Ridiculous History
Badass of the Week, with Ben Thompson - Part 1: History's Most Ridiculous Friendly-fire Incident
Mar 25, 2025
Ben Thompson, creator of Badass of the Week, joins the discussion to explore the infamous Battle of Karánsebes. The conversation dives into the absurdities of friendly-fire incidents throughout history, blending humor with fascinating tales. Thompson sheds light on Joseph II, the self-assured ruler known for his ambitious reforms, while the hosts humorously unpack the chaos of military miscommunication that defined this bizarre conflict. Expect witty anecdotes and a candid look at historical blunders that reveal the ridiculous side of war.
37:13
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Quick takeaways
- The podcast highlights Joseph II's aspirations for military grandeur and the challenges he faced due to internal dissent and logistical issues.
- A recounting of the Battle of Karánsebes illustrates the absurdities of friendly fire, showcasing the chaos and confusion inherent in war.
Deep dives
The Origins of Badass of the Week
The episode features a guest who is the creator of the popular concept Badass of the Week, which highlights remarkable historical figures. This individual discusses the evolution of the series that explores these figures' stories, emphasizing how the list of potential candidates continues to grow based on listener recommendations. Notably, the guest remarks on the challenge of selecting individuals due to the sheer number of notable badasses in history. This expansion of content highlights the ongoing interest in lesser-known, yet significant historical figures who defied expectations and norms.
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