My guest this week is the writer and filmmaker Tom Petch, author of Speed, Aggression, Surprise: The Untold Secret Origins of the SAS. It's predominantly the story of Dudley Clarke, played by Dominic West in SAS Rogue Heroes. Clarke was the brains behind so many Special Forces units that sprung up in the War - necessity being the mother of invention. We talk about him, Eric Dorman Smith, T.E. Lawrence and the modern day SAS. Tom is also a filmmaker, and directed The Patrol, a psychological drama about a platoon of British troops up against the Taliban, so we talk a bit about that and the West's withdrawal from Afghanistan. Tom Petch Links Book: Speed, Aggression, Surprise: The Untold Secret Origins of the SAS Tom's film: The Patrol Article: Were the SAS Rogue Heroes? - Aspects of History by Tom Petch Tom on Twitter Aspects of History Links Article: Aspects of History The Birth of the SAS in WW2 by Gavin Mortimer Ollie on Twitter Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week's guest is the distinguished historian Gary Sheffield, author of Forgotten Victory: First World War Myths & Realities, and we explode some of those myths that have developed over the years. Thanks to the great TV show Blackadder, and it is great, a view developed that the generals, and in particular British generals, were callous upper class twits who drank fine wines as their . Why did the war start, and who was to blame? Was it lions led by donkeys? What was Haig like as a general? All this and much more is answered. Gary Sheffield Links Forgotten Victory: First World War Myths & Realities Gary on Twitter Aspects of History Links Website Ollie on Twitter Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week's pod is a real treat - it's the 144th anniversary of the Anglo-Zulu War of 1879 which began in January. My guest is Saul David, author of Zulu: The Heroism & Tragedy of the Zulu War of 1879. The arrogance of the British Empire resulted in a humiliating defeat at Isandlwana, before recovering with the morale boosting defence at Rorke's Drift, made famous by Stanley Baker and Michael Caine in the 1964 movie, Zulu. Saul and I discuss the build up to the invasion, the Zulu nation itself and its ancient antecedents, the personalities involved, the Zulu victories before their eventual defeat and what the conflict means for empire and colonialism today. Saul David Links Zulu: The Heroism & Tragedy of the Zulu War of 1879 Victoria's Wars: The Rise of Empire Military Blunders Saul on Twitter Ollie Links Ollie on Twitter Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

I continue my chat with Mark Turnbull on the execution of Charles I, which took place on the 30th January 1649. Charles is guilty in a stitch up, but what is Cromwell's role? Did Charles crumble in the immediate aftermath of the guilty verdict? What were his final words, and was the chop itself executed (sorry) smoothly? This is Part Two, so I do recommend going back to listen to Part One on the Trial. Mark Turnbull Links The King's Cavalier Mark on Twitter Aspects of History Links The Trial of Charles I by Leanda de Lisle - Aspects of History Ollie on Twitter Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week's guest is friend of the show Mark Turnbull who returns to talk about the trial of King Charles I, which began on 20th January 1649. The trial was a sham, but Charles behaved admirably, and with great integrity and nobility. We talk about the events leading up to the trial, the Rump Parliament, New Model Army, Cromwell and the events of the trial itself. Part Two, the execution, is coming up on Tuesday. Mark Turnbull Links The King's Cavalier Mark on Twitter Aspects of History Links Ollie on Twitter Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Gavin Mortimer joins me this week for a rollicking ride through the early days of the SAS with David Stirling, Paddy Mayne and Jock Lewes. We discuss the portrayals of Stirling and Mayne, what the show gets right, and what it gets wrong. Rogue Heroes stars Connor Swindells, Jack O'Connell and Alfie Allen. !SPOILER ALERT! Gavin is the author of The Phoney Major, a new book that examines both Stirling and Mayne closely, and one that has exploded the myth of David Stirling, so he's well placed to discuss the series. Gavin Mortimer Links The Phoney Major : The Life, Times and Truth about the Founder of the SAS Paddy Mayne and David Stirling. By Gavin Mortimer - Aspects of History Gavin on Twitter Aspects of History Links Were the SAS Rogue Heroes? By Tom Petch - Aspects of History Ollie on Twitter TV Series Rogue Heroes on BBC iPlayer Rogue Heroes by Ben Macintyre Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week's episode, the first of 2023, is with bestselling novelist Joanna Hickson discussing the subject of her new book, Joan Guildford. Lady-in-Waiting at the courts