Our Fake History

Dive into the intriguing tale of Prince Madoc, a Welsh figure rumored to have sailed to North America in 1170. The journey raises questions about early Welsh colonization and potential interactions with indigenous peoples. Explore how legends were shaped by 16th-century politics and even odd claims about 'penguins' in the Americas. Discover the ebb and flow of belief surrounding Madoc, from historical forgeries to nationalistic myths. Was there truth behind these stories, or just the fabrications of history?

Explore the thrilling Battle of Nong Sarai in 1593, where an epic elephant duel symbolizes Thailand’s independence. Dive into the legendary King Naresuan's challenge and the convoluted narratives surrounding this historic event. Discover how various accounts, from royal chronicles to Burmese perspectives, reveal contradictions and hidden details. The podcast examines the legacy of elephant warfare and its cultural significance, questioning whether this dramatic duel is fact or myth. Uncover the reasons behind the sensitivity around this tale in Thai society.

In this intriguing discussion, explore how rabies outbreaks shaped vampire and werewolf myths. Delve into the psychological symbolism of Anubis and its connection to trauma. Discover the fascinating shift in Europe’s view of magic, from acceptance to demonization, and unravel the truth behind witches' pointy hats and broomsticks. Plus, uncover Shakespeare's influence on modern witch imagery through his portrayal of the Weird Sisters. Join for a deep dive into the eerie intersections of folklore and psychology!

Delve into the dark history of the Malleus Maleficarum, a witch-hunting manual that primarily targeted women. Discover how its controversial authors wielded misogynistic theories to legitimize witch hunts and scapegoat the vulnerable. Explore the shocking statistics on female victims and the societal shifts that fueled these atrocities. The episode also connects the decline of female brewers to rising anti-witch sentiments, unveiling the terrifying intersection of fear, gender, and power dynamics in medieval Europe.

Delve into ancient tales of human-wolf transformations, from the Epic of Gilgamesh to medieval werewolf lore. Explore the fascinating intersection of myth and reality as historical figures confessed to being real werewolves during witch panics. Discover the role of enchanted wolf belts and the moral nuances in stories like Marie de France's Bisclavret. Uncover how modern cinema has redefined werewolf tropes, while examining their enduring appeal across cultures and centuries.

In this bonus episode Sebastian answers questions from listeners about the recent series on the Parthenon Marbles. The host tangles with the ethics of repatriation requests from notorious dictators, the role of the Parthenon Marbles in inspiring the Greek Independence movement, and the path towards a true "universal museum." Sebastian also wrangles with the notorious "If I don't do it, somebody else will" argument that is often used to defend Lord Elgin. Tune-in and find out how Saddam Hussein, Dr. John, and a bunch of other history podcasts play a role in the story.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Parthenon Sculptures have been hugely controversial objects from the moment that they arrived in England. The British public has long been split over the morality of keeping these famous works of art in London. In the early 1800's the famous poet Lord Byron went so far as to write angry poems castigating Lord Elgin for defiling Athena's temple. Over the last 200 years the topic of the sculptures has remained a perennial topic of public debate. Where are we at with that debate in 2025? Tune-in and find out how 19th century diss tracks, half a nose, and the "universal museum" all play a role in the story.Come with me to Greece in September 2025! Check out the full itinerary HERERula patients typically pay $15 per session when using insurance. Connect with quality therapists and mental health experts who specialize in you at https://www.rula.com/fakehistory #rulapodSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Dive into the dramatic tale of the Parthenon Sculptures and their controversial removal by the Earl of Elgin in the 19th century. Explore the ethical debates surrounding their ownership and the cultural implications of their potential return to Greece. Discover the surprising twists involving an 'Old Turk' and misleading tales to Parliament. Unearth the transformation of the Parthenon from a symbol of Athenian power to a disputed relic. This captivating narrative challenges historical accuracy and ignites passion for cultural heritage.

Dive into the legendary figure of Robin Hood as historians search for the real inspiration behind the myth. Explore how playful encounters and competitions shape his story, including a fascinating river battle with a friar. Unravel the evolution of Robin's character from a common outlaw to a noble hero, along with the challenges of separating myth from fact. Discover the intriguing connections between history and storytelling, featuring stories of piggy-back rides and doggy summons.

Explore the enigmatic figure of Robin Hood, the ultimate champion of the downtrodden. Is he a mere legend, or is there a real person behind the myth? Dive into the earliest ballads and uncover the rich storytelling traditions surrounding him. Discover the cultural impact of 'Robin Hood, Prince of Thieves' and its memorable performances. The podcast delves into the darker origins of his tales, loyalty to his friends, and unexpected plot twists, offering a fresh perspective on this beloved outlaw.