  37:33 Laws, newspapers, and authoritarian rule on Beaver Island  41:25 Polygamy, marriage rules, and internal tensions  48:30 Violence, assassination plot, and federal involvement  49:50 Assassination of James Jesse Strang aboard the USS Michigan  54:19 Collapse of Beaver Island and Strangite legacy  #americanhistory #mormonism #jamesjessestrang Thanks to SOULFULJAMTRACKS for their tune "Dark Halloween" Follow HISTORY's DEVILS  On Instagram @historysdevils https://www.instagram.com/historysdevils/ On Substack https://jamescrossland.substack.com/ Follow JAMES CROSSLAND On Bluesky @jamescrossland.bsky.social https://bsky.app/profile/jamescrossland.bsky.social Tag HISTORY's DEVILS @historysdevils #HistorysDevils #JamesCrossland #HistoryPodcast #Podcast #History #DarkHistory #HistoricalBiography #TrueHistory #HistoryDocumentary #Deepdive #Storytelling  History's Devils is a history podcast exploring the lives of murderers, charlatans, psychopaths, dictators, war criminals, tyrants, demagogues, revolutionaries, cult leaders, conquerors, fraudsters, and other controversial figures. History's Devils is hosted by James Crossland, professor of international history and author of: Rogue Agent: From Secret Plots to Psychological Warfare, the Untold Story of Robert Bruce Lockhart The Rise of Devils: Fear and the Origins of Modern Terrorism...

  3. Jul 14

    Sidney Gottlieb Part 2: MK Ultra and the CIA's Insane Assassination Plots

    James is joined once again by Jayne Friend for part two of our exploration of Sidney Gottlieb, the CIA chemist who led MK-Ultra, developed Cold War mind control experiments, and became involved in some of the agency's most controversial covert operations. This episode continues to story of Gottlieb's obsessions with LSD and psychological warfare, whilst covering his involvement in CIA assassination plots against Patrice Lumumba and Fidel Castro. James and Jayne examine how the lack of oversight drove MK-Ultra's unethical human experimentation into new and darker places, why MK-Ultra ultimately failed, the mysterious death of Frank Olson, and how Gottlieb escaped criminal prosecution before retiring to live the life of a wandering hippy and humanitarian. They also ponder MK-Ultra's legacy into the War on Terror. What's covered in this episode The career of George White and Operation Midnight Climax, where prostitutes secretly dosed clients with LSD whilst White watched from behind a one-way mirrorThe death of CIA scientist Frank Olson after he was secretly given LSD, the controversy surrounding his fall from a New York hotel window, and later evidence suggesting foul play.Gottlieb's role in developing concealed poisons, suicide devices and assassination methods for covert CIA operations during the Cold War.CIA plots to assassinate Congolese Prime Minister Patrice Lumumba using botulinum toxin, poison kits and other covert methods.The extraordinary range of proposed assassination attempts against Fidel Castro, including contaminated cigars, exploding seashells, poisoned diving equipment, beard-removal schemes and LSD-based disinformation plans.Why MKUltra was shut down in 1973, Gottlieb's destruction