Explore every episode of the podcast Aspects of History

On the 22nd November 1963 President John F Kennedy was assassinated…..by Lee Harvey Oswald right? Well wrong, because today’s guest has a suspect, the boss of the New Orleans mafia, Carlos Marcello who, along with other family bosses Sam Giancana and Santo Traficante, conspired to have the President whacked. Louis Ferrante joins in this second part of our discussion on the mafia and the Kennedys as we talk about the assassination, motives, evidence and those involved. If you haven’t listened to part one that’s the previous episode. Louis Ferrante Links Part One Borgata Vol II: Clash of Titans: A History of the American Mafia Borgata Vol I: Rise of Empire: A History of the American Mafia Episode from 2024 with Louis Ferrante Aspects of History Links Latest Issue out - Annual Subscription to Aspects of History Magazine only $9.99/£9.99 Ollie on X Aspects of History on Instagram Get in touch: history@aspectsofhistory.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In early 1957, the Robert F Kennedy and his brother Jack were part of the US Senate Rackets Committee and they both attacked the notorious Jimmy Hoffa, the leader of the Teamsters union and a man with numerous connections to the mob. But as Hoffa probably knew at the time, the two of them were themselves involved with the mafia. Joining today is former member of the Gambino crime family and friend of the show Louis Ferrante, the author of three volumes on the history of the mafia in American and today we discuss the second, Borgata Vol 2, Clash of Titans. This is a two part special, with the second episode following on Wednesday. Louis Ferrante Links Borgata Vol II: Clash of Titans: A History of the American Mafia Borgata Vol I: Rise of Empire: A History of the American Mafia Episode from 2024 with Louis Ferrante Aspects of History Links Latest Issue out - Annual Subscription to Aspects of History Magazine only $9.99/£9.99 Ollie on X Aspects of History on Instagram Get in touch: history@aspectsofhistory.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On the 2nd December 1980, four American nuns were driving from San Salvador international airport when their van was attacked and run off the road. Men from the El Salvador National Guard, the ruling government’s military, dressed in civilian clothing, raped, shot, then buried the four women. This event failed to halt US funding of the Salvadorian regime as billions of dollars were spent in propping up the fascist rulers. In 1985, before shooting Platoon, Oliver Stone began filming Salvador, starring James Woods as Richard Boyle so this is your January film club. Please do like, subscribe and follow, and if you can leave a kind rating then thank you, but it’s over to me, Roger and Tim on Salvador. Links Robert E White Obituary Salvadoran Civil War Salvador on IMDB Salvador on Wikipedia Ollie on X Tim on X Roger on X Latest Issue out - Annual Subscription to Aspects of History Magazine only $9.99/£9.99 Aspects of History on Instagram Get in touch: history@aspectsofhistory.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Early in 14th century Switzerland was under the control of their far more powerful neighbour, Hapsburg Austria. In the small town of Aldorf in the canton of Uri, which is at the centre of Switzerland, near Lake Lucern and the city of Zurich there lived a brutal Austrian governor, Albrecht Gessler. Gessler hated the Swiss, a proud and rebellious people, and to remind them of their subjugation he placed his hat on a large post in the middle of the town, and demanded the Swiss bow when passing. William Tell, an expert crossbowman and hunter, refused. Furious, Gessler set Tell a challenge. Shoot an apple off his son’s head, from 100 yards, as the wretched child was tied to the post or the boy would be executed. Tell reluctantly agreed, and with a miraculous shot he succeeded, and so began the revolt against Austria and Switzerland’s journey to independence for which it is known today, as well as dubious banking practises. Joining the podcast is the director Nick Hamm who has made a film of William Tell, starring Claes Bang, Ben Kingsley, Jonathan Pryce, Golshifteh Farahani, Rafe Spall, Ellie Bamber and Connor Swindells. Also on the chat is the historian Almut Seurbaum. William Tell Links William Tell Movie on Wikipedia William Tell Movie on IMDB Aspects of History Links Latest Issue out - Annual Subscription to Aspects of History Magazine only $9.99/£9.99 Ollie on X Aspects of History on Instagram Get in touch: history@aspectsofhistory.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Gavin Mortimer joins me this week for a rollicking ride through the invasion of Sicily and Italy with the SAS and Paddy Mayne, Bill Stirling and his brother David. We discuss the portrayal Mayne, what the show gets right, and what it gets wrong. Rogue Heroes S2 stars Jack O'Connell and Connor Swindells. !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 SAS in 1943: Operations in Sicily and Italy The SAS in Italy with Gavin Mortimer Aspects of History Links Latest Issue out - Annual Subscription to Aspects of History Magazine only $9.99/£9.99 Ollie on X Aspects of History on Instagram Get in touch: history@aspectsofhistory.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s episode is a chat with the acclaimed and bestselling author, William Boyd. He has written countless books including a Solo a Bond novel, screenplays, operas and he even took part in a brilliant art hoax with David Bowie. Last month I had the chance to talk with him about his new book, Gabriel’s Moon, the first in a trilogy of espionage novels set in the 1960s featuring the hero Gabriel Dax. We cover that period, spy writing and plenty of other subjects. I should mention that this episode first appeared on our sister podcast SpyMasters and you should definitely check it out where my colleague Antonia Senior interviews spy authors, historians and maybe even a few spooks themselves. William Boyd Links Gabriel’s Moon William Boyd & David Bowie Art Hoax Aspects of History Links Latest Issue out - Annual Subscription to Aspects of History Magazine only $9.99/£9.99 Ollie on X Aspects of History on Instagram Get in touch: history@aspectsofhistory.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On the afternoon of 31st May 1916 the Royal Navy’s Grand Fleet sighted ships of the Imperial German Navy’s High Seas Fleet and so began the major significant sea battle of the First World War. The result was inconclusive, but what were the real consequences? Naval historian joins to discuss this and other subjects as we cover the naval history of Britain in the 20th century. Now I should warn you we do mention briefly the famine in Ireland and the navy’s role in it to begin with, and we end with a brief chat on Admiral Nelson, and the future of naval combat so there is plenty of ground covered. N.A.M. Rodger Links The Price of Victory: A Naval History of Britain: 1815 – 1945 Aspects of History Links Latest Issue out - Annual Subscription to Aspects of History Magazine only $9.99/£9.99 Ollie on X Aspects of History on Instagram Get in touch: history@aspectsofhistory.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On the 20th October 1827 in Navarino Bay on the west coast of the Peloponnese in Greece, the Royal Navy under Admiral Edward Codrington won its greatest victory post Trafalgar. Codrington became a household name with pubs named after him, but at the highest levels of government there was fury and embarrassment. Despite Greece winning independence the battle had given Russia supremacy over the Ottoman Empire, and British interests in the Mediterranean were threatened. Joining the podcast in this first of a two part special is the great naval historian N.A.M. Rodger, whose new book The Price of Victory covers the history of Britain from 1815 to the end of the Second World War. In this episode, we talk about the 19th century, before Wednesday’s concluding chat covers the First and Second World Wars, as well as future conflicts in the South China Sea. N.A.M. Rodger Links The Price of Victory: A Naval History of Britain: 1815 – 1945 Aspects of History Links Latest Issue out - Annual Subscription to Aspects of History Magazine only $9.99/£9.99 Ollie on X Aspects of History on Instagram Get in touch: history@aspectsofhistory.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This month’s film club is Apocalypse Now, Francis Ford Coppola’s 1979 masterpiece. For next month’s movie listeners have an opportunity to vote on the poll via the Spotify app, it’s either Salvador directed by Oliver Stone or Carol Reed’s The Third Man. Links Apocalypse Now on IMDB Apocalypse Now on Wikipedia Hearts of Darkness: A Filmmaker's Apocalypse Heart of Darkness by Joseph Conrad Ollie on X Tim on X Roger on X Latest Issue out - Annual Subscription to Aspects of History Magazine only $9.99/£9.99 Aspects of History on Instagram Get in touch: history@aspectsofhistory.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

At the end of June in 1399 Henry Bolingbroke, son of John of Gaunt and cousin to King Richard II, landed at Ravenspurn with a small force intent on the overthrow of Richard. The King, who had been in Ireland, did not rush to return to England, but when he did, his throne had been lost, and Bolingbroke became King Henry IV. Richard would die in mysterious circumstances not long after. Henry had secured the throne but his would not be a happy reign. Joining to discuss the two grandsons of Edward III is Helen Castor, author of The Eagle and the Hart: the Tragedy of Richard II and Henry IV as we delve into the two characters in a fascinating period of medieval history. Helen Castor Links The Eagle and the Hart: The Tragedy of Richard II and Henry IV Helen on X Aspects of History Links Latest Issue out - Annual Subscription to Aspects of History Magazine only $9.99/£9.99 Ollie on X Aspects of History on Instagram Get in touch: history@aspectsofhistory.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this second and concluding episode of our special on the Battle of the Bulge, it is Christmas Eve 1944 and the German advance has run aground as US troops counter-attack, and the weather cleared to allow the resumption of allied air superiority. Joining to discuss are two acclaimed military historians, Gordon Corrigan, author of The Second World War: A Military History, and Philip Blood, author of War Comes to Aachen as we cover Germans in American uniform, atrocities and murder, and finally the battle's legacy for both NATO and the current conflict in Ukraine. Episode Links The Front Line during the ‘Bulge’ The Second World War: A Military History, by Gordon Corrigan War Comes to Aachen: The Nazis, Churchill and the 'Stalingrad of the West', by Philip W. Blood Aspects of History Links Latest Issue out - Annual Subscription to Aspects of History Magazine only $9.99/£9.99 Ollie on X Aspects of History on Instagram Get in touch: history@aspectsofhistory.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On the morning of 16th December 1944 , German artillery opened up a massive barrage before Tiger tanks, supported by infantry, began their attack across the front line and into Allied territory. In freezing conditions, US troops struggled to contain the advance, and soon a large bulge in the American defensive line emerged. In this first of a two part special on the Battle of the Bulge, Gordon Corrigan and Philip Blood join to discuss the last major battle of the Western Front as they chat freezing conditions, the bigger picture, German and US soldiers, Bastogne and nuts. Links showing the front lines are in the show notes. Episode Links The Front Line during the ‘Bulge’ The Second World War: A Military History, by Gordon Corrigan War Comes to Aachen: The Nazis, Churchill and the 'Stalingrad of the West', by Philip W. Blood Aspects of History Links Latest Issue out - Annual Subscription to Aspects of History Magazine only $9.99/£9.99 Ollie on X Aspects of History on Instagram Get in touch: history@aspectsofhistory.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today’s episode we hear from a wonderful writer, Elizabeth Buchan. She’s been at the top of her game for many years now, and has recently written two books that take the reader to post war France and Italy, with both countries dealing with the trauma of WW2. In the French case, collaboration, and with Italy, the rise of Communism. Elizabeth has been in publishing prior to her writing career, so we’ll hear stories of her involvement with writers such as Dirk Bogarde and VS Naipaul. Links are below, including to her bestseller she talks about, the Revenge of the Middle Aged Woman, so what better name for the episode than that! Elizabeth Buchan Links Bonjour, Sophie Two Women in Rome Revenge of the Middle Aged Woman Books Elizabeth mentioned: Perfect Wives in Ideal Homes, by Virginia Nicholson Bad Blood: A Memoir, by Lorna Sage Aspects of History Links Latest Issue out - Annual Subscription to Aspects of History Magazine only $9.99/£9.99 Ollie on X Aspects of History on Instagram Get in touch: history@aspectsofhistory.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On the 14th October 1066 two armies faced each other on the south coast of England. One, under Harold Godwinson was tired after marching from the north but had the high ground. The other was a foreign force led by Duke William of Normandy. The result of this battle, not far from Hastings, would have major ramifications for European and world history. Joining me are two writers to discuss the events leading up to Hastings, the claims on the English throne, the battles beforehand and the characters involved. Adam Staten and Paul Bernardi are the authors of series set during the Norman invasion. Episode Links Honour Bound: Blood Debt & Oath Breaker, by Adam Staten The Huscarl Chronicles: Thurkill's Revenge, Thurkill's Battle, Thurkill's Rebellion; Blood Feud, by Paul Bernardi Aspects of History Links Latest Issue out - Annual Subscription to Aspects of History Magazine only $9.99/£9.99 Ollie on X Aspects of History on Instagram Get in touch: history@aspectsofhistory.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It's time for this year’s Books of the Year podcast. We talk histories of the Middle East, medieval kings, nautical novels and naval epics plus much more. Roger Moorhouse, Antonia Senior and Richard Foreman join for an informal chat. Books of the Year - Links Arnhem: Black Tuesday  Time of the Child The Eagle and the Hart The Price of Victory Naples 1944 The Wide Wide Sea Henry V The House of War Izabela the Valiant The Peacock and the Sparrow Military Matters Gabriel's Moon The Siege Podcast Links Spy Masters podcasts - Aspects of History The Siege Episode - Aspects of History Naples 1944 Episode - Aspects of History The House of War Episode - Aspects of History Izabela the Valiant Episode - Aspects of History Henry V Episode - Aspects of History Arnhem Episode - Aspects of History Aspects of History Links Latest Issue out - Annual Subscription to Aspects of History Magazine only $9.99/£9.99 Ollie on X Aspects of History on Instagram Get in touch: history@aspectsofhistory.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This month’s film club is the presidential thriller All the President's Men, directed by Alan J. Pakula, starring Robert Redford and Dustin Hoffman Links The Vote for next Film Club Episode All the President's Men on IMDB All the President's Men on Wikipedia Ollie on X Tim on X Roger on X Latest Issue out - Annual Subscription to Aspects of History Magazine only $9.99/£9.99 Aspects of History on Instagram Get in touch: history@aspectsofhistory.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The great city of Aachen was of key strategic importance during the Second World War. The seat of the Holy Roman Emperor Charlamagne is a wonderfully beautiful baroque city of stunning architecture, best exemplified by its cathedral. However early on in the war the RAF began a bombing campaign that had devastating consequences, not only for the civilian population, but also for US troops who would endure fighting reminiscent of Stalingrad at the end of 1944. Friend of the show Philip Blood joins to discuss a fascinating episode in the last year of the war as he talks about his book War Comes to Aachen. Episode Links War Comes to Aachen: The Nazis, Churchill and the 'Stalingrad of the West' Putin’s War, Russian Genocide, Edited by Philip W. Blood Aspects of History Links Latest Issue out - Annual Subscription to Aspects of History Magazine only $9.99/£9.99 Ollie on X Aspects of History on Instagram Get in touch: history@aspectsofhistory.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Charlie Higson joins, he's a comedy legend, actor, author of the young Bond novels and presenter of a successful podcast Willy Willy Harry Stee, which covers all the monarchs over several series so do check it out. Episode Links Willy Willy Harry Stee Aspects of History Links Latest Issue out - Annual Subscription to Aspects of History Magazine only $9.99/£9.99 Ollie on X Aspects of History on Instagram Get in touch: history@aspectsofhistory.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As we all now are aware, Donald Trump will be the next American president. This episode looks into the intelligence and foreign policy implications, taking into account the US and UK’s shared history. As we’ve seen in the past few weeks, historians are the ones to listen to, not so called political experts, and so Michael Smith, author of The Real Special Relationship joins to discuss the new Trump appointments, Trump’s plans for the Middle East and Ukraine, and what may happen vis a vis China and Taiwan.  Michael is a long standing journalist, former intelligence operative and historian of many books on espionage. Episode Links The Real Special Relationship Aspects of History Links Latest Issue out - Annual Subscription to Aspects of History Magazine only $9.99/£9.99 Ollie on X Aspects of History on Instagram Get in touch: history@aspectsofhistory.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In 1937 a seventeen year old German arrived at Liverpool St station in London, not speaking the language, but with a strong sense of freedom considering the place he had left. Claus Ascher was Jewish and had found safety, but sadly his father was not so lucky. Claus became Colin Anson and joined the British Army, then became a Commando, becoming one of Churchill’s special forces conducting ungentlemanly warfare. Historian and author Helen Fry joins to discuss his life. Episode Links Why I Became an X Troop Commando: A Life of Colin Anson, the German who Fought for Churchill, by Helen Fry Invasion of Sicily Aspects of History Links Latest Issue out - Annual Subscription to Aspects of History Magazine only $9.99/£9.99 Ollie on X Aspects of History on Instagram Get in touch: history@aspectsofhistory.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On the 30th April 1980 six armed Kuzhestanis burst into the Iranian Embassy at no.16 Prince’s Gate, in the smart London neighbourhood of Kensington. So began a six day siege that ended in dramatic scenes, broadcast on live TV, as members of the SAS smashed their way into the British consciousness, and the building, bringing to an end the terrorist attack in a ruthlessly executed operation. Joining me is bestselling author Ben Macintyre as we discuss Operation Nimrod, the SAS, the hostages and the significance of the event to Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher. Episode Links The Siege with Ben Macintyre Aspects of History Links Latest Issue out - Annual Subscription to Aspects of History Magazine only $9.99/£9.99 Ollie on X Aspects of History on Instagram Get in touch: history@aspectsofhistory.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Remember, remember, the 5th of November, Gunpowder, treason and plot. I see no reason Why gunpowder treason Should ever be forgot. Guy Fawkes, Guy Fawkes, 'twas his intent To blow up the King and the Parliament Three score barrels of powder below Poor old England to overthrow By God's providence he was catch'd With a dark lantern and burning match Holler boys, holler boys, let the bells ring Holler boys, holler boys God save the King! Joining to discuss is Peter Tonkin, historian and novelist of the period and author of Shadow of Treason. Episode Links Shadow of Treason Richard Hammond blows up Parliament Examples of torture Aspects of History Links Latest Issue out - Annual Subscription to Aspects of History Magazine only $9.99/£9.99 Ollie on X Aspects of History on Instagram Get in touch: history@aspectsofhistory.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Early on the 10th July 1943, advance units of elite British troops landed on the island of Sicily, and began series of raids against the Germans to allow the larger force to land on the beaches, and so began the invasion of Sicily. The unit tasked with this key job was the SAS, now a ruthless fighting force.  joins to discuss. Joining to discuss is Gavin Mortimer author of The SAS in 1943: Operations in Sicily and Italy. Episode Links The SAS in 1943: Operations in Sicily and Italy Aspects of History Links Latest Issue out - Annual Subscription to Aspects of History Magazine only $9.99/£9.99 Ollie on X Aspects of History on Instagram Get in touch: history@aspectsofhistory.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This month’s film club is the epic Alexander, directed by Oliver Stone, starring Colin Farrell, Angelina Jolie and Val Kilmer. Links Alexander on IMDB Alexander on Wikipedia Alexander the Great, by Robin Lane Fox Ollie on X Tim on X Roger on X Latest Issue out - Annual Subscription to Aspects of History Magazine only $9.99/£9.99 Aspects of History on Instagram Get in touch: history@aspectsofhistory.com Check out Badlands Ranch: badlandsranch.com/AOH Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Blair Paddy Mayne was one of the most decorated soldiers of the Second World War, and one of the original members of the SAS. After David Stirling was captured he commanded the regiment and carried out incredible acts of heroism, but controversially was never awarded the Victoria Cross, the highest award for gallantry. He also battled demons as his war experiences, including discovering concentration camps, had a big effect on his mental health. Joining to discuss Paddy Mayne is Damien Lewis, author of SAS Daggers Drawn as we look at the psychological impact on Mayne and his comrades during the war. Episode Links SAS Daggers Drawn Aspects of History Links Latest Issue out - Annual Subscription to Aspects of History Magazine only $9.99/£9.99 Ollie on X Aspects of History on Instagram Get in touch: history@aspectsofhistory.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On the 21st October 1805, 27 ships of the line of the Royal Navy, under the command of Admiral Horatio Nelson engaged the combined fleets of France and Spain. Nelson sent the signal, ‘England Expects every man to do his duty’ and over the next few hours, under terrible fighting conditions, the British fleet overcame their enemy and won a famous victory, but at a cost. Joining to discuss the battle of Trafalgar is naval historian and hydrographer Michael Barritt, author of Nelson’s Pathfinders as we discuss the conditions, the seamanship and the hydrography, the  discipline of naval intelligence, the method to chart sea beds – it’s worth remembering the Royal Navy lost twice as many ships to shipwreck as to battle. Episode Links Nelson's Pathfinders: A Forgotten Story in the Triumph of British Sea Power Breaking the Line - Map of the battle Aspects of History Links Latest Issue out - Annual Subscription to Aspects of History Magazine only $9.99/£9.99 Ollie on X Aspects of History on Instagram Check out Badlands Ranch: badlandsranch.com/AOH Get in touch: history@aspectsofhistory.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On the evening of 21st October 1805 Great Britain won perhaps her finest military victory, defeating the navies of France and Spain in one of the bloodiest naval battles at Trafalgar, not far from Gibraltar. In command was Admiral Horatio Nelson, who had tragically been shot by a cowardly French sharpshooter, though as his life ebbed away, he was consoled that victory was his. When the news reached England, the country was plunged into grief, despite the result. Joining me to discuss the great man is Dominic Sandbrook. He has written a fantastic new book, Nelson: Hero of the Seas, and is one half of a very well-known podcast. Coming up on Tuesday I have naval historian Michael Barritt talking Trafalgar on the anniversary. Episode Links Nelson: Hero of the Seas Aspects of History Links Latest Issue out - Annual Subscription to Aspects of History Magazine only $9.99/£9.99 Ollie on X Aspects of History on Instagram Check out Badlands Ranch: badlandsranch.com/AOH Get in touch: history@aspectsofhistory.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On the 11th September 1683, at the great city of Vienna, the armies of the Ottoman Empire were preparing to storm the city, but their scouts to the west noticed a vast cavalry force approaching. The next day Christian horsemen (Poles, Lithuanians, Germans of the Holy Roman Empire and Cossacks)  swept down upon the troops of the Caliph and swept them away in one of the most stunning military victories of all time. But what lay at the heart of this clash between Christendom and the Caliphate, West vs. East, Christianity vs. Islam? Joining to discuss is historian of the Middle East Simon Mayall. We talk about the past’s influence on today’s fanatics, the conquests of Spain and the Levant by the Moors and the Crusaders and much much more. Episode Links The House of War: The Struggle between Christendom and the Caliphate Aspects of History Links Latest Issue out - Annual Subscription to Aspects of History Magazine only $9.99/£9.99 Ollie on X Aspects of History on Instagram Check out Badlands Ranch: badlandsranch.com/AOH Get in touch: history@aspectsofhistory.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Publius Ovidius Naso was a Roman poet much of whose life coincided with the reign of Augustus. He was the most famous poet during this time, a genuine superstar, and his works dealing with sex, violence and mythology have meant he continues to attract study, translations and books today - Metamorphoses being his most famous work. Joining me today is Fiona Forsyth, author of Poetic Justice, who discusses the poet’s life, his work and his legacy, as well as a recommended translation. Episode Links Poetic Justice Metamorphoses, transl. Stephanie McCarter Ovid Banished from Rome, JWM Turner Aspects of History Links Get in touch: history@aspectsofhistory.com Latest Issue out - Annual Subscription to Aspects of History Magazine only $9.99/£9.99 Ollie on X Aspects of History on Instagram Check out Badlands Ranch: badlandsranch.com/AOH Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Within months of the allies liberation of Naples in October of 1943 the city was plunged into the horrors of disease, starvation, prostitution and racketeering. How did this happen, who was responsible, what about the mafia and what was the impact on a city that is despised by the rest of Italy, and itself views the world very differently from other Mediterranean cities. Joining is Keith Lowe, author of Naples 1944, an account of the chaos that resulted from what was supposed to be a release from the misery of occupation. Episode Links Naples 1944: War, Liberation and Chaos The Skin, by Curzio Malaparte DDT Aspects of History Links Latest Issue out - Annual Subscription to Aspects of History Magazine only $9.99/£9.99 Ollie on X Aspects of History on Instagram Check out Badlands Ranch: badlandsranch.com/AOH Get in touch: history@aspectsofhistory.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On the 25th October 1415 Henry V led the English army onto the field of Agincourt. There he defeated the flower of French chivalry to win perhaps the finest victory of the medieval period, made famous by Shakespeare’s play. But who was Henry V? Brilliant general, skilled politician or simply a warmonger? And is there a figure from the past that he most resembles? Dan Jones, the author of a new biography of Henry joins to answer these and many more questions as we try to get to the bottom of who Henry V was. Episode Links Henry V: The Astonishing Rise of England's Greatest Warrior King, Dan Jones YouTube video of young Henry's surgical procedure to remove the arrowhead Aspects of History Links Latest Issue out - Annual Subscription to Aspects of History Magazine only $9.99/£9.99 Ollie on X Aspects of History on Instagram Check out Badlands Ranch: badlandsranch.com/AOH Get in touch: history@aspectsofhistory.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Our Operation Market Garden series concludes with a chat on the 1977 classic directed by Richard Attenborough. Joining is Roger Moorhouse, author of The Forgers, and film maker Tim Hewitt. Links ChatDMZ - Market Garden A Bridge Too Far on IMDB A Bridge Too Far on Wikipedia Dirk Bogarde Interview Ollie on X Tim on X Roger on X Latest Issue out - Annual Subscription to Aspects of History Magazine only $9.99/£9.99 Aspects of History on Instagram Get in touch: history@aspectsofhistory.com Check out Badlands Ranch: badlandsranch.com/AOH Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

At 3 o’clock in the afternoon on the 20th September 1944 in Nijmegen, Holland, men of the 504th regiment, US 82nd Airborne embarked in canvas rowing boats and began an amphibious assault that was one of the most heroic in military history. Facing the well defended objective on the north end of the Nijmegen bridge over the river Waal, 134 men were killed or wounded in the crossing, more than half the force, but the attack was a success and the bridge was captured. The road to Arnhem was the final jigsaw in Operation Market Garden. Or was it? Joining me are two historians to discuss the operation as a whole, from the airborne forces tasked with capturing Eindhoven, Nijmegen and Arnhem, to XXX corps and the German troops facing them. Gordon Corrigan takes the allied side, and Philip Blood the German. Episode Links It Never Snows in September, Kershaw Sky Warriors, David A Bridge Too Far, Ryan Airborne Carpet, Farrar-Hockley Arnhem 1944, Middlebrook Arnhem, Beevor Arnhem: Black Tuesday, Murray Aspects of History Links Latest Issue out - Annual Subscription to Aspects of History Magazine only $9.99/£9.99 Ollie on X Aspects of History on Instagram Check out Badlands Ranch: badlandsranch.com/AOH Get in touch: history@aspectsofhistory.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On Sunday the 17th September 1944 the 1st Airborne Division began dropping into Arnhem to begin a battle that remains iconic to this day. Within 2 days progress was proving difficult and on Tuesday the 19th, Black Tuesday, things had come to a head. The commander, Roy Urquhart had gone missing, his subordinates were squabbling over command, only 1 battalion had made it to the objective, Arnhem Bridge, and the paras had come up against stiff resistance. Continuing our Operation Market Garden special, historian and comedian Al Murray joins to talk about that most heroic of failures, the Battle of Arnhem, and focusing on one day when success or failure was decided. Al Murray Links Arnhem: Black Tuesday Command: How the Allies Learned to Win the Second World War Aspects of History Links Latest Issue out - Annual Subscription to Aspects of History Magazine only $9.99/£9.99 Ollie on X Aspects of History on Instagram Check out Badlands Ranch: badlandsranch.com/AOH Get in touch: history@aspectsofhistory.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Arnhem was one of the greatest battles fought by the British in World War Two. 10,000 men went in, but only 2,000 came out. We’re at the 80th anniversary and Saul David joins to discuss the plan, the personalities involved and the action itself in this special series on Operation Market Garden. Saul is the author of Sky Warriors, which is an account of British Airborne Forces throughout the war. Today we’ll get Saul’s take on the plan, the intelligence, and whether everyone did their job. This is the first in a series. Next Al Murray joins to talk Black Tuesday, the 19th September, then Gordon and Philip discuss the wider operation as a whole, and finally the Film Club revisits A Bridge Too Far. Saul David Links Sky Warriors Saul on X Aspects of History Links Latest Issue out - Annual Subscription to Aspects of History Magazine only $9.99/£9.99 Ollie on X Aspects of History on Instagram Check out Badlands Ranch: badlandsranch.com/AOH Get in touch: history@aspectsofhistory.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On the 12th March 1938 German troops crossed the border into Austria, thus completing the Anschluss, the annexation by Germany. Resistance was non existent, in fact the Wehrmacht was greeted by cheering crowds as Nazi flags were draped over the beautiful city of Vienna. The referendum that followed may have achieved a 99.7% approval, but many in Europe were fearful of a coming war. Jane Thynne, author of Midnight in Vienna, joins to discuss the city during the 1930s and that feeling of foreboding as communists, Nazis and spies mixed in the City of Music as it is known. Jane Thynne Links Midnight in Vienna The Words I Never Wrote Jane on X Aspects of History Links Latest Issue out - Annual Subscription to Aspects of History Magazine only $9.99/£9.99 Ollie on X Aspects of History on Instagram Check out Badlands Ranch: badlandsranch.com/AOH Get in touch: history@aspectsofhistory.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

By the 1960s Richard Burton was the highest paid movie star in the world. He was paid the equivalent today of $10million dollars per picture, but when one looks at his childhood, the mind boggles at his change in fortune. Born the 12th of 13 children, his family lived in poverty, and his chances of success seemed to have peaked when he worked in a haberdashery. But by the age of 18 he had won starring roles on stage and his life was set. Joining me today is historian and social media star Alice Loxton whose new book, 18, intriguingly features 18 significant historical figures at that formative age. Alice Loxton Links Eighteen: A History of Britain in 18 Young Lives Alice on Instagram Alice on X Aspects of History Links Latest Issue out - Annual Subscription to Aspects of History Magazine only $9.99/£9.99 Ollie on X Aspects of History on Instagram Check out Badlands Ranch: badlandsranch.com/AOH Get in touch: history@aspectsofhistory.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On the On 27 May 1942 Czech SOE agents and local resistance fighters attacked Reinhard Heyrdrich's Mercedes as it drove through Prague. Heydrich, number 2 in the SS, died in agony a few days later. This month's delayed Film Club is Anthropoid, the movie depicting the operation starring Cillian Murphy and Jamie Dornan, directed by Sean Ellis. Joining is Roger Moorhouse, author of The Forgers, and film maker Tim Hewitt. Links Anthropoid on IMDB Anthropoid on Wikipedia Ollie on X Tim on X Roger on X Latest Issue out - Annual Subscription to Aspects of History Magazine only $9.99/£9.99 Aspects of History on Instagram Get in touch: history@aspectsofhistory.com Check out Badlands Ranch: badlandsranch.com/AOH Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hitler and his cronies are often derided as monsters, but that lets them off the hook. Today Richard Evans joins to look at the leading figures of Nazi Germany for who they were as human beings. We also discuss the trial Evans was a key witness for, when holocaust denier Davig Irving attempted to sue Deborah Lipstadt and Penguin Random House for libel, later dramatised in the movie, Denial starring Rachel Weisz, Tom Wilkinson and John Sessions. Richard Evans Links Hitler's People: The Faces of the Third Reich Aspects of History Links Latest Issue out - Annual Subscription to Aspects of History Magazine only $9.99/£9.99 Ollie on X Aspects of History on Instagram Check out Badlands Ranch: badlandsranch.com/AOH Get in touch: history@aspectsofhistory.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sensitivity readers; fake history; favourite authors and actors, all are discussed in this bonus episode to coincide with the upcoming Buckingham History Festival. Jane Thynne, Paul Lay and Miranda Malins join to talk how best to write about the past. Episode Links Buckingham History Festival Jane Thynne: Midnight in Vienna Paul Lay: Providence Lost Miranda Malins: The Rebel Daughter Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

80 years ago on the 25th August 1944, the great city of Paris was liberated as the German garrison surrendered and Allied troops arrived along the Champs Elysée. The Nazi grip on France may have been broken, but things were not all as they seem. The allied leadership was reluctant to divert precious resources, and the soldiers who arrived first were mostly Spanish. Patrick Bishop joins to discuss his new book and we discuss the initial surrender in 1940, the occupation, the impact on France today as well as the liberation. Patrick has lived in Paris for many years as Bureau Chief for The Telegraph and so brings a knowledge of contemporary events too. Patrick Bishop Links Paris '44: The Shame and the Glory Josephine Baker: Paris Paris Paris Aspects of History Links Latest Issue out - Annual Subscription to Aspects of History Magazine only $9.99/£9.99 Ollie on X Aspects of History on Instagram Get in touch: history@aspectsofhistory.com Check out Badlands Ranch: badlandsranch.com/AOH Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On the 1st September 1922 the Turkish Parliament in the new capital of Ankara formally abolished the Sultanate, so ending more than 600 years of Ottoman Rule. The Ottoman Empire had ended, but in its place came the Republic of Turkey, under the leadership of Mustafa Kemal Pasha also known as Ataturk. Today we discuss the fall of the Ottoman Empire and the rise of Turkey with historian Murat Siviloglu and journalist and author Alec Marsh. Alec’s new book, After the Flood, is a thriller set in the new state of Turkey in the 1930s and Murat is a historian of the period. Alec Marsh Links After the Flood Alec on X Aspects of History Links Latest Issue out - Annual Subscription to Aspects of History Magazine only $9.99/£9.99 Ollie on X Aspects of History on Instagram Check out Badlands Ranch: badlandsranch.com/AOH Get in touch: history@aspectsofhistory.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On the 9th February 1933 the Oxford Union held a debate with the motion “That this House will under no circumstances fight for its King and country." The motion passed and in a time when such debates were big news, the result sent shockwaves through Europe. This was during the rise of the Nazis, the Soviet grip on Russia and throughout the decade there was an increase in the number of spies, and traitors, in England. Joining me is Alex Gerlis, author of Every Spy a Traitor as we delve into the atmosphere of the 1930s. Alex Gerlis Links Every Spy a Traitor Aspects of History Links Latest Issue out - Annual Subscription to Aspects of History Magazine only $9.99/£9.99 Ollie on X Aspects of History on Instagram Check out Badlands Ranch: badlandsranch.com/AOH Get in touch: history@aspectsofhistory.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Armand D'Angour joins to discuss his new pod, but then we go into a really interesting conversation about Socrates and whether he really is the origin of Western Thought? Is there in fact a woman we should be talking about, the beguiling Aspasia. Armand D'Angour Links It's All Greek (& Latin) to Me on Spotify It's All Greek (& Latin) to Me on Apple Socrates in Love Ancient Greek Music on YouTube Armand on X Aspects of History Links Aspects of History on X Ollie on X Aspects of History on Instagram Get in touch: history@aspectsofhistory.com Check out Badlands Ranch: badlandsranch.com/AOH Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The French Revolution, the rise of Napoleon, the Industrial Revolution and the collapse of Poland, all these major events were witnessed by Izabela Czartoryska, a Polish aristocrat who was self-taught and is the subject of Adam Zamoyski's latest book. This episode is a sweeping discussion covering many facets of Europe in the 18th century. Adam Zamoyski is the author of 1812: Napoleon's Fatal March on Moscow and Napoleon: The Man Behind the Myth. Adam Zamoyski Links Izabela the Valiant: The Story of an Indomitable Polish Princess Izabela Czartoryska - Aspects of History Napoleon: The Man Behind the Myth 1812: Napoleon's Fatal March on Moscow Rites of Peace: The Fall of Napoleon and the Congress of Vienna YouTube Debate with Jeremy Paxman and Andrew Roberts on Napoleon Narodnost: Russia and Nationalism - Aspects of History Aspects of History Links Latest Issue out - Annual Subscription to Aspects of History Magazine only $9.99/£9.99 Ollie on X Aspects of History on Instagram Check out Badlands Ranch: badlandsranch.com/AOH Get in touch: history@aspectsofhistory.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week three writers join to talk summer reading recommendations from the world of history and historical fiction. Books Paris '44, Patrick Bishop The King's Mother, Annie Garthwaite Izabela the Valiant, Adam Zamoyski Endgame 1944, Jonathan Dimbleby Sky Warriors, Saul David The Muse of History, Oswyn Murray Bonjour, Sophie, Elizabeth Buchan Iran, Ali Ansari Spy Masters, Various The CIA, Hugh Wilford The Eastern Front, Nick Lloyd The Sleeping Beauties, Lucy Ashe Guests Ollie on X Aspects of History on Instagram Get in touch: history@aspectsofhistory.com Antonia Senior - Historical Fiction Reviewer The Times Roger Moorhouse - Historian Richard Foreman - Author and Publisher Check out Badlands Ranch: badlandsranch.com/AOH Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

When war in Europe ended on the 8th May 1945, much of continent was in ruins. Cities were destroyed and civilians were at the mercy of occupying powers, partisans, bandits and criminals. There were no police forces, no judicial system and food was scarce. Keith Lowe joins to discuss the chaos from France to Poland and Greece to Germany. Keith Lowe Links Savage Continent: Europe in the Aftermath of World War II Keith on X Aspects of History Links Latest Issue out - Annual Subscription to Aspects of History Magazine only $9.99/£9.99 Ollie on X Aspects of History on Instagram Check out Badlands Ranch: badlandsranch.com/AOH Get in touch: history@aspectsofhistory.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On the 20th July 1944 Colonel Claus von Stauffenberg attended a meeting at the Wolf's Lair at which Adolf Hitler was present. He placed a briefcase containing high explosives under the conference table and then departed. A few minutes later the bomb exploded killing four, but crucially not Hitler. This month's film club is Valkyrie starring Tom Cruise, the 2008 depiction of the July Plot. Joining is Roger Moorhouse, author of Killing Hitler, and film maker Tim Hewitt. Links Valkyrie on IMDB Valkyrie on Wikipedia Ollie on X Tim on X Roger on X Latest Issue out - Annual Subscription to Aspects of History Magazine only $9.99/£9.99 Aspects of History on Instagram Get in touch: history@aspectsofhistory.com Check out Badlands Ranch: badlandsranch.com/AOH Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On the 20th July 1944, a bomb hidden in a briefcase exploded under a large table over which Adolf Hitler was examining maps of  the Eastern Front. The man who had planted the device, Claus von Stauffenberg, had left just before the explosion to initiate the operation that he hoped would lead to the overthrow of the Nazi regime. The plan failed, and Hitler would survive for another 9 months before his suicide on 30th April 1945. Was this the closest Hitler came to death? What about the November 8, 1939 when Georg Elser so very nearly succeeded where Stauffenberg would fail more than four years later. And what about Allied attempts - Operation Foxley by the British, and then the very strange idea from the American OSS? Roger covers all these in the first part of our series on the 80th anniversary of the July plot. Part Two continues on Saturday with Valkyrie, the 2008 film starring Tom Cruise. Roger Moorhouse Links Killing Hitler: The Third Reich and the Plots Against the Fuhrer Roger on X 13 Minutes Aspects of History Links Latest Issue out - Annual Subscription to Aspects of History Magazine only $9.99/£9.99 Ollie on X Aspects of History on Instagram Get in touch: history@aspectsofhistory.com Check out Badlands Ranch: badlandsranch.com/AOH Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Ancient Greeks are the font of all our historical knowledge. Now that's quite a claim, but the historian who joins to discuss makes a strong argument in his book, The Muse of History. Oswyn Murray is one of the country's finest ancient historians and in this chat, beginning with the Peloponnesian War between Athens & Sparta, many subjects are addressed including colonialism, slavery, the wonder of the ancient world, ancient historians fighting in WW1 and WW2 and why we should all learn an ancient language. Oswyn Murray Links The Muse of History: The Ancient Greeks from the Enlightenment to the Present Cover of Thomas Hobbes' translation of Thucydides' The History of the Peloponnesian War Aspects of History Links Latest Issue out - Annual Subscription to Aspects of History Magazine only $9.99/£9.99 Ollie on X Aspects of History on Instagram Get in touch: history@aspectsofhistory.com Check out Badlands Ranch: badlandsranch.com/AOH Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices