History's Devils

In part two of this double episode on William Joyce, James Crossland and Jayne Friend explain how he became Lord Haw Haw, the infamous Nazi broadcaster who transmitted propaganda from Germany to Britain during the Second World War.James and Jayne follow Joyce's journey from fleeing Britain in 1939 to becoming the most recognizable English-language voice of Nazi propaganda. The episode examines how Joyce built his Lord Haw Haw persona, the role of Nazi radio broadcasts during the war, and why millions of Britons listened to Germany Calling despite knowing it was enemy propaganda. It also traces Joyce's personal decline, drunkenness, his unbending loyalty to Hitler's regime, his hilarious capture after the fall of Nazi Germany, and his eventual execution for treason in 1946.What's covered in this episodeThe introduction of Defence Regulation 18B and how British authorities planned to detain suspected Nazi sympathizers at the outbreak of war in 1939.How William Joyce was warned by MI5 officer and former associate Maxwell Knight and fled Britain with his wife Margaret Joyce before his arrest.The Joyces' arrival in Berlin and their connection to Dorothy Eckersley, a well-connected British fascist living in Nazi Germany.How Dorothy Eckersley's links to Unity Mitford and influential Nazi circles helped William Joyce secure a broadcasting role in Germany.The structure of Nazi propaganda under Joseph Goebbels and the Ministry of Propaganda's control of radio broadcasting.How Joyce joined English-language radio broadcasts aimed at British audiences and developed the Lord Haw Haw persona.The origins of the Lord Haw Haw nickname and the wider network of English-speaking Nazi broadcasters including Wolf Mittler and Norman Baillie-Stewart.The creation of Germany Calling and how Nazi propagandists used British voices to increase credibility with listeners in the United Kingdom.Comparisons between Nazi wartime broadcasting, British political warfare operations, and modern propaganda techniques.How Joyce exploited fears during the Blitz by exaggerating bomb damage, government failures, anti-war sentiment, and political divisions inside Britain.The false claim that the aircraft carrier HMS Ark Royal had been sunk and how Prime Minister Neville Chamberlain publicly denied the story.Joyce's attacks on Winston Churchill, criticism of British leadership, and use of rumours, conspiracy theories, and sensational stories to attract listeners.His promotion of theories surrounding Pearl Harbor, Franklin D. Roosevelt, Anglo-American relations, and alleged conspiracies involving the British Empire.Why millions of Britons listened to Germany Calling and how wartime distrust, censorship concerns, and dissatisfaction with official information contributed to its popularity.The luxurious lifestyle enjoyed by William and Margaret Joyce within Nazi Germany's elite social circles during the early years of the war.The couple's alcoholism, affairs, violent relationship, and personal decline as Germany's military fortunes worsened.William Joyce's book Twilight Over England and its defence of fascism and Nazism.The impact of major turning points including Operation Barbarossa, the Battle of the Atlantic, Allied operations in North Africa, and the Allied invasion of Sicily on Joyce's credibility.Accounts from fellow Nazi collaborator Eric Pleasants describing Joyce's physical and psychological deterioration by the final years of the war.Joyce's final radio broadcast on 30 April 1945, the same day Adolf Hitler committed suicide in Berlin.The collapse of the Third Reich, the Flensburg Government under Karl Dönitz, and the final days of senior Nazi officials.How British soldiers identified and captured William Joyce near Flensburg after recognizing his distinctive voice and facial scar.Joyce's trial at the Old Bailey, the legal arguments surrounding his nationality, and the treason charges brought against him.Why his British passport and oath of allegiance to the Crown became central to the prosecution's case.William Joyce's execution at Wandsworth Prison on 3 January 1946 and his status as the last person executed in Britain for high treason.Margaret Joyce's detention, release, later life, and death from alcoholism in 1972.The lasting legacy of Lord Haw Haw as a symbol of fascist collaboration, propaganda, treason, and political extremism during the Second World War.What's mentioned in this episode:William Joyce, Lord Haw Haw, James Crossland, Jayne Friend, Margaret Joyce, Maxwell Knight, MI5, Defence Regulation 18B, Oswald Mosley, British Union of Fascists, British Fascisti, Nazi Germany, Third Reich, Adolf Hitler, Joseph Goebbels, Ministry of Propaganda, Dorothy Eckersley, Peter Eckersley, BBC, Unity Mitford, Wolf Mittler, Norman Baillie-Stewart, Germany Calling, Blitz, Winston Churchill, Neville Chamberlain, Munich Crisis, Munich Agreement, Sudetenland, Czechoslovakia, Czechia, Second World War, World War II, Pearl Harbor, Franklin D. Roosevelt, Anglo-American relations, conspiracy theories, HMS Ark Royal, Royal Navy, Battle of the Atlantic, Operation Barbarossa, North Africa Campaign, Allied invasion of Sicily, Operation Husky, Eric Pleasants, Flensburg, Flensburg Government, Karl Dönitz, Albert Speer, Berlin, Old Bailey, Wandsworth Prison, high treason, British passport, oath of allegiance, Galway, Ireland, propaganda, fascism, Nazism, collaboration, censorship, wartime broadcasting, political warfare, psychological warfare, radio propaganda, treason, British Empire, Nazi collaborators00:00 Introduction: William Joyce, Lord Haw Haw and Nazi Germany04:15 Defence Regulation 18B: Why Britain Wanted William Joyce Arrested09:00 Escape to Berlin: How William and Margaret Joyce Fled Britain in 193914:30 Joseph Goebbels and Nazi Propaganda: Joyce Joins Germany Calling20:45 Who Was Lord Haw Haw? The Voice of Nazi Radio Broadcasting27:15 The Blitz, Churchill and Propaganda: How Joyce Targeted British Morale34:30 HMS Ark Royal, Pearl Harbor and WWII Conspiracy Theories41:00 Hitler's War Turns Bad: Alcoholism, Decline and Twilight Over England48:00 Hitler's Death and the Collapse of the Third Reich55:00 Capture, Treason Trial and Execution of William Joyce#WWII #propaganda #lordhawhawThanks to SOULFULJAMTRACKS for their tune "Dark Halloween"Follow HISTORY's DEVILS On Instagram @historysdevilshttps://www.instagram.com/historysdevils/On Substackhttps://jamescrossland.substack.com/Follow JAMES CROSSLANDOn Bluesky @jamescrossland.bsky.socialhttps://bsky.app/profile/jamescrossland.bsky.socialTag HISTORY's DEVILS@historysdevils#HistorysDevils #JamesCrossland #HistoryPodcast #Podcast #History #DarkHistory #HistoricalBiography #TrueHistory #HistoryDocumentary #Deepdive #Storytelling History's Devils is a history podcast exploring the lives of murderers, charlatans, psychopaths, dictators, war criminals, tyrants, demagogues, revolutionaries, cult leaders, conquerors, fraudsters, and other controversial figures.History's Devils is hosted by James Crossland, professor of international history and author of:Rogue Agent: From Secret Plots to Psychological Warfare, the Untold Story of Robert Bruce LockhartThe Rise of Devils: Fear and the Origins of Modern Terrorism...