of thousands of CIA records, and how surviving files exposed the programme during the Church Committee and the Kennedy Inquiry.Gottlieb's testimony before congressional investigations and his successful negotiation for immunity, leading to his retirement to a farm in Virginia.The long-term legacy of MK-Ultra, its influence on debates about interrogation, intelligence oversight and ethics, and comparisons with CIA interrogation methods during the War on Terror. Mentioned in this episode Sidney Gottlieb, MKUltra, Project Bluebird, Project Artichoke, Allen Dulles, Frank Olson, George White, Operation Midnight Climax, LSD, mescaline, psilocybin, truth serum, mind control, brainwashing, hypnosis, sensory deprivation, behavioural psychology, chemical warfare, biological warfare, CIA, OSS, Cold War, Korean War, Soviet Union, China, North Korea, prisoner of war brainwashing, Camp King, Nazi scientists, Francis Gary Powers, U-2 Incident, saxitoxin, botulinum toxin, Patrice Lumumba, Congo Crisis, Belgian Congo, Larry Devlin, Fidel Castro, Cuba, Cuban Revolution, Dwight D. Eisenhower, exploding cigars, exploding seashell, thallium salts, Church Committee, Frank Church, Edward Kennedy, Stansfield Turner, Jimmy Carter, CIA oversight, assassination plots, covert operations, human experimentation, ethics in intelligence, War on Terror, Abu Zubaydah, enhanced interrogation, waterboarding, CIA black sites, psychological warfare. Chapters 00:00 — Sidney Gottlieb: The CIA's Master of MK-Ultra 05:10 — Why the CIA Became Obsessed with Mind Control 10:45 — LSD, Truth Serums and the Birth of MK-Ultra 17:35 — Operation Midnight Climax and Secret CIA Safe Houses 24:40 — Frank Olson: The Scientist Who Fell from a Hotel Window 32:20 — CIA Poisons, Saxitoxin and Covert Assassination Weapons 38:10 — The CIA Plot to Kill Patrice Lumumba 42:00 — Fidel Castro and the CIA's Strangest Assassination Plans 48:00 — The Collapse of MK-Ultra and the Destruction of the Files 53:00 — The Church Committee, Congressional Investigations and Immunity 58:30 — Did MK-Ultra Influence the War on Terror? 1:03:30 — Sidney Gottlieb's Legacy and the Dark History of CIA Experiments  Thanks to SOULFULJAMTRACKS for their tune "Dark Halloween" Follow HISTORY's DEVILS  On Instagram @historysdevils https://www.instagram.com/historysdevils/ On Substack https://jamescrossland.substack.com/ Follow JAMES CROSSLAND On Bluesky @jamescrossland.bsky.social https://bsky.app/profile/jamescrossland.bsky.social Tag HISTORY's DEVILS @historysdevils #HistorysDevils #JamesCrossland #HistoryPodcast #Podcast #History #DarkHistory #HistoricalBiography #TrueHistory #HistoryDocumentary #Deepdive #Storytelling  History's Devils is a history podcast exploring the lives of murderers, charlatans, psychopaths, dictators, war criminals, tyrants, demagogues, revolutionaries, cult leaders, conquerors, fraudsters, and other controversial figures. History's Devils is hosted by James Crossland, professor of international history and author of: Rogue Agent: From Secret Plots to Psychological Warfare, the Untold Story of Robert Bruce Lockhart The Rise of Devils: Fear and the Origins of Modern Terrorism...