of Henry VII & Henry VIII. We discuss Henry VII, Henvry VIII, royal childbirth, women at court and plenty more. As we've seen recently, being a lady-in-waiting isn't as easy as it sounds. When they aren't navigating their way through race rows, they're involved in the political machinations at court as reputations rise, and fall. In Joan Guildford, we saw one of the best, and Joanna describes her career. Joanna Links The Queen's Lady Joanna on the Twitter Ollie Links Aspects of History, 2 Years On Ollie on the Twitter Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today's pod, the last of 2023, I welcome Peter Hughes back to the show to talk about his view on history, and society, today. He uses the stories of Confucius, the French Revolution, Frederick Douglass, the Statue of Athena at Palmyra and the death of the Queen to help frame his argument. Peter's book, A History of Love & Hate in 21 Statues Peter Hughes Links Peter on Twitter A History of Love & Hate in 21 Statues Prevalence Induced Concept Change The Social Dilemma Documentary on Netflix The Age of Surveillance Capitalism The Managerial Revolution Georges Lefebvre - The Great Fear Aspects of History Links Ollie on Twitter Aspects of History Website Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As we enter the Christmas period, I've listed out the top 10 Christmas historical events. Merry Christmas from Aspects of History. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this month's bonus episode, I welcome a professional movie director onto the pod to discuss Top 10 Historical Movies. My list was discussed earlier here. Ollie's Top 10 10 - Alexander 9 - La Reine Margot 8 - Breaker Morant 7 - Missing 6 - Katyń 5 - Culloden 4 - One Day in September 3 - The Civil War 2 - The Battle of Algiers 1 - Downfall Tim's Top 10 10 - The Passion of the Christ 9 - Richard III 8 - The Bounty 7 - Ran 6 - Barry Lyndon 5 - United 93 4 - The Way to the Stars 3 - La Grande Illusion 2 - Hero 1 - Dances with Wolves Tim Hewitt Links Short Film: A Little Place Off the Edgware Road Short Film: Broken Shelter Tim on Twitter Ollie Links Geoff Dyer on Where Eagles Dare Ollie on Twitter Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week's guest is Iain MacGregor, author of The Lighthouse of Stalingrad, and we discuss the mother of all battles, Stalingrad. The epic struggle between Nazi Germany and the Soviet Union saw savage fighting throughout the winter of 1942. It's the 80th anniversary, so join us as we discuss the brutal fighting, Stalingrad and its hold on the Russian psyche, Putin's politicisation of the battle, and the personalities and units that fought there. You can get 50% off an annual subscription to our e-mag on our website at Aspects of History using the voucher code HISTORY50% Iain MacGregor Links The Lighthouse of Stalingrad: The Hidden Truth at the Centre of WWII's Greatest Battle Iain on the Twitter Aspects of History Links Ollie on the Twitter Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week's guest is friend of the show Dr Tessa Dunlop, talking about the subject of her new book, Elizabeth and Philip and their early life. This couple both served during the Second World War. and Philip in particular had a hugely disruptive upbringing. His mother, Princess Alice, lived under German occupation and indeed saved a family of jews from the Holocaust. His sisters married into senior members of the German aristocracy, two of whom were Nazis. This is in stark contrast to the more modern version of the royals, with the recent Harry and Meghan Netflix documentary which we inevitably discuss. But the story here is of Philip, looking for stability, and Elizabeth, for the man of her dreams, who united to build a family that now represents modern Britain: the good bits as well as divorce, social media and very public disagreements. Listeners of the podcast has access to our e-magazine annual subscription for only £/$5 down from £/$9.99. Use code HISTORY50% at the checkout (don't forget to add the product first). Dr Tessa Dunlop Links Elizabeth & Philip: A Story of Young Love, Marriage and Monarchy Tessa on the Twitter Aspects of History Links Books of 2022 From Aspects of History - Aspects of History Ollie on the Twitter Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

My latest guest is Leanda de Lisle, author of Henrietta Maria: Conspirator, Warrior, Phoenix Queen. She was the wife of Charles I, the English king executed in 1649 after a bloody civil war. Poor old HM got the blame for many of Charles' blunders, even though she married him when she was 15, and he 24. She grew up in an abusive household - we'll hear about her father, Henri IV's parenting methods, and she was treated very badly when in England. But, despite her husband's killing, she rose again when her son, Charles II was restored, and her blood flows through Princes William and Harry. Discount Code of 50% off an annual subscription to Aspects of History. HISTORY50% Don't forget to add the magazine to your cart first. Annual Subscription to Aspects of History Magazine - Aspects of History Leanda de Lisle Links Henrietta Maria: Conspirator, Warrior, Phoenix Queen The Trial of Charles I - Aspects of History Henrietta Maria: Warrior Queen - Aspects of History Leanda on Twitter Aspects of History Links Charles II: A Thoroughly Modern Monarch - Aspects of History Annual Subscription to Aspects of History Magazine - Aspects of History Ollie on Twitter Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

My guest this week is the distinguished historian Sir Lawrence Freedman. He is the author of a new book, Command: The Politics of Military Operations from Korea to Ukraine, and so we discuss the relationships and characters involved in conflicts post 1945. We talk Douglas MacArthur & Korea, the French in Indochina and Algeria, Kennedy and his generals, Ariel Sharon and his tyrannical tendencies, and the British approach. Lawrence takes a high level view, and so this is not a military tactics discussion, more how important personalities are, as opposed to political persuasion. Don't forget, you can claim your 50% discount on an annual subscription to the Aspects of History e-Magazine using the code HISTORY50% at checkout -remember to add the product first. Lawrence Freedman Links Command Lawrence on Twitter Aspects of History Links Ollie on Twitter Subscriptions @ Aspects of History Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

After speaking with Simon Sebag Montefiore a few weeks ago, I was inspired to list my top 10 families of world history. Join me as I list them from 10 to 1, with links to books that you can read if you'd like to explore further. Of course Sebag's book, The World is hugely recommended. I talk about families from the Mongol steppes to the shores of the Aegean, from the High Plains of the Midwest, to the mountains of Iran. If you've got your own suggestions, let me know. Links Alexander the Great in the Dock - Aspects of History Books of 2022 From Aspects of History - Aspects of History Seizing Eichmann - Aspects of History Debate on the Parthenon Marbles Book Recommendations from the Top 10 The Mongol Storm, by Nicholas Morton The Borgias, by Paul Strathern The Medici, by Paul Strathern Cleopatra's Daughter, by Jane Draycott Nemesis, by David Stuttard King of the World (Cyrus the Great), by Matt Waters Flashman & the Redskins, by George Macdonald Fraser Zulu, by Saul David Abyss: The Cuban Missile Crisis, by Max Hastings Alexander the Great, by Robin Lane Fox Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In August 1939 the Nazi and Soviet regimes signed their non-aggression pact and the world was stunned. Within days, Poland had been invaded by Germany and Russia, and there then began 22 months of an alliance between Hitler and Stalin. Roger Moorhouse, author of The Devils' Alliance, joins me to discuss the negotiations, the reasoning behind the treaty, and the effects of it. We also discuss the lessons for today's conflict in Ukraine. Roger Moorhouse Links The Devils' Alliance Hitler's Pact with Stalin, 1939-1941 First to Fight: The Polish War 1939 The Katyn Museum The film, Katyń Roger on Twitter Aspects of History Links Ollie on Twitter Instagram Aspects of History Home Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Saul David is my guest this week. He's returning to chat about his new book, Devil Dogs, which follows a US Marines company throughout their campaign in the Pacific theatre of WW2. They fought from Guadalcanal all the way to the shores of Japan, and so were first in, last out. We also go on to talk about Saul's podcast, Battleground Ukraine, and his thoughts on the current situation, and what options there are to end the conflict. Saul David Links Devil Dogs Saul's Podcast, Battleground Ukraine Saul on Twitter Oliver Webb-Carter Links Email: [email protected] Ollie on Twitter Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week I have Mark Urban onto the pod. Newsnight presenter, historian, journalist and broadcaster, his new book Red Devils is just out. We chat about the Paras in WW2, and deal with booze and fighting, Operation Market Garden, the creation of the regiment and how he juggles writing and the TV work. Mark Urban Links Red Devils: The Trailblazers of the Parachute Regiment in World War Two Mark on Twitter Aspects of History Links Ollie on Twitter Email me at [email protected] to suggest your top 10 family from world history. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week's guest is the worldwide bestselling historian Simon Sebag Montefiore, and he's joined me to discuss his new book, The World: A Family History. We look into the family and why that is a great lens to look at history, as well as focussing in on a few of the families featured, including Alexander the Great's, the Prophet Mohammed's family, the Romanov family and Mohammad Reza Pahlavi, the last Shah of Iran. We also talk about recent developments in Iran and Ukraine and his musical playlist which is the soundtrack to his book. Links are below. Simon Sebag Montefiore Links The World: A Family History Simon's Playlist on Spotify Simon on Twitter Aspects of History Links Ollie on Twitter Alexander the Great in the Dock - Aspects of History Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week's pod has legendary historian Max Hastings who has written a new book, published its 60th anniversary, on the Cuban Missile Crisis. In October 1962, the world looked into the abyss of nuclear annihilation. We talk about those events, JFK and lunatic American generals, but also about its relevance today, and what lessons we can learn. Max Hastings Links Abyss: The Cuban Missile Crisis 1962 Aspects of History Links Subscribe annually to our magazine - 6 issues for under £10 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this bonus episode in honour of Black History Month, contributors from previous AoH podcasts chat about significant historians and events.: Steven Veerapen discusses John Blanke, one of the first black people living in England. Then we move on to the experience of African Americans in the War of 1812 as sailors and POWs with Nicholas Guyatt. Saul David explains why the British were destroyed at Isandlwana in 1879 during the Zulu War. Damien Lewis talks about Josephine Baker and her rise from showgirl in America to superstar in Paris, before becoming an agent for the Deuxieme Bureau during WW2. Finally, Tessa Dunlop chats about Ena Collymore, veteran of the Auxiliary Territorial Service during WW2. Timings & Links 1m58s John Blanke - Steven Veerapen on Of Blood Descended. 7m40s African American Sailors during the War of 1812. Nicholas Guyatt on The Hated Cage. 19m16s The Battle of Isandlwana, 1879. Saul David on Zulu: The Heroism and Tragedy of the Zulu War of 1879. 23m56s Josephine Baker, superstar and French agent. Damien Lewis on The Flame of Resistance. Wiki Page for Josephine Baker 41m27s Ena Collymore and the ATS in WW2. Tessa Dunlop on Army Girls. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week's pod is with the acclaimed classicist and historian, Peter Stothard. In his return to the show after our chat on The Ides of March, Peter discusses Marcus Licinius Crassus - the fabulously wealthy politician and commander who came a cropper at Carrhae up against the Persian Empire, after having defeated Spartacus. Crass was a rival to Caesar and Pompey, and was of course played by Laurence Olivier in the Kubrick film. Peter's new book is out, it's super short, and I raced through it - it's always entertaining listening to Peter, and he knows the subject so well, and speaks with real flair. Peter Stothard Links Crassus: The First Tycoon Peter's earlier pod Caesar's assassination: The Ides of March Peter's earlier pod Caesar's assassination: The Ides of March Part Two Aspects of History Links Munda: The Battle to End Roman Civil War - Aspects of History Cassius Parmensis, Caesar, Boris and Saddam - Aspects of History Great Black Britons: Richmond and Molyneux - Aspects of History Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week's podcast is with Ben Macintyre, the historian whose books read like thrillers. His latest is Colditz : Prisoners of the Castle , an account of the POW prison for those allied servicemen most troublesome for the Nazis. If you think you know the story, though, there is more to it than meets the eye. We also go on to talk about his other books, which deal with the KGB agent Oleg Gordievsky, the spy who changed history and Kim Philby, the Cambridge spy and traitor. Ben Macintyre Links Colditz : Prisoners of the Castle The Spy and the Traitor A Spy Among Friends Operation Mincemeat Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, Spy Aspects of History Links Historical Heroes: John le Carré - Aspects of History The Special Relationship - Aspects of History Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week I'm joined by Tudor historian and novelist Steven Veerapen. We talk about his novels, and the Greatest Hits of the Tudors. Well known names such as Henry VIII, Anne Boleyn, Lady Jane Grey, Elizabeth I & Mary Queen of Scots, but also lesser known names such as Anthony Blanke and Kit Marlowe. Steven Veerapen Links Of Blood Descended The Queen's Jewel Black Tudors Hilary Mantel's Wolf Hall Trilogy The Execution of Lady Jane Grey, by Paul Delaroche Aspects of History Links The Courtly Code of the Tudors Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Robert Harris, the bestselling novelist and author of novels such as The Ghost, Munich and V2, joins me to chat about his latest, Act of Oblivion. We're in 1660, and Charles II has ascended to the throne. Two of his father's killers, Puritans Whalley & Goffe, are pursued in an act of vengeance. The story goes from London, to mainland Europe to the as yet largely undiscovered America. It's the Butch Cassidy and Sundance Kid of the 17th century. Robert Harris Links Act of Oblivion Thomas Carlyle on Cromwell Aspects of History Links The Colourful Court of Oliver Cromwell - Aspects of History The Bearer Party - Aspects of History Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week's pod discusses the horrific events in Smyrna, Asia Minor, in 1922 - modern day Izmir in Turkey. On the centenary, Giles Milton and I discuss the horrific events that killed tens of thousands of Levantines living peacefully in the city, and caused a humanitarian disaster. If you don't know about this, you should. Giles is a friend of the show, and author of Paradise Lost, all about the tragedy. After that, I chat briefly with Paul Lay, author of Providence Lost (you see what they're doing here?) about his Buckingham History Festival, which features many friends of the show and is on soon. Giles Milton Links Paradise Lost Giles' Sky Documentary (for Greek speakers) Paul Lay Links Buckingham History Festival Providence Lost Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this bonus episode of the podcast, I chat with Dr Tessa Dunlop - royal historian and commentator, all about the Queen, her husband, and her son. We also chat about the media coverage, and what newspaper does King Charles read? Tessa has been very kind in giving me her time, in between appearing on TV and Radio. If you want to explore more with Tessa, you'll find her links below: Dr Tessa Dunlop Links Latest book, Army Girls Signed copies of Army Girls Previous titles: The Century Girls, The Bletchley Girls Tessa on BBC's Newscast Tessa on BBC Radio: A Military Monarch Aspects of History Links God Save the King - Aspects of History by Robert Lyman The Queen & the Crown - Aspects of History by Matthew Dennison Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Queen is dead. I pay a personal tribute to her, involving a few Webb-Carter family faux-pas. In a soon to be released podcast, Royal Historian Tessa Dunlop will be joining me, but until then you can enjoy two articles on the Queen from our website below: Aspects of History Links God Save the King - Aspects of History by Robert Lyman The Queen & the Crown - Aspects of History by Matthew Dennison Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If there is one man who can unite British monarchists and Irish nationalists, it is Oliver Cromwell, and so today I’m talking about this huge figure with the historian and novelist Miranda Malins, author of The Rebel Daughter, and The Puritan Princess, which involve Oliver’s daughters Bridget and Frances. We talk about how important women were in Cromwell’s life, and then we go on to talk about the man himself. His rise during the Civil War, His involvement in the trial and execution of Charles I, and his behaviour in Scotland, and most infamously Ireland. Many of you may already have a view of Oliver Cromwell, but Miranda makes the case that we need to step back and look at Cromwell dispassionately. History is nuance! Miranda Malins Links The Rebel Daughter The Puritan Princess Miranda on Twitter Aspects of History Links The Trial of Charles I - Aspects of History Charles II: A Thoroughly Modern Monarch - Aspects of History Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week's episode is a chat with espionage author Helen Fry, about her new paperback Spymaster, the story of Thomas Kendrick. It's an extraordinary story of one man’s efforts against the Gestapo, and his incredible achievement in saving thousands from the holocaust. He was also station chief of MI6 in Austria, and as we’ll hear, came across two of the great British double agents of the last century, Kim Philby and George Blake. Not only that, but he was also involved in the rather murky episode when Rudolf Hess, then Hitler’s Deputy, flew to Scotland, apparently on his own, in an attempt to make peace overtures with the British government. Helen Fry Links Spymaster: The Man Who Saved MI6 Vienna's Third Man Museum Helen on Twitter Aspects of History Links Agatha Christie's Greatest Mystery - Aspects of History Five Questions on War - Aspects of History Ollie on Twitter Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Holiday Episode Andrew Roberts joins me to chat about his creation, the Cliveden Literary Festival. This is the foremost literary event of the year, and is on over the weekend of the 15th & 16th October. The festival involves three wonderful attractions for AoH listeners, history, writers and books. We chat about authors that will appear, talks at prior festivals, and Andrew's favourite discussion so far. This chat took place before the horrific attack in upstate New York, and my thoughts are with Sir Salman and his family. Cliveden Links Festival Site The Satanic Verses, by Salman Rushdie A Life in History: Antonia Fraser and Andrew Roberts Andrew Roberts in conversation with Gen. David Patraeus Women in History. with Saul David, Natalie Livingstone, Dan Jones & Hallie Rubenhold Rise & Kill: Ronen Bergman & Gordon Carera Aspects of History Links Margaret MacMillan asks, and answers, 5 questions on War for AoH. Historical Heroes: John le Carré - Aspects of History Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

15th August 1947 saw Partition, independence of India and the creation of Pakistan. The author of Partition, Barney White-Spunner, joined me to chat about the terrible events that led to approx. 1 million deaths and 15 million refugees. We talk about the key players: Nehru, Jinnah, Gandhi, Patel, Mountbatten and Auchinleck, key moments and the horrific religiously motivated attacks that took place in August and September of that year. Barney White Spunner Links Partition: The story of Indian independence and the creation of Pakistan in 1947 Barney is on Channel 4 on the 7th and 14th August. You can catch up here. Aspects of History Links Article on India's victory over Japan in WW2: India's Victory - Aspects of History Me on Twitter Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week's pod features Mark Ellis, bestselling crime novelist and creator of DCI Merlin. We chat about the reality of London life, when not all its population joined together against the common foe. His latest novel, Dead in the Water, features American criminals, Nazis and stolen art. In the second part of the pod, I give my top 10 historical films. This list is mine, and so a little bit different to the usual lists you'll see. You'll find links to both sections below. Mark Ellis Links The latest DCI Frank Merlin: Dead in the Water Revolt in Cornwall, by Kate Werran - Aspects of History Mark on Twitter John Christie, serial killer Walter H. Thompson Aspects of History Top 10 Historical Films (Spoilers!) My top 10 Historical Movies: 10 - Alexander 9 - La Reine Margot Reel History 8 - Breaker Morant 7 - Missing 6 - Katyń 5 - Culloden 4 - One Day in September 3 - The Civil War 2 - The Battle of Algiers 1 - Downfall Reel History Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

My chat this week is with Timothy Ashby, historian, novelist and author of Elizabethan Secret Agent: The Untold Story of William Ashby. Ashby was a spy working for Sir Francis Walsingham, spymaster for Queen Elizabeth I. Stationed in Edinburgh, he ran a number of operations to further the Queen's cause against the Spanish. We also chat about the subject of his novel, Ranger, Fédon's Rebellion in 1795, a slave rebellion on the island of Grenada against the British. Finally we talk about Operation Condor and the American efforts against regimes and democracies in Latin America and the Caribbean. Timothy Ashby Links Elizabethan Secret Agent Ranger Fédon's rebellion Sir John Moore Operation Condor Salvador - Oliver Stone Movie Missing - Jack Lemmon Movie set in Chile The US invasion of Grenada Heartbreak Ridge - Clint Eastwood Movie Aspects of History Links Summer Holiday Reading Recommendations @olliewcq Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Max Hastings chats to friend of the show Saul David about the operation to relieve Malta in August 1942. The Axis powers had the island at their isolated and it was close to starvation. Churchill saw this as an opportunity for a heroic victory, in the mould of Dunkirk, and so ordered the Royal Navy to set sail from Gibraltar to relieve the island. Max discusses the heroism, and actions that were less heroic, in this fascinating discussion with veteran historian Saul David. Max Hastings Links Operation Pedestal In Which We Serve - David Lean Movie Greyhound - Tom Hanks Movie Saul David Links SBS: Silent Warriors Aspects of History Links Homepage Recommended Article: Hitler's Greatest Mistake - Aspects of History Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Konstantin Kisin, comedian, podcaster, writer and author of An Immigrant's Love Letter to the West, joins me to discuss his debut book. Konstantin was born in the Soviet Union, and both he and his family are well aware of what life was like outside the West. We discuss comedy today, how it's under threat, even from the police. We also go on to talk about his family's suffering at the hands of the Soviet system. Where are we now as a society? We may think we're free, but are we really when we see countless examples of people who lose their jobs and reputations needlessly. Konstantin is one person who has seen life in