This double episode explores the life of William Joyce, better known as Lord Haw-Haw, the infamous Nazi propagandist who went from self-described British patriot to one of the most notorious collaborators of the Third Reich during World War II.In this first part of the story, James - with the help of Jayne Friend - examines William Joyce's early life, political radicalization, and rise within Britain's fascist movement. From his upbringing in Ireland during the Irish War of Independence to his involvement with the British Fascisti and the British Union of Fascists, the episode traces how Joyce's intense nationalism, anti-communism, and growing admiration for Adolf Hitler pushed him into aligning himself with the Third Reich. The discussion also explores the political climate of interwar Britain, the decline of British fascism, and the events that set Joyce on the path toward becoming Lord Haw-Haw.What's covered in this episodeWilliam Joyce's childhood in Galway, Ireland, his unionist family background, and how the Irish War of Independence shaped his political beliefs.Joyce's support for the British Empire, his association with the Black and Tans, and his hostility toward Irish republicanism and Sinn Féin.The myths and realities surrounding Joyce's early years, including stories about scouting, military service, and his reputation among classmates and British forces.His move to England after the partition of Ireland and his unsuccessful attempt to build a career in the British Army.Joyce's studies at Birkbeck College in London, his work teaching colonial students, and his failed ambitions in government service and the Foreign Office.How Joyce developed into a gifted public speaker and political agitator during the 1920s.The rise of the British Fascisti, the role of Maxwell Knight's K Squad, and violent confrontations between fascists and communists in London.The 1924 Battersea political rally where Joyce received the facial scar that became one of his defining features.The growth of anti-Semitism within sections of the British far right and the influence of figures such as Arnold Leese and Henry Hamilton Beamish.Joyce's rise within Oswald Mosley's British Union of Fascists (BUF), including his roles as deputy leader and head of propaganda.The rivalry between William Joyce and Oswald Mosley and why some fascists viewed Joyce as the movement's most powerful speaker.Joyce's personal life, including his marriages to Hazel Barr and Margaret Cairns White, and how his political career affected his relationships.The significance of the Battle of Cable Street in 1936 and its impact on the fortunes of the British Union of Fascists.How the actions of Benito Mussolini in Abyssinia (Ethiopia) and Adolf Hitler in the Rhineland damaged the public image of fascism in Britain.Why Joyce broke with Mosley, embraced National Socialism more openly, founded the National Socialist League, and increasingly aligned himself with Nazi Germany.The ideological contradictions behind Joyce's claim to patriotism and the reasons he came to see service to the Third Reich as compatible with loyalty to Britain.Mentioned in this episodeWilliam Joyce, Lord Haw-Haw, Adolf Hitler, Third Reich, Second World War, World War II, History's Devils, Jayne, Galway, Ireland, British Empire, Act of Union 1801, Irish War of Independence, Sinn Féin, Dáil Éireann, Irish republicanism, Irish Free State, Republic of Ireland, Northern Ireland, Royal Irish Constabulary, British Army, Black and Tans, IRA, Worcestershire, Birkbeck College, Foreign Office, British Fascisti, Rotha Lintorn-Orman, Maxwell Knight, K Squad, Communist Party of Great Britain, Battersea, anti-Semitism, Arnold Leese, Henry Hamilton Beamish, The Britons, National Socialism, Oswald Mosley, British Union of Fascists, BUF, Olympia Rally, Battle of Cable Street, East London, Mussolini, Abyssinia, Ethiopia, mustard gas, Rhineland, Treaty of Versailles, National Socialist League, fascism, British fascism, propaganda, political extremism, nationalism, unionism, anti-communism, imperialism, British far right, radicalization, patriotism, collaboration, Nazi Germany. Chapters00:00 Chapter 1 — Who Was William Joyce? The Story of Lord Haw-Haw Begins04:12 Chapter 2 — William Joyce's Childhood in Ireland and Unionist Upbringing09:30 Chapter 3 — The Irish War of Independence and Joyce's Support for the Black and Tans17:17 Chapter 4 — Leaving Ireland: Military Failure and a New Life in England18:34 Chapter 5 — Birkbeck College, Teaching, and Political Ambition23:23 Chapter 6 — William Joyce Discovers Fascism26:06 Chapter 7 — The Scar, Anti-Semitism, and Radicalization30:31 Chapter 8 — Oswald Mosley, the British Union of Fascists, and the Rise of a Fascist Star34:24 Chapter 9 — Marriage, Affairs, and Life Behind the Fascist Image39:08 Chapter 10 — The Battle of Cable Street, the Decline of British Fascism, and Joyce's Break with Britain#britishhistory #fascismThanks to SOULFULJAMTRACKS for their tune "Dark Halloween"Follow HISTORY's DEVILS On Instagram @historysdevilshttps://www.instagram.com/historysdevils/On Substackhttps://jamescrossland.substack.com/Follow JAMES CROSSLANDOn Bluesky @jamescrossland.bsky.socialhttps://bsky.app/profile/jamescrossland.bsky.socialTag HISTORY's DEVILS@historysdevils#HistorysDevils #JamesCrossland #HistoryPodcast #Podcast #History #DarkHistory #HistoricalBiography #TrueHistory #HistoryDocumentary #Deepdive #Storytelling History's Devils is a history podcast exploring the lives of murderers, charlatans, psychopaths, dictators, war criminals, tyrants, demagogues, revolutionaries, cult leaders, conquerors, fraudsters, and other controversial figures.History's Devils is hosted by James Crossland, professor of international history and author of:Rogue Agent: From Secret Plots to Psychological Warfare, the Untold Story of Robert Bruce LockhartThe Rise of Devils: Fear and the Origins of Modern Terrorism...

In this episode, James is joined by Antonia Senior (author of Stalin’s Apostles: The Cambridge Five and the Making of the Soviet Empire) to discuss Kim Philby, the most notorious member of the Cambridge Five spy ring, and explain how a Cambridge-educated British intelligence officer became one of the Soviet Union's most damaging Cold War agents.From his privileged upbringing and communist radicalization to his recruitment by Soviet intelligence and rise inside MI6, the conversation challenges the popular image of Philby and the Cambridge Five as glamorous ideological rebels, arguing instead that these notorious spies were driven by a mixture of revolutionary zeal, personal ambition, narcissism, and moral indifference. The episode also explores the real-world consequences of Soviet espionage, including betrayed agents, failed intelligence operations, and Stalin's expansion across Eastern Europe after World War II.Covered in this episode• Kim Philby's early life in British India, his father St. John Philby, and his education at Trinity College, Cambridge.• How the political climate of the 1930s and debates over fascism and communism influenced a generation of Cambridge students.• Why the Cambridge Five understood the realities of Stalinism and cannot be dismissed as naïve anti-fascists.• Philby's marriage to Litzi Friedman, his connections to Austrian communists, and his recruitment by Soviet agent Arnold Deutsch.• The origins of the Cambridge Five and the recruitment of Donald Maclean, Guy Burgess, Anthony Blunt, and John Cairncross.• Philby's activities during the Spanish Civil War, including allegations of his involvement in a plot to kill Francisco Franco.• How World War II created unprecedented opportunities for Soviet penetration of British intelligence, MI5, MI6, SOE, and the Foreign Office.• The extraordinary level of access enjoyed by the Cambridge Five, including British cabinet discussions, Churchill's briefings and Bletchley Park intelligence• The Konstantin Volkov affair.• Philby's role in Cold War intelligence failures, anti-Soviet operations in Eastern Europe, radio games, and missions into Poland, the Baltic States, Albania, and Georgia.• Project Venona, the identification of Donald Maclean as the Soviet source codenamed Homer, and the dramatic defections of Maclean and Guy Burgess.• Philby's final years in Beirut and Moscow, his deteriorating personal life, the collapse of his reputation, and his disillusioning experience inside the Soviet Union he had served for decades.Mentioned in this episodeKim Philby, Cambridge Five, Harold Adrian Russell Philby, St. John Philby, Rudyard Kipling, Kim, Trinity College Cambridge, Adolf Hitler, Joseph Stalin, Cold War, Soviet Union, Communism, Fascism, Anti-Fascism, British Intelligence, MI5, MI6, NKVD, KGB, FSB, Antonia Senior, Stalin's Apostles, Donald Maclean, Guy Burgess, Anthony Blunt, John Cairncross, Arnold Deutsch, Theodore Maly, Litzi Friedman, Edith Tudor Hart, Vienna, British India, Arabia, British People's Party, National Socialism, Anti-Semitism, Spanish Civil War, Francisco Franco, The Times, World Federation for the Relief of Victims of German Fascism, William Norman Ewer, Daily Herald, Federated Press of America, Communist Party of Great Britain, Special Operations Executive, SOE, Operation Barbarossa, Operation Husky, Sicily, Winston Churchill, Franklin Roosevelt, Bletchley Park, Imperial Defence Committee, Konstantin Volkov, Stuart Menzies, Yuri Modin, Oleg Kalugin, Albania, Poland, Georgia, Baltic States, Lithuania, Eastern Europe, Soviet Expansion, Stalinism, Gulag, World Revolution, American Imperialism, Soviet Imperialism, Washington Embassy, CIA, Project Venona, Arlington Hall, Manhattan Project, Los Alamos, One-Time Pad Encryption, Homer, Cairo, Beirut, Nicholas Elliott, Peter Wright, Buster Milmo, Eileen Philby, Eleanor Brewer, Hungary 1956, Soviet Defectors, Double Agents, British Foreign Office, Intelligence Failures, History's Devils.Chapters00:00 The Traitor Who Helped Stalin Win Secrets00:59 Who Was Kim Philby?05:15 Family, Cambridge and Political Radicalization09:26 Communism, Anti-Fascism and the Stalin Question11:47 Arnold Deutsch and Soviet Recruitment19:41 Spain, Franco and Philby's First Missions23:30 Building the Cambridge Five Spy Network28:53 World War II and Infiltrating British Intelligence35:40 How the Cambridge Five Accessed Britain's Greatest Secrets39:19 Konstantin Volkov and Philby's Deadliest Betrayal46:27 Cold War Operations, Eastern Europe and Soviet Expansion48:42 Project Venona, Donald Maclean and the Burgess Defection59:08 Philby's Exposure, Escape to Moscow and Final Years#spies #intelligencehistory #coldwarThanks to SOULFULJAMTRACKS for their tune "Dark Halloween"Follow HISTORY's DEVILS On Instagram @historysdevilshttps://www.instagram.com/historysdevils/On Substackhttps://jamescrossland.substack.com/Follow JAMES CROSSLANDOn Bluesky @jamescrossland.bsky.socialhttps://bsky.app/profile/jamescrossland.bsky.socialTag HISTORY's DEVILS@historysdevils#HistorysDevils #JamesCrossland #HistoryPodcast #Podcast #History #DarkHistory #HistoricalBiography #TrueHistory #HistoryDocumentary #Deepdive #Storytelling History's Devils is a history podcast exploring the lives of murderers, charlatans, psychopaths, dictators, war criminals, tyrants, demagogues, revolutionaries, cult leaders, conquerors, fraudsters, and other controversial figures.History's Devils is hosted by James Crossland, professor of international history and author of:Rogue Agent: From Secret Plots to Psychological Warfare, the Untold Story of Robert Bruce LockhartThe Rise of Devils: Fear and the Origins of Modern Terrorism...

