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Oliver Webb-Carter
The editor of Aspects of History, Ollie Webb-Carter, interviews historians and authors on the past - from the ancient world right up to the modern day. In each episode, Ollie seeks to get to the bottom of a story or scrutinise a figure from history. There are bonus episodes too, on current events and anniversaries to the Aspects of History Film Club.
Film Club: Killers of the Flower Moon (2023)
NO SPOILERS IN THIS POD
The Osage Nation, 1920s, Oklahoma, and a string of unsolved murders take place. In this month's Film Club, myself and Director Tim Hewitt discuss Martin Scorcese's latest, starring Leonardo Di Caprio, Robert De Niro and Lily Gladstone.
In the second half, I chat with Chief Standing Bear, leader of the Osage Nation about the film and his people today.
Killers of the Flower Moon Links
Killers of the Flower Moon (2023)
Killers of the Flower Moon: Oil, Money, Murder and the Birth of the FBI, by David Grann
The Audition
Aspects of History Links
Tim Hewitt on X/Twitter
Ollie on X/Twitter
email us [email protected]
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43:1317/10/2023
The British Army with General Richard Dannatt and Robert Lyman
At the end of the First World War in 1918, the British Army had achieved victories that matched any of their predecessors from the previous two centuries, and was a highly motivated, efficient fighting machine. So why then, just over twenty years later, were they routed on battlefield in France in 1940 against their humiliated foe, the German Army. What lessons does the experience of the Army teach us today, as we face new threats, not only from Russia, but also now with terrorism.
General Lord Dannatt, former Head of the Army, and historian Robert Lyman join our editor to discuss how the Victory to Defeat happened, who were the characters involved, and what about the British Army today as Ukraine rumbles on.
General Lord Dannatt & Robert Lyman Links
Victory to Defeat: The British Army 1918–40
Could the Holocaust have been prevented, along with WWII?
Our armed forces risk their lives for the nation, but is Grant Shapps willing to risk his career to fight them?
Robert Lyman on X/Twitter
Ollie Links
Ollie on X/Twitter
Contact Ollie: [email protected]
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51:2414/10/2023
The British Empire with Matthew Parker
On the 29th September 1923 the British Empire reached its largest territorial extent with Britain's responsibility for the Mandate of Palestine. The Empire now covered a quarter of the globe and governed nearly 500 million people. But not all was as it seemed, because soon key colonies were demanding autonomy and the Empire was soon on the decline.
Joining Ollie, historian Matthew Parker talks about not only the colonists, but also the colonised covered in his new book One Fine Day that spans every corner of the vast expanse that was the Empire. As Matthew says, you cannot generalise about the Empire.
Matthew Parker Links
One Fine Day: Britain's Empire on the Brink
Matthew Parker on AoH
Matthew on X/Twitter
Ollie Links
Ollie on X/Twitter
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44:5107/10/2023
The Parthenon Marbles (Part Two) with Dr Mario Trabucco della Torretta
This week's pod sees the alternative view on the Parthenon Marbles. Our editor, firm proponent of their reunification, chats with Dr Mario Trabucco della Torretta, strong believer in their retention in the British Museum.
Mario is a classical archaeologist and historian, who is writing a book on the Marbles himself, although he would call them the Elgin Marbles.
Dr Mario Trabucco della Torretta Links
Mario on X/Twitter
Mario's links
Mario's profile
New material from the Ottoman archives and discusses the firman
Lord Elgin's Firman - Dyfri Williams
Ollie Links
Ollie on X/Twitter
British Committee for the Reunification of the Parthenon Marbles
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53:4230/09/2023
Film Club: Munich (2005)
This month's Film Club sees Director Tim Hewitt join our editor to discuss the Munich Olympics epic, Munich. Directed by Steven Spielberg and starring Eric Bana, Geoffrey Rush and Daniel Craig.
It's the anniversary of the Olympics attack which took place in September 1972 and Munich asks serious questions around the cycle of violence prompted by revenge. We have a guest appearance on the Pod from one of the stars of the film.
Munich
Munich on IMDB
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01:08:3226/09/2023
The Hundred Years War with Gordon Corrigan. Part Two: Poitiers
In Part Two of our Hundred Years War series, we deal with Poitiers, and the lead up, the Black Death, the Black Prince and of course the battle itself. Gordon Corrigan, author of a number of histories of the Hundred Years War joins me to chat all things medieval warfare. And there's the small matter of a financial claim against France that Gordon is keen to pursue.
You can listen to Part One here:
The Hundred Years War with Gordon Corrigan. Part One: Crécy
Film Club is out on Tuesday with Steven Spielberg's 2005 thriller Munich, starring Eric Bana and Daniel Craig, and next Saturday we have Part 2 of my Parthenon Marbles series when I deal with the other side.
Gordon Corrigan Links
Poitiers: Finest Hours Book 3
Crécy: Finest Hours Book 1
England Expects:The Battle of Sluys
A Great and Glorious Adventure: A Military History of the Hundred Years War
Ollie Links
Ollie on Twitter
Gordon Corrigan on Poitiers - Aspects of History
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50:5323/09/2023
Homer and the Iliad with Robin Lane Fox
This week's guest is Robin Lane Fox, Ancient Historian and author of Homer & His Iliad. He joins Ollie to chat about who Homer was, when he was writing, why it's better than the Odyssey and what Alexander the Great thought of the Iliad.
Robin was the historical consultant on Oliver Stone's Alexander (2004) so he discusses his experience with Hollywood.Coming up, part 2 of the Hundred Years War with Gordon Corrigan, and the other side of the argument of the Parthenon Marbles.
Robin Lane Fox Links
Homer & His Iliad
Alexander the Great
Robin on his book
Ollie Links
Alexander in the Dock
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40:1516/09/2023
Tom Holland on Ancient Rome
This week's guest is the bestselling historian Tom Holland and he talks Ancient Rome - from Nero to Hadrian with our editor. Their discussion goes into Sex and Gender, Hadrian's Wall, Greeks and Rome and then a few light-hearted questions as well as Tom's view of history today.
Tom's latest book is Pax: War and Peace in Rome's Golden Age.
Subscribe for plenty more great history coming up on the pod including Part 2 of the Parthenon Marbles, the Battle of Poitiers, the Film Club returns with Spielberg's Munich and much much more.
Tom Holland Links
Pax: War and Peace in Rome's Golden Age
Rubicon: The Triumph and Tragedy of the Roman Republic
Dominion: The Making of the Western Mind
Tom on X
Ollie Links
Aspects of History home - Aspects of History
Ollie on X
Email us: [email protected]
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52:5009/09/2023
Cromwell's Protectorate with Paul Lay
This week's episode sees Paul Lay join to discuss his book, Providence Lost: The Rise and Fall of Cromwell's Protectorate. Ollie and Paul chat about the period between the execution of Charles I and the restoration of Charles II when Britain saw a new ruler, Oliver Cromwell, Lord Protector.Paul's book is our Non Fiction Book of the Month and is highly recommended.
Paul is Senior Editor at Engelsberg Ideas and a friend of the show, he runs his own podcast with Miranda Malins called 1666 and All That.
Paul Lay Links
Providence Lost: The Rise and Fall of Cromwell's Protectorate
Podcast: 1666 and All That
Ollie Links
Ollie on Twitter / X
Contact Ollie: [email protected]
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43:5202/09/2023
Film Club: Gallipoli (1981)
This month's Film Club sees Director Tim Hewitt join our editor to discuss the Australian New Wave movie, Gallipoli. Directed by Peter Weir and starring Mark Lee and Mel Gibson.
It's the anniversary of the Battle of the Nek which took place in August 1915 and Gallipoli depicts that attack in the Dardanelles, Turkey, when the British Empire attempted to knock the Turks out of the war.
Gallipoli
Gallipoli on IMDB
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47:1029/08/2023
The Dark Ages with Paula de Fougerolles
This week's guest is historian and author Paula de Fougerolles, discussing the Dark Ages. As the Romans departed, Britain and Ireland underwent a hugely tumultuous period as Christianity developed, but also natural phenomena caused mayhem.
Paula clears up the murky past, and describes life in the period, and talks about some of the prominent figures from a time when history merges into myth.
Paula de Fougerolles Links
The Chronicles of Iona: Exile
Saint Columba & Aedan: To Dunadd, Citadel of Kings - Aspects of History
Ollie Links
Ollie on Twitter/X
[email protected]
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51:3026/08/2023
Elizabeth I with Steven Veerapen
Old friend of the show Steven Veerapen joins the pod to discuss Elizabeth I in two parts. First he discusses depictions of the greatest English monarch on screen, including performances from Judi Dench, Cate Blanchett and Margot Robbie, and then Elizabeth's presentation of herself as monarch.
Steven is a historian and author of a number of novels and history books. The Queen's Fire is his latest.
Steven Veerapen Links
Steven's Blog of Top 10 Depictions
Steven on Twitter / X
The Queen's Fire
Ollie Links
Ollie on Twitter / X
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50:3319/08/2023
The Coalition Government with Vince Cable & Rachel Smith
This bonus episode features former cabinet minister Vince Cable as he chats with Ollie about the Coalition, the 2008 Crash and the Coalition's response to it, foreign policy including Russia and China, and of course, Brexit.
Vince has written a new book with his wife Rachel Smith which is an interesting glimpse of life as a politician and as the spouse of a government minister.
Vince Cable & Rachel Smith Links
Partnership & Politics - Aspects of History
Partnership and Politics in a Divided Decade
Ollie Links
Ollie on Twitter / X
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48:1815/08/2023
The Holocaust with Roger Moorhouse
This week's episode, our 100th, sees Roger Moorhouse join to talk about the Holocaust and the extraordinary efforts of Polish diplomats to get victims out using an passport scheme from their embassy in Switzerland.
Roger is an old friend of the show and his latest book, The Forgers: The Forgotten Story of the Holocaust's Most Audacious Rescue Operation, is out now and is an amazing story so well worth settling down and listening.
Roger Moorhouse Links
The Forgers: The Forgotten Story of the Holocaust's Most Audacious Rescue Operation
Roger on Twitter / X
Article from Roger: Alfred Naujocks: The Man Who Started the Second World War - Aspects of History
Ollie Links
Email me: [email protected]
Ollie on Twitter / X
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46:3212/08/2023
Great British Commanders: Bill Slim with Robert Lyman & Gordon Corrigan
This week's episode has two guests and friends of the show in Rob Lyman and the Major returning to chat all things Bill Slim - titan of the XIV Army and one of Britain's greatest generals.
Rob and Gordon discuss with our editor whether Slim is ahead of Montgomery and Alexander, and then whether he can be considered alongside Henry V, Oliver Cromwell and the Duke of Marlborough and the Duke of Wellington.
Do get in touch if you'd like us to cover Henry V, Cromwell, Marlborough and Wellington.
Bill Slim Links
Tales of Empire, by William Slim, Edited by Robert Lyman
Courage and Other Broadcasts, by William Slim, Introduction by Robert Lyman
Aspects of History Links
Bill Slim: a Master of both War and Words - Aspects of History
Ollie on Twitter/X
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51:4105/08/2023
British and US Espionage with Michael Smith
This week's pod features historian and intelligence expert Michael Smith who has written about British and American spy agencies and how they've worked well, and not so well, since the Second World War.
We talk the Russian spy Oleg Penkovsky, the Cambridge Spies, the impact of intelligence on the Cuban Missile Crisis, the Falklands and the Iranian Coup of 1953.
Michael Smith Links
The Real Special Relationship: The True Story of How the British and US Secret Services Work Together
The Special Relationship - Aspects of History
Michael on Twitter
Aspects of History Links
Ollie on Twitter
Aspects of History home - Aspects of History
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52:5629/07/2023
Film Club: Oppenheimer (2023)
This month's film club, which has NO SPOILERS, is a review of Christopher Nolan's new masterpiece, Oppenheimer, starring Cillian Murphy, Matt Damon, Emily Blunt, Robert Downey Jnr and Florence Pugh. J. Robert Oppenheimer: the most important man who ever lived?
Both acclaimed Director Tim Hewitt and I saw the film on Monday at 70mm Lux Leicester Square with a sell-out audience, and we were impressed.
Links - Books on Oppenheimer
Short Read:
Oppenheimer: A World Destroyed, by David Boyle
Book on which the film is based:
American Prometheus:The Triumph and Tragedy of J. Robert Oppenheimer, by Kai Bird and Martin J. Sherwin
Cillian Murphy on BBC Radio 6
Storyville Documentary - The Trials of Oppenheimer
Contact us
Ollie on Twitter
[email protected]
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46:1227/07/2023
The Parthenon Marbles (Part One) with Paul Cartledge
This week's pod is The Parthenon Marbles, and our editor welcomes Paul Cartledge, ancient historian and the author of countless books on ancient Greece. Dr Tessa Dunlop also joins to give her view.
Why the case is stronger than ever. Why the British Museum has erred in their display. Who are the people involved? How long will it take to return?
Links
Plenty of links here are discussed in the chat:
The British Committee for the Return of the Parthenon Marbles
GB News Discussion with Tessa Dunlop
Why return the Marbles?
Contact the UK Government Minister Lucy Frazer
Contact the UK Opposition Minister Lucy Powell
The Acropolis Museum, Athens
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36:4222/07/2023
The Falklands War with the Modern British Political History Podcast
A bonus episode as I chat with Harry White from the Modern British Political History Podcast and it's the Falklands War. Over the next hour you'll hear us talk about the build up to the invasion, the British response, the controversy and tragedy as the Belgrano, Sheffield and Coventry warships are sunk. We talk about how Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher dealt with the conflict domestically, Chile and the US, and the legacy of the war.
Links
British Political History Podcast
There are plenty of cultural references throughout, and you'll find the links here:
An Ungentlemanly Act (1992)
The Iron Lady (2011)
Tumbledown (1988)
This is England (2006)
The Secret Diary of Adrian Mole Aged 13 3/4, by Sue Townsend
The Falklands Play (2002)
Who Dares Wins, by Dominic Sandbrook
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01:01:4119/07/2023
Charles II with Charles Spencer
This week's guest is Charles Spencer talking Charles II - his escape from the clutches of Parliamentarian forces, his early life during the Civil War and his life in exile. Charles goes on to talk about Charles' reign, and Prince Rupert of the Rhine.
Charles is also started a podcast with Richard Coles and Cat Jarman, so we chat about that briefly.
Plenty more great guests and subjects coming up so please do subscribe.
Charles Spencer Links
To Catch A King: Charles II's Great Escape
Blenheim: Battle for Europe
Prince Rupert: The Last Cavalier
Killers of the King: The Men Who Dared to Execute Charles I
The White Ship: Conquest, Anarchy and the Wrecking of Henry I’s Dream
The Rabbit Hole Detectives
Ollie Links
Sticky Wicket: From Bodyline to Bairstow - Aspects of History
Ollie on Twitter
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35:2315/07/2023
The Russo-Ukrainian War with Serhii Plokhy
This week's guest is the Ukrainian historian Serhii Plokhy who has written a new book on the history of the Russo-Ukrainian War and he chats with me about Putin's misunderstanding of history, Ukrainian identity, whether this is the last kick of a dying empire and plenty more so if you're interested in why the war began and where we are, this is the chat for you.
Serhii Plokhy Links
The Russo-Ukrainian War
Serhii on Twitter
Ollie Links
Ollie on Twitter
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43:0608/07/2023
Books of the Year with The Gang
This week three writers join me to talk summer reading recommendations from the world of history and historical fiction.
Books
Serhii Plokhy - The Russo Ukrainian War
Owen Matthews - Overreach
Nigel Biggar - Colonialism
Victoria Mackenzie - For Thy Great Pain
Roger Moorhouse – The Forgers
Tom Holland - Pax
Saul David - Devil Dogs
John Sayles – Jamie MacGillivray
David Carpenter - Henry III pt 2
Martyn Rady – The Middle Kingdoms
Wilbur Smith – Nemesis
Katie Daysh – Leeward
Katja Hoyer – Beyond the Wall
Anthony Seldon – The Path of Peace
Peter Stothard – Palatine
Guests
Antonia Senior - Historical Fiction Reviewer The Times
Roger Moorhouse - Historian
Richard Foreman - Author and Publisher
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57:4804/07/2023
The Troubles with Peter Taylor
This week's guest is the veteran BBC journalist Peter Taylor and he talks about the intelligence world during the conflict in Northern Ireland. Officers from MI5 and MI6 worked with a local businessman to persuade the IRA and the British government to talk peace.
Peter's new book is Operation Chiffon: The Secret Story of MI5 and MI6 and the Road to Peace in Ireland which completes his series of books, Brits, Provos and Loyalists.
Peter Taylor Links
Operation Chiffon
Ollie Links
Ollie on Twitter
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01:06:4801/07/2023
Film Club: Bloody Sunday (2002)
This month's film club is Paul Greengrass' 2002 film, Bloody Sunday, starring James Nesbitt, Tim Pigott-Smith, Nicholas Farrell, Kathy Kiera Clarke, Gerard McSorley, Mary Moulds and Simon Mann.
The film is realistic depiction of one of the worst atrocities of The Troubles, when 14 unarmed civilians were shot and killed by members of the Parachute Regiment.
My next episode is a discussion with legendary BBC journalist Peter Taylor, out this Saturday so subscribe to add to your feed.Email me if you have any questions or comments: [email protected]
Bloody Sunday Links
Remember Bloody Sunday - Peter Taylor Documentary
Excellent YouTube Channel on The Troubles
Operation Chiffon by Peter Taylor
Equatorial Guinea Coup
Douglas Murray - Bloody Sunday:: Truths Lies and the Saville Inquiry
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48:0127/06/2023
The Eastern Front with Iain MacGregor
Iain MacGregor returns to talk about the fighting on the Eastern Front after Stalingrad. We talk about the Battle of the Kursk, tanks of WW2, the atrocities committed by the Germans and Hitler and Stalin.
Iain is the author of the fantastic The Lighthouse of Stalingrad and there is a special Easter Egg in the podcast, so if you listen, you are in the running for a very pleasant surprise.
Iain MacGregor Links
The Lighthouse of Stalingrad: The Hidden Truth at the Centre of WWII's Greatest Battle
Ollie Links
Ollie on Twitter
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50:4924/06/2023
The Battle of Waterloo with Gordon Corrigan
The Major returns to talk the epic battle of Waterloo on the anniversary. It took place 18th June 1815, when Napoleon was beaten once and for all by the allied armies under the command of the Duke of Wellington.We talk the run-up, why the allied armies won, why Napoleon underestimated Wellington and Gordon explodes myths.
Gordon Corrigan Links
Waterloo: A New History of the Battle and its Armies
Gordon on SubstackScotland Forever!
Ollie Links
Ollie on the Twitter
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59:0317/06/2023
Vimy Ridge with Ollie Webb-Carter & Mike Hepburn
Aspects of History goes out into the field, and we are recording from Vimy Ridge, the site of the Canadian memorial to those killed many of whom no known grave was found.This is a quick bonus - the sound on this recording is not perfect, - we were recording from out in the open.
Vimy Links
Canadian National Vimy Memorial
Commonwealth War Graves Commission
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13:3813/06/2023
The Windsors at War with Alexander Larman
Today's episode is a three-way interview as Alexander Larman joins to talk about the Duke & Duchess of Windsor and their treasonous activities both leading up to, and during the war. Tessa Dunlop joins me to chat with Alex about their Nazi connections, the rise of George VI from diffident spare to widely admired monarch, as well as plenty more.
Alexander Larman Links
The Windsors at War: The Nazi Threat to the Crown
Tessa Dunlop Links
Elizabeth & Philip: A Story of Young Love, Marriage and Monarchy
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40:2310/06/2023
Generals and Napoleon with John Viscardo
John Viscardo joins this week - he's the host of the Generals and Napoleon Podcast, which is the place to go to if you want to follow up on your Napoleonic fix.We chat Napoleon, Wellington, Ney, Marmont, Berthier, Davout, Jourdan, Massena and favourite battles including Waterloo, Salamanca, Next week I have a threeway chat with royal historians on the Nazi past of the Royal Family.
Generals and Napoleon Podcast
John's Article on our website: Napoleon & His Marshals - Aspects of History
Apple
Spotify
Amazon
Or wherever you get your podcasts.
John on Twitter
Ollie Links
Twitter
Instagram
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31:5703/06/2023
Film Club: Dunkirk (2017)
This month's film club is Dunkirk, the Christopher Nolan epic starring Kenneth Branagh, Tom Hardy, Mark Rylance, Jack Lowden, Ffion Whitehead, Barry Keoghan and Harry Styles. I discuss the film with acclaimed director Tim Hewitt, including our categories of Best Scene, Best Performance, Most Unlikely Scene and Legacy.
Dunkirk Links
IMDB
Dunkirk, by Hugh Sebag Montefiore
Aspects of History Links
Instagram
Twitter
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47:5230/05/2023
The Second World War with James Holland
This week's guest is James Holland, who bows to no man when it comes to World War Two, the subject of today's chat. Since it's May we focus on the build-up to Dunkirk, the consequences of the evacuation for Germany, and we indulge in a 'What if?' We also look at the moral question of the allied bombing campaign which killed so many civilians - but was there an alternative?James' new book features wonderful illustrations and is a great addition to the many thousands of books out there.
You can join our Patreon and get access to many benefits.
More to be found here:
Aspects of History Patreon
James Holland Links
The Second World War: An Illustrated History
James on Twitter
Ollie Links
Aspects of History Patreon
Ollie on Twitter
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46:0427/05/2023
The Trojan War with Peter Tonkin
Author Peter Tonkin joins the pod to talk about the epic struggle between Greece and Troy. A conflict that has fascinated for thousands of years, Peter explains the causes and the build-up to the war, as well as the conflict itself. He talks about the heroes and women involved in the story. Homer is our main source, but Peter also talks about others that influence our understanding of the story.
All the heroes feature, and Peter highlights how the Trojan War has impacted the Tudors and the modern day, with Agamemnon playing the part of a modern-day Putin.
Coming up next week, James Holland on the Second World War.
Peter Tonkin Links
The Wine Dark Sea Trilogy
Peter on Twitter @petertonkin50
Aspects of History Links
The podcast is now on Patreon where you'll get plenty of extra content for a small amount.
Ollie on Twitter @olliewcq
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54:2620/05/2023
The Other Renaissance with Paul Strathern
PLEASE NOTE THIS EPISODE WAS FIRST PUBLISHED MARCH 25TH 2023
This week's guest is Paul Strathern discussing the Renaissance. Or to be exact, the OTHER Renaissance. Paul has written a new book focussing not on the Italian and Renaissance, but on that which took place further north, in the Holy Roman Empire, the Low Countries, France and England. So we talk about Martin Luther and Protestantism, Capernicus and the orbit of the sun, and Gutenberg and the printing press.Paul's Book: The Other Renaissance: From Capernicus to Shakespeare
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57:5416/05/2023
The Caesars with Peter Stothard
This week's guest is Peter Stothard who joins me to talk about the Caesars of the 1st century AD. From the stability of Augustus through Caligula, Claudius and Nero and up to the year of the 4 emperors in 68AD.We talk slavery, sex, food, glutton and how to get ahead in ancient Rome. Peter is a former editor of The Times and the Times Literary Supplement and is the author of a number of books on Rome.
Peter Stothard Links
Palatine: An Alternative History of the Caesars
Peter on Twitter
Cassius Parmensis, Caesar, Boris and Saddam - Aspects of History
Ollie Links
Luxury & Power: Persia to Greece at the British Museum - Aspects of History
Ollie on Twitter
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39:3413/05/2023
Coronation 👑 Special: Monarchy Then & Now with Tessa Dunlop
Tessa Dunlop, old friend of the show joins to discuss the Monarchy as it is now, and as it was in 1953, the last time we had a coronation.
We talk the Commonwealth, the media's role in the Harry & Meghan Wars, the Coronation, the Crown's wealth and I put a royal quiz question to Tessa.
Tessa Dunlop Links
Elizabeth & Philip Paperback
Cover story in latest issue of Aspects of History
Aspects of History Links
New Substack
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34:4706/05/2023
Revolution 1848: The European Spring with Christopher Clark
This week's guest is the esteemed Cambridge Don Sir Christopher Clark, talking revolution in Europe in 1848. Think you know your history? Clark reveals how important that year was, how it shaped today's world, and whether we're on the precipice of revolution today.
Christopher Clark Links
Revolutionary Spring: Fighting for a New World 1848-1849
Youtube talk on 1848
Aspects of History Links
Our Substack, where you can get free articles sent to your inbox
Ollie on Twitter
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01:02:4129/04/2023
Film Club: Margin Call (2011)
In the second of our film club episodes on the 2008 Financial Crisis, Director Tim Hewitt and our Editor talk Margin Call, J.C.Chandor's directorial debut from 2011. Rather overlooked at the time, it's since gained cult status. With a low budget, it has an all star cast including Paul Bettany, Jeremy Irons, Demi Moore, Stanley Tucci and Kevin Spacey. Categories discussed including the AoH Best Performance, Most Unlikely Scene and Legacy.
Coming up in May, Christopher Nolan's Dunkirk.
Links
Ollie on Twitter
Tim on Twitter
Films discussed
Margin Call
All Is Lost
Spotlight
Conspiracy
Big Night
LA Confidential
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29:2525/04/2023
Berlin with Barney White-Spunner
This year its' the 750th birthday of Berlin, and to commemorate it historian Barney White-Spunner, author of a book on the city, joins to discuss its foundation, history throughout that period, which is tied up with German history, and wider European history. He discusses Berlin's suffering during the 30 Years War, the Napoleonic occupation, the Nazis and the Cold War.
Coming up on Tuesday, our Film Club continues with Margin Call, the 2011 movie that deals with the Financial Crisis of 2008.
Barney White-Spunner Links
Berlin: Story of a City
The Story of Berlin - Aspects of History
Ollie Links
Ollie on Twitter
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47:5722/04/2023
Film Club: The Big Short (2015)
Our Film Club moves on to mark the 15th anniversary of the 2008 Financial Crash, with The Big Short, directed by Adam McKay and starring Brad Pitt, Ryan Gosling, Christian Bale and Steve Carrell.
This is a comedy, but with a clear moral undercurrent. It's a smart script, great performances, and a great ensemble cast. The crash had massive, global ramifications, but it's great to see this film address such a subject, and make it easy to understand - obviously down to the great book by Michael Lewis.As ever, we'll look at our categories: Best Performance, Least Likely Scene, Legacy.
Next up on Tuesday is Margin Call, starring Paul Bettany, Jeremy Irons, Demi Moore, Stanley Tucci and Kevin Spacey.
Links
Ollie on Twitter
Tim on Twitter
Films discussedT
oo Big to Fail
Killing Them Softly
99 Homes
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29:0718/04/2023
Greatest Tudor Myths with Steven Veerapen
It's the Tudors this week and my guest Steven Veerapen gives his Top 10 Greatest Tudor Myths. Among them Mary Queen of Scots and marmalade, Warrior Queen Elizabeth I, Anne Boleyn's physical deformity and plenty more.Steven is a historian and author and his novels feature Anthony Blanke, the son of Henry's black trumpeter, John Blanke.
Don't forget to listen on Tuesday for the Film Club which continues with the 2008 Financial Crash movie The Big Short.
Steven Veerapen Links
Article on Myths
Of Blood Descended
Of Judgement Descended
Aspects of History Links
Ollie on Twitter
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45:0315/04/2023
How History Shapes Russia with Adam Zamoyski
In this Easter Bonus Episode, Adam Zamoyski returns to chat about Russia and how its history shapes what we see in Ukraine today.I recommend listening to Saturday's episode on Napoleon's invasion of Russia in 1812.
Adam Zamoyski Links
1812: Napoleon's Fatal March on Moscow
YouTube Debate with Jeremy Paxman and Andrew Roberts on Napoleon
No Fool Like an Old Fool: Kissinger on Ukraine - Aspects of History
Ollie Links
Ollie on Twitter
Aspects of History's Substack
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18:4610/04/2023
Napoleon's Invasion of Russia with Adam Zamoyski
This week's guest is acclaimed historian Adam Zamoyski, biographer of Napoleon and the author of 1812: Napoleon's Fatal March on Moscow He chats with our editor about the build up to the invasion, Napoleon and his opponent, Alexander I of Russia. The state of the French army on the advance and retreat, and the horrors the troops on both sides went through.On Monday, in a bonus episode, Adam talks about Russia's relationship with its neighbours, and the army both now and in 1812 and in the Soviet era.
Adam Zamoyski Links
1812: Napoleon's Fatal March on Moscow
YouTube Debate with Jeremy Paxman and Andrew Roberts on Napoleon
Narodnost: Russia and Nationalism - Aspects of History
Charles Minard's Graphical Depiction
Ollie Links
Ollie on Twitter
Aspects of History's Substack
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47:4008/04/2023
The Hundred Years War with Gordon Corrigan. Part One: Crécy
This week's chat is the 1st of 3 on the Hundred Years War, and we start with the Battles of Sluys, and the big one, Crécy. Gordon Corrigan (The Major) and distinguished historian talks through the early years of the war, with discussion on Joan of Arc - Heretic or witch? The Black Prince, Edward III and of course, the Longbow.Gordon's book is out now, and is an amusing read that gets you up to speed on the rivalry between England and France. No mindless French bashing here, just a fun chat on the English fight for the French throne.
Gordon Corrigan Links
Crécy: Finest Hours Book 1
England Expects:The Battle of Sluys
A Great and Glorious Adventure: A Military History of the Hundred Years War
Ollie Links
Ollie on Twitter
Finest Hours: The Battle of Crécy - Aspects of History
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58:4301/04/2023
Film Club: Argo (2012)
The second episode of the Film Club is on Argo, directed by Ben Affleck and released in 2012. Starring Affleck, as well as a host of Hollywood greats including Bryan Cranston, John Goodman, Alan Arkin and Kyle Chandler, this movie is rare in that it deals with America's relationship with Iran.
Set during the Hostage Crisis of 1979/80, the Iranian Revolution has seen the US Embassy in Tehran stormed, and many hostages taken. Six Embassy staff escape and gain refuge in the Canadian Embassy, and the CIA has to get them out. Sounds serious? Well this film has plenty of humour too, and that's where Goodman and Arkin come to the fore.Ollie and distinguished director Tim Hewitt discuss the film, best performance, unlikeliest scene and legacy. We also chat Iranian cinema, disagree about Marisa Tomei, and indulge in a Kyle Chandler lovathon.
Next up in the film club: Financial Crash double bill The Big Short and Margin Call.
Links
Ollie on Twitter
Tim on Twitter
Films discussed
A Separation
The Past
The Salesman
Persepolis
Taxi Tehran
The Night
Under the Shadow
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34:1321/03/2023
Demetrius & the Successors of Alexander the Great with James Romm
This week's guest is James Romm, author of Demetrius: Sacker of Cities. James is an Ancient Historian and an expert in the period after the death of Alexander, when 5 families fought for control of his empire. Demetrius was one of them, and was a hugely attractive figure.
Oliver and James chat about whether Alexander was murdered, Pyrrhus of Epirus and what would the ancient world would have looked like had Alexander had survived. We'd all be speaking Greek, no doubt.
Coming up, the Film Club continues with Argo, directed by Ben Affleck. Please subscribe and rate and review if you can.
James Romm Links
Demetrius: Sacker of Cities
Ghost on the Throne: The Death of Alexander the Great and the Bloody Fight for his Empire
James on Twitter
Aspects of History Links
Alexander the Great in the Dock - Aspects of History
Ollie on Twitter
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42:1118/03/2023
The Western Front with Anthony Seldon
My guest this week is the author Anthony Seldon, author of a number of bestselling books on British Prime Ministers. His latest book is a departure, though, and is an account of his walk along the Western Front Way, tracing the trenches from Switzerland to the Belgian coast.
We talk about why the Great War has that emotional pull, his inspiration in setting the walk up, and we talk about British Prime Ministers whose sons were killed in the war, or who were affected by the conflict.
This episode makes a good companion piece to my talk with Gary Sheffield on the history of the First World War, although with Anthony the discussion is more about the emotions the war prompts.
There's also short trailer at the end for another podcast from friend and author Giles Milton, so do listen to that.
Anthony Seldon Links
Path of Peace: Walking the Western Front Way
The Western Front Way
Aspects of History Links
The Great War: Was it a Waste? - Aspects of History
Ollie on Twitter
Giles Milton's New Podcast
Ministry of Secrets
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44:3211/03/2023
The French & Indian War with John Sayles
My guest this week is the legendary filmmaker John Sayles, who has just written an epic novel, Jamie MacGillivray, set during the French & Indian War. We talk about the history, Native American tribes and Scotland at the time of the 1745 Jacobite Rebellion. The French & Indian War was part of the wider Seven Years War conflict, which Winston Churchill described as the first world war.
John's films have a strong historical theme, so we discuss his career, and go on to talk about filmmaking today, and the new challenges posed by streaming services.
John Sayles Links
Jamie MacGillivray: The Renegade's Journey
Lone Star (1996)
John on Twitter
Aspects of History Links
Aspects of History's Top 10 War Films - Aspects of History
Ollie on Twitter
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50:1404/03/2023
The Middle Ages with Ian Mortimer
My guest this week is the bestselling author of the Medieval period Ian Mortimer. We get to grips with the issues of the era, including when it starts and ends; the introduction of time; slavery, serfdom and inequality; the Black Death; the Middle Ages on film, Edward III and Richard III, and plenty more.
Ian is a fascinating historian who makes you think about a period that is often dismissed by certain historians and Tarantino crime lords as simply being about torture and brutality, but the truth is far more interesting.
Ian Mortimer's Links
Medieval Horizons: Why the Middle Ages Matter
The Time Traveller's Guide to Medieval England
Ollie Links
Ollie on Twitter
Latest article: Top 10 War Films
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54:4425/02/2023
Aspects of History Film Club: Lincoln (2012)
In the first of a new series of bonus episodes, the Aspects of History Film Club discusses Lincoln, directed by Steven Spielberg with friend of the show Director Tim Hewitt. Released more than ten years ago, it won Daniel Day Lewis his third Oscar for Best Actor. With a host of acting talent including Sally Field, Tommy Lee Jones, Jared Harris and Gloria Reuben, the film covers the political machinations that led to the 13th Amendment, to the Constitution of the United States to abolish slavery.
We discuss Most Unlikely Scene, Best Performance and Legacy, as well as veering off on a few tangents involving Jared Harris, other Civil War films, The West Wing and a small homage to John Sayles' Lone Star (1996).
Next film in the club: Argo (2012)
Links
IMDB Lincoln
Book on which the film is based: Team of Rivals: The Political Genius of Abraham Lincoln, by Doris Kearns Goodwin
Tim Hewitt on Twitter
Ollie on Twitter
Email Ollie - [email protected]
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46:2721/02/2023
Colonialism with Nigel Biggar
This week's guest is Nigel Biggar, the author of a new book, Colonialism: A Moral Reckoning, which deals with the British Empire. Nigel asks the question, is it all bad, or is there a more nuanced interpretation of around 300 years of history? We discuss slavery, famine, the Second World War and whether pride or shame are the right responses to the people and events of empire.
Nigel Biggar is Emeritus Regius Professor of Moral and Pastoral Theology at the University of Oxford and he gives a balanced view of empire and colonialism which makes for an interesting chat.
Coming up on Tuesday, the Aspects of History Film Club with Director Tim Hewitt starts with Lincoln (2012).
Nigel Biggar Links
Colonialism: A Moral Reckoning
Nigel on Twitter
Aspects of History Links
Ollie on Twitter
Ollie's recent piece: The Great War: Was it a Waste?
You can email me [email protected]
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52:1018/02/2023