History Rage
Think you know history? Think again. History Rage is the weekly podcast where professional historians come armed with evidence, fury, and a burning desire to set the record straight. Hosted by Paul Bavill, each episode invites a leading historian to reveal the one historical myth, misconception, or lazy narrative they wish we’d all stop believing — and why it matters. From “Vikings wore horned helmets” to “Britain stood alone in 1940” and “medieval people never bathed,” this is history with attitude, myth-busting with academic rigor, and truth-telling that pulls no punches. Whether you’re a lifelong history buff, a student, or just someone who’s had enough of bad takes on TikTok, History Rage gives you the real story — with all the rage it deserves. 📅 New episodes every Monday. 🎧 Follow now and join the resistance against historical nonsense. Follow on all social media @historyrage Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Episodes
In this thought-provoking episode of History Rage, host Paul Bavill is joined by author and battlefield guide Tim Lynch to challenge the long-standing myths surrounding conscript soldiers in the First World War. Tim passionately argues that the narrative often overlooks the contributions of these men, who were frequently dismissed as second-class soldiers.
Unpacking the Myths:
- Debunking the notion that only early volunte...
In this enlightening episode of History Rage, host Paul Bavill is joined by historian and secretary of the Salonika Campaign Society, Chris Loader, to shine a much-needed spotlight on one of the most overlooked fronts of the Great War—the Salonika Campaign. Chris shares his personal connection to this forgotten battlefield through his family history and reveals the complexities of this often-ignored chapter of World War I.
Chris...
In this riveting episode of History Rage Live, host Paul Bavill welcomes back historian and author Jack Bowsher to explore the largely overlooked Battle of Meiktila, a significant yet underappreciated engagement in the Burma Campaign of World War II.
The Forgotten Battle: Jack passionately argues that Meiktila deserves recognition alongside more famous battles. He reveals how its audacious tactics and combined a...
In this thought-provoking episode of History Rage, host Paul Bavill welcomes back historian Roger Moorhouse, author of "First to Fight" and "The Forgers." Together, they delve into the complexities of the 20 July bomb plot against Adolf Hitler, examining the motivations and legacies of those involved, particularly focusing on the controversial figure of Claus von Stauffenberg.
Unpacking the 20 July Plot:
Stauffenberg's Bravery:&n...
In this gripping episode of History Rage, host Paul Bavill welcomes former mobster and author Lou Ferrante to dive deep into the world of organised crime. Lou shares his remarkable journey from a life of crime in Queens, New York, to becoming a celebrated author of the Mafia trilogy: "Borgata: Rise of Empire," "Clash of Titans," and "Autumn of Empire."
Unveiling the Myths: Lou tackles the pervasive myths surrounding notorio...
In this electrifying live episode of History Rage, host Paul Bavill takes the stage at the Chalke History Festival with distinguished medieval historian Michael Livingston. Together, they dive into the myths and realities surrounding the legendary Battle of Agincourt, a pivotal moment in English history that has been steeped in myth and misinterpretation.
The Agincourt Myth: Michael passionately debunks the widely held beli...
In this episode of History Rage, host Paul Bavill is joined by historian and author Giles Milton to explore the chaotic aftermath of WWII, focusing on the often overlooked post-war period and its critical role in shaping modern geopolitics.
The Forgotten Years
Giles argues that the immediate post-war period is often overshadowed by the Second World War itself. He emphasizes how understanding this era is crucial for grasp...
This week on History Rage, host Paul Bavill is joined by historian and journalist Tony Rushmer, author of "SAS Duty Before Glory." Together, they embark on a riveting journey through the legendary yet often mythologised world of the early Special Air Service (SAS).
Unpacking the Myths: Tony shares his insights into the life of Reg Seekings, one of the first members of the SAS, challenging the negative portrayals that have o...
In this captivating episode of History Rage, host Paul Bavill welcomes the renowned historian and author Alison Weir, celebrated for her extensive work on the Tudor period. Together, they navigate the tumultuous waters of Henry VIII's reign, debunking myths and uncovering truths about his infamous marital struggles.
The Myth of Henry’s Brain Damage: Alison passionately disputes the widely held belief that Henry VIII suffer...
