Half-Arsed History

Half-Arsed History

Riley Knight

Welcome along to Half-Arsed History! It's a weekly podcast highlighting absurd and entertaining stories from history. Three times a week, it helps host Riley Knight feel as though his useless history degree has some kind of real-world relevance.Get in touch: halfarsedhistory@gmail.comSupport the show on Patreon: https://patreon.com/halfarsedhistoryBuy Half-Arsed History merch: https://halfarsedhistory.theprintbar.comIf you've just discovered the show and aren't sure which of the 300+ episodes to start with, here are some suggestions:Episode 139: The History of the Toilet - https://sptfy.com/PK3JEpisode 75: The Great Emu War - https://sptfy.com/PK3KEpisode 197...

Update: Inventions Episode 7 Will Be Slightly Delayed, Sorry Mate

Update: Inventions Episode 7 Will Be Slightly Delayed, Sorry Mate

Apologies - I didn't manage to get today's episode recorded and edited in time before leaving on a brief overseas trip. I'll be back next week and should have the show up by the 1st or 2nd of March. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Feb 21, • 4:27

Inventions Episode 6: Rubber

Inventions Episode 6: Rubber

Rubber has a history that is a lot longer than you might expect - it dates back over 3,500 years, to ancient Mesopotamia, and has had a long and interesting journey to become the commonplace material it is today. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Feb 19, • 24:43

Episode 347: Xerxes the Great, King of Kings

Episode 347: Xerxes the Great, King of Kings

In this week's episode, get to know Xerxes I of the Achaemenid Empire, and think about why his historical legacy is perceived in the way that it is today. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Feb 16, • 1:03:42

Inventions Episode 5: Glass

Inventions Episode 5: Glass

Glass, technically, may be a naturally-occuring material, but the way that humans have learn to create, shape, and change it over the millennia has had a strong influence on the way we live our lives - an influence that we take for granted. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Feb 14, • 37:43

Inventions Episode 4: Soap

Inventions Episode 4: Soap

Soap has been used by humans for thousands and thousands of years to keep our things clean, and for hundreds and hundreds of years to keep our bodies clean. By most people, anyway. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Feb 12, • 24:41

Episode 346: Harriet Tubman and the Underground Railroad

Episode 346: Harriet Tubman and the Underground Railroad

In this week's episode, meet Harriet Tubman, the US activist and abolitionist who aided countless enslaved people in securing their freedom before she went on to take part in the American Civil War. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Feb 9, • 1:06:46

Inventions Episode 3: Writing

Inventions Episode 3: Writing

Writing is a transformative invention, enabling human development and advancement by offering language persistence and durability, creating a collective memory for humankind and transmitting meaning across time. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Feb 7, • 28:39

Inventions Episode 2: The Plough

Inventions Episode 2: The Plough

The plough is a humble and ancient invention that revolutionised agriculture around the world, helping to generate food surpluses that in turn enabled human development and technological advancement. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Feb 5, • 19:31

Episode 345: The History of Greenland

Episode 345: The History of Greenland

In this week's episode, become familiar with 4,500 years of Greenlandic history, from the settlement of pre-Inuit, Norse, and Inuit peoples, through to the current importance it has in global affairs. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Feb 2, • 1:11:43

Inventions Episode 1: The Wheel

Inventions Episode 1: The Wheel

The wheel was and still is a revolutionary invention, transforming transportation, agriculture, and industry, while laying a technological foundation for countless other immensely significant innovations. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 31, • 21:42

Update: Taking a Mulligan on Inventions

Update: Taking a Mulligan on Inventions

The launch of the new Inventions series hasn't gone to plan - here is an explanation of how the series will be reset and (hopefully) get off to a fresh start.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 31, • 11:28

QAH Episode 95: The War of Jenkins’ Ear

QAH Episode 95: The War of Jenkins’ Ear

Quarter-Arsed History presents: a brief account of how a relatively minor colonial spat between Britain and Spain became known by one of the silliest names in history - the War of Jenkins' Ear. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 29, • 20:19

Episode 344: The Mutiny on the Wager

Episode 344: The Mutiny on the Wager

In this week's episode, hear the tale of the mutiny on the Wager, when a group of sailors stranded off the South American coast rose up against their stubborn captain, leaving him for dead.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 26, • 1:17:03

Inventions Episode 3: Seafaring

Inventions Episode 3: Seafaring

This week's invention is seafaring, a cornerstone of humanity's history as we have explored the world, chased down the horizon, and - very importantly - moved things from one place to another. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 24, • 23:03

QAH Episode 94: Samuel Pepys’ Account of the Great Fire of London

QAH Episode 94: Samuel Pepys’ Account of the Great Fire of London

Quarter-Arsed History presents: the biggest cop-out episode in this podcast's entire history, one that involves Riley just reading out a week of entries from Samuel Pepys' diary. More like Eighth-Arsed History tbh Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 22, • 35:51

Inventions Episode 2: Fire

Inventions Episode 2: Fire

This week's invention is fire, which is... well, not really an invention, strictly speaking, but all the same laid the foundation for more or less the rest of humanity's technological development. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 21, • 18:07

Inventions Episode 1: Stone Tools

Inventions Episode 1: Stone Tools

This week's invention is stone tools, something it feels a bit odd to consider an invention, but nonetheless something that represents one of the most important and foundational pieces of technology humans have ever used. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 20, • 19:43

Episode 343: The Great Fire of London

Episode 343: The Great Fire of London

In this week's episode, learn all about the Great Fire of London, which ripped through the city in 1666, turning it into a smoking ruin. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 19, • 1:09:00

QAH Episode 93: Kubla Khan, Coleridge’s Opium-Induced Masterpiece

QAH Episode 93: Kubla Khan, Coleridge’s Opium-Induced Masterpiece

Quarter-Arsed History presents: the supposed tale behind the creation of the poem Kubla Khan, one of Samuel Taylor Coleridge's most famous works. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 15, • 16:04

Episode 342: The Travels of Marco Polo

Episode 342: The Travels of Marco Polo

In this week's episode, meet Marco Polo, the famous Italian explorer, and learn all about his travels to the Far East. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 12, • 59:23

An Update on Delayed Episodes

An Update on Delayed Episodes

I've had some unfortunately-timed setbacks with recent episodes which means the next episode won't come out until next Wednesday. I'm very sorry about this, I know regularity and consistency is very important to many listeners, and I wish things were different. There's a full explanation in this little update episode. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 12, • 9:47

QAH Episode 92: Ubre Blanca, Fidel Castro’s Favourite Cow

QAH Episode 92: Ubre Blanca, Fidel Castro’s Favourite Cow

Quarter-Arsed History presents: the tale of Ubre Blanca, a cow that rose to become a national icon in Cuba, a favourite of the Cuban leader at the time, Fidel Castro. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 8, • 17:42

Episode 341: The History of Cricket - Part 2

Episode 341: The History of Cricket - Part 2

In this week's episode, continue to learn the history of cricket, from its rise as an international sporting competition across the late 19th century to the popular, professional sport it is today. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 5, • 1:14:37

QAH Episode 91: The 1868 Indigenous Australian Tour of England

QAH Episode 91: The 1868 Indigenous Australian Tour of England

Quarter-Arsed History presents: the story of Australia's first-ever international sporting tour, when in 1868 a group of indigenous Australians travelled all the way to England to play cricket. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 1, • 20:55

Episode 340: The History of Cricket - Part 1

Episode 340: The History of Cricket - Part 1

In this week's episode, learn about the early origins of cricket, and its development from an informal childrens' game to a major sport played across the world, throughout the British Empire. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dec 29, 2024 • 1:19:41

Monuments: the Appendix

Monuments: the Appendix

Here is a brief retrospective on the Monuments series, including the reasoning behind the exclusion of some monuments, what went into making the series, and the biggest challenges in putting episodes together. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dec 27, 2024 • 25:12

Monuments Episode 52: The Sydney Opera House

Monuments Episode 52: The Sydney Opera House

This week's monument is the Sydney Opera House, one of the most famous and instantly-recognisable Australian landmarks, one that has graced the Sydney skyline since 1973. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dec 27, 2024 • 17:52

QAH Episode 90: A Brief History of Santa Claus

QAH Episode 90: A Brief History of Santa Claus

Quarter-Arsed History presents: a brief history of Santa Claus, and how he has emerged and developed as a central part of modern Christmas celebrations, with a multifaceted origin story that goes back centuries. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dec 25, 2024 • 25:45

Episode 339: The History of Christmas

Episode 339: The History of Christmas

In this week's episode, get across the history of Christmas, from its emergence as an early Christian festival co-opting existing celebrations, to the massive, worldwide event it is today. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dec 22, 2024 • 1:17:05

Monuments Episode 51: The Berlin Wall

Monuments Episode 51: The Berlin Wall

This week's monument is the Berlin Wall, an enormous, 155 kilometre-long wall that once divided the city of Berlin in two before its eventual fall in 1989. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dec 20, 2024 • 28:38

QAH Episode 89: Frank Shackleton and the Irish Crown Jewels

QAH Episode 89: Frank Shackleton and the Irish Crown Jewels

Quarter-Arsed History presents: Frank Shackleton and his potential connection with the theft of the Irish Crown Jewels - never conclusively proven, but nonetheless involving quite a few controversial and scandalous details. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dec 18, 2024 • 23:56

Episode 338: Sir Ernest Shackleton and the Imperial Trans-Antarctic Expedition

Episode 338: Sir Ernest Shackleton and the Imperial Trans-Antarctic Expedition

In this week's episode, meet the famed explorer Sir Ernest Shackleton, who led the ill-fated Imperial Trans-Antarctic Expedition into the Antarctic. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dec 15, 2024 • 1:20:02

Monuments Episode 50: The Hiroshima Peace Memorial

Monuments Episode 50: The Hiroshima Peace Memorial

This week's monument is the Hiroshima Peace Memorial, the semi-ruined remains of the only building to survive in the immediate vicinity of the atomic bomb that was dropped on the Japanese city of Hiroshima in August 1945. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dec 13, 2024 • 18:37

QAH Episode 88: A Brief History of Pigeon Post

QAH Episode 88: A Brief History of Pigeon Post

Quarter-Arsed History presents: a brief history of Pigeon Post, how humans have used homing pigeons to facilitate speedy, long-distance communication for thousands and thousands of years. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dec 11, 2024 • 24:39

Episode 337: Famous Wartime Animals

Episode 337: Famous Wartime Animals

In this week's episode, meet five famous animals who have all served in the military: Cher Ami the pigeon, Wojtek the bear, Simon the cat, Reckless the pony, and William the goat. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dec 8, 2024 • 53:30

Monuments Episode 49: Mount Rushmore

Monuments Episode 49: Mount Rushmore

This week's monument is Mount Rushmore, also known as Tȟuŋkášila Šákpe - a mountainside in the US state of South Dakota that features colossal sculptures of four notable US presidents.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dec 6, 2024 • 20:19

QAH Episode 87: Sir Hubert Wilkins, the Adventurer from Adelaide

QAH Episode 87: Sir Hubert Wilkins, the Adventurer from Adelaide

Quarter-Arsed History presents: the tale of Sir Hubert Wilkins, a photographer, pilot, war hero, explorer, and ornithologist who led a truly remarkable life. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dec 4, 2024 • 26:54

Update: They Gave This Man a Book Deal

Update: They Gave This Man a Book Deal

We did it - they gave this man a book deal! "History's Strangest Deaths" will be published by Allen & Unwin next year, with more information coming in a few months. Thank you so much to everyone for all the encouragement and support - it is so exciting to think that the first Half-Arsed History book is coming in 2025! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dec 3, 2024 • 6:51

Episode 336: Rosa Parks and the Montgomery Bus Boycott

Episode 336: Rosa Parks and the Montgomery Bus Boycott

In this week's episode, get to know the US civil rights activise Rosa Parks, who made a stand for justice when she refused to give up her seat on a racially-segregated bus. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dec 1, 2024 • 51:50

Monuments Episode 48: The Golden Gate Bridge

Monuments Episode 48: The Golden Gate Bridge

This week's monument is the Golden Gate Bridge, an (allegedly) orange suspension bridge that spans the entrance to the San Francisco Bay in the US. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nov 29, 2024 • 19:27

QAH Episode 86: The Reign of Caracalla and Geta

QAH Episode 86: The Reign of Caracalla and Geta

Quarter-Arsed History presents: the reign of Caracalla and Geta, two murderous brothers who served - very briefly - as co-emperors of the Roman Empire. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nov 27, 2024 • 16:50

Episode 335: The History of the Gladiators

Episode 335: The History of the Gladiators

In this week's episode, learn all about the history of ancient Roman gladiators: who they were, how they trained and fought, and what happened to them when they won or lost. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nov 24, 2024 • 1:23:23

Monuments Episode 47: The Sydney Harbour Bridge

Monuments Episode 47: The Sydney Harbour Bridge

This week's monument is the Sydney Harbour Bridge, an icon not just of Sydney but of Australia more broadly - as painful as that may be for a Victorian to admit. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nov 22, 2024 • 20:09

QAH Episode 85: The 1981 Underarm Bowling Scandal

QAH Episode 85: The 1981 Underarm Bowling Scandal

Quarter-Arsed History presents: the 1981 Underarm Bowling Scandal, when the Australian ODI cricket team scored a controversial victory over the Kiwis with the use of a disgracefully unsporting bowling technique. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nov 20, 2024 • 22:33

Episode 334: Sir Donald Bradman, the Greatest Sportsman in History

Episode 334: Sir Donald Bradman, the Greatest Sportsman in History

In this week's episode, meet Sir Donald Bradman, who was undoubtedly the best cricketer in history and might just be the best sportsperson to have lived. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nov 17, 2024 • 1:03:40

Monuments Episode 46: Christ the Redeemer

Monuments Episode 46: Christ the Redeemer

This week's monument is Christ the Redeemer, a colossal mountaintop statue of Jesus that overlooks the Brazilian city of Rio de Janeiro. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nov 15, 2024 • 16:01

QAH Episode 84: The First Airborne Crossing of the English Channel

QAH Episode 84: The First Airborne Crossing of the English Channel

Quarter-Arsed History presents: the first airborne crossing of the English Channel, where two men had to come up with a very inventive and very funny way to drop weight from their balloon. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nov 13, 2024 • 17:36

Episode 333: The Worst US Presidents in History

Episode 333: The Worst US Presidents in History

In this week's episode, get to know four of the worst president in the history of the United States of America: John Tyler, James Buchanan, Andrew Johnson, and Warren G. Harding. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nov 10, 2024 • 53:26

Monuments Episode 45: The Hollywood Sign

Monuments Episode 45: The Hollywood Sign

This week's monument is the Hollywood sign, an icon of the US city of Los Angeles and a symbol of the mighty US film industry. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nov 8, 2024 • 18:41

QAH Episode 83: The Death of William Henry Harrison

QAH Episode 83: The Death of William Henry Harrison

Quarter-Arsed History presents: the untimely death of William Henry Harrison, whose 31-day presidency remains the shortest in US history. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nov 6, 2024 • 17:34

Episode 332: The Most Controversial US Presidential Elections in History

Episode 332: The Most Controversial US Presidential Elections in History

In this week's episode, learn about three of the most controversial presidential elections in US history and the root cause behind them: the broken Electoral College system. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nov 3, 2024 • 1:00:11

Monuments Episode 44: Chateau Frontenac

Monuments Episode 44: Chateau Frontenac

This week's monument is Chateau Frontenac, a beautiful palace-like building perched on a hill overlooking Quebec City in Canada. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nov 1, 2024 • 16:37

QAH Episode 82: The Melbourne Cup

QAH Episode 82: The Melbourne Cup

Quarter-Arsed History presents: the Melbourne Cup, a famous horse race held each year in Melbourne, Victoria, which has generated a few interesting stories across its long history. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Oct 30, 2024 • 23:45

Episode 331: Alves Reis and the Portuguese Banknote Crisis

Episode 331: Alves Reis and the Portuguese Banknote Crisis

In this week's episode, get to know Artur Virgilio Alves Reis and hear about the incredible fraud he undertook in 1924, scamming his way into 100 million Portuguese escudos. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Oct 27, 2024 • 1:03:28

Monuments Episode 43: The Eiffel Tower

Monuments Episode 43: The Eiffel Tower

This week's episode is the Eiffel Tower, perhaps the best-known monument on the face of the planet, an iconic part of the French capital, Paris. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Oct 25, 2024 • 22:27

QAH Episode 81: The Dancing Plague of 1518

QAH Episode 81: The Dancing Plague of 1518

Quarter-Arsed History presents: the Dancing Plague of 1518, a bizarre, unexplained phenomenon that saw the citizens of Strasbourg take to the streets and dance unceasingly for weeks on end. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Oct 23, 2024 • 16:58

Episode 330: Johann Strauss II, the Waltz King

Episode 330: Johann Strauss II, the Waltz King

In this week's episode, meet Johann Strauss II, a brilliant composer from the Romantic period, famous for his lively and joyful waltzes.Strauss playlist: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/195Ic94w6sCRNi19f0G1UP?si=54adb35532604621 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Oct 20, 2024 • 56:29

Monuments Episode 42: The Statue of Liberty

Monuments Episode 42: The Statue of Liberty

This week's monument is the Statue of Liberty, an instantly-recognisable symbol of the United States of America that has a thoroughly non-American origin story. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Oct 18, 2024 • 23:28

QAH Episode 80: Carlos Kaiser, Soccer's Greatest Conman

QAH Episode 80: Carlos Kaiser, Soccer's Greatest Conman

Quarter-Arsed History presents: Carlos Kaiser, a conman who managed to build a 13-year career as a star soccer player, without ever actually taking to the pitch and playing a game. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Oct 16, 2024 • 20:32

Episode 329: The Great Escape from Stalag Luft III

Episode 329: The Great Escape from Stalag Luft III

In this week's episode, hear the true story of the Great Escape, when Allied prisoners of war made a daring attempt at a mass breakout from a Nazi prison camp. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Oct 12, 2024 • 59:32

Monuments Episode 41: Neuschwanstein Castle

Monuments Episode 41: Neuschwanstein Castle

This week's monument is Neuschwanstein Castle, a spectacularly beautiful castle perched atop a mountain ridge in the German Alps. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Oct 11, 2024 • 28:27

QAH Episode 79: The French Revolution, According to AI

QAH Episode 79: The French Revolution, According to AI

Quarter-Arsed History presents: the French Revolution, with a dazzling AI-generated script that is astonishingly true to life, utterly indistinguishable from the real thing. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Oct 9, 2024 • 29:08

Episode 328: The Crusades - Part 2

Episode 328: The Crusades - Part 2

In this week's episode, conclude the story of the Crusades, with a collection of ridiculous tales from the five later campaigns waged by Christians seeking to conquer Jerusalem. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Oct 6, 2024 • 1:05:12

Monuments Episode 40: The Sagrada Familia

Monuments Episode 40: The Sagrada Familia

This week's monument is the Sagrada Familia, a huge and very unusually designed church in Barcelona, Spain - that after 140 years, still hasn't been finished. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Oct 4, 2024 • 18:10

QAH Episode 78: The Flemish Revolution

QAH Episode 78: The Flemish Revolution

Quarter-Arsed History presents: the Flemish Revolution, usually known by the name the Flemish Peasant Revolt of 1323-1328, which saw angry Flemish villagers take up arms against their hated feudal lord. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Oct 2, 2024 • 18:58

Episode 327: The Crusades - Part 1

Episode 327: The Crusades - Part 1

In this week's episode, learn about the first three of the crusades undertaken by armed Christian pilgrims, seeking to bring the Holy Land under Christian rule. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sep 29, 2024 • 53:27

Monuments Episode 39: The Palace of Westminster & Big Ben

Monuments Episode 39: The Palace of Westminster & Big Ben

This week's monument is the Palace of Westminster, the home of the British Parliament, and its famous clock tower, often (incorrectly) referred to as Big Ben. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sep 27, 2024 • 18:30

QAH Episode 77: The Six O'Clock Swill

QAH Episode 77: The Six O'Clock Swill

Quarter-Arsed History presents: the Six O'Clock Swill, a name given to the backfired attempt that temperance laws made to curb Aussie and Kiwi alcohol consumption. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sep 25, 2024 • 17:29

Episode 326: The History of Melbourne LIVE

Episode 326: The History of Melbourne LIVE

In this week's episode, get across the history of the Australian city of Melbourne, recorded live at the Alex Theatre in Melbourne itself. Here is a PDF of the slides used during the show: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1CAi-OaBkp8SKreGQyBpawg3YyHvgrT-R/view Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sep 22, 2024 • 2:01:10

Monuments Episode 38: The Arc de Triomphe

Monuments Episode 38: The Arc de Triomphe

This week's monument is the Arc de Triomphe, yet another truly iconic Parisian landmark - one that celebrates the revolutionary and Napoleonic periods of French history. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sep 20, 2024 • 17:07

QAH Episode 76: The Sydney Riot of 1879

QAH Episode 76: The Sydney Riot of 1879

Quarter-Arsed History presents: the Sydney Riot of 1879, when a riot erupted on during a cricket match between England and NSW due a dodgy umpiring decision. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sep 18, 2024 • 20:03

Episode 325: The History of Sydney LIVE

Episode 325: The History of Sydney LIVE

In this week's episode, get across the history of the Australian city of Sydney, recorded live at the Factory Theatre in Sydney itself. Here is a PDF of the slides used during the show: https://drive.google.com/file/d/19mUubwXufZeVjq9Z_uRnqF1kdBUDG3Jj/view Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sep 15, 2024 • 1:33:04

Monuments Episode 37: The Brandenburg Gate

Monuments Episode 37: The Brandenburg Gate

This week's monument is the Brandenburg Gate, one of Germany's most famous national icons and a monument that I have visited I don't know how many hundreds of times when I used to work in Berlin as a tour guide. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sep 13, 2024 • 19:42

QAH Episode 75: Project Habakkuk

QAH Episode 75: Project Habakkuk

Quarter-Arsed History presents: Project Habakkuk, the time when - in all seriousness - the Allies tried to build a massive aircraft carrier out of ice. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sep 11, 2024 • 25:23

Episode 324: The Battle of the Teutoburg Forest

Episode 324: The Battle of the Teutoburg Forest

In this week's episode, hear the tale of the Battle of the Teutoberg Forest, and understand why it such a monumentally important event in human history. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sep 8, 2024 • 53:21

Monuments Episode 36: The Grand Palace

Monuments Episode 36: The Grand Palace

This week's monument is the Grand Palace complex, found in the Thai capital of Bangkok, which has been the official residence of the Thai roayl family since the last 18th century. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sep 6, 2024 • 15:46

QAH Episode 74: John Dee, Queen Elizabeth's Pet Wizard

QAH Episode 74: John Dee, Queen Elizabeth's Pet Wizard

Quarter-Arsed History presents: John Dee, the royal astronomer at Queen Elizabeth's court, whose longstanding interest in the mystical and the occult resulted in him... honestly, just listen to the episode, you really won't believe what ended up happening. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sep 4, 2024 • 23:23

Episode 323: Elizabeth I, the Golden Age Queen

Episode 323: Elizabeth I, the Golden Age Queen

In this week's episode, meet Elizabeth I, one of the most famous and important monarchs in English and British history, whose legacy helped to build modern English culture, language, and politics. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sep 1, 2024 • 59:20

Monuments Episode 35: Buckingham Palace

Monuments Episode 35: Buckingham Palace

This week's monument is Buckingham Palace, the official residence of the British royal family and one of the most popular tourist attractions in the British capital of London. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Aug 30, 2024 • 18:14

QAH Episode 73: Emmerich Juettner, the Terrible Forger

QAH Episode 73: Emmerich Juettner, the Terrible Forger

Quarter-Arsed History presents: Emmerich Juettner, a forger who was both completely terrible at forging banknotes, but very good at not getting caught. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Aug 28, 2024 • 19:20

Episode 322: The Panama Canal

Episode 322: The Panama Canal

In this week's episode, hear the history of the construction of the Panama Canal, which links the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans across Central America. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Aug 25, 2024 • 54:03

Monuments Episode 34: The Palace of Versailles

Monuments Episode 34: The Palace of Versailles

This week's monument is the Palace of Versailles, a beautiful palace on the outskirts of Paris that served as the residence for the French royal family across the 18th century. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Aug 23, 2024 • 16:30

QAH Episode 72: The Origin of the Teddy Bear

QAH Episode 72: The Origin of the Teddy Bear

Quarter-Arsed History presents: the origin of the teddy bear, the children's stuffed toy which got its name after a presidential hunting trip in 1902, when Theodore Roosevelt refused to shoot a bear. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Aug 21, 2024 • 18:10

Episode 321: Theodore Roosevelt, America's Greatest President - Part 2

Episode 321: Theodore Roosevelt, America's Greatest President - Part 2

In this week's episode, continue to get to know Theodore Roosevelt by hearing all about his foreign policy and evaluate his lasting legacy as president of the US. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Aug 18, 2024 • 46:38

Monuments Episode 33: Potala Palace

Monuments Episode 33: Potala Palace

This week's monument is Potala Palace, a huge, fortress-like palace complex in the Tibetan city of Lhasa. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Aug 16, 2024 • 15:20

QAH Episode 71: The Leicester Balloon Riot

QAH Episode 71: The Leicester Balloon Riot

Quarter-Arsed History presents: the Leicester Balloon Riot, an incident that saw tens of thousands of angry people cause a ruckus because they thought a hot air balloon wasn't as big as they were hoping it would be. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Aug 14, 2024 • 16:21

Episode 320: Theodore Roosevelt, America's Greatest President - Part 1

Episode 320: Theodore Roosevelt, America's Greatest President - Part 1

In this episode, meet Theodore Roosevelt, and hear about his rise to the office of US president as well as his administration's overwhelmingly positive domestic legacy. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Aug 11, 2024 • 40:39

Monuments Episode 32: The Taj Mahal

Monuments Episode 32: The Taj Mahal

This week's monument is the Taj Mahal, a huge, opulent mausoleum in the Indian city of Agra, built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan I as a resting place for his wife, Mumtaz Mahal. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Aug 9, 2024 • 19:48

QAH Episode 70: The 1968 Olympic Protest Salute

QAH Episode 70: The 1968 Olympic Protest Salute

Quarter-Arsed History presents:the 1968 Olympic protest salute, when two African-American athletes staged a political protest on a medal podium at the Mexico City Olympics. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Aug 7, 2024 • 21:28

Episode 319: The Modern Olympic Games - Part 2

Episode 319: The Modern Olympic Games - Part 2

In this week's episode, conclude the history of the modern Olympic Games, covering their story from the beginning of the post-war period through to the present day. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Aug 4, 2024 • 1:02:47

Monuments Episode 31: The Blue Mosque

Monuments Episode 31: The Blue Mosque

This week's monument is the Blue Mosque, found in the Turkish city of Istanbul, one of the most beautiful and magnificent examples of classical Ottoman architecture. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Aug 2, 2024 • 17:30

QAH Episode 69: Jim Thorpe, the Great Athlete

QAH Episode 69: Jim Thorpe, the Great Athlete

Quarter-Arsed History presents: Jim Thorpe, an immensely talented athlete and sportsman who won Olympic gold in mismatched shoes, only to have his medals stripped from him. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jul 31, 2024 • 21:45

Episode 318: The Modern Olympic Games - Part 1

Episode 318: The Modern Olympic Games - Part 1

In this week's episode, discover the first half of the history of the Modern Olympic Games, from its inception as a brainchild of Pierre de Coubertin to the interruptions the Games experienced as a result of the Second World War. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jul 28, 2024 • 58:46

Monuments Episode 30: Mont-Saint-Michel Abbey

Monuments Episode 30: Mont-Saint-Michel Abbey

This week's monument is Mont-Saint-Michel Abbey, an incredible building that stands on a tidal island in a bay in Normandy, France. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jul 26, 2024 • 14:42

QAH Episode 68: Pepsi’s Soviet Warships

QAH Episode 68: Pepsi’s Soviet Warships

Quarter-Arsed History presents: that time when Pepsi came into possession of a giant fleet of Soviet warships, after brokering a deal to sell Pepsi in the USSR. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jul 24, 2024 • 18:30

Episode 317: Assassination Attempts on US Presidents

Episode 317: Assassination Attempts on US Presidents

In this week's episode, hear about all the major assassination attempts that have been made on presidents of the United States, both successful and unsuccessful. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jul 21, 2024 • 1:02:04

Monuments Episode 29: Red Square

Monuments Episode 29: Red Square

This week's monument is Red Square, found in the centre of the Moscow, the Russian capital, a public plaza surrounded by famous buildings such as St Basil's Cathedral and the Kremlin. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jul 19, 2024 • 20:08

QAH Episode 67: A Brief History of the Necktie

QAH Episode 67: A Brief History of the Necktie

Quarter-Arsed History presents: a brief history of the necktie, from its origin as a fashion accessory for Croatian mercenaries to an everyday piece of formal or business clothing. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jul 17, 2024 • 23:48

Episode 316: History’s Biggest Misconceptions - Part 2

Episode 316: History’s Biggest Misconceptions - Part 2

In this week's episode, learn the truth behind five more commonly-held historical misonceptions: the colour of classical statues, things erroneously associated with Julius Caesar, the existence of the iron maiden, Napoleon's height, and NASA's million-dollar space pen. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jul 14, 2024 • 46:45

Monuments Episode 28: St Peter's Basilica & the Sistine Chapel

Monuments Episode 28: St Peter's Basilica & the Sistine Chapel

This week's monuments are St Peter's Basilica, the largest church in the world, and the Sistine Chapel, with its famous ceiling painted by Michelangelo, both found in the Vatican City in Rome. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jul 12, 2024 • 17:04

QAH Episode 66: The Dublin Whiskey Fire

QAH Episode 66: The Dublin Whiskey Fire

Quarter-Arsed History presents: the Dublin Whiskey Fire, when torrents of flaming whiskey flooded through Dublin resulting in the loss of 13 lives - none of them to the fire itself, however, all instead to alcohol poisoning. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jul 10, 2024 • 15:57

Episode 315: The Rosetta Stone

Episode 315: The Rosetta Stone

In this week's episode, discover the story of the Rosetta Stone, a series of 2,000-year-old texts written that became the key to our modern understanding of the Ancient Egyptian language. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jul 7, 2024 • 58:59

Monuments Episode 27: Machu Picchu

Monuments Episode 27: Machu Picchu

This week's monument is Machu Picchu, a mountaintop citadel found in Peru, which served as an imperial retreat during the heyday of the Inca Empire. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jul 5, 2024 • 19:04

QAH Episode 65: Edward Dando, the Oyster Thief

QAH Episode 65: Edward Dando, the Oyster Thief

Quarter-Arsed History presents: Edward Dando, a bloke who became infamous in 1830s London for eating vast quantities of oysters, without ever paying for them. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jul 3, 2024 • 16:54

Announcing: Half-Arsed History LIVE!

Announcing: Half-Arsed History LIVE!

Half-Arsed History is taking to the stage this August, in Melbourne and Sydney! We'll have a great time getting across the histories of these two cities, and there's plenty of other stuff planned - Q&As, meet and greets, tour merch, a song or two, all sorts of things. Hope to see you there!Tickets are available now: https://premier.ticketek.com.au/shows/show.aspx?sh=HALFHIST24 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jul 1, 2024 • 5:01

Episode 314: Frederic Chopin, the Virtuosic Pianist

Episode 314: Frederic Chopin, the Virtuosic Pianist

In this week's episode, meet Frédéric Chopin, one of the most famous and celebrated composers and pianists of the Romantic Era, and learn about his life, work, and relationships. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jun 30, 2024 • 48:55

Monuments Episode 26: The Forbidden City

Monuments Episode 26: The Forbidden City

This week's monument is the Forbidden City, a huge palace complex in central Beijing, China, which served as the imperial seat of government for over 500 years. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jun 28, 2024 • 18:27

QAH Episode 64: The Ball of the Burning Men

QAH Episode 64: The Ball of the Burning Men

Quarter-Arsed History presents: the Ball of the Burning Men, a wedding celebration at which the reigning French king, Charles the Mad, was almost burnt to a crisp. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jun 26, 2024 • 16:59

Episode 313: Alan Turing and the Enigma Machine

Episode 313: Alan Turing and the Enigma Machine

In this week's episode, learn the incredible story of Alan Turing - a man who not only laid the foundations of modern computer science, but also had an immense impact on the Second World War due to his work in deciphering the Enigma code. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jun 23, 2024 • 1:04:56

Monuments Episode 25: Kinkaku-ji

Monuments Episode 25: Kinkaku-ji

This week's monument is Kinkaku-ji, also known as Rokuon-ji, a Buddhist temple in the Japanese city of Kyoto, famous for the fact that much of its exterior is completely covered in gold. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jun 21, 2024 • 15:10

QAH Episode 63: Mark Thatcher and the Paris-Dakar Rally

QAH Episode 63: Mark Thatcher and the Paris-Dakar Rally

Quarter-Arsed History presents: the time Mark Thatcher, the son of a sitting UK prime minister, decided he wanted to be a racecar driver and got stranded in the middle of the Sahara Desert. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jun 19, 2024 • 22:58

Episode 312: Christina of Sweden, Minerva of the North

Episode 312: Christina of Sweden, Minerva of the North

In this week's episode, get to know Christina of Sweden, the keenly intelligent and fiercely independent queen of Sweden, who is remembered today for her passion of learning and knowledge. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jun 16, 2024 • 48:59

Monuments Episode 24: The Great Mosque of Djenne

Monuments Episode 24: The Great Mosque of Djenne

This week's monument is the Great Mosque of Djenné, found in Mali, which to this day remains the largest mud brick building on the planet. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jun 14, 2024 • 16:23

QAH Episode 62: Legio IX Hispana, the Lost Legion

QAH Episode 62: Legio IX Hispana, the Lost Legion

Quarter-Arsed History presents: the tale of Legio IX Hispana, also know as the Lost Legion, an ancient Roman military unit that one day just disappeared from recorded history. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jun 12, 2024 • 21:22

Episode 311: Emperor Trajan, Optimus Princeps

Episode 311: Emperor Trajan, Optimus Princeps

In this week's episode, discover the story of one of the greatest Roman emperors ever to have lived: Trajan, who brought the empire to its largest territorial extent in 117 CE. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jun 9, 2024 • 53:35

Monuments Episode 23: Himeji Castle

Monuments Episode 23: Himeji Castle

This week's monument is Himeji Castle, a complex in Japan that is perhaps the finest and most magnificent example of Japanese castle-building. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jun 7, 2024 • 22:10

QAH Episode 61: A Brief History of the State of Origin

QAH Episode 61: A Brief History of the State of Origin

Quarter Arsed History presents: a brief history of the State of Origin, an very popular rugby league series that sees representatives from Queensland and New South Wales face off every year. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jun 5, 2024 • 18:58

Episode 310: Oscar Wilde, the Brilliant Playwright

Episode 310: Oscar Wilde, the Brilliant Playwright

In this week's episode, learn all about Oscar Wilde, the famous Anglo-Irish playwright who is still remembered for his dazzling wit, and hear the tragic tale of his downfall due to the harsh social attitudes of the time. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jun 2, 2024 • 56:39

Monuments Episode 22: Moai

Monuments Episode 22: Moai

This week's monument is the Moai, huge monolithic statues carved from volcanic rock and transported all across Rapa Nui (Easter Island) in the remote south Pacific Ocean. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

May 31, 2024 • 19:28

QAH Episode 60: The Nottingham Cheese Riot

QAH Episode 60: The Nottingham Cheese Riot

Quarter-Arsed History presents: the Nottingham Cheese Riot of 1766, when the English town of Nottingham was thrown into civil unrest due to... well, as you probably guessed, cheese. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

May 29, 2024 • 19:08

Episode 309: The Assassination of Abraham Lincoln

Episode 309: The Assassination of Abraham Lincoln

In this week's episode, listen to the tale of the assassination of Abraham Lincoln, when actor John Wilkes Booth shot the sitting US president in Ford's Theatre. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

May 26, 2024 • 45:24

Monuments Episode 21: The Alhambra

Monuments Episode 21: The Alhambra

This week's monument is the Alhambra, a mediaeval hilltop citadel overlooking the Spanish city of Granada, that is one of the finest examples of Islamic architecture in the entire world. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

May 24, 2024 • 15:56

QAH Episode 59: Ten Cent Beer Night

QAH Episode 59: Ten Cent Beer Night

Quarter-Arsed History presents: Ten Cent Beer Night, a baseball game at which beer was sold at ten cents a cup, leading to streakers, missiles pelting the players on the field, and eventually a full-blown riot. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

May 22, 2024 • 18:36

Episode 308: The History of the United States - Part 4: Cold War and Global Hegemony

Episode 308: The History of the United States - Part 4: Cold War and Global Hegemony

In this week's episode, conclude an overview of US history with the last of a four-part series, this week getting across the radical changes that took place in post-war USA, with things like the Cold War, the Civil Rights Movement, the War on Terror, and more. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

May 19, 2024 • 1:18:08

Monuments Episode 20: The Louvre Palace

Monuments Episode 20: The Louvre Palace

This week's monument is the Louvre Palace, a building in Paris, France that is today home to what is today the world's most famous art museum, but used to be a royal residence for French kings. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

May 17, 2024 • 20:38

QAH Episode 58: The Harlem Hellfighters

QAH Episode 58: The Harlem Hellfighters

Quarter-Arsed History presents: the Harlem Hellfighters, the nickname given to the US 369th Infantry Regiment, a unit of mostly African-American soldiers sent over to Europe to fight in the First World War. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

May 15, 2024 • 18:44

Episode 307: The History of the United States - Part 3: Reconstruction and World War

Episode 307: The History of the United States - Part 3: Reconstruction and World War

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, get stuck into the third of four episodes covering the history of the United States of America, this time covering the Reconstruction and Progressive Eras, the World Wars, Great Depression, and New Deal. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

May 12, 2024 • 58:42

Monuments Episode 19: Notre-Dame de Paris

Monuments Episode 19: Notre-Dame de Paris

This week's monument is Notre-Dame de Paris, one of the most famous Gothic-style cathedrals on the face of the planet. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

May 10, 2024 • 25:37

QAH Episode 57: Ea-Nasir, the Fine Copper Merchant

QAH Episode 57: Ea-Nasir, the Fine Copper Merchant

Quarter-Arsed History presents: the story of Ea-Nasir, a copper merchant whose reputation as a shonky businessman has lasted almost 3,800 years. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

May 8, 2024 • 18:04

Episode 306: The History of the United States - Part 2: Expansion and Civil War

Episode 306: The History of the United States - Part 2: Expansion and Civil War

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, continue an overview of US history, focussing on the first half of the 19th century: foreign policy, westward expansion, slavery, and the American Civil War. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

May 5, 2024 • 1:11:25

Monuments Episode 18: Angkor Wat

Monuments Episode 18: Angkor Wat

This week's monument is Angkor Wat, an enormous Buddhist temple complex found in Cambodia that is said to be the largest religious structure in the world. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

May 3, 2024 • 16:21

QAH Episode 56: The Day John Sattler Broke His Jaw

QAH Episode 56: The Day John Sattler Broke His Jaw

Quarter-Arsed History presents: the day John Sattler broke his jaw, when during the 1970 NSWRFL grand final, the South Sydney played through the entire match even after having his jaw broken in three places. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

May 1, 2024 • 13:51

Episode 305: The History of the United States - Part 1: Colonisation and Independence

Episode 305: The History of the United States - Part 1: Colonisation and Independence

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, hear the first of a four-part series on the history of the United States of America, including its indigenous peoples, the colonisation process, the American Revolutionary War, and its immediate consequences. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Apr 28, 2024 • 54:32

Monuments Episode 17: Great Zimbabwe

Monuments Episode 17: Great Zimbabwe

This week's monument is Great Zimbabwe, a mediaeval city in Zimbabwe that generated great wealth and prosperity before ultimately falling into decline and ruin in the 15h century. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Apr 26, 2024 • 19:10

QAH Episode 55: Simpson and His Donkey

QAH Episode 55: Simpson and His Donkey

Quarter-Arsed History presents: Simpson and his donkey, the tale of the brave Anzac John Simpson who rescued his wounded comrades from the battlefields of Gallipoli with the help of a donkey. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Apr 24, 2024 • 12:26

Episode 304: The ANZAC Campaign in Gallipoli

Episode 304: The ANZAC Campaign in Gallipoli

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, find out about the ill-fated Gallipoli Campaign of the First World War and the role the ANZACs played in it, resulting in the yearly observance of Anzac Day. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Apr 21, 2024 • 55:03

Monuments Episode 16: The Tower of London

Monuments Episode 16: The Tower of London

This week's monument is the Tower of London, a castle complex in the UK capital that dates back almost a thousand years - and was a lot more than just a prison. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Apr 19, 2024 • 20:51

QAH Episode 54: The Rebecca Riots

QAH Episode 54: The Rebecca Riots

Quarter-Arsed History presents: the Rebecca riots, when hordes of Welsh farmers staged violent protests across the country... in drag. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Apr 17, 2024 • 15:51

Episode 303: Owain Glyndwr and the Welsh Revolt

Episode 303: Owain Glyndwr and the Welsh Revolt

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, hear the tale of Owain Glyndŵr, a Welsh nobleman who led a rebellion against the English in the 14th century. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Apr 14, 2024 • 45:48

Monuments Episode 15: Chichen Itza

Monuments Episode 15: Chichen Itza

This week's monument is Chichen Itza, an old Maya city found in today's Mexico that grew to become one of the largest and most powerful cities in Mesoamerica. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Apr 12, 2024 • 19:10

QAH Episode 53: The Extinction of the Thylacine

QAH Episode 53: The Extinction of the Thylacine

Quarter-Arsed History presents: the extinction of the thylacine, a carnivorous marsupial that died out in 1936 after decades of being maligned and hunted. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Apr 10, 2024 • 16:43

Episode 302: The Extinction of the Dodo

Episode 302: The Extinction of the Dodo

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, hear the tragic tale of the dodo, and how it was driven to extinction by humans after we landed on the island of Mauritius. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Apr 7, 2024 • 44:07

Monuments Episode 14: Borobudur

Monuments Episode 14: Borobudur

This week's monument is Borobudur, the largest Buddhist temple in the entire world, found on the Indonesian island of Java. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Apr 5, 2024 • 16:38

QAH Episode 52: The 1932 Kimberley Rescue

QAH Episode 52: The 1932 Kimberley Rescue

Quarter-Arsed History presents: the 1932 Kimberley Rescue, when two German aviators got lost in the Australian wilderness before being rescued by indigenous trackers. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Apr 3, 2024 • 19:40

Episode 301: The Historic Origins of Popular Sayings - Part 2

Episode 301: The Historic Origins of Popular Sayings - Part 2

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, discover the historical origins behind five popular sayings: "mad as a hatter", "bite the bullet", "crocodile tears", "I have a bridge to sell you", and "baker's dozen". Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mar 31, 2024 • 48:49

Monuments Episode 13: The Dome of the Rock

Monuments Episode 13: The Dome of the Rock

This week's monument is the Dome of the Rock, the oldest example of Islamic architecture in the world, found atop Temple Mount in Jerusalem, Israel. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mar 29, 2024 • 21:29

QAH Episode 51: Herodotus, the Father of History

QAH Episode 51: Herodotus, the Father of History

Quarter-Arsed History presents: Herodotus, the ancient Greek traveller, writer, and orator whose seminal work Histories established history as an academic discipline. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mar 27, 2024 • 19:20

Episode 300: The History of History

Episode 300: The History of History

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, get across a history of history itself, exploring the way we have recorded our own history over the millennia, how our relationship with history has changed, and how it has changed us. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mar 24, 2024 • 1:43:47

Monuments Episode 12: Skellig Michael

Monuments Episode 12: Skellig Michael

This week's monument is the monastery on Skellig Michael, built on a tiny island to the southwest of Ireland, which was famously featured in the most recent Star Wars films. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mar 22, 2024 • 15:37

QAH Episode 50: Miyamoto Musashi, the Great Duelist

QAH Episode 50: Miyamoto Musashi, the Great Duelist

Quarter-Arsed History presents: Miyamoto Musashi, one of the greatest duellists history has ever seen, with an incredible record of 61 victories - one of them with an oar. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mar 20, 2024 • 21:41

Episode 299: William Adams and the Real-Life History of Shogun

Episode 299: William Adams and the Real-Life History of Shogun

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, discover the true story of William Adams, the inspiration behind the popular TV show Shogun and his fictional counterpart, John Blackthorne. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mar 17, 2024 • 58:52

Monuments Episode 11: The Hagia Sophia

Monuments Episode 11: The Hagia Sophia

This week's monument is the Hagia Sophia, a beautiful and iconic building in Istanbul that has served as a Christian church, Islamic mosque, and secular museum. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mar 15, 2024 • 18:32

QAH Episode: 49 Project Hajile

QAH Episode: 49 Project Hajile

Quarter-Arsed History presents: Project Hajile, where British military engineers attempted to create a rocket-powered landing system for heavy airdrops during the Second World War. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mar 13, 2024 • 18:25

Episode 298: Grace O’Malley, the Irish Rebel Pirate

Episode 298: Grace O’Malley, the Irish Rebel Pirate

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, hear the tale of the Irish noblewoman, rebel, and pirate, Grace O'Malley, known in Irish as Gráinne Ní Mháille. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mar 10, 2024 • 46:53

Monuments Episode 10: The Church of the Holy Sepulchre

Monuments Episode 10: The Church of the Holy Sepulchre

This week's monument is the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, a church found in Jerusalem that is considered to be the holiest place in the Christian faith, and one that has some very amusing stories attached to it. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mar 8, 2024 • 19:30

QAH Episode 48: Johan de Witt, the Cannibalised Statesman

QAH Episode 48: Johan de Witt, the Cannibalised Statesman

Quarter-Arsed History presents: Johan de Witt, a Dutch political leader who led the Dutch Republic through the closing years of its golden age, before being killed and eaten by his people. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mar 6, 2024 • 18:47

Episode 297: The History of Chess

Episode 297: The History of Chess

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, go on a journey through the history of chess, from its origins as an Indian board game called chaturanga, through its development in Persia and the Middle East, to become the international game it is today. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mar 3, 2024 • 50:41

Monuments Episode 9: The Colosseum

Monuments Episode 9: The Colosseum

This week's monument is the Colosseum, found in the Italian capital of Rome, which played host to bloody spectacles for hundreds of years during the height of the Roman Empire. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mar 1, 2024 • 20:26

QAH Episode 47: The Fine Cotton Affair

QAH Episode 47: The Fine Cotton Affair

Quarter-Arsed History presents: the Fine Cotton Affair, when a horse racing syndicate made a farcical attempt at a "ring-in", involving hair dye, spray paint, and ultimately, multiple jail terms for those involved. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Feb 28, 2024 • 17:06

Episode 296: Vasco da Gama, the Explorer Who Shrank the World

Episode 296: Vasco da Gama, the Explorer Who Shrank the World

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, hear the tale of the famous Portuguese explorer Vasco da Gama, whose mixed historical legacy includes being in command of the first successful sea voyage from Europe to Asia. document.createElement('audio'); https://open.acast.com/public/streams/65a47774968ba8001771f445/episodes/65d449f6012364001864b7bf.mp3 Download Episode (Right click and select “Save as…”)

Feb 25, 2024 • 0:00

Episode 296: Vasco da Gama, the Explorer Who Shrank the World

Episode 296: Vasco da Gama, the Explorer Who Shrank the World

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, hear the tale of the famous Portuguese explorer Vasco da Gama, whose mixed historical legacy includes being in command of the first successful sea voyage from Europe to Asia. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Feb 25, 2024 • 40:51

Monuments Episode 8: The Western Wall

Monuments Episode 8: The Western Wall

This week's monument is the Western Wall, which in the Jewish faith is one of the holiest places in the world, but was originally built as a retaining wall for the expansion of the Second Temple on Temple Mount. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Feb 23, 2024 • 12:41

QAH Episode 46: The White Ship Disaster

QAH Episode 46: The White Ship Disaster

Quarter-Arsed History presents: the White Ship Disaster, a shipwreck that saw the heir to the English throne die, directly leading to the outbreak of a prolonged civil war known as the Anarchy. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Feb 21, 2024 • 13:56

Episode 295: King Stephen, Empress Matilda, and the Anarchy

Episode 295: King Stephen, Empress Matilda, and the Anarchy

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, learn all about the Anarchy, a devastating civil war that took place in 12th-century England in the wake of a succession crisis. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Feb 18, 2024 • 40:07

Episode 295: King Stephen, Empress Matilda, and the Anarchy

Episode 295: King Stephen, Empress Matilda, and the Anarchy

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, learn all about the Anarchy, a devastating civil war that took place in 12th-century England in the wake of a succession crisis. document.createElement('audio'); https://open.acast.com/public/streams/65a47774968ba8001771f445/episodes/65d1bd8ad5974e00165e083a.mp3 Download Episode (Right click and select “Save as…”)

Feb 18, 2024 • 0:00

Monuments Episode 7: The Pantheon

Monuments Episode 7: The Pantheon

This week's monument is the Pantheon, found in the Italian capital city of Rome - an ancient Roman temple built almost a thousand years ago, the exquisitely-decorated Pantheon is still in use today as a Catholic church. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Feb 16, 2024 • 19:06

QAH Episode 45: Louis Edward Curdes, the Friendly Fire Pilot

QAH Episode 45: Louis Edward Curdes, the Friendly Fire Pilot

Quarter-Arsed History presents: Edward Louis Curdes, an American flying ace from the Second World War, who not only deliberately shot down an American plane, but was awarded a medal for it. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Feb 14, 2024 • 17:09

Episode 294: The Lost Secret of Greek Fire

Episode 294: The Lost Secret of Greek Fire

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, uncover the mystery of a forgotten technology, an incendiary weapon that burnt even after being doused with water: Greek Fire. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Feb 11, 2024 • 48:12

Episode 294: The Lost Secret of Greek Fire

Episode 294: The Lost Secret of Greek Fire

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, uncover the mystery of a forgotten technology, an incendiary weapon that burnt even after being doused with water: Greek Fire.  document.createElement('audio'); https://open.acast.com/public/streams/65a47774968ba8001771f445/episodes/65c76e242f12a60016adda34.mp3 Download Episode (Right click and select “Save as…”)

Feb 11, 2024 • 0:00

Monuments Episode 6: Mahabodhi Temple

Monuments Episode 6: Mahabodhi Temple

This week's monument is Mahabodhi Temple, an ancient and exquisite place of worship found in northeast India, said to be where the Buddhist faith was founded. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Feb 9, 2024 • 13:07

QAH Episode 44: Michael Howe, the Vandemonian Bushranger

QAH Episode 44: Michael Howe, the Vandemonian Bushranger

Quarter-Arsed History presents: Michael Howe, a fearsomely cruel bushranger who terrorised the people of Van Diemen's Land - colonial Tasmania - in the early 19th century. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Feb 7, 2024 • 18:13

Episode 293: The Treaty of Waitangi

Episode 293: The Treaty of Waitangi

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, hear all about the Treaty of Waitangi – how and why it was written, translated, and signed, as well as the many important consequences it had for Aotearoa New Zealand. https://open.acast.com/public/streams/65a47774968ba8001771f445/episodes/65b9b0930210690018ceb4ad.mp3 Download Episode (Right click and select “Save as…”)

Feb 4, 2024 • 0:00

Episode 293: The Treaty of Waitangi

Episode 293: The Treaty of Waitangi

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, hear all about the Treaty of Waitangi - how and why it was written, translated, and signed, as well as the many important consequences it had for Aotearoa New Zealand. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Feb 4, 2024 • 57:41

Monuments Episode 5: Petra

Monuments Episode 5: Petra

This week's monument is Petra, an ancient city built thousands of years ago in what is today Jordan, with many of its most famous buildings exquisitely carved out of rock faces. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Feb 2, 2024 • 15:42

QAH Episode 43: Hongi Hika, the Great Rangatira

QAH Episode 43: Hongi Hika, the Great Rangatira

Quarter-Arsed History presents: Hongi Hika, a Māori chieftain and warleader who played a huge part in the history of Aotearoa New Zealand in the early 19th century. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 31, 2024 • 19:01

