In the final episode of our two-part series on the Irish Potato Famine, we examine the most devastating years of the crisis. As Lord John Russell’s government prioritizes cost-cutting, Charles Trevelyan enforces harsh famine relief policies that intensify the suffering. Amid the chaos, the Quakers revolutionize soup kitchens, while Asenath Nicholson opens her home to the starving. We also explore the mass emigration that followed, with millions fleeing on overcrowded "coffin ships" to America. This episode uncovers the famine’s lasting impact on Ireland’s population, culture, and its relationship with Britain, leaving scars that shaped generations. Help support the show on Patreon! Sources and Attributions on our website. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, we explore the early years of the Irish Potato Famine, a devastating event that reshaped Ireland's history. Known as The Great Hunger (an Gorta Mór), this crisis led to the deaths of over a million people and forced millions more to flee their homeland. But this was no mere natural disaster—it was a crisis made worse by the actions, and inactions, of those in power. We'll examine the role of Charles Trevelyan, a British civil servant whose policies worsened the famine's impact, turning a natural blight into a human-made catastrophe. We'll also meet Asenath Nicholson, an American humanitarian who travelled across Ireland, documenting the suffering and offering aid. Her accounts give us a glimpse into the lives of those who endured unimaginable hardships. As we unravel these early years, we'll see how British colonial policies and mismanagement turned a crop failure into a national tragedy.  Help support the show on Patreon! Sources and Attributions on our website. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Quickfire, we take a lighthearted look at one of World War II’s most bizarre moments: The Battle of Castle Itter. Picture this—a ragtag group featuring Nazis fighting against their fellow Nazis, American GIs, a French tennis champion, and a tank affectionately dubbed Besotted Jenny, all banding together to defend an ancient Austrian castle. Tune in as Alex and I wander through this wild and weird chapter of history. Help support the show on Patreon! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Bonus episode from the podcast 'History Daily'. November 15, 1864. During the American Civil War, Union General William T. Sherman begins his devastating March to the Sea. History Daily can be found on all podcasting platforms, with more information on their website. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

“The most decisive disaster in Byzantine history” - Steven Runciman In the epic conclusion to our series, we delve into the monumental Battle of Manzikert in 1071. Through the perspectives of Alp Arslan and Emperor Romanos IV Diogenes, we explore the motivations and strategies of these two pivotal leaders leading up to this climactic confrontation. Drawing from primary and secondary sources, we provide a detailed, blow-by-blow account of the battle, capturing the intensity and drama of the conflict. Following the battle, we discuss its far-reaching consequences, marking the beginning of the Byzantine Empire's decline and its impact on world history. What if The Byzantines won at Manzikert? The Turks may have never settled Anatolia and the Greek Orthodox population may've maintained majority. Join us as we unravel the events and aftermath of the Battle of Manzikert, a turning point that changed the course of history forever. Help support the show on Patreon! Sources and Attributions on our website. Cost Of Glory Podcast CHAPTERS: 00:00:00-Recap of series 00:02:29-Romanos IV marches east 00:06:22-Alp Arslan caught off-guard 00:14:06-Peace negotiations fail 00:18:35-Battle begins 00:24:09-Romanos IV betrayed 00:29:29-Romanos IV returns to Constantinople 00:33:52-Death of Romanos IV 00:37:00-Aftereffects of the battle 00:40:14-Epilogue (rise of Alexios I) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode we'll explore the rise of the Seljuk Turks and the crises within the Byzantine Empire leading up to the pivotal Battle of Manzikert in 1071. We delve into the transformation of the Seljuk Turks from a steppe horde into a powerful empire under the leadership of Alp Arslan. His strategic brilliance and conquests have cemented his status as an Islamic hero today. As the Seljuk Empire expands its influence, their ambitions bring them into direct conflict with the Byzantine Empire, setting the stage for a major clash of civilizations. We trace the escalating situation within Byzantium, marked by political instability and military challenges. Amidst this turmoil emerges Emperor Romanos IV Diogenes, a soldier-emperor whose rise to power is fraught with internal strife and external threats. Romanos IV’s reign is defined by his efforts to restore the empire’s strength and counter the Seljuk advance. Join us as we explore the rise of the Seljuks under Alp Arslan and the Byzantine struggle for survival on the eve of Manzikert, a battle that would alter the course of the Byzantine Empire and the region forever. Help support the show on Patreon! Sources and Attributions on our website. Cost Of Glory Podcast CHAPTERS: 00:00:00-Introduction 00:02:13-Origins of The Seljuks 00:09:58-Tughril I & Chaghri Beg's exodus 00:21:13- Rise of Alp Arslan 00:27:27-Byzantium unravels 00:38:44-Fall of Ani aftermath 00:42:29-Romanos IV takes the throne Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