In this explosive episode of History Rage, Paul is joined by the esteemed historian Tracy Borman to dive headfirst into the tumultuous life of Mary, Queen of Scots. This week, we unravel the myths surrounding Mary, challenging the romanticised narrative of her as a tragic heroine and instead revealing her as a monarch whose decisions led to her own downfall.
The Myth of the Tragic Heroine: Tracy passionately critiques the p...
In this electrifying episode of History Rage, host Paul Bavill is joined by aviation and special forces historian Paul Beaver for a special Chalke History Festival edition. Together, they dive into the captivating and often misunderstood world of espionage, taking a critical look at the romanticised image of spies and the realities behind the myths.
Shaken, Not Stirred:
- Paul and Paul kick off with a spirited debate on the infamous...
This week on History Rage, host Paul Bavill is joined by Dr. Nicholas Morton, an associate professor of history at Nottingham Trent University and author of The Mongol Storm, to unravel the myths surrounding one of history's most formidable empires: the Mongols. Together, they confront the misconceptions that paint these conquerors as mere barbarians, revealing a sophisticated and highly organised society that reshaped th...
In this intense episode of History Rage Live, host Paul Bavill is joined by author and historian Iain MacGregor to explore the harrowing decision to drop the atomic bomb on Hiroshima and its profound implications. Drawing from his latest work, "The Hiroshima Men," Iain shares insights from his extensive research and interviews with survivors, challenging the narratives that have dominated discussions about the bomb's use.
Episod...
In this thought-provoking episode of History Rage, host Paul Bavill engages in a compelling discussion with historian, author and BAFTA winning maker of “The Nazis: A Warning from History” Laurence Rees. Together, they explore the alarming parallels between historical events and contemporary society, focusing on the lessons we can draw from the past to safeguard our future.
Episode Highlights:
- - The Importance of History Fest...
This week on History Rage, host Paul Bavill is joined by historian and author Keith Lowe to explore the tumultuous aftermath of the Second World War, focusing on the liberation of Naples in 1944 and the chaos that followed. Keith, known for his insightful works including Naples 1944, shares his perspective on the misconceptions surrounding the war and its consequences.
The Myth of Liberation
- Self-Liberation: Keith d...
In this enlightening episode of History Rage, host Paul Bavill reunites with historians and co-authors of "Ring of Fire," Alex Churchill and Nicolai Eberholst, to explore the often-overlooked narratives of the First World War. Together, they challenge the traditional Western-centric perspectives and delve into the complexities of the war's global impact, particularly focusing on the Eastern Front and the contributions of lesser-kno...
Embark on a revelatory journey through medieval Europe in this episode of History Rage, where host Paul Bavill is joined by historian, YouTuber, and author Luke Daly. Together, they dismantle the myth of unwavering religious devotion in the Middle Ages, revealing a complex tapestry of belief and scepticism.
Challenging Blind Faith:
- Luke Daly passionately debunks the notion that medieval Europeans were blindly devoted to God, ex...
EXPLICIT LANGUAGE WARNING - In this episode of History Rage, we present a special for the Chalke History Festival as I am joined by food historian, broadcaster, and author, Dr. Annie Gray. Together, we tackle the pervasive myth that British food has always been bland and uninspired, diving into the rich and diverse culinary history of the nation.
Episode Highlights:
- - Challenging the Blandness Myth: Dr. Gray passionately...
In this captivating episode of History Rage, host Paul Bavill welcomes Professor Diane Watt, a distinguished scholar of English Literature from the University of Surrey and author of "God's Gentlewoman: The Life of Margaret Paston." Together, they delve into the remarkable life of Margaret Paston, a 15th-century woman who defied the stereotypes of her time and left behind an invaluable collection of letters that provide a window in...
In this captivating episode of History Rage Live, host Paul Bavill reconnects with SOE historian and author Dr. Kate Vigurs to delve into the remarkable yet often overlooked contributions of women in the Special Operations Executive (SOE) during World War II. With a focus on Kate's new book, "Mission Europe," they challenge the prevailing narratives and shine a light on the brave women who served across various European theatres no...
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