  4. Jul 14

    Sidney Gottlieb Part 1: MK Ultra and the CIA's Search for Mind Control

    Who was Sidney Gottlieb, and how did the CIA's MKUltra program attempt to use LSD and psychological warfare to create mind control during the Cold War? In Part One of this epic two-part episode, James is joined by Jayne Friend to explore the origins of MKUltra through the remarkable life of it's chief, Sidney Gottlieb, the CIA chemist who became America's leading architect of mind control research. From Operation Paperclip and Nazi biological warfare research to Cold War fears of communist brainwashing during the Korean War, this episode examines why the CIA believed controlling human consciousness was essential to national security. The discussion traces Gottlieb's journey from gifted scientist and nature lover to LSD evangelical, laying the foundations for one of the CIA's most controversial and disturbing secret project.s What's covered in this episode Sidney Gottlieb's early life, including his upbringing in a Jewish immigrant family, his education at Caltech, and how his club foot shaped his early experiences.How Camp Detrick became the centre of America's biological and psychological warfare research during the early Cold War.The ethical legacy of Operation Paperclip and how former Nazi scientists, including Kurt Blome, were recruited by the United States.How the biological weapons experiments of Japan's Unit 731 influenced CIA programs after 1945.Why the Korean War and reports of American prisoners embracing communism convinced the CIA that Soviet brainwashing had become a genuine national security threat.The creation of Project Bluebird and Project Artichoke under Allen Dulles and Sidney Gottlieb and the search for truth serums, mind control and behavioural manipulation.Albert Hofmann's discovery of lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) and why Sidney Gottlieb believed LSD offered the key to controlling human consciousness.The history of ergotism, its neurological effects, and why contaminated rye has even been linked to theories surrounding the Salem Witch Trials.How CIA black sites, covert experiments and unethical human testing expanded from prisoners and psychiatric patients to unsuspecting civilians and CIA employees.The hidden role Sidney Gottlieb played in spreading LSD through American universities, artists, writers and the emerging counterculture of the 1960s.The shocking case of the Boston gangster Whitey Bulger, who became a test subject of MK-ULTRA. How Gottlieb's research expanded despite repeated failures, culminating in the creation of MK-Ultra in August 1953.Mentioned in this episode Sidney Gottlieb, MKUltra, Project Bluebird, Project Artichoke, Allen Dulles, Ira Baldwin, Camp Detrick, Operation Paperclip, Unit 731, Kurt Blome, Joseph Mengele, Auschwitz, Werner von Braun, Shirō Ishii, Korean War, Cold War, Fidel Castro, Soviet Union, communism, brainwashing, mind control, psychological warfare, biological warfare, chemical warfare, truth serum, LSD, lysergic acid diethylamide, Albert Hofmann, ergotism, mescaline, peyote, sodium pentothal, heroin, Whitey Bulger, Frank Olson, Robert J. Lifton, Thought Reform and the Psychology of Totalism, Salem Witch Trials, propaganda, CIA black sites, patriotism, ethics in scientific research, psychiatric experimentation, memory erasure, Manchurian Candidate, counterculture, The Beatles, The Grateful Dead, Robert Hunter, Ken Kesey, One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest, Cary Grant, Esther Williams, Harold Abramson, Tokyo Harbour, Munich, California Institute of Technology, FDA, Second World War, North Korea, Soviet spies. Chapters 00:00 – Who Was Sidney Gottlieb? The CIA's Master of Mind Control 01:10 – Sidney Gottlieb's Early Life and Scientific Career 08:17 – Camp Detrick, Nazi Science and Operation Paperclip 13:35 – Unit 731 and the Cold War Weapons Race 18:38 – The Korean War and the Fear of Communist Brainwashing 22:16 – Project Bluebird and Project Artichoke Begin 25:24 – LSD, Truth Serums and the Search for Mind Control 26:46 – Ergotism, Hallucinations and the Origins of LSD 32:32 – Can LSD Really Control Human Consciousness? 37:28 – CIA Black Sites and Secret Human Experiments 44:13 – How the CIA Helped Fuel the 1960s LSD Counterculture 51:35 – The Birth of MKUltra and Sidney Gottlieb's Expanding Empire Thanks to SOULFULJAMTRACKS for their tune "Dark Halloween" Follow HISTORY's DEVILS  On Instagram @historysdevils https://www.instagram.com/historysdevils/ On Substack https://jamescrossland.substack.com/ Follow JAMES CROSSLAND On Bluesky @jamescrossland.bsky.social https://bsky.app/profile/jamescrossland.bsky.social Tag HISTORY's DEVILS @historysdevils #HistorysDevils #JamesCrossland #HistoryPodcast #Podcast #History #DarkHistory #HistoricalBiography #TrueHistory #HistoryDocumentary #Deepdive #Storytelling  History's Devils is a history podcast exploring the lives of murderers, charlatans, psychopaths, dictators, war criminals, tyrants, demagogues, revolutionaries, cult leaders, conquerors, fraudsters, and other controversial figures. History's Devils is hosted by James Crossland, professor of international history and author of: Rogue Agent: From Secret Plots to Psychological Warfare, the Untold Story of Robert Bruce Lockhart The Rise of Devils: Fear and the Origins of Modern Terrorism...

  5. Jul 7

    The Devils of Red Dead Redemption: How a Video Game Shines a Light on America's Dark History

    What can a video game teach us about American history, morality, capitalism, race, violence, and the myth of the Wild West? This week, James is joined by Torre Olsen (author of Red Dead's History: A Video Game, an Obsession, and America's Violent Past) to explore the moral grey areas of the Wild West by diving into the Red Dead Redemption video game franchise, and its powerful portrayal of good, evil, and American history. In discussing the fictional characters John Marston and Arthur Morgan, we reveal how a video game prompted players to consider what it means to be “good” or “bad” in a world shaped by violence, survival, and change. We also discuss how Red Dead Redemption and Red Dead Redemption 2 capture and depict key themes of American history – the decline of the frontier, the rise of federal authority, the death of the Old West, industrialization, the displacement of Native American communities, the Lost Cause myth, race relations, capitalism, gun culture, and the enduring appeal of outlaw mythology.  How accurate are these depictions? And what do they reveal about America’s past, and our fascination with it today? Whether you're a gamer, history enthusiast, or someone interested in moral philosophy, this episode offers deep insights into one of the most critically acclaimed video game series of all time. Covered in this episode: • The real history behind Red Dead Redemption and Red Dead Redemption 2  • Arthur Morgan, John Marston, and Dutch van der Linde as tragic antiheroes  • The historical inspiration for the Van der Linde Gang  • Pinkertons, capitalism, and law enforcement in the American West  • Native American history and frontier expansion  • Confederate monuments and the Lost Cause mythology  • How video games can teach history  • Rockstar Games' portrayal of American society  • The relationship between Red Dead Redemption and Grand Theft Auto  • Why morality systems in video games matter Chapters 00:00 Introduction: Why Red Dead Redemption Is More Than a Video Game 02:15 Tor Olson and the History Behind Red Dead's History 06:00 How COVID Lockdowns Led to a Historian Rediscovering Gaming 09:00 The Real American History Hidden Inside Red Dead Redemption 2 12:05 Dutch van der Linde, Arthur Morgan, and the Myth of the Outlaw 17:45 Freedom vs Civilization: The Closing of the American Frontier 23:20 Pinkertons, Capitalism, Policing, and Rockstar's Social Commentary 24:55 Native Americans, Race, and the Historical Accuracy of Red Dead 2 26:30 Confederate Monuments, the Lost Cause, and the Post-Civil War South 34:00 Arthur Morgan's Morality System and the Meaning of Redemption 40:45 The Real Outlaws Behind Red Dead, GTA, and America's Cultural Myths Thanks to SOULFULJAMTRACKS for their tune "Dark Halloween" Follow HISTORY's DEVILS  On Instagram @historysdevils https://www.instagram.com/historysdevils/ On Substack https://jamescrossland.substack.com/ Follow JAMES CROSSLAND On Bluesky @jamescrossland.bsky.social https://bsky.app/profile/jamescrossland.bsky.social Tag HISTORY's DEVILS @historysdevils #HistorysDevils #JamesCrossland #HistoryPodcast #Podcast #History #DarkHistory #HistoricalBiography #TrueHistory #HistoryDocumentary #Deepdive #Storytelling  History's Devils is a history podcast exploring the lives of murderers, charlatans, psychopaths, dictators, war criminals, tyrants, demagogues, revolutionaries, cult leaders, conquerors, fraudsters, and other controversial figures. History's Devils is hosted by James Crossland, professor of international history and author of: Rogue Agent: From Secret Plots to Psychological Warfare, the Untold Story of Robert Bruce Lockhart The Rise of Devils: Fear and the Origins of Modern Terrorism...

  6. Jun 30

    Andrew Jackson Part 2: Populist Politics, The Trail of Tears, and the Creation of the American Presidency

    In part two of this double-episode on Andrew Jackson, James and Edd explore his rise to the presidency, his turbulent years in the White House, and the lasting impact of his populist politics on America. From the disputed election of 1824 to his victory in 1828, Andrew Jackson transformed American politics and became one of the most controversial presidents in U.S. history. This episode examines Jackson’s battles with political rivals, the expansion of voting rights, the Petticoat Affair, the Bank War, the Nullification Crisis and the catastrophic Trail of Tears. James and Edd also discuss why Jackson remained popular despite repeated scandals, economic turmoil, and accusations of authoritarianism, while assessing modern comparisons between Jackson and Donald Trump (of course!) What’s covered in this episode How Andrew Jackson emerged from the First Seminole War as a national hero, became governor of Florida in 1821, and positioned himself for a presidential run.Why Jackson’s reputation as a soldier, duelist, and controversial public figure made him both popular with voters and feared by the political establishment.The election of 1824, including Jackson’s rivalry with Henry Clay, the role of John Quincy Adams, and the accusations of a “corrupt bargain” that denied Jackson the presidency.How Jackson campaigned as an outsider against political elites and overcame attacks such as the infamous coffin handbills.Why tariffs, regional tensions, and dissatisfaction with the Adams administration helped Jackson win the election of 1828.The death of Rachel Jackson shortly after the election and how it shaped Jackson’s outlook as president.The chaotic inauguration of 1829, when crowds overwhelmed the White House and celebrated the arrival of a populist president.The Petticoat Affair involving Margaret “Peggy” Eaton, John Eaton, John C. Calhoun, and the political divisions it created within Jackson’s administration.How Jackson expanded presidential power by replacing federal officials with loyal supporters and reshaping the executive branch.The Bank War and Jackson’s campaign against the Second Bank of the United States, including his belief in decentralized banking and opposition to financial elites.The Nullification Crisis, South Carolina’s resistance to federal tariffs, and Jackson’s confrontation with John C. Calhoun over states’ rights and federal authority.The Indian Removal Act and the forced relocation of Native nations including the Cherokee, Creek, Choctaw, Chickasaw, and Seminole peoples.The Trail of Tears, Native American resistance, Supreme Court challenges, and figures such as Osceola, Davy Crockett, and Henry Storrs.Why Jackson won reelection in 1832 despite intense controversy surrounding his presidency.The 1835 assassination attempt by Richard Lawrence and the famous incident in which Jackson attacked his would-be assassin with a cane.How Jackson’s economic policies contributed to the conditions that led to the Panic of 1837 and a major financial crisis.Jackson’s support for Texas independence, his confrontations with France and Britain, and his broader vision of American expansion.Jackson’s retirement in Nashville, his support for the annexation of Texas, and his death in 1845.A comparison of Andrew Jackson and Donald Trump, examining the similarities and differences between two figures often described as populist outsiders.  Mentioned in this episode Andrew Jackson, Rachel Jackson, John Quincy Adams, John Adams, Henry Clay, John C. Calhoun, James Monroe, Martin Van Buren, Margaret Peggy Eaton, John Eaton, Richard Lawrence, Osceola, Davy Crockett, Henry Storrs, Donald Trump, Alexander Hamilton, Thomas Jefferson, JD Vance, Spain, Florida, Tennessee, South Carolina, Georgia, Texas, Mexico, Britain, France, Russia, American Revolution, War of 1812, Napoleonic Wars, First Seminole War, Second Seminole War, Creek War, Battle of Horseshoe Bend, Trail of Tears, Indian Removal Act, Nullification Crisis, Bank War, Panic of 1837, Petticoat Affair, Monroe Doctrine, Texas Revolution, annexation of Texas, Electoral College, corrupt bargain, states’ rights, federal authority, populism, presidential power, Native American removal, Cherokee Nation, Creek Nation, Choctaw Nation, Chickasaw Nation, Seminole Nation, Democratic Party, tariffs, Bank of the United States, expansionism, American presidency.   Chapters 00:00 Introduction: Andrew Jackson’s Rise to the Presidency 00:19 From Florida Hero to Presidential Candidate (1821–1824) 05:27 The Election of 1824, John Quincy Adams and the Corrupt Bargain 16:50 The Election of 1828 and Rachel Jackson’s Death 20:36 Jackson’s Inauguration and the Rise of Mass Politics 24:09 The Petticoat Affair and the Birth of the Spoils System 28:34 The Bank War and the Nullification Crisis 35:24 The Indian Removal Act and the Trail of Tears 42:25 Re-Election, Jacksonian Democracy and the Democratic Party 46:34 The Assassination Attempt and the Panic of 1837 51:43 Texas, Foreign Policy and Jackson’s Final Years 57:53 Andrew Jackson’s Legacy and Comparisons to Donald Trump 01:02:53 Outro #andrewjackson #presidents #americanhistory  Thanks to SOULFULJAMTRACKS for their tune "Dark Halloween" Follow HISTORY's DEVILS  On Instagram @historysdevils https://www.instagram.com/historysdevils/ On Substack https://jamescrossland.substack.com/ Follow JAMES CROSSLAND On Bluesky @jamescrossland.bsky.social https://bsky.app/profile/jamescrossland.bsky.social Tag HISTORY's DEVILS @historysdevils #HistorysDevils #JamesCrossland #HistoryPodcast #Podcast #History #DarkHistory #HistoricalBiography #TrueHistory #HistoryDocumentary #Deepdive #Storytelling  History's Devils is a history podcast exploring the lives of murderers, charlatans, psychopaths, dictators, war criminals, tyrants, demagogues, revolutionaries, cult leaders, conquerors, fraudsters, and other controversial figures. History's Devils is hosted by James Crossland, professor of international history and author of: Rogue Agent: From Secret Plots to Psychological Warfare, the Untold Story of Robert Bruce Lockhart The Rise of Devils: Fear and the Origins of Modern Terrorism...