“Our Empire is withering!” - Empress Eudokia Today, we'll explore the events leading up to the 1071 Battle of Manzikert through the reign of Byzantine Emperor Constantine IX. During Constantine IX's reign, the Byzantine Empire faces threats from all sides. We meet the Seljuk Turks, whose ambitions and determination set the stage for future conquest. Constantine IX struggles to maintain control amidst internal court intrigue and the frequent raids of the Pechenegs, a powerful nomadic tribe. Adding to his challenges is the Great Schism of 1054, a monumental religious split that weakens the unity of Christendom. The Normans, having established territories in Southern Italy, also become a threat, further straining Byzantine resources. Through Constantine IX's reign, the empire is stretched to its limits as it navigates alliances and conflicts. The Battle of Manzikert is a turning point in history. It marks the beginning of the Byzantine Empire's decline and opens the door for Turkish dominance in Anatolia. This battle changes the course of history, reshaping the balance of power in the region. Join us as we delve into the complexities and enduring legacies of these historical events, painting a vivid picture of the Roman Empire's struggle for survival on the eve of Manzikert. This is the story of a battle that changed history forever. Help support the show on Patreon! Sources and Attributions on our website. CHAPTERS: 00:00:00-Introduction 00:05:45-Constantine IX’s rise to the throne 00:15:59-The legacy of Basil II 00:19:20-Where did the Normans come from? 00:24:52-Seljuks at the border 00:30:02-Leo Tornikios’ rebellion  00:40:27-The Great Schism of 1054 00:44:06-Summary of Constantine IX’s rule: Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Join us for a lively journey into the ancient world as co-host Alexander Gates and I delve into the most scandalous and petty letters of antiquity. From expletive-laden tirades to guilt-tripping manipulations, we uncover the outrageous communications of everyday people. Listen in as we explore the fiery exchanges between an Ottoman Sultan and his insolent correspondent, a Sogdian wife's scathing rebuke, a Babylonian student's cunning manipulation of maternal guilt, and the rebellious outbursts of a spoiled Greek adolescent. Help support the show on Patreon! CHAPTERS: 00:00:00-What is Quickfire? 00:04:03-Reply of the Zaporizhian Cossacks 00:09:56-Sogdian wife complaining to her husband 00:12:50- Babylonian student moaning to his mother 00:16:09-Greek teenager berating his father Reply of the Zaporizhian Cossacks Painting: https://tinyurl.com/Zaporozhian Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

"The Gods had turned their backs on this land" - Tutankhamun's Restoration Edict In part two of our series, we delve into the downfall of Akhenaten, The Heretic King. As Akhenaten's religious reforms shake the very foundations of his kingdom, the Pharaoh lashes out at his citizens, closing temples and destroying statues of traditional Gods. Isolated and alone, Akhenaten's actions become increasingly bizarre as he embarks on an incestuous relationship with two of his daughters and ostracizes his allies. We explore Akhenaten's downfall, the role Nefertiti played, and the mysteries surrounding Smenkhkare, his successor. Finally, we follow the footsteps of Tutankhamun as he scrubs his father's reforms from history and erases any record of his rule. Join us as we unravel the tensions, complexities, and enduring legacy of history's first "individual," whose personality oozes through the dusty passages of time. Help support the show on Patreon! Sources and Attributions on our website. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

"The Pharaoh's sinister smile seemed to whisper love me… but fear me.." Embark on a journey into ancient Egypt's shadows with our latest episode, as we delve deep into the enigmatic life of Akhenaten, the heretic pharaoh whose legacy was damned by his own people. We uncover the intriguing tale of Akhenaten's formative years, shaped under the towering influence of his illustrious father, Amenhotep III. With the help of The Amarna Letters, we'll untangle the mysteries surrounding Akhenaten's bizarre physical traits and his shocking depiction in royal imagery, foreshadowing the turbulence of his later rule. As the young Pharaoh's arrogance grows, we witness Akhenaten's defiance against the powerful priesthood of Amun and his audacious vision to revolutionize ancient Egypt. Finally, we follow The Pharoah in his bold quest to establish a new capital city devoted to the sun god Aten, setting the stage for a monumental upheaval in the ancient world. Tune in to unravel the dark story of the heretic pharaoh, offering insights into one of history's most fascinating and controversial figures. Help support the show on Patreon! Sources and Attributions on our website. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Professor Almut Hintze sheds light on the ancient and mysterious religion of Zoroastrianism. For over two millennia, it was one of the world's most practiced religions until the arrival of Islam in the seventh century led to its rapid decline. Today, just 120,000 adherents remain worldwide. Come with us as we dive into Zoroastrianism: Exploring Avestan, the 'Language of God' still used in prayers today, despite its meaning being long forgotten. Discover the ritual complexity of The Yasna and the lighting of 12 Sacred Flames, each kindled from a different source. We also follow the sad history of modern Zoroastrians, a shrinking minority in their homeland of Iran. Professor Hintze's dedication to preserving and cataloguing ancient rituals and their meanings is a testament to her commitment to preserving this fascinating piece of human history. Join us as we discuss the history, rituals and language of one of the worlds oldest religions Help support the show on Patreon! Sources and Attributions on our website. Professor Hintze's brief introduction to Zoroastrianism A recording of the full, transcribed Yasna ritual Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Bonus episode from the podcast 'Welsh History Podcast' sharing the story of influential Welsh figure: Llywelyn the Great He is young, angry and looking for revenge.  Welsh History Podcast is a proud member of the Evergreen Podcast Network. You can support the podcast at patreon.com/WelshHistory Celtic Impulse Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com) Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

"Capitulation is impossible! The 6th Army will do its historic duty." - Adolf Hitler. In the conclusion of our series, we unravel the final months of the Battle of Stalingrad, exploring the consequences of Adolf Hitler's decision to forbid the the Sixth Army to retreat. We witness the long-awaited breakthrough for The Red Army, as Joseph Stalin and Georgy Zhukov launch Operation Uranus. We delve into the emotional impact on German soldiers confronting their mortality. Through their personal letters, we glimpse into their thoughts and feelings about Nazi leadership and Adolf Hitler. After the dust settles, we examine the aftermath of the Battle of Stalingrad and its enduring legacy in Russian history. Tune in for an exploration of this pivotal moment, where the human toll and historical significance intertwine in a tale of sacrifice, resilience, and grit. ⚡Help support the show on Patreon check out our supporting reels on Instagram, and receive email updates whenever a new episode drops by joining our mailing list.⚡ CHAPTERS: 00:00-Introduction and Recap 01:58-Episode start 07:27-Fortress Stalingrad begins 16:49-Christmas in Stalingrad 21:05-Last chance at surrender with Winrich Behr 31:36-Paulus loses hope 40:56-Fate of the main characters 45:57-Red Army finds last letters from Stalingrad Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

"In the blazing city, we do not suffer cowards..." - Vasily Chuikov. This episode marks the penultimate episode of our series tracing Operation Barbarossa, Hitler's 1941 invasion of the USSR. Join us as we follow Marshal Friedrich Paulus and the Wehrmacht 6th Army to their fateful end at Stalingrad. Through poignant handwritten letters, we'll delve into how frontline soldiers grappled with their mortality and the erosion of their faith in Nazi propaganda. Throughout the episode, we explore the ingenious and brutal strategies employed by Marshall Vasily Chuikov to maintain order amidst the chaos. In the desperate streets of Stalingrad, Rattenkrieg, or 'war of the rats,' emerged as a brutal form of close-quarters urban combat, marked by intense, chaotic skirmishes within the sprawling ruins of the city. As the tide turns against the Wehrmacht, we witness the Nazi High Command's struggle against Adolf Hitler's insistence on a symbolic last stand. The Battle of Stalingrad, often deemed the deadliest in history, holds a profound place in Russian pride today. Tune in to learn why. ⚡Help support the show on Patreon check out our supporting reels on Instagram, and receive email updates whenever a new episode drops by joining our mailing list.⚡ CHAPTERS: 00:00-Introduction 03:37-Main Characters Recap 06:30-Episode Start 12:18-Chuikov's Innovations 21:09-Wermacht on brink of victory 29:48-Luftwaffe Bombing Run 35:24-Red Army heroism 40:30-Wermacht dug in for winter 49:38-Operation Uranus begins Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

"It is time to finish retreating. Not one step back!" - Joseph Stalin. In part three of our series on Operation Barbarossa: The Wehrmacht, desperately needing fuel after Operation Barbarossa, surprises everyone by heading south to the Caucasus, targeting rich oil fields in modern Armenia, Azerbaijan, and Georgia. Stalin's Red Army, still recovering from 1941, scrambles as move to bolster the southern front. As Hitler tightens his grip on power, dismissing commanders and taking direct control, a staff officer named Friedrich Paulus is thrust into the spotlight. While on the Russian side, General Vasily Chuikov is tasked with holding the line. This episode unveils Operation Case Blue, Operation Brunswick, Stalin's Order 227, and the rising complexities on the battlefield.  As America enters the war, Hitler's desperation grows, and victory slips through his fingers. The Fuhrer sits in his stagnant bunker, shifting red flags around a map moving toward Stalingrad... ⚡Help support the show on Patreon check out our supporting reels on Instagram, see our sources used for this episode on our website and receive email updates whenever a new episode drops by joining our mailing list.⚡ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

"If the Germans want a war of extermination, they will get it!" - Joseph Stalin. In this gripping continuation of our Operation Barbarossa series, The Red Army rallies as the Wehrmacht's relentless march towards Moscow accelerates. With the Wehrmacht closing in on the Soviet capital, the USSR faces its last chance for survival. In the midst of the chaos, Stalin emerges from his depression, adorning his walls with portraits of renowned Russian generals for inspiration. The tide begins to turn as he starts heeding the counsel of Gyorgy Zhukov. As Hitler faces setbacks and starts to lose his grip, he withdraws into himself, sidelining veteran generals and taking personal control of the army. Ignoring desperate pleas for essentials like fuel, ammunition, and winter clothing, the Fuhrer fires many of his most experienced military minds. The loyalty of the Wehrmacht, however, pushes on through one of the coldest blizzards in the last century. But as tank engines freeze and machine guns jam, we witness the stark reality that belief alone can only take a man so far. Circling Moscow, Germans encounter unexpected challenges as far-eastern divisions arrive en masse. The Motherland calls, and the people of the USSR answer! Subscribe for the next instalment as history turns on the frozen wastes of Russia... ⚡Help support the show on Patreon check out our supporting reels on Instagram, see our sources used for this episode on our website and receive email updates whenever a new episode drops by joining our mailing list.⚡ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

"The world will hold its breath!" - Adolf Hitler In this episode we delve into Operation Barbarossa, Hitler's audacious invasion of the Soviet Union in 1941. The morning of June 22nd, 1941, witnessed four million men surging across the borders between the USSR and the German Reich, beginning the largest land invasion in world history. We explore the backstory of this invasion and uncover why it took Joseph Stalin by surprise. Through the diaries of frontline soldiers, we gain insights into the first few hours of the invasion and the unpreparedness of the Red Army. We also delve into Hitler's twisted worldview, drawing from extracts of his memoir, 'Mein Kampf,' to understand his vision of Lebensraum and his chilling extermination plan for the Slavic people. America's entry into World War II is often see as a turning point, but Operation Barbarossa, often overshadowed, was equally pivotal. This episode is the first of a four-part series, make sure you're subscribed so you don't miss part two. ⚡Help support the show on Patreon check out our supporting reels on Instagram, and receive email updates whenever a new episode drops by joining our mailing list.⚡ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices