Paul English Live

Welcome to episode 79 of Paul English Live, a special 'grotty' edition, where we delve into the fascinating history of the Crusades. Despite feeling under the weather, Paul leads a lively discussion on the motivations and challenges faced by the Crusaders, drawing from Rodney Stark's book "God's Battalions." We explore the logistics, costs, and the surprising facts about the Crusades, including the role of knights, the influence of Pope Urban II, and the cultural exchanges between the East and West.We also touch upon the modern implications of historical events, discussing the parallels between past and present geopolitical tensions. The conversation shifts to the importance of understanding usury and the need for a return to trial by jury and common law as a means to combat the control exerted by financial institutions.In a lighter segment, we enjoy humorous interludes with Spike Milligan and discuss the potential for using comedy as a tool for social commentary. The episode wraps up with a reflection on the power of storytelling and humor in addressing serious societal issues.Welcome to a special edition of Paul English Live, where we delve into the fascinating history of the Crusades and explore its relevance to modern times. Despite feeling under the weather, Paul leads a lively discussion with guests Patrick, Eric, and Paul Beiner, touching on topics ranging from historical battles to contemporary political issues.The episode kicks off with a humorous introduction, setting the tone for a show that balances serious historical analysis with light-hearted banter. Paul shares insights from the book "God's Battalions" by Rodney Stark, which offers a layman's perspective on the Crusades, highlighting the motivations and challenges faced by the knights who embarked on these religious campaigns.The conversation shifts to the technical aspects of medieval warfare, including the use of crossbows and the logistics of supporting a knight on a crusade. The hosts draw parallels between historical and modern conflicts, discussing the role of propaganda, usury, and the moral order in shaping societies.As the discussion unfolds, the hosts explore the concept of trial by jury and its roots in common law, emphasizing the importance of returning to a system that upholds justice and accountability. They also touch on the influence of language and literature, referencing Shakespeare and the evolution of the English language.Throughout the episode, the hosts engage in a spirited debate about the challenges of combating usury and the need for a moral and legal framework to address societal issues. They conclude with a call to action, encouraging listeners to become informed and active participants in shaping a just and equitable society.