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 Festivals: Laurence shares his thoughts on the significance of the Chalke Valley History Festival, highlighting its role in engaging young people with history and fostering a community of history enthusiasts.
• - The Nazi Mind: Delve into Laurence's latest book, "The Nazi Mind: 12 Warnings from History," as he discusses the critical insights it offers on the mentalities of the Nazis and the implications for today's society.
• - Understanding Fragility: Laurence emphasises the fragility of democratic institutions and the importance of recognising early warning signs that could threaten our freedoms.
• - The Role of Ideology: Explore how ideology can influence individuals to commit unspeakable acts, revealing the psychological mechanisms that enable such actions within a society.
• - Lessons for Today: The conversation touches on the relevance of historical warnings in contemporary politics, urging listeners to remain vigilant against the erosion of civil liberties and the rise of populism.
• - A Call to Action: Laurence encourages listeners to engage with history actively, advocating for the importance of understanding our past to shape a better future.

Join us for an enlightening discussion that challenges our perceptions of history and its relevance to current events. Don't miss the chance to hear Laurence Rees speak at the Chalke History Festival, running from 23rd to 29th June. Tickets are available through the festival's website.

Tickets: https://www.Chalkeefestival.com/

Connect with Laurence Rees:

- Buy his book: The Nazi Mind: 12 Warnings from History from the History Rage Bookshop:

https://uk.bookshop.org/a/10120/9780241740811

Support History Rage:

If you’re enjoying this episode, consider joining the 'Angry Mob' on Patreon at patreon.com/historyrage for exclusive content, early access, and the iconic History Rage mug.

Follow the Rage:

- Twitter: @HistoryRage

- Instagram: @historyrage

From all of us at History Rage, stay curious, stay passionate, and most importantly, stay angry!

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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 discusses how Naples liberated itself from German occupation, challenging the narrative that the Allies were the sole saviours of the city.
• Destruction and Chaos: The aftermath of the liberation revealed a city in ruins, with essential services devastated, leading to a struggle for survival among the residents.

Allies vs. Civilians

• Contrasting Experiences: Explore the vastly different experiences of Allied soldiers and Neapolitan civilians as they navigated the shifting power dynamics post-liberation.
• Reality of Occupation: Keith sheds light on the initial enthusiasm for the Allies, which soon faded as the harsh realities of occupation set in.

Rebuilding a Nation

• Engineers as Heroes: Discover the vital role of engineers in restoring Naples’ infrastructure, highlighting their often-overlooked contributions to the war effort.
• Economic Mismanagement: Keith critiques the Allies' failure to utilise local resources effectively, leading to unnecessary suffering among the population.

The Lingering Effects of War

• Generational Trauma: The discussion delves into the concept of 'replacement children' and how the legacy of loss continues to impact societies long after the fighting ends.
• Post-War Violence: Keith highlights the ongoing conflicts in Europe post-1945, including civil wars and the brutal realities of power vacuums left by the war.

Guest Information:

• Keith Lowe's book: https://uk.bookshop.org/a/10120/9780008339593
• Follow Keith on Twitter and Instagram @keithloweauthor for more insights and updates.

Leave a review for History Rage on Apple, Podchaser, Spotify! Join the 'Angry Mob' on Patreon for early episodes, prize draws, and the coveted History Rage mug. Subscribe at www.patreon.com/historyrage.

You can follow History Rage on Twitter @HistoryRage and Instagram @historyrage or Paul individually @PaulBavill and let us know what you wish people would just stop believing using the Hashtag #HistoryRage.

To catch up on all the rage from bygone times go to the website www.historyrage.com

If you want to get in touch with History Rage then email historyragepod@gmail.com

Stay Angry, Stay Informed - History Rage

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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-known nations.

Revisiting the Great War:

- Alex and Nicolai discuss their motivations for writing "Ring of Fire," aiming to provide a more balanced account of the war that includes the significant events and actors often omitted from mainstream narratives.

Unpacking the Myths:

- The duo passionately critiques the oversimplified narratives that dominate First World War literature, highlighting how the war's origins and battles in the East are frequently ignored.

Global Perspectives:

- Discover the surprising roles played by countries such as Japan and the Ottoman Empire, as well as the impact of colonial forces in Africa and Asia, challenging the notion that the war was solely a European affair.

The Human Cost:

- Alex and Nicolai share harrowing accounts of ordinary soldiers and civilians, illustrating the brutal realities of war and the emotional turmoil experienced across various fronts.

Challenging Neutrality:

- The conversation also touches on the complexities of neutrality, with insights into how countries like Denmark and Sweden navigated their positions amidst the chaos of war.

Join us as we unravel the multifaceted narratives of the First World War, shedding light on the stories that deserve to be told. "Ring of Fire" is available for purchase, and can be bought below:

Buy the Book: Ring of Fire: A New Global History of the Outbreak of the First World War

https://uk.bookshop.org/a/10120/9781035903429

Don't miss the chance to catch Alex at the Chalke History Festival, running from 23rd to 29th June and tickets are available from:

Tickets: https://www.chalkefestival.com/

Connect with Alex and Nicolai on Social Media:

- Follow the guys on X, Instagram and Bluesky: Alex at @Churchill_Alex and Nicolai at @PikeGrey1418.

Support History Rage:

If you enjoy the show, consider supporting us on Patreon for exclusive content, early access, and the iconic History Rage mug. Subscribe at patreon.com/historyrage.

Stay informed, stay passionate, and most importantly, stay angry!

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