  7. Jun 30

    Andrew Jackson Part 1: The Rise of America's Most Violent President

    This week, James (@historysdevils) is joined by Edd Mair (@eplmair) for a double episode on the life of Andrew Jackson, examining how the seventh president of the United States rose from a frontier orphan to become a war hero, slaveholder, populist political figure, and one of the most influential and controversial presidents in American history. In this first part of Andrew Jackson's story, we trace his journey from the backcountry of the Carolinas during the American Revolution to his emergence as a national celebrity after the War of 1812. The episode examines Jackson's violent temperament, his legendary duelling career, his immersion in frontier politics, military leadership, his attitudes toward slavery and his relentless campaigns against Native Americans. We also explore how his experiences on the American frontier shaped the political style, ideas, and reputation that would eventually carry him to the White House and re-shape the office in his own eccentric and authoritarian image. What's covered in this video: Andrew Jackson's childhood in Carolinas and his family's experiences during the American Revolutionary War. Jackson's capture by British forces during the Revolution, and the origins of his lifelong hatred of Britain. His move to Nashville in the Southwest Territory and his duels with Waightstill Avery, John Sevier and Charles Dickenson. His controversial marriage to Rachel Donelson. Jackson's involvement in slavery and evidence of his harsh treatment of those he enslaved. The rise of Jackson as a political figure in Tennessee and his appointment as commander of the Tennessee militia. Jackson's role during the War of 1812, his military ambitions, and the wider geopolitical struggle involving Britain, the United States, Spain, and Napoleon. The Creek War, the Red Stick movement, and Jackson's brutal campaign against Creek resistance. The Battle of Horseshoe Bend and the military reputation Jackson built through his victories in the American South. The origins of Jackson's nickname "Old Hickory" and the health problems he endured throughout his military career. The Battle of New Orleans, Jackson's decisive victory over British forces, and the events that transformed him into a national hero. Jackson's use of martial law in New Orleans and the controversies that followed his wartime leadership. The First Seminole War, the Spanish colony of Florida, and Jackson's campaign against Seminole communities, Black settlements, and foreign influence in the region. The history of Florida as a refuge for escaped slaves, the emergence of the Seminole people, and the strategic importance of the territory to American expansion. Jackson's treatment of Native Americans and escaped slaves, including the stories of Lyncoya Jackson and Fernando (Polydor). How Jackson's military successes, frontier image, and popularity with ordinary voters positioned him for a future presidential campaign. Chapters: 00:00 - Andrew Jackson Before the White House 03:04 - The Violent Boy Who Survived 11:18 - Making a Name on the Frontier 16:54 - Why Jackson Loved Duels 21:27 - Slavery Built His Fortune 27:31 - The Woman Behind the Scandals 33:52 - From Lawyer to Power Broker 37:52 - War of 1812 Changes Everything 44:00 - Jackson's War on the Creeks 50:58 - The Battle That Made Him 55:19 - Conquering Florida by Force 63:14 - America's New Folk Hero Thanks to SOULFULJAMTRACKS for their tune "Dark Halloween" Follow HISTORY's DEVILS  On Instagram @historysdevils https://www.instagram.com/historysdevils/ On Substack https://jamescrossland.substack.com/ Follow JAMES CROSSLAND On Bluesky @jamescrossland.bsky.social https://bsky.app/profile/jamescrossland.bsky.social Tag HISTORY's DEVILS @historysdevils #HistorysDevils #JamesCrossland #HistoryPodcast #Podcast #History #DarkHistory #HistoricalBiography #TrueHistory #HistoryDocumentary #Deepdive #Storytelling  History's Devils is a history podcast exploring the lives of murderers, charlatans, psychopaths, dictators, war criminals, tyrants, demagogues, revolutionaries, cult leaders, conquerors, fraudsters, and other controversial figures. History's Devils is hosted by James Crossland, professor of international history and author of: Rogue Agent: From Secret Plots to Psychological Warfare, the Untold Story of Robert Bruce Lockhart The Rise of Devils: Fear and the Origins of Modern Terrorism...

