Real Dictators

Guest Prince Rupert, a dashing cavalry officer, joins King Charles in a daring mission against Cromwell. Cromwell's New Model Army proves unstoppable, leading to significant victories during the English Civil War. Religious and political divisions among English Puritans and strategic maneuvers play key roles in shaping the conflict.

Explore the controversial figure of Oliver Cromwell, his victories in the Civil War, execution of Charles I, and puritanical beliefs. Delve into the modernization of governance, religious conflicts, tensions in Parliament, and the advent of personal rule in 17th century England. Learn about Cromwell's rise to power amidst growing discontent and the political dynamics leading to the English Civil War.

From the grandeur of Roman bathhouses to the trouble faced by Tudor London bathhouses. An excitable Victorian clergyman extolling skinny dipping virtues. World War Two's surprising role in kickstarting the hot tub craze. Exploring the historical evolution of bathing practices and health benefits.

The podcast explores Enver Hoxha's evolving relationship with Russia and China, his control over media to maintain his image, Albania's economic struggles and isolation, and the challenges of escaping his dictatorship.

From 1944 to 1985, Enver Hoxha ran Albania as an extraordinarily repressive Stalinist dictatorship. But how did a middle class teacher from the provinces become the most powerful man in the country and a key player in the communist world? What did he do to turn Albania into one of the most isolated countries in the world? And how did ‘Uncle Enver’ keep his citizens in the dark for so much of the 20th century?A Noiser production, written by Sean Coleman. Many thanks to Bernd Fischer, Artan Hoxha and Shannon Woodcock.This is Part 1 of 2.Get every episode of Real Dictators a week early with Noiser+. You’ll also get ad-free listening, bonus material and early access to shows across the Noiser network. Click the Noiser+ banner to get started. Or, if you’re on Spotify or Android, go to noiser.com/subscriptions. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Herod the Great, the ruler of Judea, embarks on a quest to win over his people through marriage, building works, and even murdering his in-laws. The podcast explores the infamous Slaughter of the Innocents and delves into Herod's ruthless nature, declining health, and the division of his kingdom. It also examines the challenges faced by Herod in uniting Judaism and protecting Judea from Roman influence.

Delve into the true story of King Herod, a figure known for his infamous portrayal in the Nativity story. Discover his tyrannical rule, architectural ventures, and family drama. Explore the impact of Roman annexation on the Jewish people and Herod's tasks to tackle bandits. Follow Herod's journey to Rome, where he seeks Roman support and faces the challenge of gaining support from the Roman Senate.

The podcast explores the events leading up to the capture of Saddam Hussein, the search for WMDs, Saddam's grip on power and his vanishing act, divided opinions on the invasion of Iraq, war, transition, and the Abu Ghraib scandal, sectarian violence, and Saddam Hussein's trial.

The podcast discusses Saddam Hussein's determination not to be defeated, the impact of sanctions on Iraq, Saddam Hussein's excessive building of palaces and monuments, his religious manipulation of the population, the personality cult surrounding him, and his venture into writing novels amidst ongoing feuds and bombing raids.

Saddam Hussein's nationalization of the Iraq Petroleum Company, clash with Iran's new leader, and the heinous atrocities committed by 'Chemical Ali'. Plus, the establishment of Saddam's personality cult and his readiness for war. Saddam Hussein's paranoia and control, religious persecution, and escape from Iraq. Tactics of fear and assassination, dedication to national development, and post-war financial struggles. The unintended green light from the US ambassador leading to the invasion of Kuwait.