In this episode of History’s Devils, James is joined by Lewis Sage-Passant (How To Get on A Watchlist) to explore the rise of the Pinkerton National Detective Agency and the violent contradictions at the heart of its founder, Allan Pinkerton.Once a Chartist radical, Pinkerton reinvented himself in America as a celebrated detective and Union intelligence agent during the American Civil War. After the war, his story took a darker turn as he became increasingly consumed by conspiracy thinking, transforming his agency into a powerful private security force that was used by industrialists to suppress strikes and control workers who were agitating for their rights at the height of America's Gilded Age.A must-listen deep dive for anyone interested in the history of private security, radical politics and the hidden forces behind wealth and power in America.Further ReadingBeyond States and Spies: The Security Intelligence Services of the Private Sector·       Inventing the Pinkertons; or, Spies, Sleuths, Mercenaries, and Thugs·       Allan Pinkerton: America's Legendary Detective and the Birth of Private SecurityWhat's covered in this episode• Allan Pinkerton's childhood in Glasgow's Gorbals district, his working-class upbringing, and the political influences that shaped his early life.• The impact of Chartism, the People's Charter of 1838, and the political unrest of Industrial Revolution Britain, including the legacy of the Peterloo Massacre.• The debate over whether Pinkerton was a genuine Chartist activist or potentially an informant within the movement before emigrating to America in 1842.• Pinkerton's arrival in Illinois after a shipwreck off Nova Scotia and his transition from cooper and barrel maker to aspiring crime fighter.• The famous counterfeiting investigation near Dundee, Illinois, that launched Pinkerton's career in law enforcement and private investigations.• The weaknesses of nineteenth-century American policing and how they created opportunities for private security services and detective agencies.• The creation of the Northwest Police Agency and its transformation into the Pinkerton National Detective Agency.• Pinkerton's work protecting railroads, investigating theft, combating counterfeit currency, and developing early investigative tradecraft.• The origins of the famous "We Never Sleep" logo and the connection between Pinkerton branding and the modern term "private eye."• Pinkerton's recruitment of female investigators and his innovative use of undercover operatives drawn from target communities.• Pinkerton's anti-slavery beliefs, involvement with the Underground Railroad, support for Abraham Lincoln, and alleged links to abolitionist John Brown.• The Harpers Ferry raid, the role of Robert E. Lee in suppressing the uprising, and claims that Pinkerton considered helping Brown escape imprisonment.• Pinkerton's relationship with George McClellan and the emergence of private detectives as intelligence operatives during the American Civil War.• The alleged Baltimore Plot of 1861 and Pinkerton's role in protecting President-elect Abraham Lincoln during his journey to Washington for inauguration.Mentioned in this episodeAllan Pinkerton, Pinkerton Detective Agency, Lewis Sage-Passant, James Crossland, Glasgow, Gorbals, River Clyde, Chartism, People's Charter, Peterloo Massacre, French Revolution, Industrial Revolution, Luddites, Dundee Illinois, Chicago, Illinois, counterfeiting, private security, private intelligence, railroad security, Adams Express Company, We Never Sleep, private eye, Abraham Lincoln, John Brown, Bleeding Kansas, Harpers Ferry Raid, slavery, abolitionism, Underground Railroad, George McClellan, American Civil War, Robert E. Lee, Baltimore Plot, Fire Eaters, Maryland, intelligence tradecraft, corporate investigations, detective history, nineteenth-century policing.Chapters Introduction to History's Devils (00:11)Allan Pinkerton's Early Life and Political Interests (04:14)The Move to America and Early Detective Work (09:38)Founding the Pinkerton Detective Agency (15:12)Pinkerton's Role in the Civil War (22:26)The Pursuit of Jesse James (37:11)Transition to Union Suppression and Strikebreaking (42:28)The Homestead Strike and Pinkerton's Legacy (51:53)Conclusion and Reflections on Pinkerton's Impact (62:54) Thanks to SOULFULJAMTRACKS for their tune "Dark Halloween"Follow HISTORY's DEVILS On Instagram @historysdevilshttps://www.instagram.com/historysdevils/On Substackhttps://jamescrossland.substack.com/Follow JAMES CROSSLANDOn Bluesky @jamescrossland.bsky.socialhttps://bsky.app/profile/jamescrossland.bsky.socialTag HISTORY's DEVILS@historysdevils#HistorysDevils #JamesCrossland #HistoryPodcast #Podcast #History #DarkHistory #HistoricalBiography #TrueHistory #HistoryDocumentary #Deepdive #Storytelling History's Devils is a history podcast exploring the lives of murderers, charlatans, psychopaths, dictators, war criminals, tyrants, demagogues, revolutionaries, cult leaders, conquerors, fraudsters, and other controversial figures.History's Devils is hosted by James Crossland, professor of international history and author of:Rogue Agent: From Secret Plots to Psychological Warfare, the Untold Story of Robert Bruce LockhartThe Rise of Devils: Fear and the Origins of Modern Terrorism...

This week, James sets sail with Jamie Goodall (author of The Pirates of Chesapeake Bay and Pirates and Privateers) into one of the strangest true stories of the Golden Age of Piracy – the rise and fall of the so-called “Gentleman Pirate”, Stede Bonnet who abandoned wealth, status, and family for a life of crime at sea. Often described as a pirate driven by a midlife crisis, Bonnet’s journey from plantation owner in Barbados to notorious outlaw of the high seas is as chaotic as it is fascinating.Charting his brief but colourful career, we look at how Bonnet captained a ship despite his lack of sailing experience, his disastrous command decisions and his encounters with the notorious Captain Edward “Blackbeard” Teach. Along the way, we discuss where Bonnet fits in the wider tale of the legendary Nassau Republic, which dominated piracy in the Caribbean during the early 1700s.Check this one out if you enjoy pirate lore or have ever wished you could sail away with Blackbeard and wreak havoc on the high seas!Topics Covered in this episode:Stede Bonnet's origins in BarbadosThe War of Spanish Succession and the impact its ending had on piracyThe Nassau "Pirate Republic"Why hiring a pirate crew and paying them a regular wage was a bad ideaStede Bonnet's career in piracy along the eastern American seaboardThe way Stede Bonnet treated his crew and his style of captaincyThe story of Blackbeard, AKA Edward ThatchThe problems of Captain's Johnson's General History of the Pirates as a sourceHow Blackbeard took over Bonnet's ship, the Revenge and the rivalry that developed between the two menThe Act of Grace and how Blackbeard and Bonnet both sought a pardon for their crimes but then returned to PiracyThe Battle of the Cape Fear River that lead to Bonnet's captureHis escape from Charleston and re-captureStede Bonnet and Blackbeard's deathsThe ending of the Golden Age of PiracyChapters00:00 - The Gentleman Pirate Mystery01:14 - Why Steed Bonnet Became a Pirate03:44 - A Midlife Crisis at Sea06:23 - Was Bonnet Losing His Mind?09:22 - Early Success on the High Seas12:49 - Nassau: Pirate Republic15:03 - Meeting Blackbeard Changes Everything20:32 - Blackbeard Takes Control24:18 - The King's Pardon Arrives27:47 - Can a Pirate Go Straight?30:32 - One Last Voyage36:49 - Trial, Execution, and Infamy52:16 - The Legend of Steed BonnetFollow Jamie on Threads and Instagram @L_Historienne and on Bluesky @Lhistorienn and check out her website hereThanks to SOULFULJAMTRACKS for their tune "Dark Halloween"Follow HISTORY's DEVILS On Instagram @historysdevilshttps://www.instagram.com/historysdevils/On Substackhttps://jamescrossland.substack.com/Follow JAMES CROSSLANDOn Bluesky @jamescrossland.bsky.socialhttps://bsky.app/profile/jamescrossland.bsky.socialTag HISTORY's DEVILS@historysdevils#HistorysDevils #JamesCrossland #HistoryPodcast #Podcast #History #DarkHistory #HistoricalBiography #TrueHistory #HistoryDocumentary #Deepdive #Storytelling History's Devils is a history podcast exploring the lives of murderers, charlatans, psychopaths, dictators, war criminals, tyrants, demagogues, revolutionaries, cult leaders, conquerors, fraudsters, and other controversial figures.History's Devils is hosted by James Crossland, professor of international history and author of:Rogue Agent: From Secret Plots to Psychological Warfare, the Untold Story of Robert Bruce LockhartThe Rise of Devils: Fear and the Origins of Modern Terrorism...

This week, James welcomes Mikki Brock (@historymikki) back onto the show to dive deep into the controversial world of Satanism and the cultural impact of the Church of Satan’s founder, Anton LaVey. This episode explores the origins of LaVey’s church and how his philosophy challenged traditional religion, focusing on libertarian personal freedom and the rejection of societal norms. This episode also examines the wave of fear known as the Satanic Panic, which fuelled widespread misinformation about Satanism and the occult during the 1980s, persisting into the era of QAnon and Pizzagate. Finally, we look at how an unexpected consequence of the panic was the founding of the The Satanic Temple – a progressive advocacy group that promotes empathy, tolerance and other very non-evil things.For anyone into American cultural history, religious history and the occult or, if you’ve ever asked yourself the question: What is Satanism really about? This episode is for you!#satanism Thanks to SOULFULJAMTRACKS for their tune "Dark Halloween"Follow HISTORY's DEVILS On Instagram @historysdevilshttps://www.instagram.com/historysdevils/On Substackhttps://jamescrossland.substack.com/Follow JAMES CROSSLANDOn Bluesky @jamescrossland.bsky.socialhttps://bsky.app/profile/jamescrossland.bsky.socialTag HISTORY's DEVILS@historysdevils#HistorysDevils #JamesCrossland #HistoryPodcast #Podcast #History #DarkHistory #HistoricalBiography #TrueHistory #HistoryDocumentary #Deepdive #Storytelling History's Devils is a history podcast exploring the lives of murderers, charlatans, psychopaths, dictators, war criminals, tyrants, demagogues, revolutionaries, cult leaders, conquerors, fraudsters, and other controversial figures.History's Devils is hosted by James Crossland, professor of international history and author of:Rogue Agent: From Secret Plots to Psychological Warfare, the Untold Story of Robert Bruce LockhartThe Rise of Devils: Fear and the Origins of Modern Terrorism...

Long before The Troubles, 7/7 and other modern terrorism, Britain faced a wave of bombings that shocked the Victorian world.Step into one of the most overlooked chapters of British history in this gripping episode on the "Dynamite War" of the 1880s - often described as the first “war on terror.”  Joined by Gillian O'Brien (author of The Darkness Echoing: Ireland's Places of Famine, Death and Rebellion), James explains how Irish republican groups like the Clan Na Gael and Irish Republican Brotherhood carried out bombing campaigns in Britain, bringing political violence to the heart of the London.Learn how advances in explosives like dynamite - invented by Alfred Nobel of peace prize fame - changed the nature of asymmetrical warfare and terrorism, creating fear, media frenzy, and new policing tactics. We break down key events, targets, and the debates within the Irish independence movement over the morality of terrorism.This episode also examines how the British government responded with informers, spies and the development of the world's first bomb squad! Perfect for listeners interested in history podcasts, Irish history, terrorism studies, political violence, and Victorian Britain, this episode provides deep insight into a forgotten conflict that helped shape modern ideas of terrorism and state response.Thanks to SOULFULJAMTRACKS for their tune "Dark Halloween"Follow HISTORY's DEVILS On Instagram @historysdevilshttps://www.instagram.com/historysdevils/On Substackhttps://jamescrossland.substack.com/Follow JAMES CROSSLANDOn Bluesky @jamescrossland.bsky.socialhttps://bsky.app/profile/jamescrossland.bsky.socialTag HISTORY's DEVILS@historysdevils#HistorysDevils #JamesCrossland #HistoryPodcast #Podcast #History #DarkHistory #HistoricalBiography #TrueHistory #HistoryDocumentary #Deepdive #Storytelling History's Devils is a history podcast exploring the lives of murderers, charlatans, psychopaths, dictators, war criminals, tyrants, demagogues, revolutionaries, cult leaders, conquerors, fraudsters, and other controversial figures.History's Devils is hosted by James Crossland, professor of international history and author of:Rogue Agent: From Secret Plots to Psychological Warfare, the Untold Story of Robert Bruce LockhartThe Rise of Devils: Fear and the Origins of Modern Terrorism...

In this episode, James is joined by Jem Duducu (author of The History of the Western Movie) to tell the story of a teenage gunslinger who became a legendary figure wrapped in folklore, media exaggeration, and historical debate – Billy the Kid.Tracing the story of Billy’s criminal career and involvement in the Lincoln County War, we discuss how Hollywood films and pop culture transformed a young outlaw into a Wild West icon, generating the myth that he somehow survived his deadly encounter with the lawman Pat Garrett in 1881, and went on to live into the 1950s as a mysterious drifter and adventurer named Brushy Bill Roberts.This episode is perfect for fans of true crime, American history, film history and Wild West legends. Whether you're curious about outlaw myths, frontier justice, or the real story behind Billy the Kid, you’ll discover surprising facts, historical insights, and the truth behind the legend. Check out Jem’s book – The History of the Western MovieFollow Jem @jemduducuThanks to SOULFULJAMTRACKS for their tune "Dark Halloween"Follow HISTORY's DEVILS On Instagram @historysdevilshttps://www.instagram.com/historysdevils/On Substackhttps://jamescrossland.substack.com/Follow JAMES CROSSLANDOn Bluesky @jamescrossland.bsky.socialhttps://bsky.app/profile/jamescrossland.bsky.socialTag HISTORY's DEVILS@historysdevils#HistorysDevils #JamesCrossland #HistoryPodcast #Podcast #History #DarkHistory #HistoricalBiography #TrueHistory #HistoryDocumentary #Deepdive #Storytelling History's Devils is a history podcast exploring the lives of murderers, charlatans, psychopaths, dictators, war criminals, tyrants, demagogues, revolutionaries, cult leaders, conquerors, fraudsters, and other controversial figures.History's Devils is hosted by James Crossland, professor of international history and author of:Rogue Agent: From Secret Plots to Psychological Warfare, the Untold Story of Robert Bruce LockhartThe Rise of Devils: Fear and the Origins of Modern Terrorism...

In Part Two of this two-part History's Devils episode, James and Jayne finish the story of Donald Trump and Vince McMahon by explaining how the psychology of professional wrestling shaped Trump's two presidencies, and altered the way in which American politics operates. Along the way, they discuss the similarities between alternative facts and Kayfabe (wrestling speak for "keeping it fake") and the connections between WWE and the MAGA movement, whilst pondering what a Vince McMahon presidency would look like? Further ReadingRingmaster: Vince McMahon and the Unmaking of AmericaThings to Know About Donald Trump's Relationship with Vince McMahon 00:00 - Introduction: Wrestling psychology in politics02:15 - The concept of kayfabe and its significance05:37 - Projecting success and inflating figures in rallies08:11 - Trump’s manipulation of perceptions and alternate realities13:08 - The use of promos, nickname attacks, and soundbites17:14 - The rise of soundbite politics and social media dominance21:26 - How Trump creates and blends realities with "alternative facts"26:37 - The evolution of Trump's self-image and propaganda portraits29:38 - The distortion of January 6th and the concept of political kayfabe32:43 - The role of audience suspension of disbelief in support36:31 - The spectacle ecosystem: rallies, chaos, and entertainment as political currency40:37 - Pro wrestling, UFC, and the culture of machismo in Trump’s narrative45:15 - The influence of WWE, political endorsements, and celebrity ties50:07 - Hypothetical: Vince McMahon as a president and the wrestling of power50:42 - Episode wrap-up and future reflections on political kayfabeThanks to SOULFULJAMTRACKS for their tune "Dark Halloween"Follow HISTORY's DEVILS On Instagram @historysdevilshttps://www.instagram.com/historysdevils/On Substackhttps://jamescrossland.substack.com/Follow JAMES CROSSLANDOn Bluesky @jamescrossland.bsky.socialhttps://bsky.app/profile/jamescrossland.bsky.socialTag HISTORY's DEVILS@historysdevils#HistorysDevils #JamesCrossland #HistoryPodcast #Podcast #History #DarkHistory #HistoricalBiography #TrueHistory #HistoryDocumentary #Deepdive #Storytelling History's Devils is a history podcast exploring the lives of murderers, charlatans, psychopaths, dictators, war criminals, tyrants, demagogues, revolutionaries, cult leaders, conquerors, fraudsters, and other controversial figures.History's Devils is hosted by James Crossland, professor of international history and author of:Rogue Agent: From Secret Plots to Psychological Warfare, the Untold Story of Robert Bruce LockhartThe Rise of Devils: Fear and the Origins of Modern Terrorism...

SummaryDive into one of the strangest and most revealing alliances in modern history as History’s Devils unpacks the decades-long relationship between Donald Trump and Vince McMahon.In Part One of this two-part series, James and Jayne trace a 40-year connection between the future U.S. president and the controversial boss of World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE). From glitzy spectacle to behind-the-scenes scandal, they explore how ambition, media manipulation, and controversy fuelled both men’s rise to power.Along the way, the hosts introduce a provocative thesis: to truly understand Donald Trump, you must first understand professional wrestling. Is modern American politics more performance than policy? And did the world of scripted rivalries, crowd psychology, and larger-than-life personas help shape a presidency? Further ReadingRingmaster: Vince McMahon and the Unmaking of AmericaThings to Know About Donald Trump's Relationship with Vince McMahon Chapters 00:00 - Welcome to History’s Devils: Exploring Modern Scoundrels02:07 - The Multi-Dimensional Influence of WWE on Politics04:02 - Trump and McMahon: Masters of Audience Suspension of Disbelief09:20 - Vince McMahon’s Childhood and Persona: Power and Insecurity15:19 - Wrestling Territories, Monopoly, and Ruthless Business Tactics18:05 - The Birth of WrestleMania and Its Cultural Impact22:15 - Scandals, Legal Troubles, and Teflon Resilience28:13 - Trump’s Early Wrestling Ties and the 1980s ‘Greed is Good’ Era31:49 - WrestleMania in Atlantic City: Branding Manipulation36:27 - Trump’s Return to Wrestling in the 2000s and ‘The Apprentice’42:45 - Building the Trump Gimmick: From Wrestler to Reality TV Star52:36 - The 2007 WrestleMania 23 and the ‘Battle of the Billionaires’59:55 - The Final Face-Off and Trump’s Iconic WWE Persona62:09 - Wrestling, Politics, Power, and the Future Landscape Thanks to SOULFULJAMTRACKS for their tune "Dark Halloween"Follow HISTORY's DEVILS On Instagram @historysdevilshttps://www.instagram.com/historysdevils/On Substackhttps://jamescrossland.substack.com/Follow JAMES CROSSLANDOn Bluesky @jamescrossland.bsky.socialhttps://bsky.app/profile/jamescrossland.bsky.socialTag HISTORY's DEVILS@historysdevils#HistorysDevils #JamesCrossland #HistoryPodcast #Podcast #History #DarkHistory #HistoricalBiography #TrueHistory #HistoryDocumentary #Deepdive #Storytelling History's Devils is a history podcast exploring the lives of murderers, charlatans, psychopaths, dictators, war criminals, tyrants, demagogues, revolutionaries, cult leaders, conquerors, fraudsters, and other controversial figures.History's Devils is hosted by James Crossland, professor of international history and author of:Rogue Agent: From Secret Plots to Psychological Warfare, the Untold Story of Robert Bruce LockhartThe Rise of Devils: Fear and the Origins of Modern Terrorism...

This week, James is taking a backseat and letting Paul Bavill (History Rage Podcast) dive into one of the most chilling true crime stories in British history – the poisonous rampage of Mary Ann Cotton. Widely believed to be Britain’s first female serial killer, Cotton was a seemingly ordinary Victorian who woman became known as the infamous “Black Widow,” accused of poisoning those closest to her for financial gain.Set against the grim backdrop of Victorian England, this episode examines the disturbing pattern of deaths that followed Mary Ann Cotton wherever she went, and how life insurance schemes may have motivated her crimes – leaving a legacy that the people of Britain still feel today. A must listen episode for fans of true crime, serial killer stories and tales of Victorian depravation. When you’re done listening to this, check out History Rage Thanks to SOULFULJAMTRACKS for their tune "Dark Halloween"Follow HISTORY's DEVILS On Instagram @historysdevilshttps://www.instagram.com/historysdevils/On Substackhttps://jamescrossland.substack.com/Follow JAMES CROSSLANDOn Bluesky @jamescrossland.bsky.socialhttps://bsky.app/profile/jamescrossland.bsky.socialTag HISTORY's DEVILS@historysdevils#HistorysDevils #JamesCrossland #HistoryPodcast #Podcast #History #DarkHistory #HistoricalBiography #TrueHistory #HistoryDocumentary #Deepdive #Storytelling History's Devils is a history podcast exploring the lives of murderers, charlatans, psychopaths, dictators, war criminals, tyrants, demagogues, revolutionaries, cult leaders, conquerors, fraudsters, and other controversial figures.History's Devils is hosted by James Crossland, professor of international history and author of:Rogue Agent: From Secret Plots to Psychological Warfare, the Untold Story of Robert Bruce LockhartThe Rise of Devils: Fear and the Origins of Modern Terrorism...

In this episode of HISTORY’S DEVILS, host James Crossland is joined by historian, author and scholar of Satan, Mikki Brock to explore the extraordinary life of John Dee, the famed court magician of Elizabeth I.From occult practices and alchemy to conversations with angels - and possibly demons - this episode dives into Dee’s myth-making, confidence tricks, and his role in the intrigues of Queen Elizabeth's court. Discover how Dee’s influence extended from mystical experiments to shaping the idea of the British Empire.Perfect for listeners fascinated by true history, the Elizabethan era, magic and the occult, royal intrigue, and the hidden stories that shaped the modern world.🎙️  Buy Mikki’s Book – https://manchesteruniversitypress.co.uk/9781526160904/ Follow Mikki on Instagram – @historymikki  Further ReadingBenjamin Woolet, The Queen’s Conjurer: The Life and Magic of Dr John Dee (2002)Glynn Parry, The Arch-Conjuror of England: John Dee (2013)   Chapters00:00 Introduction to John Dee: The Man Behind the Mystique02:35 John Dee's Early Life and Education04:45 The Intersection of Mathematics and Magic07:47 Navigating Political Turmoil: Dee's Context11:59 Dee's Relationship with Queen Elizabeth I16:01 Alchemy: The Quest for Gold25:09 Exploration and the Search for Riches29:55 The Vision of a British Empire32:21 The Myth of the British Empire33:26 Mathematics and Navigation34:07 Mirrors, Kabbalah, and Angelic Communication37:05 The Role of Edward Kelly40:59 Adventures and Misadventures in Europe44:56 The Decline of John Dee48:47 Legacy and Impact of John Dee Thanks to SOULFULJAMTRACKS for their tune "Dark Halloween"Follow HISTORY's DEVILS On Instagram @historysdevilshttps://www.instagram.com/historysdevils/On Substackhttps://jamescrossland.substack.com/Follow JAMES CROSSLANDOn Bluesky @jamescrossland.bsky.socialhttps://bsky.app/profile/jamescrossland.bsky.socialTag HISTORY's DEVILS@historysdevils#HistorysDevils #JamesCrossland #HistoryPodcast #Podcast #History #DarkHistory #HistoricalBiography #TrueHistory #HistoryDocumentary #Deepdive #Storytelling History's Devils is a history podcast exploring the lives of murderers, charlatans, psychopaths, dictators, war criminals, tyrants, demagogues, revolutionaries, cult leaders, conquerors, fraudsters, and other controversial figures.History's Devils is hosted by James Crossland, professor of international history and author of:Rogue Agent: From Secret Plots to Psychological Warfare, the Untold Story of Robert Bruce LockhartThe Rise of Devils: Fear and the Origins of Modern Terrorism...

In this episode of HISTORY’S DEVILS, host James Crossland is joined by historian and author Chris Kempshall to explore the rise, fall, and legacy of Darth Vader—one of the greatest villains in cinematic history.From his origins as Anakin Skywalker to his transformation into a Sith Lord, this episode dives deep into Vader’s character development across the Star Wars saga. What drove his fall the dark sides? And how does his story reflect real-world history, politics, and ideology?Drawing on Chris' The Rise and Fall of the Galactic Empire and The History and Politics of Star Wars, the pair breakdown the historical influences behind Vader, the nature of power and authoritarianism, and the enduring cultural impact of this iconic character.From analysing Vader’s crimes to exploring his place at the heart of the Star Wars universe, this episode blends film analysis, history, and pop culture into one compelling deep dive.If you're interested in Star Wars, film history, villains, or the real-world ideas behind iconic characters, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.See what Chris is up to and purchase his books at: https://chriskempshall.com/  Further ReadingChris’ Stuff – it’s all you need. Chapters00:00 Introduction to Star Wars and Personal Memories03:14 Darth Vader: The Iconic Villain09:26 Real-World Influences on Star Wars14:45 Character Development of Darth Vader20:22 Darth Vader's Symbolism and Design28:22 The Tragedy of Anakin Skywalker32:27 The Dark Path of Anakin Skywalker35:28 Anakin's Dark Turn39:57 The Weight of Choices41:59 Vader's Evolution in the Franchise47:43 The Legacy of Darth Vader55:34 Cultural Impact and Parodies of VaderThanks to SOULFULJAMTRACKS for their tune "Dark Halloween"Follow HISTORY's DEVILS On Instagram @historysdevilshttps://www.instagram.com/historysdevils/On Substackhttps://jamescrossland.substack.com/Follow JAMES CROSSLANDOn Bluesky @jamescrossland.bsky.socialhttps://bsky.app/profile/jamescrossland.bsky.socialTag HISTORY's DEVILS@historysdevils#HistorysDevils #JamesCrossland #HistoryPodcast #Podcast #History #DarkHistory #HistoricalBiography #TrueHistory #HistoryDocumentary #Deepdive #Storytelling History's Devils is a history podcast exploring the lives of murderers, charlatans, psychopaths, dictators, war criminals, tyrants, demagogues, revolutionaries, cult leaders, conquerors, fraudsters, and other controversial figures.History's Devils is hosted by James Crossland, professor of international history and author of:Rogue Agent: From Secret Plots to Psychological Warfare, the Untold Story of Robert Bruce LockhartThe Rise of Devils: Fear and the Origins of Modern Terrorism...

In this episode of HISTORY’S DEVILS, host James Crossland is joined by Lisa Traynor (Royal Armouries) to uncover the story of Felice Orsini—the little-known figure behind the first modern terrorist attack.A radical Italian nationalist, Orsini changed undertandings of political violence with his 1858 assassination attempt on Napoleon III in Paris. Using a unique improvised explosive device known as the Orsini Bomb, his actions inspired a generationa of radicals and pioneered the tactic of terrorism for the modern age.This episode explores the origins of terrorism, revolutionary politics, and the rise of political violence in 19th-century Europe. How did Orsini’s attack influence future extremists? And why has his legacy been largely forgotten? Check out James’ book on the subject: The Rise of Devils: Fear & The Origins of Modern TerrorismSee what Lisa and her team are up to at Britain’s Royal Armouries Museum in Leeds Further ReadingMichael St John Packe, The Bombs of OrsiniCarola Dietze, The Invention of Terrorism in Europe, Russia and the United States Chapters00:00 Introduction to Modern Terrorism02:46 The Life and Times of Felice Orsini05:38 Political Context of 19th Century Italy08:28 The Rise of Italian Nationalism11:12 Orsini's Revolutionary Activities14:14 The Daring Escape from Prison17:01 Orsini's Celebrity Status and Impact19:43 The Shift to Terrorism as Tactic22:36 The Availability of Weapons in the 19th Century26:17 The Velodog and Personal Protection28:32 Orsini's Revolutionary Ideals29:31 The Design and Function of the Orsini Bomb35:20 The Spectacle of Terrorism41:32 The Aftermath and Political Repercussions49:19 Legacy of Orsini and the Concept of TerrorismThanks to SOULFULJAMTRACKS for their tune "Dark Halloween"Follow HISTORY's DEVILS On Instagram @historysdevilshttps://www.instagram.com/historysdevils/On Substackhttps://jamescrossland.substack.com/Follow JAMES CROSSLANDOn Bluesky @jamescrossland.bsky.socialhttps://bsky.app/profile/jamescrossland.bsky.socialTag HISTORY's DEVILS@historysdevils#HistorysDevils #JamesCrossland #HistoryPodcast #Podcast #History #DarkHistory #HistoricalBiography #TrueHistory #HistoryDocumentary #Deepdive #Storytelling History's Devils is a history podcast exploring the lives of murderers, charlatans, psychopaths, dictators, war criminals, tyrants, demagogues, revolutionaries, cult leaders, conquerors, fraudsters, and other controversial figures.History's Devils is hosted by James Crossland, professor of international history and author of:Rogue Agent: From Secret Plots to Psychological Warfare, the Untold Story of Robert Bruce LockhartThe Rise of Devils: Fear and the Origins of Modern Terrorism...

In this HISTORY’S DEVILS two-parter, James Crossland is joined by Jayne Friend to explore the shocking true story of Francis Tumblety - one of the most disturbing conmen of the 19th century. A self-proclaimed doctor, master grifter, and notorious charlatan, Tumblety’s dark life intersects with some of history’s most infamous crimes, including the Assassination of Abraham Lincoln and the terror of the 1888 Jack the Ripper murders.From bizarre medical scams and criminal activity to violent assault, illegal abortions and disturbing obsessions, this episode dives deep into the sinister underworld of Victorian era London and Gilded Age America.If you’re interested in true crime, Victorian history, serial killers, and real-life villains, this is a story you won’t want to miss.Further ReadingTimothy B. Riordan, The Prince of Quacks: The Notorious Life of Dr Francis Tumblety, Charlatan and Jack the Ripper Suspect (2009)Donald Rumbelow, The Complete Jack the Ripper (2016)www.casebook.org – the best website BY FAR on the Jack the Ripper case Chapters Episode 100:00 Introduction to History's Devils00:56 The Notorious Francis Tumblety02:51 Tumblety's Early Life and Background05:57 Tumblety's Quackery and Medical Practices11:50 The Rise of Tumblety's Fame17:57 Tumblety's Criminal Activities and Legal Troubles23:49 The Civil War and Tumblety's Role29:45 Conclusion and Reflection on Tumblety's Legacy30:53 Divisions in the Medical Fraternity During the Civil War32:09 The Reality of War: Medical Challenges and Quackery34:45 The Rise of Francis Tumblety: A War Grifter38:55 Tumblety's Exploits: From Medical Claims to Scams43:47 The Fallout: Arrests and Accusations50:46 The Confusion of Identity: Tumblety and the Assassination Plot54:49 The Wilderness Years: Tumblety's Decline and Arrests59:58 The Ripper Connection: Tumblety's Final Chapter Episode 200:00 Introduction to History's Devils00:28 Tumblety's Involvement in Jack the Ripper Case01:44 Cultural Representations of Jack the Ripper03:57 The Press and Public Perception06:02 Tumblety's Reputation and Suspicions07:40 Evidence Linking Tumblety to the Murders11:12 Tumblety's Medical Quackery and Theories14:20 Psychological Aspects of Tumblety's Crimes17:31 Exploring Tumblety's Identity and Relationships19:51 The Profile of a Suspect21:48 The Emergence of Tumblety24:57 The Arrest and Speculation27:36 The Evidence and Eyewitness Accounts33:01 The Life After the Ripper36:39 The Final Years and LegacyThanks to SOULFULJAMTRACKS for their tune "Dark Halloween"Follow HISTORY's DEVILS On Instagram @historysdevilshttps://www.instagram.com/historysdevils/On Substackhttps://jamescrossland.substack.com/Follow JAMES CROSSLANDOn Bluesky @jamescrossland.bsky.socialhttps://bsky.app/profile/jamescrossland.bsky.socialTag HISTORY's DEVILS@historysdevils#HistorysDevils #JamesCrossland #HistoryPodcast #Podcast #History #DarkHistory #HistoricalBiography #TrueHistory #HistoryDocumentary #Deepdive #Storytelling History's Devils is a history podcast exploring the lives of murderers, charlatans, psychopaths, dictators, war criminals, tyrants, demagogues, revolutionaries, cult leaders, conquerors, fraudsters, and other controversial figures.History's Devils is hosted by James Crossland, professor of international history and author of:Rogue Agent: From Secret Plots to Psychological Warfare, the Untold Story of Robert Bruce LockhartThe Rise of Devils: Fear and the Origins of Modern Terrorism...

In this HISTORY’S DEVILS two-parter, James Crossland is joined by Jayne Friend to explore the shocking true story of Francis Tumblety - one of the most disturbing conmen of the 19th century. A self-proclaimed doctor, master grifter, and notorious charlatan, Tumblety’s dark life intersects with some of history’s most infamous crimes, including the Assassination of Abraham Lincoln and the terror of the 1888 Jack the Ripper murders.From bizarre medical scams and criminal activity to violent assault, illegal abortions and disturbing obsessions, this episode dives deep into the sinister underworld of Victorian era London and Gilded Age America.If you’re interested in true crime, Victorian history, serial killers, and real-life villains, this is a story you won’t want to miss. Further ReadingTimothy B. Riordan, The Prince of Quacks: The Notorious Life of Dr Francis Tumblety, Charlatan and Jack the Ripper Suspect (2009)Donald Rumbelow, The Complete Jack the Ripper (2016)www.casebook.org – the best website BY FAR on the Jack the Ripper case Chapters Episode 100:00 Introduction to History's Devils00:56 The Notorious Francis Tumblety02:51 Tumblety's Early Life and Background05:57 Tumblety's Quackery and Medical Practices11:50 The Rise of Tumblety's Fame17:57 Tumblety's Criminal Activities and Legal Troubles23:49 The Civil War and Tumblety's Role29:45 Conclusion and Reflection on Tumblety's Legacy30:53 Divisions in the Medical Fraternity During the Civil War32:09 The Reality of War: Medical Challenges and Quackery34:45 The Rise of Francis Tumblety: A War Grifter38:55 Tumblety's Exploits: From Medical Claims to Scams43:47 The Fallout: Arrests and Accusations50:46 The Confusion of Identity: Tumblety and the Assassination Plot54:49 The Wilderness Years: Tumblety's Decline and Arrests59:58 The Ripper Connection: Tumblety's Final Chapter Episode 200:00 Introduction to History's Devils00:28 Tumblety's Involvement in Jack the Ripper Case01:44 Cultural Representations of Jack the Ripper03:57 The Press and Public Perception06:02 Tumblety's Reputation and Suspicions07:40 Evidence Linking Tumblety to the Murders11:12 Tumblety's Medical Quackery and Theories14:20 Psychological Aspects of Tumblety's Crimes17:31 Exploring Tumblety's Identity and Relationships19:51 The Profile of a Suspect21:48 The Emergence of Tumblety24:57 The Arrest and Speculation27:36 The Evidence and Eyewitness Accounts33:01 The Life After the Ripper36:39 The Final Years and LegacyThanks to SOULFULJAMTRACKS for their tune "Dark Halloween"Follow HISTORY's DEVILS On Instagram @historysdevilshttps://www.instagram.com/historysdevils/On Substackhttps://jamescrossland.substack.com/Follow JAMES CROSSLANDOn Bluesky @jamescrossland.bsky.socialhttps://bsky.app/profile/jamescrossland.bsky.socialTag HISTORY's DEVILS@historysdevils#HistorysDevils #JamesCrossland #HistoryPodcast #Podcast #History #DarkHistory #HistoricalBiography #TrueHistory #HistoryDocumentary #Deepdive #Storytelling History's Devils is a history podcast exploring the lives of murderers, charlatans, psychopaths, dictators, war criminals, tyrants, demagogues, revolutionaries, cult leaders, conquerors, fraudsters, and other controversial figures.History's Devils is hosted by James Crossland, professor of international history and author of:Rogue Agent: From Secret Plots to Psychological Warfare, the Untold Story of Robert Bruce LockhartThe Rise of Devils: Fear and the Origins of Modern Terrorism...

In this episode of HISTORY’S DEVILS, host James Crossland is joined by Paul Woodadge (WW2TV) to examine the strange and controversial life of Rudolf Hess, one of the most enigmatic figures of World War II.As Deputy Führer to Adolf Hitler, Hess played a key role in the rise of Nazi Party. But in 1941, he shocked the world with his solo flight to Scotland - an extraordinary and desperate attempt to negotiate peace between Britain and Nazi Germany.This episode explores Hess’s early life, his fascination with the occult, and his unwavering ideology, while unpacking the mystery behind his actions. Why did Hess believe he could broker peace? Was he acting alone, or was there a deeper strategy at play involving important figures from Britain and Germany?From wartime diplomacy and Nazi leadership to enduring conspiracy theories, this deep dive into Hess’s story sheds light on one of the most bizarre incidents of the Second World War.Perfect for listeners interested in WWII history, Nazi Germany, political intrigue, and historical mysteries.Check out WW2TV – https://www.ww2tv.com/ Further ReadingPeter Padfield, Hess: Flight for the Fuhrer (1991)James Douglas-Hamilton, The Truth About Rudolf Hess (2018)Roy Connors-Nesbit & Georges van Acker, The Flight of Rudolf Hess: Myths & Reality (2007)James Leasor, Rudolf Hess: the Uninvited Envoy (2016)  Chapters00:00 Introduction to History's Devils00:27 Rudolf Hess: The Enigmatic Deputy Fuhrer04:09 Hess's Early Life and Influences11:19 Hess's Rise in the Nazi Party18:11 Hess's Role in Nazi Policies25:28 The Context of Hess's Flight31:56 The Fateful Flight to Scotland39:37 Hess's Capture and Aftermath43:51 Conspiracy Theories Surrounding Hess44:23 The Peace Party Theory46:45 The Lure Theory56:15 The Madman Theory01:02:41 Hess's Fate and LegacyThanks to SOULFULJAMTRACKS for their tune "Dark Halloween"Follow HISTORY's DEVILS On Instagram @historysdevilshttps://www.instagram.com/historysdevils/On Substackhttps://jamescrossland.substack.com/Follow JAMES CROSSLANDOn Bluesky @jamescrossland.bsky.socialhttps://bsky.app/profile/jamescrossland.bsky.socialTag HISTORY's DEVILS@historysdevils#HistorysDevils #JamesCrossland #HistoryPodcast #Podcast #History #DarkHistory #HistoricalBiography #TrueHistory #HistoryDocumentary #Deepdive #Storytelling History's Devils is a history podcast exploring the lives of murderers, charlatans, psychopaths, dictators, war criminals, tyrants, demagogues, revolutionaries, cult leaders, conquerors, fraudsters, and other controversial figures.History's Devils is hosted by James Crossland, professor of international history and author of:Rogue Agent: From Secret Plots to Psychological Warfare, the Untold Story of Robert Bruce LockhartThe Rise of Devils: Fear and the Origins of Modern Terrorism...

In this episode of HISTORY’S DEVILS, James Crossland and Phil Craig, author of 1945: The Reckoning: War, Empire and the Struggle for a New World, delve into the complex web of the British Peace Party and its connections to Nazi sympathizers during the late 1930s and early 1940s. They explore the origins of this group, the appeal of fascism in Britain, and the key figures involved in the mission to seek an accord with Hitler, including Lord Halifax, Lord Brockett and the shifty cosplay diplomat James Lonsdale-Bryans, an unscrupulous fantasists who thought he could broker a peace with Nazi Germany and alter the outcome of the Second World War. Buy Phil’s book:https://www.hodder.co.uk/titles/phil-craig/1945-the-reckoning/9781399714501/   Further ReadingRichard Lamb, The Ghosts of Peace, 1935-1945 (1987)Charles Spicer, Coffee with Hitler: The British Amateurs Who Tried to Civilize the Nazis (2023)Klemens von Klemperer, German Resistance Against Hitler: The Search for Allies Abroad 1938–1945 (1992)KV 2/2839 – James Lonsdale-Bryan’s MI5 file – https://images.nationalarchives.gov.uk/asset/28637/   Chapters00:00 Introduction to History's Devils03:13 The British Peace Party: Origins and Context06:06 The Appeal of Fascism in 1930s Britain08:51 The Anglo-German Fellowship and Its Members12:04 The German Resistance: Allies or Opportunists?15:01 The Role of Key Figures: Halifax and Chamberlain18:04 Peace Feelers: Attempts at Negotiation21:04 The Fall of France: A Turning Point23:56 The Rise of Churchill: A New Leadership26:53 James Lonsdale-Bryans: The Cosplay Diplomat29:59 The Impact of Peace Feelers on War Dynamics32:52 The Aftermath of Failed Diplomacy Thanks to SOULFULJAMTRACKS for their tune "Dark Halloween"Follow HISTORY's DEVILS On Instagram @historysdevilshttps://www.instagram.com/historysdevils/On Substackhttps://jamescrossland.substack.com/Follow JAMES CROSSLANDOn Bluesky @jamescrossland.bsky.socialhttps://bsky.app/profile/jamescrossland.bsky.socialTag HISTORY's DEVILS@historysdevils#HistorysDevils #JamesCrossland #HistoryPodcast #Podcast #History #DarkHistory #HistoricalBiography #TrueHistory #HistoryDocumentary #Deepdive #Storytelling History's Devils is a history podcast exploring the lives of murderers, charlatans, psychopaths, dictators, war criminals, tyrants, demagogues, revolutionaries, cult leaders, conquerors, fraudsters, and other controversial figures.History's Devils is hosted by James Crossland, professor of international history and author of:Rogue Agent: From Secret Plots to Psychological Warfare, the Untold Story of Robert Bruce LockhartThe Rise of Devils: Fear and the Origins of Modern Terrorism...

This episode of HISTORY’S DEVILS delves into the life of Sidney Reilly, a dashing, semi-mythical MI6 officer who has often been referred to – without much reason – as the “Ace of Spies”. James Crossland is joined by Professor Rory Cormac (author of How to Stage a Coup, and Fakers: A Top Secret Tale of Phantoms and Forgeries of the Disinformation Front) for a conversation that explores Reilly’s duality as both a charming spy and a deceitful grifter who worked his way into the British intelligence community whilst building side careers as an arms dealer and radium peddler, all whilst acquiring as many as four wives without ever bother to divorce one of them. Along the way, Reilly allegedly stole German war plans, tried to kill Valdimir Lenin and, in the final act of his melodramatic life, conspired with a supposedly anti-Bolshevik secret society to destroy the Soviet Union from within.Join James and Rory for this wild ride of truths, half-truths and outright lies! Buy James’ book:https://eandtbooks.com/books/rogue-agent/Buy Rory’s book:https://www.tgjonesonline.co.uk/Product/Rory-Professor-of-International-Relations-Professor-of-Inter-Cormac/Fakers--A-Top-Secret-Tale-of-Phantoms-and-Forgeries-on-the-Disinformation-Front-Line/15874311  Further ReadingAndrew Cook, Ace of Spies: The True Story of Sidney Reilly (History Press, 2004)Robin Bruce Lockhart, Reilly: Ace of Spies (1967)James Crossland, Rogue Agent: From Secret Plots of the Psychological Warfare, the Untold Story of Robert Bruce Lockhart (Elliot & Thompson, 2024)Keith Jeffrey, MI6: The History of the Secret Intelligence Service, 1909-1949 (Bloomsbury, 2010)  Chapters00:00 Introduction to Sidney Reilly: The Ace of Spies04:34 The Duality of Sidney Reilly: Hero or Villain?08:52 Reilly's Early Life and Transformation12:50 The Rise of a Bigamist: Sidney Reilly's Marriages25:33 The Legend of the Ace of Spies: Myths and Reality30:37 The Problem with Historical Sources31:00 Reilly's War-time Activities34:15 MI6's Role in America35:50 The Black Tom Explosion37:14 Reilly's Recruitment into MI640:21 The Bolshevik Revolution and Reilly's Role42:14 The Lockhart Plot46:09 Reilly's Failures in Espionage48:04 Double-Crossing and Confusion50:23 Reilly's Later Years and Grifting54:08 “The Trust” and Reilly’s Final Mission56:21 The Mysterious Death of Sidney Reilly59:34 The Enduring Legend of the Ace of SpiesThanks to SOULFULJAMTRACKS for their tune "Dark Halloween"Follow HISTORY's DEVILS On Instagram @historysdevilshttps://www.instagram.com/historysdevils/On Substackhttps://jamescrossland.substack.com/Follow JAMES CROSSLANDOn Bluesky @jamescrossland.bsky.socialhttps://bsky.app/profile/jamescrossland.bsky.socialTag HISTORY's DEVILS@historysdevils#HistorysDevils #JamesCrossland #HistoryPodcast #Podcast #History #DarkHistory #HistoricalBiography #TrueHistory #HistoryDocumentary #Deepdive #Storytelling History's Devils is a history podcast exploring the lives of murderers, charlatans, psychopaths, dictators, war criminals, tyrants, demagogues, revolutionaries, cult leaders, conquerors, fraudsters, and other controversial figures.History's Devils is hosted by James Crossland, professor of international history and author of:Rogue Agent: From Secret Plots to Psychological Warfare, the Untold Story of Robert Bruce LockhartThe Rise of Devils: Fear and the Origins of Modern Terrorism...

This episode of History's Devils delves into the life of Nathan Bedford Forrest, a Confederate general and the first Grand Wizard of the Ku Klux Klan. Joined by the incomparable Edd Mair, James explores Forrest's early life, his rise in the Confederate army, the controversial Battle of Fort Pillow, and his post-war activities, including his leadership in the KKK. The discussion highlights the complexities of Forrest's character, his motivations, and the lasting impact of his actions on American history, particularly in relation to race and the legacy of the Civil War.Further ReadingJohn Allen Wyeth, That Devil Forrest: The Life of General Nathan Bedford Forrest (Quatarro, 2016)Court Carney, Reckoning with the Devil: Nathan Bedford Forrest in Myth and Memory (Louisianna State Press, 2024)Susan Campbell Bartoletti, They Call Themselves the KKK: Birth of an American Terrorist Group (Clarion, 2014)Chapters00:00 Introduction to Nathan Bedford Forrest02:58 Early Life and Character of Forrest05:55 Forrest's Rise in the Confederate Army09:06 The Civil War and Economic Motivations11:51 Forrest's Military Tactics and Leadership14:36 The Battle of Fort Pillow: A Controversial Legacy17:34 The Aftermath of the Civil War and Reconstruction20:13 Forrest's Involvement with the Ku Klux Klan35:11 The Origins of the Ku Klux Klan36:04 The Evolution of the Klan: From Pranks to Terrorism37:50 The Klan's Structure and Governance39:15 Psychological Fractures 41:59 The Klan's Political Aspirations and Violence44:42 The Klan's Influence in the 1868 Election47:46 Ulysses S. Grant and the Suppression of the Klan54:02 The Decline of the First Klan and Its Legacy58:31 Nathan Bedford Forrest's Later Life and Controversies01:00:47 The Legacy of Confederate Statues and MemorializationThanks to SOULFULJAMTRACKS for their tune "Dark Halloween"Follow HISTORY's DEVILS On Instagram @historysdevilshttps://www.instagram.com/historysdevils/On Substackhttps://jamescrossland.substack.com/Follow JAMES CROSSLANDOn Bluesky @jamescrossland.bsky.socialhttps://bsky.app/profile/jamescrossland.bsky.socialTag HISTORY's DEVILS@historysdevils#HistorysDevils #JamesCrossland #HistoryPodcast #Podcast #History #DarkHistory #HistoricalBiography #TrueHistory #HistoryDocumentary #Deepdive #Storytelling History's Devils is a history podcast exploring the lives of murderers, charlatans, psychopaths, dictators, war criminals, tyrants, demagogues, revolutionaries, cult leaders, conquerors, fraudsters, and other controversial figures.History's Devils is hosted by James Crossland, professor of international history and author of:Rogue Agent: From Secret Plots to Psychological Warfare, the Untold Story of Robert Bruce LockhartThe Rise of Devils: Fear and the Origins of Modern Terrorism...

In the very first episode of History’s Devils, hosts James Crossland and Jayne Friend explore the roots of British Fascism by traveling back to the 1920s. They uncover the extraordinary story of Rotha Lintorn Orman, an upper-class tomboy, socialite, and drinker, who became Britain’s first fascist.Lintorn Orman led the British Fascisti, a small but influential group of military veterans, street fighters, and conspiracy theorists, setting the stage for movements that would persist for over a century. From secretive rallies to political machinations, Lintorn Orman's story reveals the origins of fascist ideology that echo in today’s politics.Follow Jayne Friend on Instagram@drjaynefriendFurther ReadingRobert Benewick, A Study of British Fascism: Political Violence & Public Order (London: Allen Lane, 1969)Julie Gottlieb, Feminine Fascism: Women in Britain’s Fascist Movement, 1923-1945 (London: I.B. Taurus, 2000)Martin Pugh, Hurrah for the Blackshirts!: Fascists and Fascism in Britain Between the Wars (London: Pimlico, 2006)Thanks to SOULFULJAMTRACKS for their tune "Dark Halloween"Follow HISTORY's DEVILS On Instagram @historysdevilshttps://www.instagram.com/historysdevils/On Substackhttps://jamescrossland.substack.com/Follow JAMES CROSSLANDOn Bluesky @jamescrossland.bsky.socialhttps://bsky.app/profile/jamescrossland.bsky.socialTag HISTORY's DEVILS@historysdevils#HistorysDevils #JamesCrossland #HistoryPodcast #Podcast #History #DarkHistory #HistoricalBiography #TrueHistory #HistoryDocumentary #Deepdive #Storytelling History's Devils is a history podcast exploring the lives of murderers, charlatans, psychopaths, dictators, war criminals, tyrants, demagogues, revolutionaries, cult leaders, conquerors, fraudsters, and other controversial figures.History's Devils is hosted by James Crossland, professor of international history and author of:Rogue Agent: From Secret Plots to Psychological Warfare, the Untold Story of Robert Bruce LockhartThe Rise of Devils: Fear and the Origins of Modern Terrorism...