East and West, and he knows which he prefers. Konstantin Kisin Links An Immigrant's Love Letter to the West Triggernometry Tom Holland on the Great Awokening Roger Moorhouse on the Russian invasion of Ukraine Alistair Williams Brexit joke Aspects of History Links Website Me on the Twitter Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Alex Gerlis joins me to discuss spying during the war, and, more importantly (!) football of the period. Alex supports Grimsby Town, and I support Southampton, but which team would the Nazis have taken an interest in? We also discuss Frank Foley, the man who saved thousands of Jews, and Klaus Barbie, the Nazi murderer based in France. Finally, Alex chats about his influences, and the man he has been compared to, John Le Carré Alex Gerlis Links Agent in Berlin Agent in Peril Alex Gerlis Alan Furst novels Klaus Barbie Alex on Twitter Aspects of History Links Our Website Me on Twitter Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week's pod is on the brutal English Civil War, or War of the Three Kingdoms. Historian and novelist Mark Turnbull joins me to discuss. Mark is the author of The Rebellion Series, a trilogy of novels set during the Civil War, We chat Charles I, Henrietta Maria, Prince Rupert, Cromwell and the Earl of Essex, as well as Edgehill and Naseby. Was Charles I really a tyrant? Were the Levellers the Corbynistas of their day? Am I a Roundhead or Cavalier? Mark Turnbull Links Mark's Trilogy of Novels: The Rebellion Series, the latest of which is The King's Cavalier. Mark's podcast, CavalierCast, where you'll find more episodes with star guests discussing the Civil War. Mark on Twitter Cromwell, starring Alec Guiness and Richard Harris. Aspects of History Links Before the Civil War, by Leanda de Lisle - Aspects of History Jonestown: Living through History - Aspects of History Ollie on Twitter Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

"The Freedom to Achieve Freedom". Michael Collins This week's episode is with journalist and author Gretchen Friemann discussing the Irish Revloution. We discuss the whole shebang, from the Act of Union in 1801, through the Home Rule crisis, Curragh Mutiny, Easter Rising, War of Independence, the Anglo-Irish Treaty and the Irish Civil War. Gretchen is the author of The Treaty. Gretchen Friemann Links Gretchen's Book: The Treaty: The Gripping Story of the Negotiations that brought about Irish Independence and led to the Civil War Podcast series: The Irish Revolution Podcast on History Hub.IE Twitter: @G_Friemann Aspects of History Links The Assassination of Sir Henry Wilson Ollie on Twitter: @olliewcq Aspects of History Website Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this week's episode, Antony Beevor discusses the subject of his latest book, Russia: Revolution & Civil War 1917-1921. Antony is interviewed by a hot new signing for Aspects of History, Robert Lyman, author of A War of Empires and my guest in earlier episodes. The two historians discuss the brutality of the conflicts, and how Russia deposed the Tsar and transformed into the USSR under the leadership of a small number of ruthless leaders, Lenin among them. Antony Beevor Links Russia: Revolution & Civil War 1917-1921 Robert Lyman Links A War of Empires Aspects of History Links Issue 10 of Aspects of History Annual Subscription (only £9.99/$9.99) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week's chat is one of the most successful authors writing historical fiction, Conn Iggulden. He's written series on Julius Caesar and Genghis Khan, and more recently on Ancient Greece. Conn and I discuss his latest novel Lion, the Greeks and the Persians, Pericles and the beginnings of the Athenian Empire and Conn's approach to historical fiction. Conn Iggulden Links Lion following on from Protector David Gemmell's Lion of Macedon Plutarch's Nine Greek Lives Thucydides The History of the Peloponnesian War Aeschylus The Persians Herodotus The Histories Aspects of History Links Jessie Childs on the English Civil War Adam Zamoyski on Kissinger and Ukraine Ronan McGreevy on the assassination that sparked the Irish Civil War Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week's episode is with bestselling author Damien Lewis, talking about the wonderful Josephine Baker, spy during the Second World War, but also an entertainer loved by so many in Europe. It's a story well told by Damien, and Josephine's awe-inspiring antics led her to be entered into the French Pantheon in November 2021. Damien Lewis Links Flame of Resistance: American Beauty. French Hero. British Spy Pictures of Josephine Twitter: @authordlewis Aspects of History Links Homepage Twitter: @aspectshistory Twitter: @olliewcq Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this week's show, my guest is Gavin Mortimer, author of The Phoney Major, a revision on