  8. Jun 23

    William Joyce Part 2: The Making of "Lord Haw Haw", Hitler's Voice in Britain

    In part two of this double episode on William Joyce, James Crossland and Jayne Friend explain how he became Lord Haw Haw, the infamous Nazi broadcaster who transmitted propaganda from Germany to Britain during the Second World War. James and Jayne follow Joyce's journey from fleeing Britain in 1939 to becoming the most recognizable English-language voice of Nazi propaganda. The episode examines how Joyce built his Lord Haw Haw persona, the role of Nazi radio broadcasts during the war, and why millions of Britons listened to Germany Calling despite knowing it was enemy propaganda. It also traces Joyce's personal decline, drunkenness, his unbending loyalty to Hitler's regime, his hilarious capture after the fall of Nazi Germany, and his eventual execution for treason in 1946. What's covered in this episode The introduction of Defence Regulation 18B and how British authorities planned to detain suspected Nazi sympathizers at the outbreak of war in 1939.How William Joyce was warned by MI5 officer and former associate Maxwell Knight and fled Britain with his wife Margaret Joyce before his arrest.The Joyces' arrival in Berlin and their connection to Dorothy Eckersley, a well-connected British fascist living in Nazi Germany.How Dorothy Eckersley's links to Unity Mitford and influential Nazi circles helped William Joyce secure a broadcasting role in Germany.The structure of Nazi propaganda under Joseph Goebbels and the Ministry of Propaganda's control of radio broadcasting.How Joyce joined English-language radio broadcasts aimed at British audiences and developed the Lord Haw Haw persona.The origins of the Lord Haw Haw nickname and the wider network of English-speaking Nazi broadcasters including Wolf Mittler and Norman Baillie-Stewart.The creation of Germany Calling and how Nazi propagandists used British voices to increase credibility with listeners in the United Kingdom.Comparisons between Nazi wartime broadcasting, British political warfare operations, and modern propaganda techniques.How Joyce exploited fears during the Blitz by exaggerating bomb damage, government failures, anti-war sentiment, and political divisions inside Britain.The false claim that the aircraft carrier HMS Ark Royal had been sunk and how Prime Minister Neville Chamberlain publicly denied the story.Joyce's attacks on Winston Churchill, criticism of British leadership, and use of rumours, conspiracy theories, and sensational stories to attract listeners.His promotion of theories surrounding Pearl Harbor, Franklin D. Roosevelt, Anglo-American relations, and alleged conspiracies involving the British Empire.Why millions of Britons listened to Germany Calling and how wartime distrust, censorship concerns, and dissatisfaction with official information contributed to its popularity.The luxurious lifestyle enjoyed by William and Margaret Joyce within Nazi Germany's elite social circles during the early years of the war.The couple's alcoholism, affairs, violent relationship, and personal decline as Germany's military fortunes worsened.William Joyce's book Twilight Over England and its defence of fascism and Nazism.The impact of major turning points including Operation Barbarossa, the Battle of the Atlantic, Allied operations in North Africa, and the Allied invasion of Sicily on Joyce's credibility.Accounts from fellow Nazi collaborator Eric Pleasants describing Joyce's physical and psychological deterioration by the final years of the war.Joyce's final radio broadcast on 30 April 1945, the same day Adolf Hitler committed suicide in Berlin.The collapse of the Third Reich, the Flensburg Government under Karl Dönitz, and the final days of senior Nazi officials.How British soldiers identified and captured William Joyce near Flensburg after recognizing his distinctive voice and facial scar.Joyce's trial at the Old Bailey, the legal arguments surrounding his nationality, and the treason charges brought against him.Why his British passport and oath of allegiance to the Crown became central to the prosecution's case.William Joyce's execution at Wandsworth Prison on 3 January 1946 and his status as the last person