Trailer - Intro to Series 12

Great and Horrible News: Exploring Execution Methods in Early Modern Britain with Blessin Adams

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:

• Website
• Twitter: @adams_blessin
• Great and Horrible News: Murder and Mayhem in Early Modern Britain [History Rage Bookshop]

Support History Rage on Patreon:

• Patreon

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Uncrowned Queen: Barbara Villiers in Charles II's Court with Charlotte White

**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:

1. Introduction to Barbara Villiers:

• Mother of five children with Charles II.
• Intricate details of her relationships and influence.

1. 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.

1. 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.

1. Barbara's Political Manoeuvres:

• Her involvement in politics and influence over Charles's ministers.
• The Carbel and Buckingham's ambitions.

1. 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:

1. 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.

1. Comparison with Nell Gwyn:

• Nell's enduring popularity compared to Barbara.
• Barbara's controversial actions and her portrayal in history.

1. Barbara: The Uncrowned Queen:

• Barbara's power surpassing the Queen's.
• Controversial incidents, such as hanging her underwear in the privy gardens.

1. 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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Trailer - Intro to Series 12

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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Covert Courage: SOE's Secret War in Burma with Richard Duckett

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

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Dynamite Wars to Global Fear: The Origins of Terrorism with James Crossland

In this enlightening podcast episode, historian James Crossland takes us on a journey through the tumultuous era of the late 19th century, exploring the rise of modern terrorism and its profound impact on history. James delves into his book, "Rise of Devils," uncovering the fears, conspiracy theories, and media sensationalism that fuelled the first war on terror.

Episode Highlights:

Conspiracy Theories and Fear:

James explores the pervasive conspiracy theories of the time, involving secret societies and diabolical plots.

The influence of media sensationalism on public perception and the police response.

Birth of Counterterrorism:

The formation of Special Branch in 1883 as Britain's first counterterrorist organization during the Dynamite War.

The lack of international cooperation before the 1898 Rome Anti Terrorism Congress and the subsequent developments.

International Terrorism Cooperation:

The 1898 Rome Anti Terrorism Congress marks a turning point in international cooperation against terrorism.

Initiatives like mugshots, intelligence exchange, and anti-immigration laws emerge from the congress.

Media's Role and Legacy:

James reflects on the media's sensationalism, spreading fake news and creating fear disproportionate to the actual threat.

Drawing parallels between historical media tactics and contemporary fear-inducing strategies.

Terrorism's Decline and World War I:

Factors contributing to the decline of the first wave of terrorism, including internal debates among anarchists.

The impact of World War I in shifting global attention and redirecting the focus from terrorism.

Legacy and Lessons for Today:

Examining historical counterterrorism approaches, highlighting the ineffective blanket policing strategies.

The effectiveness of infiltration and the importance of media responsibility in reporting on terrorism.

Conclusion:

James provides a captivating exploration of the roots of modern terrorism, shedding light on the societal fears, media manipulation, and counterterrorism measures that shaped the late 19th century. The episode draws intriguing parallels to contemporary issues, inviting reflection on historical lessons and their relevance in today's world.

Please subscribe to the History Rage Podcast on your favorite platform and consider supporting us on Patreon to get early access to episodes and exclusive perks. Join the conversation on Twitter

You can buy James’ book “The Rise of the Devils” at the History Rage Bookshop and you can follow James on Twitter @DrJCrossland

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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