Episode 292: The Settlement of Aotearoa New Zealand

Episode 292: The Settlement of Aotearoa New Zealand

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, learn about the original inhabitants of Aotearoa New Zealand, the Māori, and how their way of lives changed and developed as they settled their homeland before encountering visitors from across the seas. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 28, 2024 • 50:28

Episode 292: The Settlement of Aotearoa New Zealand

Episode 292: The Settlement of Aotearoa New Zealand

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, learn about the original inhabitants of Aotearoa New Zealand, the Māori, and how their way of lives changed and developed as they settled their homeland before encountering visitors from across the seas.  document.createElement('audio'); https://open.acast.com/public/streams/65a47774968ba8001771f445/episodes/65b6291faaec5d0017a78c4b.mp3 Download Episode (Right click and select “Save as…”)

Jan 28, 2024 • 0:00

Monuments Episode 4: The Acropolis of Athens

Monuments Episode 4: The Acropolis of Athens

This week's monument is the Acropolis of Athens, a hilltop citadel dating back almost two and a half thousand years that features some of the most incredible examples of ancient Greek architectural and cultural output. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 26, 2024 • 13:02

QAH Episode 42: The 1914 Newfoundland Sealing Disaster

QAH Episode 42: The 1914 Newfoundland Sealing Disaster

Quarter-Arsed History presents: the 1914 Newfoundland Sealing Disaster, a tragic tale of death on the ice as completely avoidable communication issues saw two ship captains believe a lost crew was aboard the other's vessel. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 24, 2024 • 18:03

Episode 291: Florence Nightingale, the Lady with the Lamp

Episode 291: Florence Nightingale, the Lady with the Lamp

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, hear the incredible tale of Florence Nightingale, the founder of the modern profession of nursing. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 21, 2024 • 48:22

Episode 291: Florence Nightingale, the Lady with the Lamp

Episode 291: Florence Nightingale, the Lady with the Lamp

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, hear the incredible tale of Florence Nightingale, who not only founded the modern profession of nursing, but also had a significant influence on – of all things – the way we present data with graphs.  document.createElement('audio'); https://open.acast.com/public/streams/65a47774968ba8001771f445/episodes/65acf5be2e64140016dc4d0c.mp3 Download Episode (Right click and select “Save as…”)

Jan 21, 2024 • 0:00

Monuments Episode 3: The Nazca Lines

Monuments Episode 3: The Nazca Lines

This week's monument is the Nazca Lines, a remarkable and mysterious series of enormous shapes and patterns "drawn" into the Peru's Nazca Desert, that can only be seen properly from high in the air. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 19, 2024 • 14:38

QAH Episode 41: Yoshie Shiratori, the Prison Escape Artist

QAH Episode 41: Yoshie Shiratori, the Prison Escape Artist

Quarter-Arsed History presents: Yoshie Shiratori, a bloke who escaped four different times in four different ways from four different prisons - and then went back to prison of his own accord. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 17, 2024 • 16:05

Update: More Growth, More Ads, and Even More Content

Update: More Growth, More Ads, and Even More Content

More change is coming to Half-Arsed History: as the show has experienced unprecedented growth over the last twelve months, I want to talk about the big plans I have for the future, how I'm working to make them a reality, and what is supporting these plans - namely, for the first time, host-read ads. I'm posting this update to be as transparent as possible, and to seek your understanding by explaining how I see the incoming changes as being a net positive. As ever, I appreciate any and all feedba

Jan 16, 2024 • 23:54

Episode 290: The History of Tennis

Episode 290: The History of Tennis

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, go on a journey through the history of tennis, one of the modern world’s most popular professional sports and one that dates back almost a thousand years.  document.createElement('audio'); https://pdst.fm/e/chrt.fm/track/3C3G9G/traffic.megaphone.fm/RILEYK1707306984.mp3 Download Episode (Right click and select “Save as…”)

Jan 14, 2024 • 0:00

Episode 290: The History of Tennis

Episode 290: The History of Tennis

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, go on a journey through the history of tennis, one of the modern world's most popular professional sports and one that dates back almost a thousand years. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 14, 2024 • 50:46

Monuments Episode 2: The Great Wall of China

Monuments Episode 2: The Great Wall of China

This week's monument is the Great Wall of China, a series of defensive fortifications that has helped to secure the northern borders of various Chinese realms for over two and a half thousand years, with its most famous and iconic sections being built from the 14th century onwards. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 12, 2024 • 16:27

QAH Episode 40: HMS Diamond Rock and the Stone Frigates

QAH Episode 40: HMS Diamond Rock and the Stone Frigates

Quarter-Arsed History presents: HMS Diamond Rock, an island that the British Royal Navy once commissioned as a ship, leading to a tradition of creating "stone frigates" - areas of land that were, as far as the Royal Navy was concerned, actual ships. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 10, 2024 • 16:38

Episode 289: The Democratic Peace Theory

Episode 289: The Democratic Peace Theory

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, learn about the history of an international relations theory known as the Democratic Peace Theory, which argues that democracies never go to war with one another.  document.createElement('audio'); https://pdst.fm/e/chrt.fm/track/3C3G9G/traffic.megaphone.fm/RILEYK2508573749.mp3 Download Episode (Right click and select “Save as…”)

Jan 7, 2024 • 0:00

Episode 289: The Democratic Peace Theory

Episode 289: The Democratic Peace Theory

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, learn about the history of an international relations theory known as the Democratic Peace Theory, which argues that democracies never go to war with one another. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 7, 2024 • 48:45

Monuments Episode 1: Stonehenge

Monuments Episode 1: Stonehenge

This week's monument is Stonehenge, a prehistoric stone circle found in the United Kingdom that dates back to around 2500 BCE. While we don't know for certain why Stonehenge was built, the way it was built is truly remarkable, and millennia later it remains a place of great cultural significance. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 5, 2024 • 17:49

QAH Episode 39: Jenny Diver, Master Pickpocket

QAH Episode 39: Jenny Diver, Master Pickpocket

Quarter-Arsed History presents: Jenny Diver, a notorious and infamous pickpocket who terrorised London's wealthy classes in the early 18th century with all sorts of very inventive schemes. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 3, 2024 • 16:44

Episode 288: Charlemagne, Emperor of Europe

Episode 288: Charlemagne, Emperor of Europe

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, learn about the emperor Charlemagne, who had a foundational influence on the creation and development of modern Europe.  document.createElement('audio'); https://pdst.fm/e/chrt.fm/track/3C3G9G/traffic.megaphone.fm/RILEYK4838142576.mp3 Download Episode (Right click and select “Save as…”)

Dec 31, 2023 • 0:00

Episode 288: Charlemagne, Emperor of Europe

Episode 288: Charlemagne, Emperor of Europe

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, learn about the emperor Charlemagne, who had a foundational influence on the creation and development of modern Europe. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dec 31, 2023 • 58:59

QAH Episode 38: The Bombing of the Rainbow Warrior

QAH Episode 38: The Bombing of the Rainbow Warrior

Quarter-Arsed History presents: the Bombing of the Rainbow Warrior, an act of state terrorism carried out by France against a Greenpeace ship in a Kiwi harbour in 1985. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dec 27, 2023 • 17:01

Episode 287: Charles Darwin, Evolutionary Revolutionary

Episode 287: Charles Darwin, Evolutionary Revolutionary

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, discover the tale of one of the most important scientific figures in human history: Charles Darwin, and his revolutionary theory on evolution. document.createElement('audio'); https://pdst.fm/e/chrt.fm/track/3C3G9G/traffic.megaphone.fm/RILEYK2962828015.mp3 Download Episode (Right click and select “Save as…”)

Dec 24, 2023 • 0:00

Episode 287: Charles Darwin, Evolutionary Revolutionary

Episode 287: Charles Darwin, Evolutionary Revolutionary

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, discover the tale of one of the most important scientific figures in human history: Charles Darwin, and his revolutionary theory on evolution. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dec 24, 2023 • 1:12:51

QAH Episode 37: The Christmas Truce

QAH Episode 37: The Christmas Truce

Quarter-Arsed History presents: the Christmas Truce, an unofficial and unauthorised ceasefire between soldiers fighting the First World War over Christmas in 1914. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dec 20, 2023 • 16:32

Episode 286: Pedro II of Brazil, the Magnanimous Emperor

Episode 286: Pedro II of Brazil, the Magnanimous Emperor

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, hear the life story of one of the greatest monarchs ever to have lived: Brazil's Pedro II the Magnanimous.

Dec 17, 2023 • 0:00

Episode 286: Pedro II of Brazil, the Magnanimous Emperor

Episode 286: Pedro II of Brazil, the Magnanimous Emperor

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, hear the life story of one of the greatest monarchs ever to have lived: Brazil's Pedro II the Magnanimous. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dec 17, 2023 • 1:07:34

QAH Episode 36: Alfred Nobel, Merchant of Death

QAH Episode 36: Alfred Nobel, Merchant of Death

Quarter-Arsed History presents: Alfred Nobel, a man who may have attempted to cover up his legacy as the inventor of dynamite by instituting the world-famous Nobel Prizes. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dec 13, 2023 • 17:47

Episode 285: The Elgin Marbles

Episode 285: The Elgin Marbles

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, uncover the story behind one a longstanding diplomatic stoush between Greece and Britain, and the items that caused it: the Elgin Marbles.

Dec 10, 2023 • 0:00

Episode 285: The Elgin Marbles

Episode 285: The Elgin Marbles

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, uncover the story behind one a longstanding diplomatic stoush between Greece and Britain, and the items that caused it: the Elgin Marbles.NOTE: Sincere apologies for my frustratingly incorrect pronunciation of "Elgin". I should have looked it up before I started recording, oops! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dec 10, 2023 • 1:00:57

QAH Episode 35: The Principality of Hutt River

QAH Episode 35: The Principality of Hutt River

Quarter-Arsed History presents: the story of the Principality of Hutt River, an unrecognised micronation whose chief exports were wheat, shonky passports, and tax evasion. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dec 6, 2023 • 19:53

Episode 284: The Mughal Empire

Episode 284: The Mughal Empire

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, get across a condensed history of one of the richest and most powerful empires of the early modern period: the Mughal Empire.

Dec 3, 2023 • 0:00

Episode 284: The Mughal Empire

Episode 284: The Mughal Empire

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, get across a condensed history of one of the richest and most powerful empires of the early modern period: the Mughal Empire. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dec 3, 2023 • 56:43

QAH Episode 34: A Brief History of Powdered Wigs

QAH Episode 34: A Brief History of Powdered Wigs

Quarter-Arsed History presents: a brief history of powdered wigs, from why and how they emerged as an essential fashion accessory for western men in the 18th century to their eventual decline and downfall. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nov 29, 2023 • 20:21

Episode 283: The Prophecies of Nostradamus

Episode 283: The Prophecies of Nostradamus

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, hear the life story of the the celebrated French seer Nostradamus, and examine some of his more famous prophecies in more detail. document.createElement('audio'); https://pdst.fm/e/chrt.fm/track/3C3G9G/traffic.megaphone.fm/RILEYK6460964911.mp3 Download Episode (Right click and select “Save as…”)

Nov 26, 2023 • 0:00

Episode 283: The Prophecies of Nostradamus

Episode 283: The Prophecies of Nostradamus

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, hear the life story of the the celebrated French seer Nostradamus, and examine some of his more famous prophecies in more detail. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nov 26, 2023 • 49:38

QAH Episode 33: Operation Cowboy

QAH Episode 33: Operation Cowboy

Quarter-Arsed History presents: Operation Cowboy, when an unlikely group of allies came together in the closing stages of the Second World War in Europe to rescue a herd of prize horses. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nov 22, 2023 • 16:09

Episode 282: Johann Sebastian Bach, the Famed Baroque Composer

Episode 282: Johann Sebastian Bach, the Famed Baroque Composer

In this week's episode, learn the life story of the famous composer Johann Sebastian Bach while listening to some of his most enduring works - most of which you are already probably familiar with, even if you don't realise it.

Nov 19, 2023 • 0:00

Episode 282: Johann Sebastian Bach, the Famed Baroque Composer

Episode 282: Johann Sebastian Bach, the Famed Baroque Composer

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, learn the life story of the famous composer Johann Sebastian Bach while listening to some of his most enduring works - most of which you are already probably familiar with, even if you don't realise it. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nov 19, 2023 • 55:16

QAH Episode 32: Adolphe Sax, Inventor of the Saxophone

QAH Episode 32: Adolphe Sax, Inventor of the Saxophone

Quarter-Arsed History presents: Adolphe Sax, who not only invented the saxophone but also defied death on eight different occasions as a small child. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nov 15, 2023 • 18:33

Episode 281: Kate Sheppard, the Tenacious Suffragette

Episode 281: Kate Sheppard, the Tenacious Suffragette

In this week's episode, discover the remarkable tale of Kate Sheppard, who was instrumental in making Aotearoa New Zealand the first self-governing place on Earth to offer universal women's suffrage to its populace.

Nov 12, 2023 • 0:00

Episode 281: Kate Sheppard, the Tenacious Suffragette

Episode 281: Kate Sheppard, the Tenacious Suffragette

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, discover the remarkable tale of Kate Sheppard, who was instrumental in making Aotearoa New Zealand the first self-governing place on Earth to offer universal women's suffrage to its populace. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nov 12, 2023 • 47:11

QAH Episode 31: The Loudun Possessions

QAH Episode 31: The Loudun Possessions

Quarter-Arsed History presents: the Loudun Possessions, an affair that saw a horny French priest executed for the possession of some nuns during over a dispute about the demolition of Loudun's town walls. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nov 8, 2023 • 14:28

Episode 280: History’s Longest Reigns

Episode 280: History’s Longest Reigns

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, count down through the five longest-reigning sovereign monarchs in history, from ancient Maya city states to modern 21st-century kingdoms.

Nov 5, 2023 • 0:00

Episode 280: History’s Longest Reigns

Episode 280: History’s Longest Reigns

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, count down through the five longest-reigning sovereign monarchs in history, from ancient Maya city states to modern 21st-century kingdoms. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nov 5, 2023 • 40:14

QAH Episode 30: Sayyida al Hurra, the Moroccan Corsair

QAH Episode 30: Sayyida al Hurra, the Moroccan Corsair

Quarter-Arsed History presents: Sayyida al Hurra, a Moroccan noblewoman who ruled the city-state of Tétouan with a powerful pirate fleet that terrorised the Mediterranean. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nov 1, 2023 • 17:13

Episode 279: The History of Halloween

Episode 279: The History of Halloween

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, learn the history of the celebration today known as Halloween, from its origin as a Christian festival for saints and martyrs to its modern Samhain-influenced incarnation. document.createElement('audio'); https://pdst.fm/e/chrt.fm/track/3C3G9G/traffic.megaphone.fm/RILEYK7891954936.mp3 Download Episode (Right click and select “Save as…”)

Oct 29, 2023 • 0:00

Episode 279: The History of Halloween

Episode 279: The History of Halloween

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, learn the history of the celebration today known as Halloween, from its origin as a Christian festival for saints and martyrs to its modern Samhain-influenced incarnation. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Oct 28, 2023 • 41:07

QAH Episode 29: Al Capone, Chicago's Notorious Gangster

QAH Episode 29: Al Capone, Chicago's Notorious Gangster

Quarter-Arsed History presents: Al Capone, the infamous Mafia boss whose legendary fame during the Prohibition era has had a huge influence on the popular conception of gangsters to this day. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Oct 25, 2023 • 16:49

Episode 278: The Sicilian Mafia

Episode 278: The Sicilian Mafia

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, discover the history of the Sicilian Mafia, the most famous criminal organisation in history, and hear about its spread from the island of Sicily across the world. document.createElement('audio'); https://pdst.fm/e/chrt.fm/track/3C3G9G/traffic.megaphone.fm/RILEYK7079900678.mp3 Download Episode (Right click and select “Save as…”)

Oct 22, 2023 • 0:00

Episode 278: The Sicilian Mafia

Episode 278: The Sicilian Mafia

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, discover the history of the Sicilian Mafia, the most famous criminal organisation in history, and hear about its spread from the island of Sicily across the world. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Oct 22, 2023 • 46:16

QAH Episode 28 George Mallory, Lost on Everest

QAH Episode 28 George Mallory, Lost on Everest

Quarter-Arsed History presents: George Mallory, the British mountaineer who lost his life while making an attempt on the summit of Mount Everest back in 1924. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Oct 18, 2023 • 14:44

Episode 277: Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay

Episode 277: Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, hear the tale of Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay, the first two people to be confirmed to have made it to the peak of the highest mountain on Earth, Mount Everest.  document.createElement('audio'); https://pdst.fm/e/chrt.fm/track/3C3G9G/traffic.megaphone.fm/RILEYK3048385106.mp3 Download Episode (Right click and select “Save as…”)

Oct 15, 2023 • 0:00

Episode 277: Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay

Episode 277: Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, hear the tale of Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay, the first two people to be confirmed to have made it to the peak of the highest mountain on Earth, Mount Everest. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Oct 15, 2023 • 39:57

QAH Episode 27: The Astor Place Riot

QAH Episode 27: The Astor Place Riot

Quarter-Arsed History presents: the Astor Place Riot, a deadly riot that erupted on the streets of New York after a longstanding disagreement over who was the best Shakespearean actor of the time. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Oct 11, 2023 • 17:33

Episode 276: The People on Australian Money

Episode 276: The People on Australian Money

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, find out about all the famous Australians represented on Australian banknotes: Banjo Paterson and Dame Mary Gilmore, Mary Reibey and John Flynn, David Ngunaitponi and Edith Cowan, and Dame Nellie Melba and Sir John Monash.

Oct 8, 2023 • 0:00

Episode 276: The People on Australian Money

Episode 276: The People on Australian Money

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, find out about all the famous Australians represented on Australian banknotes: Banjo Paterson and Dame Mary Gilmore, Mary Reibey and John Flynn, David Ngunaitponi and Edith Cowan, and Dame Nellie Melba and Sir John Monash. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Oct 8, 2023 • 1:00:08

QAH Episode 26: Bir Tawil, Earth’s Last Unclaimed Land

QAH Episode 26: Bir Tawil, Earth’s Last Unclaimed Land

Quarter-Arsed History presents: Bir Tawil, the only sizeable area of land outside of Antarctica that remains unclaimed, as Egypt and Sudan both fight for the other nation's claim to it. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Oct 4, 2023 • 13:42

Episode 275: The Anarchy at Samarra, the Setting for Assassin’s Creed Mirage

Episode 275: The Anarchy at Samarra, the Setting for Assassin’s Creed Mirage

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, learn more about the historical setting for the upcoming Assassin's Creed Mirage: a tumultuous and chaotic time in Islamic history known as the Anarchy at Samarra.

Oct 1, 2023 • 0:00

Episode 275: The Anarchy at Samarra, the Setting for Assassin's Creed Mirage

Episode 275: The Anarchy at Samarra, the Setting for Assassin's Creed Mirage

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, learn more about the historical setting for the upcoming Assassin's Creed Mirage: a tumultuous and chaotic time in Islamic history known as the Anarchy at Samarra. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Oct 1, 2023 • 40:21

QAH Episode 25: Samuel Bellamy, Forbes’ Top-Earning Pirate

QAH Episode 25: Samuel Bellamy, Forbes’ Top-Earning Pirate

Quarter-Arsed History presents: Samuel "Black Sam" Bellamy, whose short career as a pirate captain was enough to see him named by Forbes magazine as history's top-earning pirate. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sep 27, 2023 • 17:50

Episode 274: Edward “Blackbeard” Teach, the Fearsome Pirate

Episode 274: Edward “Blackbeard” Teach, the Fearsome Pirate

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, hear the tale of Edward “Blackbeard” Teach, who has gone on to become perhaps the most famous and well-known pirate in history.  document.createElement('audio'); https://pdst.fm/e/chrt.fm/track/3C3G9G/traffic.megaphone.fm/RILEYK7963824285.mp3 Download Episode (Right click and select “Save as…”)

Sep 24, 2023 • 0:00

Episode 274: Edward “Blackbeard” Teach, the Fearsome Pirate

Episode 274: Edward “Blackbeard” Teach, the Fearsome Pirate

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, hear the tale of Edward “Blackbeard” Teach, who has gone on to become perhaps the most famous and well-known pirate in history. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sep 24, 2023 • 45:41

QAH Episode 24: The 1944 Bombay Explosion

QAH Episode 24: The 1944 Bombay Explosion

Quarter-Arsed History presents: the 1944 Bombay Explosion, when a huge explosion ripped through the city's docks because of some truly idiotic mistakes when it came to loading cargo aboard a ship. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sep 20, 2023 • 16:13

Episode 273: A History of Australian Referendums

Episode 273: A History of Australian Referendums

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, learn everything you need to know about Australian referendums – what they are, how they work, and what was involved with the most famous and important ones in Australian history.  document.createElement('audio'); https://pdst.fm/e/chrt.fm/track/3C3G9G/traffic.megaphone.fm/RILEYK3225851176.mp3 Download Episode (Right click and select “Save as…”)

Sep 17, 2023 • 0:00

Episode 273: A History of Australian Referendums

Episode 273: A History of Australian Referendums

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, learn everything you need to know about Australian referendums - what they are, how they work, and what was involved with the most famous and important ones in Australian history. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sep 17, 2023 • 52:47

QAH Episode 23: The TRUTH about the Bermuda Triangle

QAH Episode 23: The TRUTH about the Bermuda Triangle

Quarter-Arsed History presents: the TRUTH about the Bermuda Triangle, the truth that THEY don't want you to know about all the MYSTERIOUS DISAPPEARANCES of planes and ships and people in this ONE SPECIFIC PART of the Atlantic Ocean. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sep 13, 2023 • 13:45

Episode 272: Catherine de’ Medici, Ruler of France

Episode 272: Catherine de’ Medici, Ruler of France

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, uncover the tale of Catherine de' Medici, an Italian noblewoman who rose to become the ruler of France during one of the most tumultuous periods in French history.

Sep 10, 2023 • 0:00

Episode 272: Catherine de' Medici, Ruler of France

Episode 272: Catherine de' Medici, Ruler of France

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, uncover the tale of Catherine de' Medici, an Italian noblewoman who rose to become the ruler of France during one of the most tumultuous periods in French history. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sep 10, 2023 • 47:58

QAH Episode 22: Benedict IX, the Profligate Pope

QAH Episode 22: Benedict IX, the Profligate Pope

Quarter-Arsed History presents: Pope Benedict IX, infamous not only for being the only person to have multiple "terms" as pope and for once selling the papacy to someone, but also for apparently having great big orgies in the papal residency. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sep 6, 2023 • 12:49

Episode 271: History’s Weirdest Deaths – Part 4

Episode 271: History’s Weirdest Deaths – Part 4

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, enjoy another ten stories surrounding some of the most ridiculous and amusing deaths in history.

Sep 3, 2023 • 0:00

Episode 271: History’s Weirdest Deaths - Part 4

Episode 271: History’s Weirdest Deaths - Part 4

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, enjoy another ten stories surrounding some of the most ridiculous and amusing deaths in history. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sep 3, 2023 • 42:01

QAH Episode 21: The Eruption of Mount Vesuvius

QAH Episode 21: The Eruption of Mount Vesuvius

Quarter-Arsed History presents: The Eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 CE, the famous event that saw the city of Pompeii destroyed and preserved under metres of volcanic material. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Aug 30, 2023 • 15:34

Episode 270: The Eruptions of Mount Tambora and Krakatoa

Episode 270: The Eruptions of Mount Tambora and Krakatoa

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, discover the stories behind the two deadliest volcanic eruptions in human history: the 1815 eruption of Mount Tambora, and the 1883 eruption of Krakatoa. document.createElement('audio'); https://pdst.fm/e/chrt.fm/track/3C3G9G/traffic.megaphone.fm/RILEYK5871584961.mp3 Download Episode (Right click and select “Save as…”)

Aug 27, 2023 • 0:00

Episode 270: The Eruptions of Mount Tambora and Krakatoa

Episode 270: The Eruptions of Mount Tambora and Krakatoa

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, discover the stories behind the two deadliest volcanic eruptions in human history: the 1815 eruption of Mount Tambora, and the 1883 eruption of Krakatoa. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Aug 27, 2023 • 45:13

QAH Episode 20: The Berners Street Hoax

QAH Episode 20: The Berners Street Hoax

Quarter-Arsed History presents: The Berners Street Hoax, an incident in 1810 that saw a street in central London jammed with tradespeople, merchants, deliverymen, doctors, lawyers, and countless others, all inexplicably trying to access one particular address on the same day. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Aug 23, 2023 • 15:06

Episode 269: The Six Wives of Henry VIII

Episode 269: The Six Wives of Henry VIII

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, learn about the monumental impact Henry VIII had on English history as a result of his many marriages, culminating in the establishment of the Church of England.  document.createElement('audio'); https://pdst.fm/e/chrt.fm/track/3C3G9G/traffic.megaphone.fm/RILEYK1230867105.mp3 Download Episode (Right click and select “Save as…”)

Aug 20, 2023 • 0:00

Episode 269: The Six Wives of Henry VIII

Episode 269: The Six Wives of Henry VIII

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, learn about the monumental impact Henry VIII had on English history as a result of his many marriages, culminating in the establishment of the Church of England. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Aug 20, 2023 • 46:47

QAH Episode 19: Jumbo the Elephant

QAH Episode 19: Jumbo the Elephant

Quarter-Arsed History presents: Jumbo the Elephant, who became the world's most famous elephant after a lifetime as a star attraction in zoos and circuses across Europe and North America. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Aug 16, 2023 • 15:36

Episode 268: The Vasa, Sweden’s Mighty Warship

Episode 268: The Vasa, Sweden’s Mighty Warship

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, hear the tale of the Vasa, a heavily-armed 17th century Swedish warship that sank just minutes into its maiden voyage, but is today the best-preserved warship from that period. document.createElement('audio'); https://pdst.fm/e/chrt.fm/track/3C3G9G/traffic.megaphone.fm/RILEYK8291935373.mp3 Download Episode (Right click and select “Save as…”)

Aug 13, 2023 • 0:00

Episode 268: The Vasa, Sweden's Mighty Warship

Episode 268: The Vasa, Sweden's Mighty Warship

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, hear the tale of the Vasa, a heavily-armed 17th century Swedish warship that sank just minutes into its maiden voyage, but is today the best-preserved warship from that period. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Aug 13, 2023 • 40:14

QAH Episode 18: The Great Molasses Flood

QAH Episode 18: The Great Molasses Flood

Quarter-Arsed History presents: the Great Molasses Flood, a disaster where a reservoir burst and wiped out half a neighbourhood with a sticky, sugary, eight-metre high wave of molasses. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Aug 9, 2023 • 11:41

Episode 267: History’s Biggest Misconceptions

Episode 267: History’s Biggest Misconceptions

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, find out the truth about five of the biggest misconceptions in history, including the date of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, the visibility of the Great Wall of China from space, what ninja and vikings used to wear, and historical beliefs about the Earth being flat.

Aug 6, 2023 • 0:00

Episode 267: History's Biggest Misconceptions

Episode 267: History's Biggest Misconceptions

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, find out the truth about five of the biggest misconceptions in history, including the date of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, the visibility of the Great Wall of China from space, what ninja and vikings used to wear, and historical beliefs about the Earth being flat. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Aug 6, 2023 • 43:23

QAH Episode 17: Bertha Benz and the First Test Drive

QAH Episode 17: Bertha Benz and the First Test Drive

Quarter-Arsed History presents: Bertha Benz, an automotive pioneer who undertook the world's first-ever long-distance test drive of a car, when she drove the Benz Model III over 100km from Mannheim to Pforzheim. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Aug 2, 2023 • 14:07

Episode 266: The History of Artificial Light

Episode 266: The History of Artificial Light

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, learn how artificial light has helped to create and shape human civilisation, and how it has changed over the millennia – from fire to gas to electricity.  document.createElement('audio'); https://pdst.fm/e/chrt.fm/track/3C3G9G/traffic.megaphone.fm/RILEYK8490115318.mp3 Download Episode (Right click and select “Save as…”)

Jul 30, 2023 • 0:00

Episode 266: The History of Artificial Light

Episode 266: The History of Artificial Light

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, learn how artificial light has helped to create and shape human civilisation, and how it has changed over the millennia - from fire to gas to electricity. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jul 30, 2023 • 44:40

QAH Episode 16: The Demon Core

QAH Episode 16: The Demon Core

Quarter-Arsed History presents: the Demon Core,a six-kilogram lump of plutonium that caused the first-ever lethal criticality accident, and then a second one when some reckless US scientists went back for a second helping of radiation poisoning. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jul 26, 2023 • 12:48

Episode 265: J. Robert Oppenheimer, Destroyer of Worlds

Episode 265: J. Robert Oppenheimer, Destroyer of Worlds

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, hear the true story of the life and career of J. Robert Oppenheimer, the scientist principally responsible for bringing nuclear weapons into the world. document.createElement('audio'); https://pdst.fm/e/chrt.fm/track/3C3G9G/traffic.megaphone.fm/RILEYK5295678436.mp3 Download Episode (Right click and select “Save as…”)

Jul 23, 2023 • 0:00

Episode 265: J. Robert Oppenheimer, Destroyer of Worlds

Episode 265: J. Robert Oppenheimer, Destroyer of Worlds

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, hear the true story of the life and career of J. Robert Oppenheimer, the scientist principally responsible for bringing nuclear weapons into the world. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jul 23, 2023 • 47:39

QAH Episode 15: Bat Bombs

QAH Episode 15: Bat Bombs

Quarter-Arsed History presents: Bat Bombs, an actual, factual US military project run by a dentist, the goal of which was to drop incendiary bats on Tokyo during the Second World War. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jul 19, 2023 • 12:15

Episode 264: History’s Weirdest Epithets

Episode 264: History’s Weirdest Epithets

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, discover five historical figures with some of the strangest epithets you’ll ever come across: Mithridates the Poison King, Charles the Bald, Ivaylo the Cabbage, Selim the Drunk, and Robert the Cuckhold. document.createElement('audio'); https://pdst.fm/e/chrt.fm/track/3C3G9G/traffic.megaphone.fm/RILEYK5444490625.mp3 Download Episode (Right click and select “Save as…”)

Jul 16, 2023 • 0:00

Episode 264: History's Weirdest Epithets

Episode 264: History's Weirdest Epithets

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, discover five historical figures with some of the strangest epithets you'll ever come across: Mithridates the Poison King, Charles the Bald, Ivaylo the Cabbage, Selim the Drunk, and Robert the Cuckhold. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jul 16, 2023 • 40:21

QAH Episode 14: Hiroo Onoda, the Japanese Holdout

QAH Episode 14: Hiroo Onoda, the Japanese Holdout

Quarter-Arsed History presents: Hiroo Onoda, a Japanese guerilla fighter who continued to fight the Second World War on behalf of Japan for almost three decades after it finished. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jul 12, 2023 • 12:25

Episode 263: Harald Hardrada, the Last Great Viking

Episode 263: Harald Hardrada, the Last Great Viking

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, uncover the life story of one of the most famous vikings in history: Harald Hardrada, who attempted to reforge the North Sea Empire after spending his younger years in exile. document.createElement('audio'); https://pdst.fm/e/chrt.fm/track/3C3G9G/traffic.megaphone.fm/RILEYK9284100234.mp3 Download Episode (Right click and select “Save as…”)

Jul 9, 2023 • 0:00

Episode 263: Harald Hardrada, the Last Great Viking

Episode 263: Harald Hardrada, the Last Great Viking

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, uncover the life story of one of the most famous vikings in history: Harald Hardrada, who attempted to reforge the North Sea Empire after spending his younger years in exile. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jul 9, 2023 • 42:16

QAH Episode 13: Harald Bluetooth, the Viking King

QAH Episode 13: Harald Bluetooth, the Viking King

Quarter-Arsed History presents: Harald Bluetooth, a famed viking king who unified Denmark before going after Norway and the Holy Roman Empire, and whose name is now synonymous with connecting electronic devices wirelessly. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jul 5, 2023 • 13:29

Episode 262: King Cnut of the North Sea Empire

Episode 262: King Cnut of the North Sea Empire

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, hear the tale of Cnut the Great, who unified the thrones of Denmark, Norway, and England to create what is known to history as the North Sea Empire. document.createElement('audio'); https://pdst.fm/e/chrt.fm/track/3C3G9G/traffic.megaphone.fm/RILEYK6874623587.mp3 Download Episode (Right click and select “Save as…”)

Jul 2, 2023 • 0:00

Episode 262: King Cnut of the North Sea Empire

Episode 262: King Cnut of the North Sea Empire

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, hear the tale of Cnut the Great, who unified the thrones of Denmark, Norway, and England to create what is known to history as the North Sea Empire. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jul 2, 2023 • 38:59

QAH Episode 12: Violet Jessop, the Unsinkable Woman

QAH Episode 12: Violet Jessop, the Unsinkable Woman

Quarter-Arsed History presents: Violet Jessop, who not only survived the sinking of the RMS Titanic, but also the sinking of its sister ship the HMHS Brittanic, as well as surviving a collision aboard the RMS Olympic. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jun 28, 2023 • 12:52

Episode 261: The Sinking of the RMS Titanic

Episode 261: The Sinking of the RMS Titanic

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, learn the full story of the famous ship RMS Titanic - a ship that was touted as being "unsinkable", right up until it sank on its maiden voyage across the Atlantic.

Jun 23, 2023 • 0:00

Episode 261: The Sinking of the RMS Titanic

Episode 261: The Sinking of the RMS Titanic

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, learn the full story of the famous ship RMS Titanic - a ship that was touted as being "unsinkable", right up until it sank on its maiden voyage across the Atlantic. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jun 23, 2023 • 1:00:37

QAH Episode 11: Operation Plumbbob

QAH Episode 11: Operation Plumbbob

Quarter-Arsed History presents: Operation Plumbbob, a series of nuclear tests that were carried out in the US in 1957, that involved test subjects such as buildings, aircraft, pigs, living servicemen - as well as creating what was at the time the fastest-moving human-made object in history. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jun 21, 2023 • 13:29

Episode 260: Captain Cook’s Second and Third Voyages

Episode 260: Captain Cook’s Second and Third Voyages

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, hear the tale of the second and third voyages of Captain James Cook, as he sailed in search of Terra Australis Incognita and the Northwest Passage. document.createElement('audio'); https://pdst.fm/e/chrt.fm/track/3C3G9G/traffic.megaphone.fm/RILEYK6424059886.mp3 Download Episode (Right click and select “Save as…”)

Jun 18, 2023 • 0:00

Episode 260: Captain Cook’s Second and Third Voyages

Episode 260: Captain Cook’s Second and Third Voyages

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, hear the tale of the second and third voyages of Captain James Cook, as he sailed in search of Terra Australis Incognita and the Northwest Passage. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jun 18, 2023 • 45:59

QAH Episode 10: Blas de Lezo, Naval Genius

QAH Episode 10: Blas de Lezo, Naval Genius

Quarter-Arsed History presents: Blas de Lezo, the Spanish naval officer who lost a leg, arm, and an eye and still managed to be one of the greatest naval commanders Spain ever produced. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jun 14, 2023 • 14:38

Episode 259: Captain Cook’s First Voyage

Episode 259: Captain Cook’s First Voyage

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, hear the tale of the first voyage undertaken by Captain James Cook, the first recorded instance of European contact with the east coast of Australia. document.createElement('audio'); https://pdst.fm/e/chrt.fm/track/3C3G9G/traffic.megaphone.fm/RILEYK8215402498.mp3 Download Episode (Right click and select “Save as…”)

Jun 11, 2023 • 0:00

Episode 259: Captain Cook’s First Voyage

Episode 259: Captain Cook’s First Voyage

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, hear the tale of the first voyage undertaken by Captain James Cook, the first recorded instance of European contact with the east coast of Australia. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jun 11, 2023 • 43:25

QAH Episode 9: Iron Mike Malloy

QAH Episode 9: Iron Mike Malloy

Quarter-Arsed History presents: Iron Mike Malloy, a seemingly indestructible Irishman who survived several murder attempts as people attempted to cash in on his life insurance policies. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jun 7, 2023 • 13:22

Episode 258: The Nika Riots

Episode 258: The Nika Riots

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, learn about the time that a chariot race sparked a deadly revolt which almost brought down an emperor: the Nika Riots. document.createElement('audio'); https://pdst.fm/e/chrt.fm/track/3C3G9G/traffic.megaphone.fm/RILEYK8652415763.mp3 Download Episode (Right click and select “Save as…”)

Jun 4, 2023 • 0:00

Episode 258: The Nika Riots

Episode 258: The Nika Riots

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, learn about the time that a chariot race sparked a deadly revolt which almost brought down an emperor: the Nika Riots. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jun 4, 2023 • 38:40

QAH Episode 8: The Crash at Crush

QAH Episode 8: The Crash at Crush

Quarter-Arsed History presents: the Crash at Crush, an infamous publicity stunt where two trains were deliberately crashed into one another at high speed, with fatal results. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

May 31, 2023 • 14:05

Episode 257: Hurrem Sultan, Ottoman Empress

Episode 257: Hurrem Sultan, Ottoman Empress

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, discover the life story of Hurrem Sultan, one of the most powerful women in Ottoman history and someone who paved the way for generations of women to play a huge role in the Ottoman Empire’s history. document.createElement('audio'); https://pdst.fm/e/chrt.fm/track/3C3G9G/traffic.megaphone.fm/RILEYK5981558446.mp3 Download Episode (Right click and select “Save as…”)

May 28, 2023 • 0:00

Episode 257: Hurrem Sultan, Ottoman Empress

Episode 257: Hurrem Sultan, Ottoman Empress

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, discover the life story of Hurrem Sultan, one of the most powerful women in Ottoman history and someone who paved the way for generations of women to play a huge role in the Ottoman Empire's history. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

May 28, 2023 • 40:16

QAH Episode 7: Emperor Houfei, the Murderous Teenager

QAH Episode 7: Emperor Houfei, the Murderous Teenager

Quarter-Arsed History presents: Emperor Houfei, the ancient Chinese emperor who, as a teenager, made the fatal mistake of using his general's belly for target practice. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

May 24, 2023 • 11:16

Episode 256: Henry Every, Pirate King

Episode 256: Henry Every, Pirate King

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, hear the tale of the pirate Henry Every, who pulled off what is perhaps the biggest and most profitable act of piracy in history – and got away with it.   document.createElement('audio'); https://pdst.fm/e/chrt.fm/track/3C3G9G/traffic.megaphone.fm/RILEYK9689190857.mp3 Download Episode (Right click and select “Save as…”)

May 21, 2023 • 0:00

Episode 256: Henry Every, Pirate King

Episode 256: Henry Every, Pirate King

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, hear the tale of the pirate Henry Every, who pulled off what is perhaps the biggest and most profitable act of piracy in history - and got away with it. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

May 21, 2023 • 41:42

QAH Episode 6: Fart Proudly, by Benjamin Franklin

QAH Episode 6: Fart Proudly, by Benjamin Franklin

Quarter-Arsed History presents: Fart Proudly, by Benjamin Franklin, a grand scientific proposal laying out a bright future wherein we could all openly fart in polite company. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

May 17, 2023 • 11:33

Episode 255: Benjamin Franklin, American Polymath

Episode 255: Benjamin Franklin, American Polymath

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, discover the life story of one of the US's most famous founding fathers - the writer, scientist, inventor, diplomat, statesman, and flatulence enthusiast, Benjamin Franklin.

May 14, 2023 • 0:00

Episode 255: Benjamin Franklin, American Polymath

Episode 255: Benjamin Franklin, American Polymath

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, discover the life story of one of the US's most famous founding fathers - the writer, scientist, inventor, diplomat, statesman, and flatulence enthusiast, Benjamin Franklin. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

May 14, 2023 • 53:17

QAH Episode 5: Khosrow’s Better Antioch

QAH Episode 5: Khosrow’s Better Antioch

Quarter-Arsed History presents: Khosrow’s Better Antioch, an entire copy of the city of Antioch built by the Sassanid king Khosrow I after he destroyed the original. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

May 10, 2023 • 10:30

Episode 254: The Roman Empire

Episode 254: The Roman Empire

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, hear the tale of the Roman Empire – one of the most important and influential realms in human history that spanned from western Europe across the Middle East before its decline and ultimate collapse. https://pdst.fm/e/chrt.fm/track/3C3G9G/traffic.megaphone.fm/RILEYK3714861920.mp3 Download Episode (Right click and select “Save as…”)

May 7, 2023 • 0:00

Episode 254: The Roman Empire

Episode 254: The Roman Empire

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, hear the tale of the Roman Empire - one of the most important and influential realms in human history that spanned from western Europe across the Middle East before its decline and ultimate collapse. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

May 7, 2023 • 49:55

QAH Episode 4: The Capture of the Den Helder Fleet

QAH Episode 4: The Capture of the Den Helder Fleet

Quarter-Arsed History presents: the Capture of the Den Helder Fleet, the only time in history that a fleet of ships has been captured, unbelievably, by cavalry. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

May 3, 2023 • 11:10

Episode 253: The Roman Republic

Episode 253: The Roman Republic

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, learn the story of the Roman Republic - from its origins as a city-state, to its rise and expansion as a republic, through to its transition to an empire.

Apr 30, 2023 • 0:00

Episode 253: The Roman Republic

Episode 253: The Roman Republic

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, learn the story of the Roman Republic - from its origins as a city-state, to its rise and expansion as a republic, through to its transition to an empire. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Apr 30, 2023 • 40:17

QAH Episode 3: The Leaning Tower of Pisa

QAH Episode 3: The Leaning Tower of Pisa

Quarter-Arsed History presents the Leaning Tower of Pisa, the famous Italian landmark that has a four-degree lean thanks to a critical oversight in its original design. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Apr 26, 2023 • 11:25

Episode 252: The Satsuma Rebellion

Episode 252: The Satsuma Rebellion

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, hear about the last stand of the samurai in the Satsuma Rebellion, an enormously important turning point in Japanese history. https://pdst.fm/e/chrt.fm/track/3C3G9G/traffic.megaphone.fm/RILEYK8537378490.mp3 Download Episode (Right click and select “Save as…”)

Apr 23, 2023 • 0:00

Episode 252: The Satsuma Rebellion

Episode 252: The Satsuma Rebellion

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, hear about the last stand of the samurai in the Satsuma Rebellion, an enormously important turning point in Japanese history. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Apr 23, 2023 • 42:54

QAH Episode 2: “Typhoid” Mary Mallon

QAH Episode 2: “Typhoid” Mary Mallon

Quarter-Arsed History presents “Typhoid” Mary Mallon, an Irish cook who, as an asymptomatic carrier, unwittingly infected a great number of people with typhoid fever. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Apr 19, 2023 • 11:51

Episode 251: The Western Schism

Episode 251: The Western Schism

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, enjoy the story of the time the Catholic Church ended up with three concurrent popes all vying for power: the Western Schism.

Apr 16, 2023 • 0:00

Episode 251: The Western Schism

Episode 251: The Western Schism

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, enjoy the story of the time the Catholic Church ended up with three concurrent popes all vying for power: the Western Schism. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Apr 16, 2023 • 41:30

QAH Episode 1: Roland the Farter

QAH Episode 1: Roland the Farter

Quarter-Arsed History presents Roland the Farter, a 12th-century English flatulist that was so good at farting that King Henry II granted him a rich and expansive estate. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Apr 12, 2023 • 10:56

Episode 250: Guy Fawkes and the Gunpowder Plot

Episode 250: Guy Fawkes and the Gunpowder Plot

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, learn the full story behind one of the most famous political conspiracies in history: the Gunpowder Plot, and its most famous conspirator, Guy Fawkes.

Apr 9, 2023 • 0:00

Episode 250: Guy Fawkes and the Gunpowder Plot

Episode 250: Guy Fawkes and the Gunpowder Plot

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, learn the full story behind one of the most famous political conspiracies in history: the Gunpowder Plot, and its most famous conspirator, Guy Fawkes. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Apr 9, 2023 • 45:56

Episode 249: The History of Flight – Part 3

Episode 249: The History of Flight – Part 3

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, discover the third part of the history of flight: how the Second World War changed aviation forever, the breaking of the sound barrier, the development of the jet engine, and more.

Apr 2, 2023 • 0:00

Episode 249: The History of Flight - Part 3

Episode 249: The History of Flight - Part 3

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, discover the third part of the history of flight: how the Second World War changed aviation forever, the breaking of the sound barrier, the development of the jet engine, and more. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Apr 2, 2023 • 53:32

Episode 248: The History of Flight – Part 2

Episode 248: The History of Flight – Part 2

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, discover the second part of the history of flight: the lead-up to successful heavier-than-air flight, how it was first achieved, and how it spread and changed in the early 20th century. https://pdst.fm/e/chrt.fm/track/3C3G9G/traffic.megaphone.fm/RILEYK5831906529.mp3 Download Episode (Right click and select “Save as…”)

Mar 26, 2023 • 0:00

Episode 248: The History of Flight - Part 2

Episode 248: The History of Flight - Part 2

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, discover the second part of the history of flight: the lead-up to successful heavier-than-air flight, how it was first achieved, and how it spread and changed in the early 20th century. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mar 26, 2023 • 47:58

Episode 247: The History of Flight – Part 1

Episode 247: The History of Flight – Part 1

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, discover the first part of the history of flight: the origins of humanity’s attempts to take to the skies, with wings, ornithopters, hot air balloons, and airships. https://pdst.fm/e/chrt.fm/track/3C3G9G/traffic.megaphone.fm/RILEYK2479739987.mp3 Download Episode (Right click and select “Save as…”)

Mar 19, 2023 • 0:00

Episode 247: The History of Flight - Part 1

Episode 247: The History of Flight - Part 1

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, discover the first part of the history of flight: the origins of humanity's attempts to take to the skies, with wings, ornithopters, hot air balloons, and airships. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mar 19, 2023 • 47:38

Episode 246: Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna, Eleven-Time President

Episode 246: Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna, Eleven-Time President

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, hear the ridiculous tale of Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna, who served as the president of Mexico eleven times, and did a pretty terrible job at it.

Mar 12, 2023 • 0:00

Episode 246: Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna, Eleven-Time President

Episode 246: Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna, Eleven-Time President

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, hear the ridiculous tale of Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna, who served as the president of Mexico eleven times, and did a pretty terrible job at it. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mar 12, 2023 • 42:57

Episode 245: The Salem Witch Trials

Episode 245: The Salem Witch Trials

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, uncover the truth behind the famous Salem Witch Trials, a defining moment in American colonial history.

Mar 5, 2023 • 0:00

Episode 245: The Salem Witch Trials

Episode 245: The Salem Witch Trials

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, uncover the truth behind the famous Salem Witch Trials, a defining moment in American colonial history. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mar 5, 2023 • 50:44

Update: Growth, Ads, and More Content

Update: Growth, Ads, and More Content

Change is coming to Half-Arsed History: in the coming weeks, you'll start to hear ads on the show, but there will also be more weekly content offerings as the show transitions from a hobby to a profession. This quick update should bring you up to speed with what's changing with the podcast - I'm trying to be open and transparent about things, and I hope you can understand why I've made the decisions I've made.As ever, I appreciate any and all feedback - head over to halfarsedhistory.net and use

Mar 1, 2023 • 13:20

Episode 244: Fritz Haber

Episode 244: Fritz Haber

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, learn the story of Fritz Haber, a man whose monumental scientific breakthrough prevented a global catastrophe, and how he sabotaged his own legacy with enthusiasm for war and death. https://dcs.megaphone.fm/RILEYK8225054077.mp3 Download Episode (Right click and select “Save as…”)

Feb 26, 2023 • 0:00

Episode 244: Fritz Haber, the Man Who Fed the World

Episode 244: Fritz Haber, the Man Who Fed the World

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, learn the story of Fritz Haber, a man whose monumental scientific breakthrough prevented a global catastrophe, and how he sabotaged his own legacy with enthusiasm for war and death. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Feb 26, 2023 • 50:26

Episode 243: Mutiny on the Hermione

Episode 243: Mutiny on the Hermione

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, enjoy the tale of the bloodiest mutiny in British naval history, the mutiny on the Hermione, and the daring operation undertaken to return it to British hands.  https://explosivesinthecargohold.files.wordpress.com/2023/02/243-mutiny-on-the-hermione.mp3 Download Episode (Right click and select “Save as…”)

Feb 19, 2023 • 0:00

Episode 243: Mutiny on the Hermione

Episode 243: Mutiny on the Hermione

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, enjoy the tale of the bloodiest mutiny in British naval history, the mutiny on the Hermione, and the daring operation undertaken to return the ship to British hands. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Feb 19, 2023 • 42:13

Episode 242: The Race to the North Pole

Episode 242: The Race to the North Pole

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, find out who won the race to the North Pole, and hear about all the controversies and disputes involved with various attempts that were made to be the first to reach it. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Feb 12, 2023 • 44:08

Episode 242: The Race to the North Pole

Episode 242: The Race to the North Pole

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, find out who won the race to the North Pole, and hear about all the controversies and disputes involved with various attempts that were made to be the first to reach it.

Feb 12, 2023 • 0:00

Episode 241: History’s Weirdest Deaths, Part 3

Episode 241: History’s Weirdest Deaths, Part 3

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, get across ten more ridiculous stories that led to some of the weirdest deaths in history. https://explosivesinthecargohold.files.wordpress.com/2023/01/241-historys-weirdest-deaths-part-3.mp3 Download Episode (Right click and select “Save as…”)

Feb 5, 2023 • 0:00

Episode 241: History's Weirdest Deaths - Part 3

Episode 241: History's Weirdest Deaths - Part 3

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, get across ten more ridiculous stories that led to some of the weirdest deaths in history. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Feb 5, 2023 • 40:31

Episode 240: The Federation of Australia

Episode 240: The Federation of Australia

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, discover how the Commonwealth of Australia was created through federation, bringing six separate colonies together as one new nation.

Jan 29, 2023 • 0:00

Episode 240: The Federation of Australia

Episode 240: The Federation of Australia

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, discover how the Commonwealth of Australia was created through federation, bringing six separate colonies together as one new nation. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 29, 2023 • 55:07

Episode 239: The Colonisation of Australia

Episode 239: The Colonisation of Australia

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, learn why Australia Day, the 26th of January, isn’t a date worth celebrating while uncovering the full story of the colonisation of Australia. https://explosivesinthecargohold.files.wordpress.com/2023/01/239-the-colonisation-of-australia.mp3 Download Episode (Right click and select “Save as…”)

Jan 22, 2023 • 0:00

Episode 239: The Colonisation of Australia

Episode 239: The Colonisation of Australia

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, learn why Australia Day, the 26th of January, isn't a date worth celebrating while uncovering the full story of the colonisation of Australia. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 22, 2023 • 54:57

Episode 238: Hatshepsut

Episode 238: Hatshepsut

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, uncover the life story of one of ancient Egypt's most successful and famous pharaohs: Hatshepsut, whose great buildings are still standing today.

Jan 15, 2023 • 0:00

Episode 238: Hatshepsut, the Builder Queen

Episode 238: Hatshepsut, the Builder Queen

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, uncover the life story of one of ancient Egypt's most successful and famous pharaohs: Hatshepsut, whose great buildings are still standing today. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 15, 2023 • 44:10

Episode 237: The Funniest Art Heists in History

Episode 237: The Funniest Art Heists in History

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, enjoy some of the ridiculous stories involved with when famous pieces of artwork have been stolen: the funniest art heists in history.

Jan 8, 2023 • 0:00

Episode 237: The Funniest Art Heists in History

Episode 237: The Funniest Art Heists in History

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, enjoy some of the ridiculous stories involved with when famous pieces of artwork have been stolen: the funniest art heists in history. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 8, 2023 • 48:57

Episode 236: The Gregorian Calendar

Episode 236: The Gregorian Calendar

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, begin the new year by learning about the history of the date-keeping system that almost the entire world uses today: the Gregorian calendar.

Jan 1, 2023 • 0:00

Episode 236: The Gregorian Calendar

Episode 236: The Gregorian Calendar

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, begin the new year by learning about the history of the date-keeping system that almost the entire world uses today: the Gregorian calendar. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 1, 2023 • 58:02

Episode 235: Frederick Douglass, Part 2

Episode 235: Frederick Douglass, Part 2

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, hear the second part of the life story of Frederick Douglass, and the influence he had on the progress of US history as a speaker, writer, abolitionist, and statesman. https://explosivesinthecargohold.files.wordpress.com/2022/12/235-frederick-douglass-part-2-1.mp3 Download Episode (Right click and select “Save as…”)

Dec 25, 2022 • 0:00

Episode 235: Frederick Douglass, the Voice of Abolitionism - Part 2

Episode 235: Frederick Douglass, the Voice of Abolitionism - Part 2

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, hear the second part of the life story of Frederick Douglass, and the influence he had on the progress of US history as a speaker, writer, abolitionist, and statesman. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dec 25, 2022 • 39:25

Apologies for the Current Issues

Apologies for the Current Issues

Hello exalted listeners, I’m currently having a bunch of issues with the distribution of recent episodes. This is due to the general podcast architecture that delivers episodes to your chosen platform each week, and also my lack of foresight when it came to scaling the show. The show is now so big that my original hosting platform, WordPress, is completely unable to keep up, and so things are falling apart a bit – hence the issues you’ve been having.  I really am very sorry about this. I know d

Dec 19, 2022 • 0:00

Episode 234: Frederick Douglass, Part 1

Episode 234: Frederick Douglass, Part 1

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, uncover the first part of the life story of Frederick Douglass, a remarkable man who began life enslaved before making a daring and dangerous escape to a life of freedom as an author, speaker, statesman, and political activist.  https://explosivesinthecargohold.files.wordpress.com/2022/12/234-frederick-douglass-part-1.mp3 Download Episode (Right click and select “Save as…”)

Dec 18, 2022 • 0:00

Episode 234: Frederick Douglass, the Voice of Abolitionism - Part 1

Episode 234: Frederick Douglass, the Voice of Abolitionism - Part 1

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, uncover the first part of the life story of Frederick Douglass, a remarkable man who began life enslaved before making a daring and dangerous escape to a life of freedom as an author, speaker, statesman, and political activist. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dec 18, 2022 • 37:09

Episode 233: The 1930 FIFA World Cup

Episode 233: The 1930 FIFA World Cup

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, hear the story of the most ridiculous World Cup in soccer’s history – which also happens to be the first one ever held, the 1930 FIFA World Cup.  https://explosivesinthecargohold.files.wordpress.com/2022/12/233-the-1930-fifa-world-cup-1.mp3 Download Episode (Right click and select “Save as…”)

Dec 11, 2022 • 0:00

Episode 233: The 1930 FIFA World Cup

Episode 233: The 1930 FIFA World Cup

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, hear the story of the most ridiculous World Cup in soccer's history - which also happens to be the first one ever held, the 1930 FIFA World Cup. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dec 11, 2022 • 50:56

Episode 232: Tokugawa Ieyasu

Episode 232: Tokugawa Ieyasu

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, listen to the conclusion of the story of Japan’s great unifiers, with the tale of Tokugawa Ieyasu, who forged the mighty Tokugawa Shogunate. https://explosivesinthecargohold.files.wordpress.com/2022/12/232-tokugawa-ieyasu-1.mp3 Download Episode (Right click and select “Save as…”)

Dec 4, 2022 • 0:00

Episode 232: Tokugawa Ieyasu, First of the Last Shoguns

Episode 232: Tokugawa Ieyasu, First of the Last Shoguns

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, listen to the conclusion of the story of Japan's great unifiers, with the tale of Tokugawa Ieyasu, who forged the mighty Tokugawa Shogunate. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dec 4, 2022 • 46:58

Episode 231: Toyotomi Hideyoshi

Episode 231: Toyotomi Hideyoshi

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, continue the tale of the unification of Japan with the life of Toyotomi Hideyoshi, the second of the great unifiers. https://explosivesinthecargohold.files.wordpress.com/2022/12/231-toyotomi-hideyoshi.mp3 Download Episode (Right click and select “Save as…”)

Nov 27, 2022 • 0:00

Episode 231: Toyotomi Hideyoshi, the Lowborn Conqueror

Episode 231: Toyotomi Hideyoshi, the Lowborn Conqueror

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, continue the tale of the unification of Japan with the life of Toyotomi Hideyoshi, the second of the great unifiers. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nov 27, 2022 • 47:17

Episode 230: Oda Nobunaga

Episode 230: Oda Nobunaga

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, hear the life story of Oda Nobunaga, known as the first great unifier, a man whose actions changed the course of Japanese history. https://explosivesinthecargohold.files.wordpress.com/2022/12/230-oda-nobunaga.mp3 Download Episode (Right click and select “Save as…”)

Nov 20, 2022 • 0:00

Episode 230: Oda Nobunaga, the Great Unifier

Episode 230: Oda Nobunaga, the Great Unifier

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, hear the life story of Oda Nobunaga, known as the first great unifier, a man whose actions changed the course of Japanese history. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nov 20, 2022 • 39:31

Episode 229: The World’s Smallest Nations

Episode 229: The World’s Smallest Nations

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, learn the histories of the six smallest nations on Earth: Liechtenstein, San Marino, Tuvalu, Nauru, Monaco, and the Vatican City. https://explosivesinthecargohold.files.wordpress.com/2022/12/229-the-worlds-smallest-nations.mp3 Download Episode (Right click and select “Save as…”)

Nov 13, 2022 • 0:00

Episode 229: The World’s Smallest Nations

Episode 229: The World’s Smallest Nations

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, learn the histories of the six smallest nations on Earth: Liechtenstein, San Marino, Tuvalu, Nauru, Monaco, and the Vatican City. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nov 13, 2022 • 42:24

Episode 228: Benedict Arnold, Traitor to America

Episode 228: Benedict Arnold, Traitor to America

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, hear the story of the famous traitor Benedict Arnold, who betrayed the rebellious Continental Army during the American Revolutionary War and fought instead for the British. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nov 6, 2022 • 45:59

Episode 228: Benedict Arnold

Episode 228: Benedict Arnold

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, hear the story of the famous traitor Benedict Arnold, who betrayed the rebellious Continental Army during the American Revolutionary War and fought instead for the British. https://explosivesinthecargohold.files.wordpress.com/2022/12/228-benedict-arnold.mp3 Download Episode (Right click and select “Save as…”)

Nov 6, 2022 • 0:00

Episode 227: Isabella I of Castile

Episode 227: Isabella I of Castile

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, uncover the tale of Isabella I of Castile, a remarkably important figure in both Spanish and world history, who oversaw the unification of the Spanish Kingdom and the creation of the Spanish Empire. https://halfarsedhistory.files.wordpress.com/2022/10/227-isabella-i-of-castile.mp3 Download Episode (Right click and select “Save as…”)

Oct 30, 2022 • 41:09

Episode 227: Isabella I of Castile, Catholic Queen

Episode 227: Isabella I of Castile, Catholic Queen

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, uncover the tale of Isabella I of Castile, a remarkably important figure in both Spanish and world history, who oversaw the unification of the Spanish Kingdom and the creation of the Spanish Empire. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Oct 30, 2022 • 41:08

Episode 226: Pachacuti Inca Yupanqui

Episode 226: Pachacuti Inca Yupanqui

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, discover the story behind the formation of the Inca Empire, and the man behind its creation: Pachacuti Inca, who built one of the most remarkable empires the world has seen.

Oct 23, 2022 • 37:57

Episode 226: Pachacuti Inca Yupanqui, Inca Founder

Episode 226: Pachacuti Inca Yupanqui, Inca Founder

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, discover the story behind the formation of the Inca Empire, and the man behind its creation: Pachacuti Inca, who built one of the most remarkable empires the world has seen. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Oct 23, 2022 • 37:57

Episode 225: Frederick Barbarossa

Episode 225: Frederick Barbarossa

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, hear the story of one of the great mediaeval leaders, Frederick Barbarossa of the Holy Roman Empire, who spent his entire reign fighting to keep his realm together. https://halfarsedhistory.files.wordpress.com/2022/09/225-frederick-barbarossa.mp3 Download Episode (Right click and select “Save as…”)

Oct 16, 2022 • 49:25

Episode 225: Frederick Barbarossa, Holy Roman Emperor

Episode 225: Frederick Barbarossa, Holy Roman Emperor

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, hear the story of one of the great mediaeval leaders, Frederick Barbarossa of the Holy Roman Empire, who spent his entire reign fighting to keep his realm together. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Oct 16, 2022 • 49:24

Episode 224: Jan Zizka

Episode 224: Jan Zizka

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, learn about the Czech general and national hero, Jan Zizka, who used a combination of military innovation and strategic genius while fighting in the Hussite Wars. https://halfarsedhistory.files.wordpress.com/2022/09/224-jan-zizka.mp3 Download Episode (Right click and select “Save as…”)

Oct 9, 2022 • 38:24

Episode 224: Jan Zizka, the Undefeated Innovator

Episode 224: Jan Zizka, the Undefeated Innovator

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, learn about the Czech general and national hero, Jan Zizka, who used a combination of military innovation and strategic genius while fighting in the Hussite Wars. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Oct 9, 2022 • 38:24

Episode 223: The Hundred Years’ War

Episode 223: The Hundred Years’ War

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, discover the story of the Hundred Years’ War, a famous mediaeval conflict that saw five generations of English and French kings fight over claims to the French throne for over a hundred years. https://halfarsedhistory.files.wordpress.com/2022/09/223-the-hundred-years-war.mp3 Download Episode (Right click and select “Save as…”)

Oct 2, 2022 • 49:05

Episode 223: The Hundred Years’ War

Episode 223: The Hundred Years’ War

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, discover the story of the Hundred Years’ War, a famous mediaeval conflict that saw five generations of English and French kings fight over claims to the French throne for over a hundred years. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Oct 2, 2022 • 49:04

Episode 222: The Fall of Constantinople

Episode 222: The Fall of Constantinople

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, discover the moment in history generally considered to be the end of the mediaeval period: the Fall of Constantinople, when a 21-year-old Ottoman Sultan captured the ancient city of Constantinople.

Sep 25, 2022 • 40:08

Episode 222: The Fall of Constantinople

Episode 222: The Fall of Constantinople

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, discover the moment in history generally considered to be the end of the mediaeval period: the Fall of Constaninople, when a 21-year-old Ottoman Sultan captured the ancient city of Constantinople. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sep 25, 2022 • 40:07

Australian Podcast Awards Submission

Australian Podcast Awards Submission

Half Arsed History has been invited to submit an application to be considered for the Best History Podcast at the Australian Podcast Awards this November! I need your help to do this – they want three to five clips showcasing the best of the show between Episodes 162 and 214 inclusive, so who better to ask than the exalted listeners of the show itself! If you have the time and the inclination, I would greatly appreciate it if you could head to halfarsedhistory.net and use the contact form to

Sep 22, 2022 • 2:34

Episode 221: King Charles I of England

Episode 221: King Charles I of England

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, hear the tale of King Charles I of England, one of the worst monarchs in English and British history, who ended up so unpopular that he ended up having his head chopped off. https://halfarsedhistory.files.wordpress.com/2022/09/221-king-charles-i-of-england.mp3 Download Episode (Right click and select “Save as…”)

Sep 18, 2022 • 39:35

Episode 221: Charles I of England, the Beheaded King

Episode 221: Charles I of England, the Beheaded King

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, hear the tale of King Charles I of England, one of the worst monarchs in English and British history, who ended up so unpopular that he ended up having his head chopped off. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sep 18, 2022 • 39:34

Episode 220: Mahatma Gandhi, Part 2

Episode 220: Mahatma Gandhi, Part 2

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, discover the second half of the life story of Mahatma Gandhi, who led India towards its ultimate independence with satyagraha, his political philosophy of nonviolent resistance. https://halfarsedhistory.files.wordpress.com/2022/09/220-mahatma-gandhi-part-2.mp3 Download Episode (Right click and select “Save as…”)

Sep 11, 2022 • 43:47

Episode 220: Mahatma Gandhi, the Revolutionary Pacifist - Part 2

Episode 220: Mahatma Gandhi, the Revolutionary Pacifist - Part 2

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, discover the second half of the life story of Mahatma Gandhi, who led India towards its ultimate independence with satyagraha, his political philosophy of nonviolent resistance. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sep 11, 2022 • 43:47

Episode 219: Mahatma Gandhi, Part 1

Episode 219: Mahatma Gandhi, Part 1

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, hear the first half of the story of Mahatma Gandhi, who started off a painfully shy law student before fighting against racial discrimination in South Africa, and for political independence in India. https://halfarsedhistory.files.wordpress.com/2022/09/219-mahatma-gandhi-part-1.mp3 Download Episode (Right click and select “Save as…”)

Sep 4, 2022 • 42:24

Episode 219: Mahatma Gandhi, the Revolutionary Pacifist - Part 1

Episode 219: Mahatma Gandhi, the Revolutionary Pacifist - Part 1

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, hear the first half of the story of Mahatma Gandhi, who started off a painfully shy law student before fighting against racial discrimination in South Africa, and for political independence in India. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sep 4, 2022 • 42:24

Episode 218: Amelia Earhart

Episode 218: Amelia Earhart

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, uncover the tale of a pioneering aviator, Amelia Earhart, who set countless records as a talented aviator and determined adventurer. https://halfarsedhistory.files.wordpress.com/2022/08/218-amelia-earhart.mp3 Download Episode (Right click and select “Save as…”)

Aug 28, 2022 • 44:28

Episode 218: Amelia Earhart, Aviation Pioneer

Episode 218: Amelia Earhart, Aviation Pioneer

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, uncover the tale of a pioneering aviator, Amelia Earhart, who set countless records as a talented aviator and determined adventurer. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Aug 28, 2022 • 44:28

Episode 217: Johannes Gutenberg and the Printing Press

Episode 217: Johannes Gutenberg and the Printing Press

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, learn the story behind a device that changed the world forever, and the man who invented it: Johannes Gutenberg, and the monumentally important printing press. https://halfarsedhistory.files.wordpress.com/2022/08/217-johannes-gutenberg-and-the-printing-press.mp3 Download Episode (Right click and select “Save as…”)

Aug 21, 2022 • 41:30

Episode 217: Johannes Gutenberg and the Printing Press

Episode 217: Johannes Gutenberg and the Printing Press

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, learn the story behind a device that changed the world forever, and the man who invented it: Johannes Gutenberg, and the monumentally important printing press. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Aug 21, 2022 • 41:30

Episode 216: Isaac Newton

Episode 216: Isaac Newton

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, discover the tale of Isaac Newton, one of the most important figures in scientific history, who produced incredible, groundbreaking work that laid bare some of the fundamental laws of the universe. https://halfarsedhistory.files.wordpress.com/2022/08/216-isaac-newton.mp3 Download Episode (Right click and select “Save as…”)

Aug 14, 2022 • 48:13

Episode 216: Isaac Newton, a Genius without Equal

Episode 216: Isaac Newton, a Genius without Equal

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, discover the tale of Isaac Newton, one of the most important figures in scientific history, who produced incredible, groundbreaking work that laid bare some of the fundamental laws of the universe. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Aug 14, 2022 • 48:13

Episode 215: Hammurabi, the Lawmaker

Episode 215: Hammurabi, the Lawmaker

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, listen to the tale of Hammurabi, an ancient Mesopotamian king who instituted one of the most important and influential code of laws in human history. https://halfarsedhistory.files.wordpress.com/2022/08/215-hammurabi-the-lawmaker.mp3 Download Episode (Right click and select “Save as…”)

Aug 7, 2022 • 41:12

Episode 215: Hammurabi, the Ancient Lawmaker

Episode 215: Hammurabi, the Ancient Lawmaker

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, listen to the tale of Hammurabi, an ancient Mesopotamian king who instituted one of the most important and influential code of laws in human history. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Aug 7, 2022 • 41:12

Episode 214: Sargon of Akkad

Episode 214: Sargon of Akkad

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, hear the life story of the man who forged history’s first-ever empire, Sargon of Akkad, and his efforts to maintain and develop it across his time as emperor. https://halfarsedhistory.files.wordpress.com/2022/07/214-sargon-of-akkad.mp3 Download Episode (Right click and select “Save as…”)

Jul 31, 2022 • 39:51

Episode 214: Sargon of Akkad, the First Emperor

Episode 214: Sargon of Akkad, the First Emperor

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, hear the life story of the man who forged history's first-ever empire, Sargon of Akkad, and his efforts to maintain and develop it across his time as emperor. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jul 31, 2022 • 39:50

Episode 213: Simon Bolivar, El Libertador

Episode 213: Simon Bolivar, El Libertador

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, learn the life story of the Venezuelan freedom fighter and revolutionary hero, Simon Bolivar, who liberated half a continent from Spanish colonial rule. https://halfarsedhistory.files.wordpress.com/2022/07/213-simon-bolivar-el-libertador.mp3 Download Episode (Right click and select “Save as…”)

Jul 24, 2022 • 49:50

Episode 213: Simon Bolivar, El Libertador

Episode 213: Simon Bolivar, El Libertador

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, learn the life story of the Venezuelan freedom fighter and revolutionary hero, Simon Bolivar, who liberated half a continent from Spanish colonial rule. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jul 24, 2022 • 49:50

Episode 212: Napoleon Bonaparte, Part 2

Episode 212: Napoleon Bonaparte, Part 2

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, discover the second half of the story of Napoleon Bonaparte, including his domestic reforms that would influence the entire world, and his eventual downfall, brief return, and final exile. https://halfarsedhistory.files.wordpress.com/2022/07/212-napoleon-bonaparte-part-2.mp3 Download Episode (Right click and select “Save as…”) Image: Montfort, Antoine Alphonse. Adieux de Napoléon à la Garde impériale dans la cour du Cheval-Blanc du château de Fontainebleau.

Jul 17, 2022 • 44:20

Episode 212: Napoleon Bonaparte, Conqueror of Europe - Part 2

Episode 212: Napoleon Bonaparte, Conqueror of Europe - Part 2

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, discover the second half of the story of Napoleon Bonaparte, including his domestic reforms that would influence the entire world, and his eventual downfall, brief return, and final exile. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jul 17, 2022 • 44:20

Episode 211: Napoleon Bonaparte, Part 1

Episode 211: Napoleon Bonaparte, Part 1

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, discover the first half of the story of Napoleon Bonaparte, the famous French commander and emperor, who forged the French Empire by conquering half of the European continent.

Jul 10, 2022 • 48:01

Episode 211: Napoleon Bonaparte, Conqueror of Europe - Part 1

Episode 211: Napoleon Bonaparte, Conqueror of Europe - Part 1

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, discover the first half of the story of Napoleon Bonaparte, the famous French commander and emperor, who forged the French Empire by conquering half of the European continent. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jul 10, 2022 • 48:00

Episode 210: Galileo Galilei, Part 2

Episode 210: Galileo Galilei, Part 2

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, learn about the later stages of Galileo Galilei‘s career, and how the legendary scientist ran afoul of the Catholic Church due to his far-sighted genius. https://halfarsedhistory.files.wordpress.com/2022/07/210-galileo-galilei-part-2.mp3 Download Episode (Right click and select “Save as…”)

Jul 3, 2022 • 40:04

Episode 210: Galileo Galilei, Heretical Genius - Part 2

Episode 210: Galileo Galilei, Heretical Genius - Part 2

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, learn about the later stages of Galileo Galilei's career, and how the legendary scientist ran afoul of the Catholic Church due to his far-sighted genius. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jul 3, 2022 • 40:04

Episode 209: Galileo Galilei, Part 1

Episode 209: Galileo Galilei, Part 1

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, hear the first half of the life story of Galileo Galilei, one of the most important and influential scientists in human history, who made far-sighted, ground-breaking scientific discoveries that changed our understanding of the universe.

Jun 26, 2022 • 39:58

Episode 209: Galileo Galilei, Heretical Genius - Part 1

Episode 209: Galileo Galilei, Heretical Genius - Part 1

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, hear the first half of the life story of Galileo Galilei, one of the most important and influential scientists in human history, who made far-sighted, ground-breaking scientific discoveries that changed our understanding of the universe. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jun 26, 2022 • 39:57

Episode 208: Queen Victoria

Episode 208: Queen Victoria

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, discover the tale of Queen Victoria of the United Kingdom, who was in her time the longest-reigning monarch in British history.

Jun 19, 2022 • 52:28

Episode 208: Queen Victoria, the Queen Who Defined an Era

Episode 208: Queen Victoria, the Queen Who Defined an Era

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, discover the tale of Queen Victoria of the United Kingdom, who was in her time the longest-reigning monarch in British history. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jun 19, 2022 • 52:27

Episode 207: Genghis Khan, Part 2

Episode 207: Genghis Khan, Part 2

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, hear the second half of the life story of Genghis Khan, the man who created the Mongolian Empire and led it to early greatness as it expanded across Asia and into Europe. https://halfarsedhistory.files.wordpress.com/2022/06/207-genghis-khan-part-2.mp3 Download Episode (Right click and select “Save as…”)

Jun 12, 2022 • 34:33

Episode 207: Genghis Khan, the Unstoppable Conqueror - Part 2

Episode 207: Genghis Khan, the Unstoppable Conqueror - Part 2

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, hear the second half of the life story of Genghis Khan, the man who created the Mongolian Empire and led it to early greatness as it expanded across Asia and into Europe. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jun 12, 2022 • 34:33

Episode 206: Genghis Khan, Part 1

Episode 206: Genghis Khan, Part 1

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, uncover the first half of the life story of Genghis Khan, the man who forged the largest contiguous empire that history has ever seen.

Jun 5, 2022 • 39:08

Episode 206: Genghis Khan, the Unstoppable Conqueror - Part 1

Episode 206: Genghis Khan, the Unstoppable Conqueror - Part 1

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, uncover the first half of the life story of Genghis Khan, the man who forged the largest contiguous empire that history has ever seen. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jun 5, 2022 • 39:07

Episode 205: Julius Caesar

Episode 205: Julius Caesar

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, hear the tale of the famous Roman general and statesman, Julius Caesar, who played an instrumental role in the transition between the Roman Republic and Roman Empire. https://halfarsedhistory.files.wordpress.com/2022/05/205-julius-caesar.mp3 Download Episode (Right click and select “Save as…”) Image: Camuccini, Vincenzo. The Death of Caesar. 1805. Oil on canvas. Galleria Nazionale d’Arte Moderna, Rome, Italy. Via Wikimedia.

May 29, 2022 • 50:43

Episode 205: Julius Caesar, the Populist Dictator

Episode 205: Julius Caesar, the Populist Dictator

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, hear the tale of the famous Roman general and statesman, Julius Caesar, who played an instrumental role in the transition between the Roman Republic and Roman Empire. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

May 29, 2022 • 50:42

Episode 204: Leonardo da Vinci

Episode 204: Leonardo da Vinci

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, learn about the life and times of the famous Renaissance man Leonardo da Vinci, whose genius encompassed everything from art to engineering, anatomy to aerodynamics, and much more besides.

May 22, 2022 • 42:07

Episode 204: Leonardo da Vinci, Legendary Polymath

Episode 204: Leonardo da Vinci, Legendary Polymath

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, learn about the life and times of the famous Renaissance man Leonardo da Vinci, whose genius encompassed everything from art to engineering, anatomy to aerodynamics, and much more besides. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

May 22, 2022 • 42:06

Episode 203: William Shakespeare

Episode 203: William Shakespeare

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, hear the tale of one of the most important literary figures in human history: William Shakespeare, who changed the English language forever with his poems and plays. https://halfarsedhistory.files.wordpress.com/2022/05/203-william-shakespeare.mp3 Download Episode (Right click and select “Save as…”) Image: Gilbert, John. The Plays of William Shakespeare. Circa 1849. Oil on canvas. Dahesh Museum of Art, New York City, USA. Via Wikimedia.

May 15, 2022 • 45:08

Episode 203: William Shakespeare, the Great Poet

Episode 203: William Shakespeare, the Great Poet

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, hear the tale of one of the most important literary figures in human history: William Shakespeare, who changed the English language forever with his poems and plays. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

May 15, 2022 • 45:07

Episode 202: Alexander the Great

Episode 202: Alexander the Great

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, uncover the life story of one of the greatest conquerors the world has ever seen: Alexander the Great, who in his short life forged a huge empire that spanned from Egypt to India.

May 8, 2022 • 46:45

Episode 202 Alexander the Great, the Real-World Achilles

Episode 202 Alexander the Great, the Real-World Achilles

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, uncover the life story of one of the greatest conquerors the world has ever seen: Alexander the Great, who in his short life forged a huge empire that spanned from Egypt to India. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

May 8, 2022 • 46:45

Episode 201: Saladin

Episode 201: Saladin

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, hear the tale of the mighty Saladin, the Kurdish sultan who united much of the 12th century Muslim world and recaptured Jerusalem, triggering the Third Crusade. https://halfarsedhistory.files.wordpress.com/2022/04/201-saladin.mp3 Download Episode (Right click and select “Save as…”) Image: Fragonard, Alexandre-Evariste. Saladin in Jerusalem. Circa 1830-1850. Oil on canvas. Musée des Beaux-Arts de Quimper, Quimper, France. Via Wikimedia.

May 1, 2022 • 42:22

Episode 201: Saladin, Defender of the Holy Land

Episode 201: Saladin, Defender of the Holy Land

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, hear the tale of the mighty Saladin, the Kurdish sultan who united much of the 12th century Muslim world and recaptured Jerusalem, triggering the Third Crusade. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

May 1, 2022 • 42:21

Episode 200: Six More Short Stories

Episode 200: Six More Short Stories

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, learn about the disastrous Battle of Karansebes, the speedy surgeon Robert Liston, the Pig War (which hardly features any pigs at all), the submarine H.L. Henley which was very good at half its job, the broadsword-wielding Fighting Jack Churchill, and the fraternal rivalry that led to the establishment of both Adidas and Puma. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Apr 24, 2022 • 45:47

Episode 200: Six More Short Stories

Episode 200: Six More Short Stories

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, learn about the disastrous Battle of Karansebes, the speedy surgeon Robert Liston, the Pig War (which hardly features any pigs at all), the submarine H.L. Henley which was very good at half its job, the broadsword-wielding Fighting Jack Churchill, and the fraternal rivalry that led to the establishment of both Adidas and Puma. https://halfarsedhistory.files.wordpress.com/2022/04/200-six-more-short-stories.mp3 Download Episode (Right click and select “Save a

Apr 24, 2022 • 45:47

Episode 199: Tamar the Great

Episode 199: Tamar the Great

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, discover the story of one of Georgia’s greatest monarchs: the female king, Tamar the Great. https://halfarsedhistory.files.wordpress.com/2022/04/199-tamar-the-great.mp3 Download Episode (Right click and select “Save as…”)

Apr 17, 2022 • 39:43

Episode 199: Tamar, Georgia's Golden Age Queen

Episode 199: Tamar, Georgia's Golden Age Queen

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, discover the story of one of Georgia's greatest monarchs: the female king, Tamar the Great. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Apr 17, 2022 • 39:42

Episode 198: The Cuban Missile Crisis

Episode 198: The Cuban Missile Crisis

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, hear the tale of the Cuban Missile Crisis, one of the closest points humanity ever came to global thermonuclear war. https://halfarsedhistory.files.wordpress.com/2022/04/198-the-cuban-missile-crisis.mp3 Download Episode (Right click and select “Save as…”) Image: Unknown Lockheed U-2 Pilot. Untitled image of Cuban missile bases. 16 October 1962. Annotated photograph. Via Wikimedia.

Apr 10, 2022 • 49:11

Episode 198: The Cuban Missile Crisis

Episode 198: The Cuban Missile Crisis

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, hear the tale of the Cuban Missile Crisis, one of the closest points humanity ever came to global thermonuclear war. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Apr 10, 2022 • 49:11

Episode 197: History of Nuclear Weapons

Episode 197: History of Nuclear Weapons

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, uncover the history of one of the 20th century’s most important technological developments that would go on to shape history and modern current affairs: nuclear weapons. https://halfarsedhistory.files.wordpress.com/2022/04/197-the-history-of-nuclear-weapons.mp3 Download Episode (Right click and select “Save as…”)

Apr 3, 2022 • 54:58

Episode 197: The History of Nuclear Weapons

Episode 197: The History of Nuclear Weapons

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, uncover the history of one of the 20th century's most important technological developments that would go on to shape history and modern current affairs: nuclear weapons. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Apr 3, 2022 • 54:58

Episode 196: Bartholomew Roberts, Part 2

Episode 196: Bartholomew Roberts, Part 2

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, hear the second half of the tale of Bartholomew Roberts and his ultimate downfall and death, and learn about the role of things like the Jolly Roger during the Golden Age of Piracy. https://halfarsedhistory.files.wordpress.com/2022/03/196-bartholomew-roberts-part-2.mp3 Download Episode (Right click and select “Save as…”)

Mar 27, 2022 • 40:58

Episode 196: Bartholomew Roberts, the Great Pirate - Part 2

Episode 196: Bartholomew Roberts, the Great Pirate - Part 2

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, hear the second half of the tale of Bartholomew Roberts and his ultimate downfall and death, and learn about the role of things like the Jolly Roger during the Golden Age of Piracy. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mar 27, 2022 • 40:58

Episode 195: Bartholomew Roberts, the Great Pirate - Part 1

Episode 195: Bartholomew Roberts, the Great Pirate - Part 1

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, hear the first half of the tale of Bartholomew Roberts, one of history's most successful pirates, and learn about other pirate-related topics such as various Pirate Codes that once governed different pirate ships. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mar 20, 2022 • 46:09

Episode 195: Bartholomew Roberts, Part 1

Episode 195: Bartholomew Roberts, Part 1

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, hear the first half of the tale of Bartholomew Roberts, one of history’s most successful pirates, and learn about other pirate-related topics such as various Pirate Codes that once governed different pirate ships. https://halfarsedhistory.files.wordpress.com/2022/03/195-bartholomew-roberts-part-1.mp3 Download Episode (Right click and select “Save as…”)

Mar 20, 2022 • 46:10

Episode 194: Ludwig van Beethoven

Episode 194: Ludwig van Beethoven

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, uncover the life story of Ludwig van Beethoven, one of the greatest composers in history who created some of the most acclaimed and celebrated musical works, while suffering from debilitating hearing loss.

Mar 13, 2022 • 48:56

Episode 194: Ludwig van Beethoven, the Musical Innovator

Episode 194: Ludwig van Beethoven, the Musical Innovator

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, uncover the life story of Ludwig van Beethoven, one of the greatest composers in history who created some of the most acclaimed and celebrated musical works, while suffering from debilitating hearing loss. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mar 13, 2022 • 48:56

Episode 193: The History of Ukraine

Episode 193: The History of Ukraine

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, go on a tour of the history of the land we today call Ukraine and the people that call it home, from Neolithic tribes to Slavic migrants, from Cossack freedom fighters to those subjugated by the Russian Empire, and discover some of the historical context to the horrendous and needless conflict taking place in Ukraine right now. https://halfarsedhistory.files.wordpress.com/2022/03/193-the-history-of-ukraine.mp3 Download Episode (Right click and select “Save

Mar 6, 2022 • 49:05

Episode 193: The History of Ukraine

Episode 193: The History of Ukraine

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, go on a tour of the history of the land we today call Ukraine and the people that call it home, from Neolithic tribes to Slavic migrants, from Cossack freedom fighters to those subjugated by the Russian Empire, and discover some of the historical context to the horrendous and needless conflict taking place in Ukraine right now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mar 6, 2022 • 49:05

Episode 192: Le Loi and the Lam Son Uprising

Episode 192: Le Loi and the Lam Son Uprising

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, discover the tale of Le Loi, the Vietnamese national hero who delivered his people from the invading colonial Ming dynasty. https://halfarsedhistory.files.wordpress.com/2022/02/192-le-loi-and-the-lam-son-uprising.mp3 Download Episode (Right click and select “Save as…”)

Feb 27, 2022 • 44:35

Episode 192: Le Loi and the Lam Son Uprising

Episode 192: Le Loi and the Lam Son Uprising

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, discover the tale of Le Loi, the Vietnamese national hero who delivered his people from the invading colonial Ming dynasty. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Feb 27, 2022 • 44:34

Episode 191: Cleopatra, Part 2

Episode 191: Cleopatra, Part 2

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, continue to learn about the life and times of Cleopatra VII Philopator, who played a significant role in not only the governance of Egypt but also the fall of the Roman Republic and rise of the Roman Empire.  https://halfarsedhistory.files.wordpress.com/2022/02/191-cleopatra-part-2.mp3 Download Episode (Right click and select “Save as…”) Image: Alma-Tadema, Lawrence. The Meeting of Antony and Cleopatra, 41 B.C.. 1885. Oil on panel. Via Wikimedia.

Feb 20, 2022 • 1:00:23

Episode 191: Cleopatra, Egypt's Last Queen - Part 2

Episode 191: Cleopatra, Egypt's Last Queen - Part 2

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, continue to learn about the life and times of Cleopatra VII Philopator, who played a significant role in not only the governance of Egypt but also the fall of the Roman Republic and rise of the Roman Empire. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Feb 20, 2022 • 1:00:22

Episode 190: Cleopatra, Part 1

Episode 190: Cleopatra, Part 1

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, get to know one of the most famous figures from ancient history, Cleopatra VII Philopator, and learn how in her younger days she secured her crown against her enemies and became close to Julius Caesar. https://halfarsedhistory.files.wordpress.com/2022/02/190-cleopatra-part-1.mp3 Download Episode (Right click and select “Save as…”) Image: Gérôme, Jean-Léon. Cleopatra and Caesar. 1866. Oil on canvas. Via Wikimedia.

Feb 13, 2022 • 46:08

Episode 190: Cleopatra, Egypt's Last Queen - Part 1

Episode 190: Cleopatra, Egypt's Last Queen - Part 1

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, get to know one of the most famous figures from ancient history, Cleopatra VII Philopator, and learn how in her younger days she secured her crown against her enemies and became close to Julius Caesar. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Feb 13, 2022 • 46:08

Episode 189: The Capture of Guam

Episode 189: The Capture of Guam

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, hear the hilarious and unbelievable story of the Capture of Guam, when a heavily-armed US naval convoy took control of the island of Guam from Spain – without shedding a single drop of blood. https://halfarsedhistory.files.wordpress.com/2022/02/189-the-capture-of-guam.mp3 Download Episode (Right click and select “Save as…”) Image: Farenholt, Ammen. Charleston at the entrance to the harbor of Agana. 21st June 1898. Halftone photograph. Via Wikimedia.

Feb 6, 2022 • 41:13

Episode 189: The Capture of Guam

Episode 189: The Capture of Guam

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, hear the hilarious and unbelievable story of the Capture of Guam, when a heavily-armed US naval convoy took control of the island of Guam from Spain - without shedding a single drop of blood. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Feb 6, 2022 • 41:13

Episode 188: Operation Mincemeat

Episode 188: Operation Mincemeat

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, uncover the incredible story of Operation Mincemeat, one of the most elaborate and unbelievable intelligence ruses in history. https://halfarsedhistory.files.wordpress.com/2022/02/188-operation-mincemeat.mp3 Download Episode (Right click and select “Save as…”)

Jan 30, 2022 • 48:43

Episode 188: Operation Mincemeat

Episode 188: Operation Mincemeat

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, uncover the incredible story of Operation Mincemeat, one of the most elaborate and unbelievable intelligence ruses in history. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 30, 2022 • 48:43

Episode 187: The Great Train Robbery

Episode 187: The Great Train Robbery

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, hear the tale of the Great Train Robbery, when in 1963 a group of gang members held up and robbed a mail train in England, before fleeing to their hideout and playing Monopoly with their ill-gotten gains.

Jan 23, 2022 • 48:18

Episode 187: The Great Train Robbery

Episode 187: The Great Train Robbery

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, hear the tale of the Great Train Robbery, when in 1963 a group of gang members held up and robbed a mail train in England, before fleeing to their hideout and playing Monopoly with their ill-gotten gains. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 23, 2022 • 48:17

Episode 186: The Battles of Salamis and Plataea

Episode 186: The Battles of Salamis and Plataea

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, learn what happened during the decisive battles of Salamis and Plataea, when the Greeks finally gained the upper hand in the Greco-Persian Wars, and how these battles went on to affect the overall outcome of the war.

Jan 16, 2022 • 46:09

Episode 186: The Battles of Salamis and Plataea

Episode 186: The Battles of Salamis and Plataea

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, learn what happened during the decisive battles of Salamis and Plataea, when the Greeks finally gained the upper hand in the Greco-Persian Wars, and how these battles went on to affect the overall outcome of the war. https://halfarsedhistory.files.wordpress.com/2022/01/186-the-battles-of-salamis-and-plataea.mp3 Download Episode (Right click and select “Save as…”) Image: von Kaulbach, Wilhelm. Battle of Salamis. 1868. Oil on canvas. Via Wikimedia.

Jan 16, 2022 • 46:07

Episode 186: The Battles of Salamis and Plataea

Episode 186: The Battles of Salamis and Plataea

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, learn what happened during the decisive battles of Salamis and Plataea, when the Greeks finally gained the upper hand in the Greco-Persian Wars, and how these battles went on to affect the overall outcome of the war. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 16, 2022 • 46:07

Episode 185: The Battle of Thermopylae

Episode 185: The Battle of Thermopylae

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, hear the tale of the Battle of Thermopylae, when a small force of Greek hoplites held off and fought a brave last stand against an overwhelmingly large Persian army as part of the Greco-Persian Wars. https://halfarsedhistory.files.wordpress.com/2022/01/185-the-battle-of-thermopylae.mp3 Download Episode (Right click and select “Save as…”) Image: David, Jacques-Louis. Leonidas at Thermopylae. 1814. Oil on canvas. Louvre Museum, Paris. Via Wikimedia.

Jan 9, 2022 • 46:09

Episode 185: The Battle of Thermopylae

Episode 185: The Battle of Thermopylae

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, hear the tale of the Battle of Thermopylae, when a small force of Greek hoplites held off and fought a brave last stand against an overwhelmingly large Persian army as part of the Greco-Persian Wars. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 9, 2022 • 46:09

Episode 184: The Battle of Marathon

Episode 184: The Battle of Marathon

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, discover the story of the Battle of Marathon, a battle of immense importance not just in ancient history, but modern world history as well - and learn the true tale of the origin of the modern running race.

Jan 2, 2022 • 50:50

Episode 184: The Battle of Marathon

Episode 184: The Battle of Marathon

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, discover the story of the Battle of Marathon, a battle of immense importance not just in ancient history, but modern world history as well - and learn the true tale of the origin of the modern running race. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 2, 2022 • 50:50

Episode 183: The 1908 New York to Paris Race

Episode 183: The 1908 New York to Paris Race

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, hear the ridiculous story of the 1908 New York to Paris Race, which involved everything from plans to drive across the sea, blatant and outright cheating, and one team even selling their racecar en route. https://halfarsedhistory.files.wordpress.com/2021/12/183-the-1908-new-york-to-paris-race.mp3 Download Episode (Right click and select “Save as…”) Image: Bain News Service. Grid before the 1908 New York to Paris Race. 1908. Photograph. Via Wikimedia.

Dec 26, 2021 • 41:37

Episode 183: The 1908 New York to Paris Race

Episode 183: The 1908 New York to Paris Race

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, hear the ridiculous story of the 1908 New York to Paris Race, which involved everything from plans to drive across the sea, blatant and outright cheating, and one team even selling their racecar en route. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dec 26, 2021 • 41:36

Episode 182: The Nine Years’ War and the End of Gaelic Ireland

Episode 182: The Nine Years’ War and the End of Gaelic Ireland

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, begin to understand an important chapter in Ireland's tragic and complicated history: the Nine Years' War, which effectively brought about the end of an autonomous Gaelic Ireland.

Dec 19, 2021 • 41:12

Episode 182: The Nine Years’ War and the End of Gaelic Ireland

Episode 182: The Nine Years’ War and the End of Gaelic Ireland

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, begin to understand an important chapter in Ireland's tragic and complicated history: the Nine Years' War, which effectively brought about the end of an autonomous Gaelic Ireland. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dec 19, 2021 • 41:12

Episode 181: Caravaggio, the Brawling Painter

Episode 181: Caravaggio, the Brawling Painter

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, learn the incredible life story of Caravaggio, one of the most famous painters in history - he wasn't just a masterful artist, however, but a lifelong street brawler who got into all sorts of trouble for it throughout his entire life.

Dec 12, 2021 • 41:44

Episode 181: Caravaggio, the Brawling Painter

Episode 181: Caravaggio, the Brawling Painter

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, learn the incredible life story of Caravaggio, one of the most famous painters in history - he wasn't just a masterful artist, however, but a lifelong street brawler who got into all sorts of trouble for it throughout his entire life. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dec 12, 2021 • 41:44

Episode 180: Fritz Duquesne

Episode 180: Fritz Duquesne

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, hear the tale of Fritz Duquesne, a South African who throughout his adventure-filled life was a hunter, soldier, spy, writer, and… film publicist? whose lifelong hatred of the British saw him spy against them in both world wars. https://halfarsedhistory.files.wordpress.com/2021/12/180-fritz-duquesne.mp3 Download Episode (Right click and select “Save as…”)

Dec 5, 2021 • 47:48

Episode 180: Fritz Duquesne, Vengeful Adventurer

Episode 180: Fritz Duquesne, Vengeful Adventurer

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, hear the tale of Fritz Duquesne, a South African who throughout his adventure-filled life was a hunter, soldier, spy, writer, and... film publicist? whose lifelong hatred of the British saw him spy against them in both world wars. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dec 5, 2021 • 47:48

Episode 179: The Rum Rebellion

Episode 179: The Rum Rebellion

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, discover the story behind Australia's first (and only) military coup, when William Bligh was overthrown as governor of New South Wales - the Rum Rebellion.

Nov 28, 2021 • 52:20

Episode 179: The Rum Rebellion

Episode 179: The Rum Rebellion

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, discover the story behind Australia's first (and only) military coup, when William Bligh was overthrown as governor of New South Wales - the Rum Rebellion. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nov 28, 2021 • 52:20

Episode 178: Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Part 2

Episode 178: Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Part 2

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, hear the rest of the life story of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, how he set himself up as a successful performer and composer in Vienna, and discover his lifelong love of scatological humour. https://halfarsedhistory.files.wordpress.com/2021/11/177-wolfgang-amadeus-mozart-part-2.mp3 Download Episode (Right click and select “Save as…”) Image: Lange, Joseph. Mozart am Klavier. 1789. Oil on Canvas. Mozart-Museum, Mozarts Geburtshaus, Salzburg, Austria. Via Wikimedi

Nov 21, 2021 • 56:33

Episode 178: Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, the Legendary Composer - Part 2

Episode 178: Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, the Legendary Composer - Part 2

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, hear the rest of the life story of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, how he set himself up as a successful performer and composer in Vienna, and discover his lifelong love of scatological humour. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nov 21, 2021 • 56:33

Episode 177: Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Part 1

Episode 177: Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Part 1

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, hear the first half of the life story of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, and his adventures as a child and young man as he travelled Europe, performing as a child virtuoso and honing his craft as a legendary composer.

Nov 14, 2021 • 46:29

Episode 177: Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, the Legendary Composer - Part 1

Episode 177: Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, the Legendary Composer - Part 1

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, hear the first half of the life story of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, and his adventures as a child and young man as he travelled Europe, performing as a child virtuoso and honing his craft as a legendary composer. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nov 14, 2021 • 46:29

Episode 176: Zoe and Theodora Porphyrogenita

Episode 176: Zoe and Theodora Porphyrogenita

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, uncover the story of Zoe and Theodora Porphyrogenita, two sisters who rose to power in the ruthless, cutthroat world of Byzantine politics.

Nov 7, 2021 • 43:52

Episode 176: Zoe and Theodora Porphyrogenita

Episode 176: Zoe and Theodora Porphyrogenita

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, uncover the story of Zoe and Theodora Porphyrogenita, two sisters who rose to power in the ruthless, cutthroat world of Byzantine politics. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nov 7, 2021 • 43:52

Episode 175: Marcus Licinius Crassus

Episode 175: Marcus Licinius Crassus

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, hear the story of the richest man in ancient Rome, who was a real nasty piece of work: Marcus Licinius Crassus. https://halfarsedhistory.files.wordpress.com/2021/10/175-marcus-licinius-crassus.mp3 Download Episode (Right click and select “Save as…”) Image: Blondeel, Lanceloot. The death of Marcus Licinius Crassus. Between circa 1548 and circa 1558. Oil. Groeningemuseum, Bruges, Belgium. Via Wikimedia.

Oct 31, 2021 • 52:02

Episode 175: Marcus Licinius Crassus, Roman Oligarch

Episode 175: Marcus Licinius Crassus, Roman Oligarch

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, hear the story of the richest man in ancient Rome, who was a real nasty piece of work: Marcus Licinius Crassus. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Oct 31, 2021 • 52:01

Episode 174: History’s Weirdest Deaths, Part 2

Episode 174: History’s Weirdest Deaths, Part 2

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, be entertained with some morbid comedy with the stories of ten more weird and ridiculous deaths from across history. https://halfarsedhistory.files.wordpress.com/2021/10/174-historys-weirdest-deaths-part-2.mp3 Download Episode (Right click and select “Save as…”) Image: Unknown. The Triumph of Death. Circa 1446. Fresco. Galleria Regionale della Sicilia, Palermo, Italy. Via Wikimedia.

Oct 24, 2021 • 46:23

Episode 174: History’s Weirdest Deaths - Part 2

Episode 174: History’s Weirdest Deaths - Part 2

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, be entertained with some morbid comedy with the stories of ten more weird and ridiculous deaths from across history. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Oct 24, 2021 • 46:22

Episode 173: Famous Last Words

Episode 173: Famous Last Words

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, hear the very entertaining last words of four figures from throughout history: Marie Antoinette, John Segwick, James W. Rodgers, and Ian Fleming. https://halfarsedhistory.files.wordpress.com/2021/10/173-famous-last-words.mp3 Download Episode (Right click and select “Save as…”) Image: van Francken, Frans II. Death and the miser. Circa 1610. Oil on copper. Via Wikimedia.

Oct 17, 2021 • 30:58

Episode 173: Famous Last Words

Episode 173: Famous Last Words

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, hear the very entertaining last words of four figures from throughout history: Marie Antoinette, John Segwick, James W. Rodgers, and Ian Fleming. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Oct 17, 2021 • 30:57

Episode 172: The Erfurt Latrine Disaster

Episode 172: The Erfurt Latrine Disaster

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, hear the comedic tragedy – or is it the tragic comedy – of the Erfurt Latrine Disaster, when a huge group of mediaeval German lords plunged into a cesspit in the middle of meeting with a king. https://halfarsedhistory.files.wordpress.com/2021/10/172-the-erfurt-latrine-disaster.mp3 Download Episode (Right click and select “Save as…”)

Oct 10, 2021 • 29:31

Episode 172: The Erfurt Latrine Disaster

Episode 172: The Erfurt Latrine Disaster

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, hear the comedic tragedy - or is it the tragic comedy - of the Erfurt Latrine Disaster, when a huge group of mediaeval German lords plunged into a cesspit in the middle of meeting with a king. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Oct 10, 2021 • 29:30

Episode 171: Atahualpa and the Massacre of Cajamarca

Episode 171: Atahualpa and the Massacre of Cajamarca

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, learn the story behind Sapa Inca Atahualpa and the Massacre of Cajamarca, the defining moment in the collapse of the mighty Inca Empire. https://halfarsedhistory.files.wordpress.com/2021/10/171-atahualpa-and-the-massacre-of-cajamarca.mp3 Download Episode (Right click and select “Save as…”) Image: Montero, Luis. The Funerals of Inca Atahualpa. 1867. Oil on canvas. Lima Art Museum, Lima, Peru. Via Wikimedia.

Oct 3, 2021 • 40:15

Episode 171: Atahualpa and the Massacre of Cajamarca

Episode 171: Atahualpa and the Massacre of Cajamarca

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, learn the story behind Sapa Inca Atahualpa and the Massacre of Cajamarca, the defining moment in the collapse of the mighty Inca Empire. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Oct 3, 2021 • 40:15

Episode 170: King Shaka kaSenzangakhona

Episode 170: King Shaka kaSenzangakhona

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, find out about King Shaka kaSenzangakhona, also known as Shaka Zulu, a man who went from a common soldier to a tribal chieftain to one of southern Africa's most powerful warrior-kings.

Sep 26, 2021 • 41:21

Episode 170: King Shaka kaSenzangakhona, the Warrior King

Episode 170: King Shaka kaSenzangakhona, the Warrior King

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, find out about King Shaka kaSenzangakhona, also known as Shaka Zulu, a man who went from a common soldier to a tribal chieftain to one of southern Africa's most powerful warrior-kings. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sep 26, 2021 • 41:20

Episode 169: Attila the Hun

Episode 169: Attila the Hun

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, hear the tale of Attila the Hun, one of history’s most fearsome and bloodthirsty warriors, who rampaged across both the Eastern and Western Roman Empires. https://halfarsedhistory.files.wordpress.com/2021/09/169-attila-the-hun.mp3 Download Episode (Right click and select “Save as…”) Image: Delacroix, Eugène. Attila and his Hordes Overrun Italy and the Arts. Oil and virgin wax on plaster. Circa 1843-47. Palais Bourbon, Paris, France. Via Wikimedia.

Sep 19, 2021 • 41:42

Episode 169: Attila the Hun, Breaker of Rome

Episode 169: Attila the Hun, Breaker of Rome

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, hear the tale of Attila the Hun, one of history's most fearsome and bloodthirsty warriors, who rampaged across both the Eastern and Western Roman Empires. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sep 19, 2021 • 41:41

Episode 168: Jadwiga of Poland

Episode 168: Jadwiga of Poland

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, discover the life story of Jadwiga of Poland, a monarch who guided her realm through a turbulent and difficult period while maintaining peace and prosperity for her people. https://halfarsedhistory.files.wordpress.com/2021/09/168-jadwiga-of-poland.mp3 Download Episode (Right click and select “Save as…”)

Sep 12, 2021 • 48:32

Episode 168: Jadwiga of Poland, the Peacekeeper

Episode 168: Jadwiga of Poland, the Peacekeeper

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, discover the life story of Jadwiga of Poland, a monarch who guided her realm through a turbulent and difficult period while maintaining peace and prosperity for her people. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sep 12, 2021 • 48:31

Episode 167: Jeanne Baret

Episode 167: Jeanne Baret

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, hear the tale of the first woman known to history to have circumnavigated the globe, Jeanne Baret, who went from being an impoverished peasant to a widely-travelled botanist and entrepreneur who made history with her voyages. https://halfarsedhistory.files.wordpress.com/2021/09/167-jeanne-baret.mp3 Download Episode (Right click and select “Save as…”)

Sep 5, 2021 • 40:15

Episode 167: Jeanne Baret, the First Woman to Circumnavigate Earth

Episode 167: Jeanne Baret, the First Woman to Circumnavigate Earth

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, hear the tale of the first woman known to history to have circumnavigated the globe, Jeanne Baret, who went from being an impoverished peasant to a widely-travelled botanist and entrepreneur who made history with her voyages. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sep 5, 2021 • 36:55

Episode 166: Charles Ponzi

Episode 166: Charles Ponzi

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, discover the life story of one of history’s most famous con men, Charles Ponzi, whose name is still attached to the swindle he pulled off (but didn’t invent!) in 1920, when he fleeced millions from people in the US. https://halfarsedhistory.files.wordpress.com/2021/08/166-charles-ponzi.mp3 Download Episode (Right click and select “Save as…”)

Aug 29, 2021 • 49:11

Episode 166: Charles Ponzi, the Famous Con Artist

Episode 166: Charles Ponzi, the Famous Con Artist

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, discover the life story of one of history's most famous con men, Charles Ponzi, whose name is still attached to the swindle he pulled off (but didn't invent!) in 1920, when he fleeced millions from people in the US. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Aug 29, 2021 • 49:10

Episode 165: Wild Bill Hickok

Episode 165: Wild Bill Hickok

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, hear the extraordinary tale of Wild Bill Hickok, a famous gunslinger and lawman from the American Old West, who – amongst much else – once shot a man dead over a gold pocketwatch. https://halfarsedhistory.files.wordpress.com/2021/08/165-wild-bill-hickok.mp3 Download Episode (Right click and select “Save as…”)

Aug 22, 2021 • 45:41

Episode 165: Wild Bill Hickok, the Frontier Lawman

Episode 165: Wild Bill Hickok, the Frontier Lawman

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, hear the extraordinary tale of Wild Bill Hickok, a famous gunslinger and lawman from the American Old West, who - amongst much else - once shot a man dead over a gold pocketwatch. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Aug 22, 2021 • 45:41

Episode 164: The Time of Troubles

Episode 164: The Time of Troubles

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, learn about the Time of Troubles, a period of Russian history brought about by a succession crisis that involved chaos, invasions, lawlessness, and three different blokes pretending to be a long-lost heir who had come back from the dead. https://halfarsedhistory.files.wordpress.com/2021/08/164-the-time-of-troubles.mp3 Download Episode (Right click and select “Save as…”) Image: Makovsky, Konstantin. Appeal of Minin. 1896. Oil on canvas. Nizhny Novgorod State

Aug 15, 2021 • 39:58

Episode 164: The Time of Troubles

Episode 164: The Time of Troubles

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, learn about the Time of Troubles, a period of Russian history brought about by a succession crisis that involved chaos, invasions, lawlessness, and three different blokes pretending to be a long-lost heir who had come back from the dead. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Aug 15, 2021 • 39:58

Episode 163: Moondyne Joe

Episode 163: Moondyne Joe

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, hear the tale of Moondyne Joe, a convict sent to Western Australia who became infamous for his many attempts to break out of jail there, and the adventures he had along the way.

Aug 8, 2021 • 36:14

Episode 163: Moondyne Joe, the Jailbreaking Bushranger

Episode 163: Moondyne Joe, the Jailbreaking Bushranger

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, hear the tale of Moondyne Joe, a convict sent to Western Australia who became infamous for his many attempts to break out of jail there, and the adventures he had along the way. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Aug 8, 2021 • 36:14

Episode 162: The History of the Bicycle

Episode 162: The History of the Bicycle

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, discover the history of the bicycle, and how it went from being a wooden-wheeled, bone-shaking daredevil's plaything to a wonderful machine that influenced historical political movements and changed the way we travel.

Aug 1, 2021 • 45:03

Episode 162: The History of the Bicycle

Episode 162: The History of the Bicycle

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, discover the history of the bicycle, and how it went from being a wooden-wheeled, bone-shaking daredevil's plaything to a wonderful machine that influenced historical political movements and changed the way we travel. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Aug 1, 2021 • 45:02

Episode 161: The Ancient Olympic Games

Episode 161: The Ancient Olympic Games

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, learn the history of the ancient Olympic Games, which featured everything from naked foot races to bloodsports, and became the precursor to the modern Olympic Games we all know so well today.

Jul 25, 2021 • 47:52

Episode 161: The Ancient Olympic Games

Episode 161: The Ancient Olympic Games

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, learn the history of the ancient Olympic Games, which featured everything from naked foot races to bloodsports, and became the precursor to the modern Olympic Games we all know so well today. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jul 25, 2021 • 47:51

Episode 160: The Watergate Scandal

Episode 160: The Watergate Scandal

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, uncover the full story of one of the biggest political scandals in recent memory - the Watergate Scandal, which brought low an entire presidential administration after a series of failed cover-ups.

Jul 18, 2021 • 42:43

Episode 160: The Watergate Scandal

Episode 160: The Watergate Scandal

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, uncover the full story of one of the biggest political scandals in recent memory - the Watergate Scandal, which brought low an entire presidential administration after a series of failed cover-ups. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jul 18, 2021 • 42:42

Episode 159: Hudson’s Bay Company

Episode 159: Hudson’s Bay Company

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, learn the long and surprisingly involved history of the Hudson's Bay Company - today a chain of department stores, but previously a fur trading company that became a foundationally important part of Canada.

Jul 11, 2021 • 51:05

Episode 159: Hudson’s Bay Company

Episode 159: Hudson’s Bay Company

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, learn the long and surprisingly involved history of the Hudson's Bay Company - today a chain of department stores, but previously a fur trading company that became a foundationally important part of Canada. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jul 11, 2021 • 51:05

Episode 158: The History of the Castle

Episode 158: The History of the Castle

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, uncover the history of the structures that became mediaeval Europe’s military, political, economic, and administrative focal points: the castle, a fortified home for wealthy ruling nobles. https://halfarsedhistory.files.wordpress.com/2021/07/158-the-history-of-the-castle-1.mp3 Download Episode (Right click and select “Save as…”) Image: Camphuysen, Govert Dircksz. Slottet Tre Kronor. Oil on canvas. 1661. Via Wikimedia.

Jul 4, 2021 • 49:21

Episode 158: The History of the Castle

Episode 158: The History of the Castle

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, uncover the history of the structures that became mediaeval Europe's military, political, economic, and administrative focal points: the castle, a fortified home for wealthy ruling nobles. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jul 4, 2021 • 49:21

Episode 157: El Cid

Episode 157: El Cid

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, hear the story of Rodrigo Díaz de Vivar, better known to history as El Cid, a famous Spanish knight who fought for and against both Christians and Muslims in mediaeval Iberia. https://halfarsedhistory.files.wordpress.com/2021/06/157-el-cid.mp3 Download Episode (Right click and select “Save as…”) Image: Acosta, Marcos Hiráldez. Jura de Santa Gadea. Oil on canvas. 1864. Via Wikimedia.

Jun 27, 2021 • 38:23

Episode 157: El Cid, the Iberian Warlord

Episode 157: El Cid, the Iberian Warlord

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, hear the story of Rodrigo Díaz de Vivar, better known to history as El Cid, a famous Spanish knight who fought for and against both Christians and Muslims in mediaeval Iberia. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jun 27, 2021 • 38:22

Episode 156: Brunhilda and Fredegund

Episode 156: Brunhilda and Fredegund

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, uncover the bloody, decades-long feud between two rival Frankish queens from the Early Middle Ages, Brunhilda and Fredegund. https://halfarsedhistory.files.wordpress.com/2021/06/156-brunhilda-and-fredegund.mp3 Download Episode (Right click and select “Save as…”)

Jun 20, 2021 • 46:45

Episode 156: Brunhilda and Fredegund, Feuding Queens

Episode 156: Brunhilda and Fredegund, Feuding Queens

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, uncover the bloody, decades-long feud between two rival Frankish queens from the Early Middle Ages, Brunhilda and Fredegund. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jun 20, 2021 • 46:45

Episode 155: The Battle of Castle Itter

Episode 155: The Battle of Castle Itter

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, be amazed at the ridiculous story of the Battle of Castle Itter, the only recorded time when American and German soldiers fought side-by-side in the Second World War. https://halfarsedhistory.files.wordpress.com/2021/06/155-the-battle-of-castle-itter.mp3 Download Episode (Right click and select “Save as…”) Image: Morgan, Steve J.. Schloss Itter. Photograph. 10th July, 1979. Via Wikimedia.

Jun 13, 2021 • 38:20

Episode 155: The Battle of Castle Itter

Episode 155: The Battle of Castle Itter

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, be amazed at the ridiculous story of the Battle of Castle Itter, the only recorded time when American and German soldiers fought side-by-side in the Second World War. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jun 13, 2021 • 38:20

Episode 154: Afonso I of Portugal

Episode 154: Afonso I of Portugal

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, hear the origin story of the modern state of Portugal, and the tale of the man who wrought its independence: Afonso I of Portugal.

Jun 6, 2021 • 35:55

Episode 154: Afonso I, the Father of Portugal

Episode 154: Afonso I, the Father of Portugal

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, hear the origin story of the modern state of Portugal, and the tale of the man who wrought its independence: Afonso I of Portugal. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jun 6, 2021 • 35:54

Episode 153: The Forty-Seven Ronin

Episode 153: The Forty-Seven Ronin

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, discover the story of the Forty-Seven Ronin, a group of ex-samurai who hatched a two-year-long plot to avenge the death of their fallen lord and reclaim his lost honour.

May 30, 2021 • 35:48

Episode 153: The Forty-Seven Ronin

Episode 153: The Forty-Seven Ronin

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, discover the story of the Forty-Seven Ronin, a group of ex-samurai who hatched a two-year-long plot to avenge the death of their fallen lord and reclaim his lost honour. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

May 30, 2021 • 35:47

Episode 152: The Eureka Rebellion

Episode 152: The Eureka Rebellion

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, hear the tale of the Eureka Rebellion, the closest Australian colonists ever came to a full-scale political uprising after a harsh tax led gold miners to take up arms against the government. https://halfarsedhistory.files.wordpress.com/2021/05/152-the-eureka-rebellion.mp3 Download Episode (Right click and select “Save as…”) Image: Doudiet, Charles. The Swearing of Allegiance to the Southern Cross. Circa 1850-1890. Via Wikimedia.

May 23, 2021 • 46:31

Episode 152: The Eureka Rebellion

Episode 152: The Eureka Rebellion

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, hear the tale of the Eureka Rebellion, the closest Australian colonists ever came to a full-scale political uprising after a harsh tax led gold miners to take up arms against the government. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

May 23, 2021 • 46:30

Episode 151: The History of Penicillin

Episode 151: The History of Penicillin

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, learn how the most significant medical breakthrough in human history – the discovery of penicillin – resulted in a revolution in human health thanks to the work of some talented and dedicated scientists. https://halfarsedhistory.files.wordpress.com/2021/05/151-the-history-of-penicillin.mp3 Download Episode (Right click and select “Save as…”)

May 16, 2021 • 39:05

Episode 151: The History of Penicillin

Episode 151: The History of Penicillin

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, learn how the most significant medical breakthrough in human history - the discovery of penicillin - resulted in a revolution in human health thanks to the work of some talented and dedicated scientists. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

May 16, 2021 • 39:05

Episode 150: The Apollo Program

Episode 150: The Apollo Program

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, hear the full story of the Apollo Program, the monumental scientific endeavour that successfully landed humans on the Moon for the first time. https://halfarsedhistory.files.wordpress.com/2021/05/150-the-apollo-program.mp3 Download Episode (Right click and select “Save as…”) Image: Armstrong, Neil. Aldrin Looks Back at Tranquility Base. 21st July, 1961. Photograph. Via Wikimedia.

May 9, 2021 • 49:24

Episode 150: The Apollo Program

Episode 150: The Apollo Program

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, hear the full story of the Apollo Program, the monumental scientific endeavour that successfully landed humans on the Moon for the first time in history. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

May 9, 2021 • 49:23

Episode 149: William and Caroline Herschel, Stargazing Siblings

Episode 149: William and Caroline Herschel, Stargazing Siblings

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, hear about the lives and the discoveries made by William and Caroline Herschel, a pair of siblings who were enormously influential on the science of astronomy. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

May 2, 2021 • 31:49

Episode 148: Ashurbanipal, King of the Universe

Episode 148: Ashurbanipal, King of the Universe

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, hear the ancient tale of Ashurbanipal, who styled himself king of the universe, and how his legacy remains alive today almost three millennia after his death. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Apr 25, 2021 • 37:52

Episode 147: The Servile Wars

Episode 147: The Servile Wars

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, learn the stories of the Servile Wars, three slave revolts from ancient Rome that led to the emergence of legendary figures such as Spartacus. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Apr 18, 2021 • 41:47

Episode 146: The Final Voyage of the Whaleship Essex

Episode 146: The Final Voyage of the Whaleship Essex

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, hear the tragic tale of the whaleship Essex, the real-life inspiration for Herman Melville's Moby-Dick - a story of what happened when a giant whale attacked a ship in the middle of the Pacific. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Apr 11, 2021 • 36:40

Episode 145: The Suez Canal

Episode 145: The Suez Canal

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, discover the long and very interesting history of one of the world's most important waterways, the Suez Canal, and hear about just how many times it's been blocked up over the years. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Apr 4, 2021 • 39:09

Episode 144: Assassination Attempts on Fidel Castro

Episode 144: Assassination Attempts on Fidel Castro

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, learn about all the ridiculous stories behind the times the CIA tried - and failed - to assassinate Fidel Castro, the president of Cuba. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mar 28, 2021 • 35:36

Episode 143: The Four Great Inventions

Episode 143: The Four Great Inventions

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, hear the stories of the Four Great Inventions from ancient China, and how they've impacted the modern world: the compass, papermaking, woodblock printing, and gunpowder. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mar 21, 2021 • 43:52

Episode 142: Marie Sklodowska Curie, Radiation Pioneer

Episode 142: Marie Sklodowska Curie, Radiation Pioneer

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, uncover the life story of Marie Sklodowska Curie, a brilliant pioneering scientist who faced significant challenges both inside and outside the lab - but one who still managed to be the first person ever to win two Nobel Prizes. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mar 14, 2021 • 42:27

Episode 141: Alcibiades, the Ancient Greek Playboy

Episode 141: Alcibiades, the Ancient Greek Playboy

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, hear the tale of Alcibiades: general, diplomat, politician, traitor and turncoat (more than a few times), and an absolute lothario, who influenced the course of the famous Peloponnesian War. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mar 7, 2021 • 51:27

Episode 140: The Lafitte Brothers, the Roguish Pirates

Episode 140: The Lafitte Brothers, the Roguish Pirates

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, learn the history of the infamous Lafitte Brothers, who were privateers, smugglers, political operatives, businessmen, spies, and all around rogues who made an unlikely alliance with the US to save New Orleans. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Feb 28, 2021 • 51:22

Episode 139: The History of the Toilet

Episode 139: The History of the Toilet

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, learn the history of the humble toilet, and hear how it has developed over the years from a rudimentary necessity to something that has bolstered both public health and a lot of very highbrow humour. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Feb 21, 2021 • 56:02

Episode 138: The Order of Assassins

Episode 138: The Order of Assassins

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, discover the true story of the Order of Assassins, also known as the Nizari Ismaili, as they pursued their political and religious goals with fanatically loyal, murderous agents. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Feb 14, 2021 • 43:26

Episode 137: Alexander Selkirk, the Real-World Crusoe

Episode 137: Alexander Selkirk, the Real-World Crusoe

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, hear the story of Alexander Selkirk, a castaway whose incredible tale was one of the real-life inspirations for the famous novel Robinson Crusoe. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Feb 7, 2021 • 41:44

Episode 136: King Ludwig II, the Fairytale King

Episode 136: King Ludwig II, the Fairytale King

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, uncover the tale of King Ludwig II of Bavaria, who was responsible for securing a great cultural legacy for his kingdom - including the construction of the magnificent Neuschwanstein Castle. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 31, 2021 • 37:06

Episode 135: The History of Football

Episode 135: The History of Football

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, discover the history of football, from its origins as an anarchic, violent game played by hundreds to the many various codes that have developed over the years. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 24, 2021 • 40:51

Episode 134: Eleanor of Aquitaine, Grandmother of Europe

Episode 134: Eleanor of Aquitaine, Grandmother of Europe

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, hear the story of Eleanor of Aquitaine, one of the richest and most powerful women in mediaeval Europe, and learn how she helped to shape the history of both England and France as the queen of both nations. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 17, 2021 • 42:07

Episode 133: The First-Term Achievements of Every Single US President

Episode 133: The First-Term Achievements of Every Single US President

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, test the claim made earlier this week that the outgoing US presidency represents the "greatest first term ever" by examining every single first term of every single US president in history. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 10, 2021 • 1:07:18

Episode 132: History’s Shortest Reigns

Episode 132: History’s Shortest Reigns

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, discover the rulers throughout history that had the shortest reigns - although not all of them are accepted, even the disputed ones make for some great stories. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 3, 2021 • 41:46

Episode 131: The Mongol Invasions of Japan

Episode 131: The Mongol Invasions of Japan

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, hear the tale of the Mongol Invasions of Japan, and the unlikely way in which the invasions ultimately failed. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dec 27, 2020 • 42:10

Episode 130: The Historic Origins of Popular Sayings

Episode 130: The Historic Origins of Popular Sayings

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, discover the origins of four commonly-used modern sayings: "beyond the pale", "fiddling while Rome burns", "red herring", and "hoist with his own petard". Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dec 20, 2020 • 35:42

Episode 129: The White Australia Policy

Episode 129: The White Australia Policy

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, learn about an often (and perhaps readily) overlooked part of Australia's history - the racist immigration laws it upheld for much of its history that became known as the White Australia Policy. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dec 13, 2020 • 39:26

Episode 128: Moctezuma II and the Fall of the Aztecs

Episode 128: Moctezuma II and the Fall of the Aztecs

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, hear how the Aztec Empire was destroyed by Spanish invaders led by Hernan Cortes, and the tale of the emperor who was there when it fell, Moctezuma II. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dec 6, 2020 • 45:10

Episode 127: Moctezuma I and the Rise of the Aztecs

Episode 127: Moctezuma I and the Rise of the Aztecs

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, hear the tale of the Mesoamerican Triple Alliance - better known to history as the Aztec Empire - and meet one of the men instrumental in its rise, Moctezuma I. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nov 29, 2020 • 39:24

Episode 126: History’s Weirdest Deaths

Episode 126: History’s Weirdest Deaths

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, get across some of the weirdest and most ridiculous stories of how people have died, spanning from Ancient Greece to the modern era. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nov 22, 2020 • 46:10

Episode 125: Burke and Hare, Murderous Bodysnatchers

Episode 125: Burke and Hare, Murderous Bodysnatchers

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, be shocked at the murderous crimes of two profiteering maniacs, Burke and Hare, who killed their victims just to sell their corpses to anatomists. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nov 15, 2020 • 49:48

Episode 124: History of Birth Control

Episode 124: History of Birth Control

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, learn about the way that birth control has changed over the years, from Ancient Egyptian crocodile turds to the contraceptive pill of the modern era. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nov 8, 2020 • 40:15

Episode 123: The Lancashire Witch Trials

Episode 123: The Lancashire Witch Trials

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, hear the tale of one of history's best recorded witch trials, the Lancashire Witch Trials of 1612. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nov 1, 2020 • 45:29

Episode 122: The Great Stink

Episode 122: The Great Stink

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, learn of the time that raw sewage turned central London and the River Thames into a mephitic, malodorous hellscape - a time known as the Great Stink. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Oct 25, 2020 • 43:33

Episode 121: Giacomo Casanova, the Famous Philanderer - Part 2

Episode 121: Giacomo Casanova, the Famous Philanderer - Part 2

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, hear the second half of the life story of history's most famous philanderer - Giacomo Casanova. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Oct 18, 2020 • 43:52

Episode 120: Giacomo Casanova, the Famous Philanderer - Part 1

Episode 120: Giacomo Casanova, the Famous Philanderer - Part 1

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, be amazed at the adventures and misadventures that during place during the early life of history's best-known philanderer - Giacomo Casanova. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Oct 11, 2020 • 54:11

Episode 119: Bonnie and Clyde, the Bank-Robbing Couple

Episode 119: Bonnie and Clyde, the Bank-Robbing Couple

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, hear the true story of two of the USA's most notorious and romanticised criminals: Bonnie Parker and Clyde Barrow. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Oct 4, 2020 • 56:28

Episode 118: Franklin’s Lost Expedition

Episode 118: Franklin’s Lost Expedition

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, be mystified at the tale of Franklin's Lost Expedition, when two ships attempted to find their way through the Northwest Passage only to be lost forever. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sep 27, 2020 • 49:03

Episode 117: Hasekura Tsunenaga, First Diplomat to Europe

Episode 117: Hasekura Tsunenaga, First Diplomat to Europe

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, discover the story of the disgraced samurai Hasekura Tsunenaga, who attempted to reclaim his family's honour by becoming the first ever Japanese ambassador to Europe. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sep 20, 2020 • 53:23

Episode 116: The Battle of Kadesh

Episode 116: The Battle of Kadesh

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, hear the incredible tale of the Battle of Kadesh, and its direct consequence - the oldest peace treaty known to history. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sep 13, 2020 • 42:00

Episode 115: The History of Gunpowder

Episode 115: The History of Gunpowder

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, discover the history of gunpowder, an invention that changed the nature of human conflict forever, influencing warfare and military technology for centuries. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sep 6, 2020 • 53:15

Episode 114: Joan of Arc, the Saviour of France

Episode 114: Joan of Arc, the Saviour of France

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, hear the story of Joan of Arc, the famous French hero who changed the course of the Hundred Years War and went on to become a national symbol of France. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Aug 30, 2020 • 49:37

Episode 113: History’s Shortest Wars

Episode 113: History’s Shortest Wars

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, learn about five of the shortest wars ever fought: The Serbo-Bulgarian War, the War of the Stray Dog, the Six-Day War, the Football War, and the Anglo-Zanzibar War. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Aug 23, 2020 • 42:16

Episode 112: The Seven Wonders of the Ancient World - Part 2

Episode 112: The Seven Wonders of the Ancient World - Part 2

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, learn about four of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World: the Statue of Zeus, the Mausoleum at Halicarnassus, the Colossus of Rhodes, and the Lighthouse of Alexandria. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Aug 16, 2020 • 46:30

Episode 111: The Seven Wonders of the Ancient World - Part 1

Episode 111: The Seven Wonders of the Ancient World - Part 1

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, learn about three of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World: the Great Pyramid at Giza, the Hanging Gardens of Babylon, and the Temple of Artemis at Ephesus. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Aug 9, 2020 • 41:14

Episode 110: The History of Money

Episode 110: The History of Money

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, discover the long and very interesting history of money, from its beginnings as commodity money, through coinage, paper money, fiat money, all the way to the digital money of the 21st century. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Aug 2, 2020 • 54:32

Episode 109: Sir William Wallace, Guardian of Scotland

Episode 109: Sir William Wallace, Guardian of Scotland

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, learn the true story of the very famous Sir William Wallace, Guardian of Scotland and his role in the First War of Scottish Independence. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jul 26, 2020 • 52:42

Episode 108: The Shark Arm Murder

Episode 108: The Shark Arm Murder

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, be entertained with the story of the Shark Arm Murder, a tale of a murder investigation that was brought about when a captive tiger shark spewed up a tattooed human arm in 1930s Sydney. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jul 19, 2020 • 31:17

Episode 107: The Münster Rebellion

Episode 107: The Münster Rebellion

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, hear the ridiculous story of the Münster Rebellion, which had everything from a crazed self-proclaimed prophet, to forced polygamy, to good old-fashioned blood and guts and 'orrible murder. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jul 11, 2020 • 34:18

Episode 106: The First Circumnavigation of the Earth

Episode 106: The First Circumnavigation of the Earth

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, hear the adventures and misadventures involved with the very first circumnavigation of the Earth, a story closely associated with Portuguese explorer Ferdinand Magellan. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jul 5, 2020 • 55:33

Episode 105: Alexander Hamilton vs. Aaron Burr

Episode 105: Alexander Hamilton vs. Aaron Burr

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, uncover the real story behind the famous duel between Alexander Hamilton and Aaron Burr - how their careers intertwined, how their rivalry developed, and what fatal consequences therefore resulted. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jun 28, 2020 • 45:21

Episode 104: Joseph Bologne, Virtuosic Swordsman

Episode 104: Joseph Bologne, Virtuosic Swordsman

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, hear the life story of Joseph Bologne, Chevalier de Saint-Georges - who was born to an African slave but went on to become a musician, composer, swordsman, abolitionist, soldier, and revolutionary. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jun 21, 2020 • 46:47

Episode 103: The Insurrection Act of 1807

Episode 103: The Insurrection Act of 1807

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, discover the mixed legacy of the Insurrection Act of 1807, a two-hundred-year-old piece of American legislation that has been used in the pursuit of both fair-minded justice and horrific oppression, firmly consigning those who invoked it either to the right or the wrong side of history. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jun 14, 2020 • 42:30

Episode 102: The History of Clocks - Part 2

Episode 102: The History of Clocks - Part 2

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, explore the more recent history of timekeeping and clocks, including John Harrison's marine chronometer, how wristwatches eclipsed pocketwatches, and finally how quartz and atomic watches brought us into the twenty-first century. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jun 7, 2020 • 32:38

Episode 101: The History of Clocks - Part 1

Episode 101: The History of Clocks - Part 1

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, discover the first half of the very interesting history of the humble clock, from its origins as a sundial and water clock, through to the technological developments that led to the first mechanical clocks, pendulum clocks, and pocket watches. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

May 31, 2020 • 37:33

Episode 100: Seven Short Stories

Episode 100: Seven Short Stories

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, learn about Liechtenstein's weird involvement in the Austro-Prussian War, the mysterious Voynich Manuscript, the doomed romance of Peter I and Ines de Castro, Wilhelm Voigt's audacious heist, the untold riches of Mansa Musa I, the women in charge of Sydney's Razor Gangs, and the death-defying adventure of Alan Magee. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

May 24, 2020 • 54:37

Episode 99: The History of Coffee

Episode 99: The History of Coffee

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, discover the story of coffee, one of the most popular drinks in the world, and hear how it was spread and popularised while influencing politics, history, economics, and of course culture. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

May 17, 2020 • 41:23

Episode 98: Ching Shih, Pirate Queen

Episode 98: Ching Shih, Pirate Queen

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, hear the story of Ching Shih, one of the most powerful pirates the world has ever seen, who at her peak led a fleet of hundreds and a crew of tens of thousands. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

May 10, 2020 • 36:01

Episode 97: Colonel Blood, Thief of Crowns

Episode 97: Colonel Blood, Thief of Crowns

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, be amazed by the incredible exploits of "Colonel" Thomas Blood, a thief, kidnapper, con man, turncoat, impersonator, traitor, and rogue who attempted the heist of the century when he tried to steal the Crown Jewels of England. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

May 3, 2020 • 36:09

Episode 96: The Bone Wars

Episode 96: The Bone Wars

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, explore the bitter rivalry between Othniel Charles Marsh and Edward Drinker Cope, two palaeontologists whose undying hatred for one another resulted in the Bone Wars. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Apr 26, 2020 • 39:06

Episode 95: The Mechanical Turk

Episode 95: The Mechanical Turk

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, hear the story of the Mechanical Turk, a chess-playing automaton from over 250 years ago that stunned and mystified with its chess-playing skill and fiercely-guarded secrets. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Apr 19, 2020 • 40:44

Episode 94: The March of the Ten Thousand

Episode 94: The March of the Ten Thousand

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, hear the story of the Ten Thousand: "an epic tale of marooned Greek mercenaries in enemy territory, with betrayal and beheadings, a Persian brotherly blood feud, and a foot bridge made of slaughtered animal herds." Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Apr 12, 2020 • 37:45

Episode 93: The Cod Wars

Episode 93: The Cod Wars

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, explore an interesting and overlooked bit of Cold War history - the Cod Wars, which helped to shape 20th century politics, geography, and British haute cuisine. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Apr 5, 2020 • 51:35

Episode 92: The History of the Potato

Episode 92: The History of the Potato

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, learn the surprisingly interesting history of the humble potato, and how it has strongly influenced the course of history and made the world into what it is today. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mar 29, 2020 • 42:05

Episode 91: The Tragedy of Ignaz Semmelweis

Episode 91: The Tragedy of Ignaz Semmelweis

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, hear the tragic story of Ignaz Semmelweis, a man whose pioneering medical work has saved millions of lives over the years - as well as being especially relevant today. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mar 22, 2020 • 36:37

Episode 90: The Black Death

Episode 90: The Black Death

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, learn about one of the most devastating diseases the world has ever seen - the Black Death, which killed countless millions of people and reduced Europe's population by up to sixty percent. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mar 15, 2020 • 39:17

Episode 89: Diogenes, the Hardcore Cynic

Episode 89: Diogenes, the Hardcore Cynic

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, discover the life and times of Diogenes the Cynic, a famous Ancient Greek philosopher who was known for living in a jar, making a mockery of the establishment, and relieving himself in public. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mar 8, 2020 • 30:39

Episode 88: The English Longbow

Episode 88: The English Longbow

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, learn all about the English longbow, which played a decisive role in the military history of western Europe between the thirteenth and fifteenth centuries, and hear the stories of the battles in which it played a key role. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mar 1, 2020 • 48:03

Episode 87: Edward Jenner, Father of the Vaccine

Episode 87: Edward Jenner, Father of the Vaccine

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, discover the life of Edward Jenner, a man who perhaps saved more lives than any other human in the history of our species by developing a vaccine for smallpox. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Feb 23, 2020 • 31:20

Episode 86: Irene, Byzantine Empress

Episode 86: Irene, Byzantine Empress

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, hear the story of Irene of Athens, who rose to rule the Byzantine Empire in her own right through a combination of political cleverness and brutal and bloody authority. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Feb 16, 2020 • 31:51

Episode 85: Peter Tordenskjold, Norway’s Han Solo

Episode 85: Peter Tordenskjold, Norway’s Han Solo

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, uncover the incredible exploits of the brazen sea captain Peter Tordenskjold, who fought for Denmark-Norway against the Swedish during the Great Northern War. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Feb 9, 2020 • 30:54

Episode 84: Black Agnes and the Siege of Dunbar

Episode 84: Black Agnes and the Siege of Dunbar

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, hear the ridiculous story of the Siege of Dunbar, where a Scottish noblewoman known as Black Agnes thoroughly humiliated her English foes as they laid siege to her castle. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Feb 2, 2020 • 27:48

Episode 83: Johann Friedrich Struensee, Paramour of Queens

Episode 83: Johann Friedrich Struensee, Paramour of Queens

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, learn the tale of Johann Friedrich Struensee, who took control of the Kingdom of Denmark in the eighteenth century, by winning over the king and sleeping with the queen. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 26, 2020 • 34:33

Episode 82: Norwegian Heavy Water Sabotage

Episode 82: Norwegian Heavy Water Sabotage

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, hear the remarkable tale of the Norwegian and Allied saboteurs who fought a secret and dangerous war against the Nazi nuclear weapons program during the Second World War. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 19, 2020 • 31:10

Episode 81: The Beast of Gévaudan

Episode 81: The Beast of Gévaudan

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, uncover the remarkable true story of the Beast of Gévaudan, a monstrosity that plagued and terrorised the French countryside in the 1760s. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 12, 2020 • 35:00

Episode 80: Tycho Brahe, the Brass-Nosed Astronomer

Episode 80: Tycho Brahe, the Brass-Nosed Astronomer

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, discover the life of Tycho Brahe, who balanced his astronomic and scientific genius with, like, just a whole bunch of really weird stuff. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 5, 2020 • 37:15

Episode 79: Operation Pastorius - Part 2

Episode 79: Operation Pastorius - Part 2

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, hear the second half of the story of Operation Pastorius, when eight Nazi saboteurs were sent across the Atlantic in submarines to attempt to wreak havoc within the US. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dec 29, 2019 • 42:17

Episode 78: Operation Pastorius - Part 1

Episode 78: Operation Pastorius - Part 1

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, hear the first half of the story of Operation Pastorius, when eight Nazi saboteurs were sent across the Atlantic in submarines to attempt to wreak havoc within the US. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dec 22, 2019 • 45:24

Episode 77: Artemisia and the Mausoleum at Halicarnassus

Episode 77: Artemisia and the Mausoleum at Halicarnassus

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, discover the origin of one of the Seven Wonders of the World, the Mausoleum at Halicarnassus, and the woman who was behind its construction, Artemisia II of Caria. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dec 15, 2019 • 34:17

Episode 76: The Norman Conquest of England

Episode 76: The Norman Conquest of England

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, hear the story of the Norman Conquest of England, an event which put a new line of kings on the throne of England and forever changed the course of world history. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dec 8, 2019 • 46:31

Episode 75: The Great Emu War

Episode 75: The Great Emu War

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, uncover one of the most humiliating defeats ever suffered by the Australian Army - the Great Emu War, when artillerymen and machine guns from the Australian Army were deployed to fight tens of thousands of emus, and lost. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dec 1, 2019 • 24:34

Episode 74: Mutiny on the Batavia

Episode 74: Mutiny on the Batavia

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, hear the story of the Mutiny on the Batavia, when a Dutch ship ran aground off the coast of Western Australia and ended up with a murderous psychopath in charge, resulting in treachery, betrayal, and of course 'orrible murder. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nov 24, 2019 • 36:19

Episode 73: USS William D. Porter, History’s Unluckiest Ship

Episode 73: USS William D. Porter, History’s Unluckiest Ship

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, discover the hilarious and near-world-changing story of the USS William D. Porter, a ship whose crew almost accidentally killed US President Franklin Delano Roosevelt before suffering the weirdest kamikaze attack in history. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nov 17, 2019 • 31:26

Episode 72: Bowie, Crockett, and the Battle of the Alamo

Episode 72: Bowie, Crockett, and the Battle of the Alamo

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, find out the truth about the famous Battle of the Alamo and its role in securing Texan independence, as well as the stories of some of the famous men who were there, including Jim Bowie and Davy Crockett. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nov 10, 2019 • 47:09

Episode 71: Queen Nzinga of Ndongo and Matamba

Episode 71: Queen Nzinga of Ndongo and Matamba

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, learn the tale of Queen Nzinga, who spent a lifetime fighting against the Portuguese colonisation of Angola - and in doing so, united two kingdoms and made a name for herself as a clever, pragmatic, and ruthless leader. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nov 3, 2019 • 34:16

Episode 70: Four Generations of the Dumas Family

Episode 70: Four Generations of the Dumas Family

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, discover the incredible story of the Dumas family, who for four consecutive generations produced a succession of "distinguished men" - a revolutionary general, a celebrated author, a talented playwright, and an Olympic double-gold medallist. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Oct 27, 2019 • 50:24

Episode 69: The Eighty Years’ War - Part 2

Episode 69: The Eighty Years’ War - Part 2

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, hear more of the ridiculous stories that came out of the Eighty Years' War, including a sixteenth-century Trojan Horse story, the establishment of the Dutch East India Company, and the only time in history a Spanish treasure fleet was ever captured. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Oct 20, 2019 • 58:21

Episode 68: The Eighty Years’ War - Part 1

Episode 68: The Eighty Years’ War - Part 1

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, hear some of the ridiculous stories that came out of the Eighty Years' War, including the surfing pirates of the Siege of Leiden, the tens of thousands left dead after the Spanish Fury, and William the Silent paying for his assassin's pistols. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Oct 13, 2019 • 49:37

Episode 67: Josephine Baker, the Singing Spy

Episode 67: Josephine Baker, the Singing Spy

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, uncover the incredible life story of Josephine Baker, who went from the slums of St. Louis to international stardom as a singer, while also working as a spy during the Second World War and a civil rights activist in the years afterwards. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Oct 6, 2019 • 37:20

Episode 66: Juan Pujol García, the Self-Made Spy

Episode 66: Juan Pujol García, the Self-Made Spy

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, be amazed at the incredible exploits of Juan Pujol García, who went from being a Spanish chicken farmer to one of the most important double agents during the Second World War. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sep 29, 2019 • 44:54

Episode 65: Tarrare, the Eating Machine

Episode 65: Tarrare, the Eating Machine

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, discover the amusing and tragic adventures of Tarrare, a French man who had perhaps the most voracious appetite the world has ever seen, eating everything from his own bodyweight in meat to wood and rocks. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sep 22, 2019 • 37:25

Episode 64: John Paul Jones, Father of the US Navy

Episode 64: John Paul Jones, Father of the US Navy

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, learn the story of John Paul Jones, a daring naval commander whose early victories against the British during the American Revolutionary War earnt him the title "Father of the US Navy". Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sep 15, 2019 • 45:43

Episode 63: Admiral Yi Sun-Sin, the Great Admiral

Episode 63: Admiral Yi Sun-Sin, the Great Admiral

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, uncover the tale of Admiral Yi Sun-Sin, one of the greatest naval strategists the world has ever seen, who never lost a battle or even a ship at sea throughout his entire career. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sep 8, 2019 • 39:50

Episode 62: James Lind and the Cure for Scurvy

Episode 62: James Lind and the Cure for Scurvy

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, enjoy the uplifting story of James Lind, a medical visionary who was ahead of his time in helping to cure scurvy and conducting what might have been the world's first clinical trial. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sep 1, 2019 • 42:54

Episode 61: John R. Brinkley, the Goat Testicle Quack

Episode 61: John R. Brinkley, the Goat Testicle Quack

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, try to contain your bewilderment as you hear the story of John R. Brinkley, a man who made his fortune by transplanting goat testicles into humans after marketing them as a miracle cure-all. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Aug 25, 2019 • 49:07

Episode 60: Alexander the Great’s Siege of Tyre

Episode 60: Alexander the Great’s Siege of Tyre

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, learn how Alexander the Great besieged Tyre, with hundreds of ships and a human-made causeway, altering not only the course of world history but also the course of world geography. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Aug 18, 2019 • 32:01

Episode 59: Neutral Moresnet

Episode 59: Neutral Moresnet

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, discover the story of Neutral Moresnet, a fascinatingly unique geographical and political anomaly in 19th-century Europe, famous for zinc mining, smuggling, gambling, and Esperanto. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Aug 11, 2019 • 42:19

Episode 58: Elagabalus, Rome’s Salacious Emperor

Episode 58: Elagabalus, Rome’s Salacious Emperor

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, be shocked at the debauchery of Elagabalus, who ruled Rome as emperor during the third century with some and gained an outrageous reputation for salaciousness and promiscuity. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Aug 4, 2019 • 33:52

Episode 57: Stede Bonnet, Gentleman Pirate

Episode 57: Stede Bonnet, Gentleman Pirate

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, enjoy the life story of the gentleman pirate Stede Bonnet, who left behind a life of comfortable wealth to take to the seas as a pirate in the Golden Age of Piracy. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jul 28, 2019 • 42:12

Episode 56: Robert Smalls, War Hero and Congressman

Episode 56: Robert Smalls, War Hero and Congressman

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, discover the incredible life of Robert Smalls, who went from being born into slavery to becoming a war hero and a congressman, securing his freedom by stealing a Confederate gunboat. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jul 21, 2019 • 42:07

Episode 55: Gregor MacGregor, the Poyaisian Con Man - Part 2

Episode 55: Gregor MacGregor, the Poyaisian Con Man - Part 2

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, be amazed at one of the most brazen and audacious confidence tricks in history - the Poyais Scheme, run by Gregor MacGregor, who invented an entire country and swindled people into investing in and emigrating to it. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jul 14, 2019 • 44:36

Episode 54: Gregor MacGregor, the Poyaisian Con Man - Part 1

Episode 54: Gregor MacGregor, the Poyaisian Con Man - Part 1

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, discover the wild soldiering career of the famous swindler Gregor MacGregor, who talked his way into (and out of) all sorts of wild adventures while fighting for various Latin American independence movements. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jul 7, 2019 • 44:24

Episode 53: La Maupin, Operatic Swashbuckler

Episode 53: La Maupin, Operatic Swashbuckler

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, be entertained by the wild life story of Julie d'Aubigny - better known as La Maupin - who was a swordfighting, convent-burning, and incredibly amorous opera singer in seventeenth century France. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jun 30, 2019 • 32:30

Episode 52: Arkipov and Petrov, the Men Who Saved the World

Episode 52: Arkipov and Petrov, the Men Who Saved the World

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, be shocked at just how close we've come to a nuclear apocalypse, and how the actions of brave individuals such as Vasiliy Arkhipov and Stanislav Petrov mean that we're still around today. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jun 23, 2019 • 41:15

Episode 51: William Buckley, Escaped Convict

Episode 51: William Buckley, Escaped Convict

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, explore the story of William Buckley, a convict who was transported to Australia only to make a daring escape and live amongst the local indigenous population for decades. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jun 16, 2019 • 31:17

Episode 50: The Darien Scheme

Episode 50: The Darien Scheme

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, be amazed at an untold piece of Scottish History: the Darien Scheme, when Scotland attempted to start a colony in Central America, in the hopes of bridging the Atlantic and the Pacific Oceans. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jun 9, 2019 • 36:06

Episode 49: Calico Jack, Anne Bonny, and Mary Read

Episode 49: Calico Jack, Anne Bonny, and Mary Read

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, learn about the swashbuckling lives of Calico Jack, Anne Bonny, and Mary Read, three famous pirates that caused all sorts of havoc and mayhem at the end of the Golden Age of Piracy. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jun 2, 2019 • 43:49

Episode 48: The 1904 Olympic Marathon

Episode 48: The 1904 Olympic Marathon

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, be amazed at the total lunacy that surrounded the 1904 Olympic Marathon, which featured people coughing up blood, getting attacked by dogs, stopping for naps, taking rat poison as a performance-enhancing drug, and even taking cars to the finish line. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

May 26, 2019 • 33:41

Episode 47: Mutiny on the Bounty - Part 2

Episode 47: Mutiny on the Bounty - Part 2

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, discover the consequences of the famous Mutiny on the Bounty, and the fates of both the loyalists and the mutineers after the ship was seized. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

May 19, 2019 • 37:25

Episode 46: Mutiny on the Bounty - Part 1

Episode 46: Mutiny on the Bounty - Part 1

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, hear about the leadup to and execution of the famous Mutiny on the Bounty, when malcontent British sailors seized control of a British vessel from their captain, William Bligh. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

May 12, 2019 • 31:19

Episode 45: The Second Pacific Squadron

Episode 45: The Second Pacific Squadron

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, uncover the adventures and misadventures of the Russian Second Pacific Squadron, which sailed 29,000km to fight in the Russo-Japanese War. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

May 5, 2019 • 50:14

Episode 44: Qin Shi Huang, China's First Emperor

Episode 44: Qin Shi Huang, China's First Emperor

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, learn about the amazing - and utterly ridiculous - life and times of Qin Shi Huang, the first emperor of China. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Apr 28, 2019 • 43:09

Episode 43: Korean Axe Murder Incident

Episode 43: Korean Axe Murder Incident

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, discover one of the most ridiculous military operations in history - when the US mobilised over ten thousand troops to cut down a single tree. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Apr 21, 2019 • 29:33

Episode 42: Boudica, the Rebel Queen

Episode 42: Boudica, the Rebel Queen

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, be amazed by the bloodthirsty butchery perpetrated by the Britonnic queen Boudica, when she campaigned against the Romans in the first century. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Apr 14, 2019 • 32:53

Episode 41: Hannibal Barca, the Great Tactician - Part 2

Episode 41: Hannibal Barca, the Great Tactician - Part 2

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, discover what happened when Hannibal Barca attacked the Roman Republic after crossing the Alps, including the famous Battle of Cannae. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Apr 7, 2019 • 51:43

Episode 40: Hannibal Barca, the Great Tactician - Part 1

Episode 40: Hannibal Barca, the Great Tactician - Part 1

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, learn about the legendary Hannibal Barca and his crossing of the Alps to stage a land invasion of the Roman Republic. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mar 31, 2019 • 35:47

Episode 39: Le Gentil and the Transits of Venus

Episode 39: Le Gentil and the Transits of Venus

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, discover the life of Guillaume Le Gentil, who was fraught with unbelievably bad luck while attempting to observe the Transits of Venus in 1761 and 1769. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mar 24, 2019 • 42:42

Episode 38: The Great Race of Mercy

Episode 38: The Great Race of Mercy

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, hear about the Great Race of Mercy, where twenty courageous dog sledders attempted to prevent a deadly epidemic from wiping out the remote Alaskan town of Nome. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mar 17, 2019 • 28:13

Episode 37: Burke and Wills, Australian Pioneers

Episode 37: Burke and Wills, Australian Pioneers

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, relive the Burke and Wills Expedition, one of the first attempts to cross the inland of Australia from south to north. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mar 10, 2019 • 37:22

Episode 36: Queen Zenobia, the Palmyrene Empress

Episode 36: Queen Zenobia, the Palmyrene Empress

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, uncover the life of Queen Zenobia, who forged an empire to rival Rome almost two thousand years ago. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mar 3, 2019 • 32:21

Episode 35: The Spanish Armada

Episode 35: The Spanish Armada

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, discover the story surrounding the famous Spanish Armada - what it was, what it was trying to do, and just how catastrophically it failed. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Feb 24, 2019 • 39:42

Episode 34: Mary Anning, the Prolific Palaeontologist

Episode 34: Mary Anning, the Prolific Palaeontologist

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, learn about an extraordinary figure from early palaeontology, whose fossil discoveries forever changed our understanding of the prehistoric world - Mary Anning. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Feb 17, 2019 • 31:51

Episode 33: Caligula, the Mad Roman Emperor

Episode 33: Caligula, the Mad Roman Emperor

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, uncover the life and times of Caligula, a short-lived Roman emperor known throughout history for his pants-on-head insanity. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Feb 10, 2019 • 28:52

Episode 32: Andree's Arctic Balloon Expedition

Episode 32: Andree's Arctic Balloon Expedition

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, be amazed by the foolish optimism of Salomon Andree and his attempt to reach the North Pole - by hot-air balloon. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Feb 3, 2019 • 28:49

Episode 31: Thomas Midgley, the Walking Environmental Disaster

Episode 31: Thomas Midgley, the Walking Environmental Disaster

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, learn about the enormous environmental damage done by one of the most terrible inventors in the history of our civilisation: Thomas Midgley, Jr. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 27, 2019 • 19:19

Episode 30: Vlad Dracula, the Impaler

Episode 30: Vlad Dracula, the Impaler

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, separate the truth from the fiction when it comes to the legacy of the brutal Vlad the Impaler, who is known for the harsh cruelty he showed to his foes. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 20, 2019 • 31:03

Episode 29: The Mary Celeste

Episode 29: The Mary Celeste

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, be mystified at the tale of the Mary Celeste, a ship that was discovered in the middle of the Atlantic, abandoned by its crew with all its cargo untouched. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 13, 2019 • 21:09

Episode 28: Wu Zetian, Empress of China

Episode 28: Wu Zetian, Empress of China

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, explore the life of the only female ruler of China, known for ruthless and strong leadership, the empress Wu Zetian. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 6, 2019 • 19:09

Episode 27: Wilhelm II, the Last German Emperor

Episode 27: Wilhelm II, the Last German Emperor

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, explore the absolute lunacy of the last emperor of Germany, Kaiser Wilhelm II. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dec 30, 2018 • 29:48

Episode 26: The Cadaver Synod

Episode 26: The Cadaver Synod

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, hear about the utter insanity involved in the Cadaver Synod, where a pope was dug up to be put on trial months after he'd actually died. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dec 23, 2018 • 20:22

Episode 25: The Defenestrations of Prague

Episode 25: The Defenestrations of Prague

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, hear about how a group of angry Bohemians chucked some blokes out of a window to trigger a religious war - and then did it again two hundred years later. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dec 16, 2018 • 24:24

Episode 24: Lord Timothy Dexter, the Whacko Entrepreneur

Episode 24: Lord Timothy Dexter, the Whacko Entrepreneur

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, discover the insane economic genius of "Lord" Timothy Dexter, the original cashed-up bogan who built his fortune through ridiculous business decisions. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dec 9, 2018 • 28:55

Episode 23: Georg Elser and his Plot to Kill Hitler

Episode 23: Georg Elser and his Plot to Kill Hitler

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, discover the story of an unsung German hero, Georg Elser, who attempted to kill Hitler all by himself just after the outbreak of the Second World War. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dec 2, 2018 • 36:41

Episode 22: Jeanne de Clisson, Lioness of Brittany

Episode 22: Jeanne de Clisson, Lioness of Brittany

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, discover the incredible life of Jeanne de Clisson, who became known as the Lioness of Brittany after a brutal career from boring noblewoman to bloodthirsty pirate. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nov 25, 2018 • 24:35

Episode 21: Ned Kelly, Australia's Famous Outlaw - Part 2

Episode 21: Ned Kelly, Australia's Famous Outlaw - Part 2

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, learn about the final years of the Ned Kelly and his gang, including bank robberies, murders, and of course the legendary Siege of Glenrowan. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nov 18, 2018 • 30:52

Episode 20: Ned Kelly, Australia's Famous Outlaw - Part 1

Episode 20: Ned Kelly, Australia's Famous Outlaw - Part 1

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, be amazed at the ridiculous nonsense that went on during the early life of Ned Kelly, before he became the notorious bushranger and outlaw. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nov 11, 2018 • 30:37

Episode 19: Mary, Queen of Scots and Elizabeth I

Episode 19: Mary, Queen of Scots and Elizabeth I

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, uncover the complicated and tragic relationship between the cousins, rivals, and queens: Mary, Queen of Scots and Elizabeth I. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nov 4, 2018 • 36:31

Episode 18: Léo Major, the Québécois Rambo

Episode 18: Léo Major, the Québécois Rambo

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, be amazed by the story of Leo Major, a Canadian soldier who single-handedly (and single-eyededly) liberated a Dutch town. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Oct 28, 2018 • 24:04

Episode 17: The Mongol Conquest of Khwarezmia

Episode 17: The Mongol Conquest of Khwarezmia

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, witness the ruthless brutality of the early Mongol Empire as they engaged in the Mongol Conquest of Khwarezmia. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Oct 21, 2018 • 27:50

Episode 16: Deborah Sampson, American Revolutionary

Episode 16: Deborah Sampson, American Revolutionary

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, find out about Deborah Sampson, a woman disguised herself as a man so she could fight in the American Revolution. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Oct 14, 2018 • 18:47

Episode 15: The Battle of Tours - Part 2

Episode 15: The Battle of Tours - Part 2

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, get amongst what happened during the Battle of Tours, and the ongoing debate about its significance in world history. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Oct 7, 2018 • 22:35

Episode 14: The Battle of Tours - Part 1

Episode 14: The Battle of Tours - Part 1

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, get a sense of the lead-up to an event that is said to have changed the course of world history - the Battle of Tours. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sep 30, 2018 • 19:34

Episode 13: The Assassination of Franz Ferdinand

Episode 13: The Assassination of Franz Ferdinand

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, get more information about a hugely significant event in world history: The Assassination of Franz Ferdinand. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sep 23, 2018 • 25:35

Episode 12: British K-Class Submarines

Episode 12: British K-Class Submarines

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, be amazed at the sheer magnitude of idiotic disasters that were involved with the British K-Class Submarines. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sep 16, 2018 • 26:36

Episode 11: The War of the Oaken Bucket

Episode 11: The War of the Oaken Bucket

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, discover the battle with the most ludicrous casus belli you've ever seen - the War of the Oaken Bucket. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sep 9, 2018 • 16:15

Episode 10: The Affair of the Diamond Necklace

Episode 10: The Affair of the Diamond Necklace

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, hear the story of the Affair of the Diamond Necklace, where Marie Antoinette suffered at the hands of a daring con artist, Jeanne de Valois-Saint-Rémy. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sep 2, 2018 • 19:14

Episode 9: The Battle of New Orleans

Episode 9: The Battle of New Orleans

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, hear of the stupidly unlikely outcome of the Battle of New Orleans, the final conflict of the War of 1812. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Aug 26, 2018 • 21:08

Episode 8: The War of 1812

Episode 8: The War of 1812

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, get stuck into the insane stories that emerged from the War of 1812, an often-overlooked piece of history. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Aug 19, 2018 • 33:12

Episode 7: D.B. Cooper, the Mystery Hijacker

Episode 7: D.B. Cooper, the Mystery Hijacker

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, hear about the sky pirate D.B. Cooper and his clean getaway after skydiving away with over a million bucks. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Aug 12, 2018 • 29:25

Episode 6: The Fenian Raids

Episode 6: The Fenian Raids

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, find out about the absolute lunacy that was the Fenian Raids, where a group of Irish nationalists invaded Canada to secure freedom for the Emerald Isle. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Aug 5, 2018 • 20:24

Episode 5: The Fourth Crusade

Episode 5: The Fourth Crusade

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, learn about one of the most colossal stuff-ups in history, wherein an army of Crusaders managed to sack not one, but two Christian cities: the Fourth Crusade. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jul 29, 2018 • 31:58

Episode 4: Olga of Kyiv, the Merciless Queen

Episode 4: Olga of Kyiv, the Merciless Queen

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, hear about how Olga of Kyiv took brutal vengeance for her husband's murder by burning down a city and burying her enemies alive. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jul 22, 2018 • 24:09

Episode 3: The Assassination of James A. Garfield

Episode 3: The Assassination of James A. Garfield

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, find out about how the 20th President of the United States, poor old James A Garfield, got gunned down by an absolute lunatic named Charles Guiteau. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jul 15, 2018 • 29:44

Episode 2: The Terra Nova Expedition

Episode 2: The Terra Nova Expedition

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, find out about the first losers in the race to the South Pole - the Terra Nova expedition, let by Robert Falcon Scott. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jul 8, 2018 • 28:17

Episode 1: Frederick the Great

Episode 1: Frederick the Great

In this episode of Half-Arsed History, explore the life of the red-hot pistol that was Frederick the Great, the most famous of the Prussian kings. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jul 1, 2018 • 29:43

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