executed in Britain for high treason.Margaret Joyce's detention, release, later life, and death from alcoholism in 1972.The lasting legacy of Lord Haw Haw as a symbol of fascist collaboration, propaganda, treason, and political extremism during the Second World War.What's mentioned in this episode: William Joyce, Lord Haw Haw, James Crossland, Jayne Friend, Margaret Joyce, Maxwell Knight, MI5, Defence Regulation 18B, Oswald Mosley, British Union of Fascists, British Fascisti, Nazi Germany, Third Reich, Adolf Hitler, Joseph Goebbels, Ministry of Propaganda, Dorothy Eckersley, Peter Eckersley, BBC, Unity Mitford, Wolf Mittler, Norman Baillie-Stewart, Germany Calling, Blitz, Winston Churchill, Neville Chamberlain, Munich Crisis, Munich Agreement, Sudetenland, Czechoslovakia, Czechia, Second World War, World War II, Pearl Harbor, Franklin D. Roosevelt, Anglo-American relations, conspiracy theories, HMS Ark Royal, Royal Navy, Battle of the Atlantic, Operation Barbarossa, North Africa Campaign, Allied invasion of Sicily, Operation Husky, Eric Pleasants, Flensburg, Flensburg Government, Karl Dönitz, Albert Speer, Berlin, Old Bailey, Wandsworth Prison, high treason, British passport, oath of allegiance, Galway, Ireland, propaganda, fascism, Nazism, collaboration, censorship, wartime broadcasting, political warfare, psychological warfare, radio propaganda, treason, British Empire, Nazi collaborators 00:00 Introduction: William Joyce, Lord Haw Haw and Nazi Germany 04:15 Defence Regulation 18B: Why Britain Wanted William Joyce Arrested 09:00 Escape to Berlin: How William and Margaret Joyce Fled Britain in 1939 14:30 Joseph Goebbels and Nazi Propaganda: Joyce Joins Germany Calling 20:45 Who Was Lord Haw Haw? The Voice of Nazi Radio Broadcasting 27:15 The Blitz, Churchill and Propaganda: How Joyce Targeted British Morale 34:30 HMS Ark Royal, Pearl Harbor and WWII Conspiracy Theories 41:00 Hitler's War Turns Bad: Alcoholism, Decline and Twilight Over England 48:00 Hitler's Death and the Collapse of the Third Reich 55:00 Capture, Treason Trial and Execution of William Joyce #WWII #propaganda #lordhawhaw Thanks to SOULFULJAMTRACKS for their tune "Dark Halloween" Follow HISTORY's DEVILS  On Instagram @historysdevils https://www.instagram.com/historysdevils/ On Substack https://jamescrossland.substack.com/ Follow JAMES CROSSLAND On Bluesky @jamescrossland.bsky.social https://bsky.app/profile/jamescrossland.bsky.social Tag HISTORY's DEVILS @historysdevils #HistorysDevils #JamesCrossland #HistoryPodcast #Podcast #History #DarkHistory #HistoricalBiography #TrueHistory #HistoryDocumentary #Deepdive #Storytelling  History's Devils is a history podcast exploring the lives of murderers, charlatans, psychopaths, dictators, war criminals, tyrants, demagogues, revolutionaries, cult leaders, conquerors, fraudsters, and other controversial figures. History's Devils is hosted by James Crossland, professor of international history and author of: Rogue Agent: From Secret Plots to Psychological Warfare, the Untold Story of Robert Bruce Lockhart The Rise of Devils: Fear and the Origins of Modern Terrorism...

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About

Who were the worst people in history? HISTORY'S DEVILS is a weekly deep-dive podcast that investigates the world's most infamous historical figures. Each episode explores the life, actions, and impact of a notorious person from history, examining the facts behind their reputation and the events that shaped their legacy. Hosted by Professor James Crossland, HISTORY'S DEVILS covers dictators, tyrants, war criminals, cult leaders, revolutionaries, con-artists, conspiracy theorists and other controversial historical figures, combining deep research with compelling storytelling to reveal the darker side of human history. Perfect for fans of dark history, history documentaries, historical biographies, and in-depth explorations of the people who changed the world for better - or for worse. All the devils are here. And we are ready to tell their stories.

Information

  • Creator
    James Crossland
  • Years Active
    2026
  • Episodes
    28
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 History's Devils
  • Show Website
    History's Devils