the revision which exposes Stirling not as the founder of the SAS, but instead as a fraud, a bungling special forces soldier and a narcissistic man who excelled at creating the image that is maintained today. Instead his brother founded the SAS, and Paddy Mayne was the true leader. Gavin Mortimer Links The Phoney Major Winged Dagger Who Dares Wins movie with Lewis Collins Aspects of History Links Aspects of History Home Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tessa Dunlop joins me to discuss the Queen, or Princess Elizabeth as she was, and her wartime service in the ATS. This is the subject of her new paperback, Army Girls. She also chats about Elizabeth and Philip's courtship during the war, and what she got up to in the army. There is a Jubilee Special offer for pod listeners - use voucher code HISTORY50% to get half price annual subscriptions on the Aspects of History magazine. Head to the website and use the code at checkout. Tessa Dunlop Links Army Girls Century Girls Bletchley Girls Links Discussed Atonement Windsor Castle to Camberley Aspects of History Voucher Code: HISTORY50% Aspects of History Website Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In the 2nd part of my chat with Giles Milton on Berlin after the war, we talk about some of the characters involved in the story, and then the main event in the period, the Berlin Airlift. We also touch on the terrible events of Smyrna 1922. You can get hold of Giles' book, Checkmate in Berlin here. Timings Ernest Bevin and NATO: 2m13s Parallels with Ukraine: 5m10s German socialists and and the Information war: 9m24s The Berlin Airlift: 12m46s Smyrna 1922: 24m52s Giles Milton Links Book: Checkmate in Berlin Map: The Divided Germany Map: West and East Berlin Book: Paradise Lost: Smyrna 1922 Giles on Twitter @GilesMilton1 Aspects of History Links Website: Aspects of History Me on Twitter: @olliewcq You can email us [email protected] Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In May 1945 Soviet troops had captured Berlin, and they proceeded to loot the city, and carry out the most horrific abuse of German women. American, British and French troops arrived two months later, and found a desperate and starving population. Giles Milton has written a brilliant new book, Checkmate in Berlin, about the German capital in the aftermath of the Second World War. In Part One, we discuss that abuse, de-nazification, the Allies and the Soviets in the city, and Churchill's defining Iron Curtain speech. Timings Soviet and allied behaviour: 2m07s DeNazification 7m0s Soviets and Allies: 11m43s The Iron Curtain Speech: 25m02s Giles Milton Links Book: Checkmate in Berlin Map: The Divided Germany Map: West and East Berlin Film: Churchill's Iron Curtain Speech Giles on Twitter @GilesMilton1 Aspects of History Links Website: Aspects of History Me on Twitter: @olliewcq You can email us [email protected] Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Douglas Murray is a bestselling writer and broadcaster who has written a new book, The War on the West. In it he argues that those in the West are fortunate, that the West's history is not all shameful, and that we need face up to those that are seeking to traduce the education system with their strange new ideas. We must remember the past is a foreign country, they do things differently there. We chat Winston Churchill, racist gardens, Critical Race Theory, suggested changes to education and right at the start, the Bloody Sunday Inquiry. Timings Bloody Sunday 5m14s Churchill 21m20s Reparations 33m20s Douglas Murray Links The War on the West: How to Prevail in the Age of Unreason Bloody Sunday: Truth, Lies and the Saville Inquiry The Times (London) Article on Reparations (£) Douglas on Twitter Links Mentioned in the Show Glenn Loury v. Christopher Hitchens on Reparations Britain's War Against the Slave Trade by Anthony Sullivan Aspects of History Links Voucher code: HISTORY50% Simon Sebag Montefiore on Voices of History Interview with Titanic Historian Simon Medhurst Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Continuing our chat, Gordon argues that had Stalingrad gone the other way, we'd be looking at a completely different Europe. He sets the scene and describes relations between Germany and Russia before and at the start of WW2 and then discusses the battle itself. We also briefly mention Ukraine so I hope you can indulge us. Intro - 0.15secs Gordon on Barbarossa and Stalingrad - 3m54s Gordon on Ukraine - 34m36s Concl. - 40m10s Gordon Links Tipping Points of History: The Battle of Stalingrad - Available for free on Kindle Unlimited Gordon's View on Ukraine Aspects of History Links Titanic - A Night to Remember, by Simon Medhurst Drunk on Titanic, by Giles Milton The Women of SOE, by Kate Vigurs Ollie on Twitter Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices