Half-Arsed History
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/halfarsedhistorySubscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/halfarsedhistoryBuy Half-Arsed History merch: https://halfarsedhistory.theprintbar.comIf you've just discovered the show and aren't sure which of the 350+ episodes to start with, here are some suggestions:Episode 139: The History of the Toilet - https://sptfy.com/PK3J • https://apple.co/3Gi...
Sun, April 27, 2025
Episode 357: The History of the Papal Conclave
In this week's episode, learn all about the papal conclave: what preceded it, its origins, its centuries of history, and all that we know about how it elects popes today, in the 21st century. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, April 25, 2025
Inventions Episode 17: Eyeglasses
Eyeglasses, as a very important invention, have evolved from an expensive and somewhat unreliable piece of specialist equipment to something that half the world's population makes daily use of. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Wed, April 23, 2025
QAH Episode 107: Lord Timothy Dexter, the Whacko Entrepreneur - Remastered
Quarter-Arsed History presents: the (somewhat unverified) tale of Timothy Dexter, who amassed a vast fortune by making some of the most ludicrous business decisions you'll ever hear. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Sun, April 20, 2025
Episode 356: A Guide to Australian Elections
In this week's episode, learn all about Australian elections - how they originated, how they've changed, how they work today, and how their results lead to parliamentary governments being formed. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, April 18, 2025
Inventions Episode 16: The Compass
The compass has been used as a navigational tool for a thousand years, guiding ships and aeroplanes around the world - but for a thousand years before that, it served a different (and slightly less useful) role. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Wed, April 16, 2025
QAH Episode 106: Jeanne de Clisson, Lioness of Brittany - Remastered
Quarter-Arsed History present: the tale of the 14th-century noblewoman Jeanne de Clisson, who, after the execution of her husband at the hands of the French king, turned to a life of piracy and terrorised French shipping in the English Channel. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Sun, April 13, 2025
Episode 355: The Jacobite Risings and the Battle of Culloden
In this week's episode, get stuck into another tragic chapter in Scottish history with the stories of the Jacobite Risings and the famous Battle of Culloden. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, April 11, 2025
Inventions Episode 15: Gunpowder
Gunpowder revolutionised human warfare, ushering in a new chapter in the history of our species as we left behind swords and shields to fire guns and cannons instead. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Wed, April 09, 2025
QAH Episode 105: The Assassination of Franz Ferdinand - Remastered
Quarter-Arsed History presents: the tale of the event that triggered the First World War - the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand, complete with all the ludicrous misadventure that came with it. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Sun, April 06, 2025
Episode 354: The Buried Treasure of William Kidd
In this week's episode, meet Captain William Kidd, the only pirate in history known to have actually buried treasure - something that gave rise to one of the most common and popular pirate-themed tropes. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, April 04, 2025
Inventions Episode 14: The Toothbrush
The toothbrush is yet another simple but very important invention that has been a part of everyday life for people for over a thousand years, helping in keeping our choppers clean and in good health. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Wed, April 02, 2025
QAH Episode 104: The War of the Oaken Bucket - Remastered
Quarter-Arsed History presents: another telling of the War of the Oaken Bucket, one of the shortest episode topics ever covered by this tinpot history podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Sun, March 30, 2025
Episode 353: The Historic Origins of Popular Sayings - Part 3, Nautical Edition
In this week's episode, learn the origins of five sayings that all have a nautical origin: logbook, not enough room to swing a cat, grog, three sheets to the wind, and average. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, March 28, 2025
Inventions Episode 13: Toilet Paper
Toilet paper is something we have been wiping our bums with it for almost 1,500 years - an old invention with quite a few interesting details in its story. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Wed, March 26, 2025
QAH Episode 103: The Affair of the Diamond Necklace - Remastered
Quarter-Arsed History presents: a retelling of the Affair of the Diamond Necklace, when a French con woman scammed a rich cardinal in a truly scandalous manner. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Sun, March 23, 2025
Episode 352: The History of NATO
In this episode, learn all about the origin and history of the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation, and the uncertain future it faces in the current global political landscape. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, March 21, 2025
Inventions Episode 12: The Stirrup
The stirrup is an invention that transformed warfare by making mounted cavalry more effective than ever before - which may have had profound social, not just military, consequences across the centuries. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Wed, March 19, 2025
QAH Episode 102: D.B. Cooper - Remastered
Quarter-Arsed History presents: D.B. Cooper, a man who hijacked a plane, extracted a US$200,000 ransom, and skydived away, never to be seen again. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Sun, March 16, 2025
Episode 351: Saint Patrick, Apostle of Ireland
In this week's episode, get to know the real Saint Patrick, whose true life story is often overshadowed by the myths and legends associated with him. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, March 14, 2025
Inventions Episode 11: The Wheelbarrow
The wheelbarrow has played a huge role across the last two thousands years in making humans work more efficiently, quickly, and safely, boosting our productivity immensely. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Wed, March 12, 2025
QAH Episode 101: Olga of Kyiv - Remastered
Quarter-Arsed History presents: a retelling of the story of Olga of Kyiv, first featured in episode four (get across it) - a tale that involves plenty of blood, guts, and 'orrible murder for all to enjoy. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Sun, March 09, 2025
Episode 350: Frederick the Great - Remastered
In this week's episode, meet the Prussian king Frederick the Great for the second time in this podcast's history, with a "remastered" version of the first episode ever released. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, March 07, 2025
Inventions Episode 10: Paper
Paper has spent the last two thousand years becoming more and more popular and important to us as a civilisation - and the "paperless" world they say we're heading into is, in fact, anything but. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Wed, March 05, 2025
QAH Episode 100: Ask Me Anything
Quarter-Arsed History presents: the podcast's first-ever Ask Me Anything episode, featuring answers to questions sent in by alert listeners about everything from how the podcast is produced to embarrassing anecdotes. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Sun, March 02, 2025
Episode 349: The Writing of Niccolo Machiavelli
In this week's episode, meet Niccolo Machiavelli, the father of political science, and learn how his writing helped to shape today's global political landscape. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Sat, March 01, 2025
Update: Apologies for Ongoing Delays; Upcoming AMA
I've returned from my overseas trip feeling a bit unwell, so have had trouble getting episodes out the door on time - also, I'm planning to do an AMA (Ask Me Anything) episode for QAH next week, so send in any questions you want answered! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, February 28, 2025
Inventions Episode 9: The Arch
The Arch was a crucially important architectural innovation that unlocked all new buildings and forms, allowing buildings to be built larger and taller than ever before. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Wed, February 26, 2025
QAH Episode 99: Victor Lustig, the Man Who Sold the Eiffel Tower
Quarter-Arsed History presents: the story of Victor Lustig, a conman who managed to scam someone into buying the Eiffel Tower - potentially more than once. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Sun, February 23, 2025
Episode 348: The World Series Cricket Crisis
In this week's episode, get across a crisis that posed a potentially existential threat to official international cricket in the 1970s, when media mogul Kerry Packer established a private, unofficial cricketing competition known as World Series Cricket. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, February 21, 2025
Inventions Episode 8: Coinage
Coinage has supported local, regional, and global economies for millennia, ever since we figured out that having a convenient way to store and transfer value was actually a pretty good idea. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Wed, February 19, 2025
QAH Episode 98: A Brief History of Seafaring
Quarter-Arsed History presents: a brief (and woefully inadequate) overview of humanity's maritime history - from prehistoric wooden canoes to mighty oceangoing container ships. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Sun, February 16, 2025
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.
Fri, February 14, 2025
Inventions Episode 7: Concrete
Concrete is, unbelivably, the second-most-used substance in the world - second only to water - and has a truly fascinating history, its secrets lost to time for a millennia or so before re-emerging in the modern era. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, February 14, 2025
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.
Wed, February 12, 2025
QAH Episode 97: Humanity’s Mastery of Fire
Quarter-Arsed History presents: the story of how humanity mastered fire, and the many ways in which this changed us as a species - technologically, culturally, and even biologically. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Sun, February 09, 2025
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.
Fri, February 07, 2025
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.
Wed, February 05, 2025
QAH Episode 96: A Brief History of Stone Tools
Quarter-Arsed History presents: a brief history of stone tools, one of if not the oldest pieces of technology in history - so old, in fact, they predate humanity itself. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Sun, February 02, 2025
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.
Fri, January 31, 2025
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.
Fri, January 31, 2025
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.
Wed, January 29, 2025
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.
Sun, January 26, 2025
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.
Fri, January 24, 2025
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.
Wed, January 22, 2025
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.
Sun, January 19, 2025
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.
Fri, January 17, 2025
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.
Wed, January 15, 2025
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.
Sun, January 12, 2025
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.
Sun, January 12, 2025
Update: Apologies for Recent 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.
Fri, January 10, 2025
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.
Wed, January 08, 2025
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.
Sun, January 05, 2025
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.
Fri, January 03, 2025
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.
Wed, January 01, 2025
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.
Sun, December 29, 2024
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.
Fri, December 27, 2024
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.
Fri, December 27, 2024
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.
Wed, December 25, 2024
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.
Sun, December 22, 2024
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.
Fri, December 20, 2024
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.
Wed, December 18, 2024
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.
Sun, December 15, 2024
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.
Fri, December 13, 2024
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.
Wed, December 11, 2024
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.
Sun, December 08, 2024
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.
Fri, December 06, 2024
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.
Wed, December 04, 2024
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.
Tue, December 03, 2024
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.
Sun, December 01, 2024
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.
Fri, November 29, 2024
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.
Wed, November 27, 2024
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.
Sun, November 24, 2024
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.
Fri, November 22, 2024
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.
Wed, November 20, 2024
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.
Sun, November 17, 2024
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.
Fri, November 15, 2024
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.
Wed, November 13, 2024
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.
Sun, November 10, 2024
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.
Fri, November 08, 2024
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.
Wed, November 06, 2024
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.
Sun, November 03, 2024
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.
Fri, November 01, 2024
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.
Wed, October 30, 2024
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.
Sun, October 27, 2024
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.
Fri, October 25, 2024
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.
Wed, October 23, 2024
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.
Sun, October 20, 2024
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.
Fri, October 18, 2024
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.
Wed, October 16, 2024
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.
Sat, October 12, 2024
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.
Fri, October 11, 2024
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.
Wed, October 09, 2024
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.
Sun, October 06, 2024
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.
Fri, October 04, 2024
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.
Wed, October 02, 2024
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.
Sun, September 29, 2024
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.
Fri, September 27, 2024
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.
Wed, September 25, 2024
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.
Sun, September 22, 2024
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.
Fri, September 20, 2024
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.
Wed, September 18, 2024
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.
Sun, September 15, 2024
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.
Fri, September 13, 2024
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.
Wed, September 11, 2024
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.
Sun, September 08, 2024
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.
Fri, September 06, 2024
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.
Wed, September 04, 2024
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.
Sun, September 01, 2024
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.
Fri, August 30, 2024
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.
Wed, August 28, 2024
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.
Sun, August 25, 2024
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.
Fri, August 23, 2024
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.
Wed, August 21, 2024
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.
Sun, August 18, 2024
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.
Fri, August 16, 2024
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.
Wed, August 14, 2024
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.
Sun, August 11, 2024
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.
Fri, August 09, 2024
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.
Wed, August 07, 2024
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.
Sun, August 04, 2024
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.
Fri, August 02, 2024
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.
Wed, July 31, 2024
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.
Sun, July 28, 2024
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.
Fri, July 26, 2024
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.
Wed, July 24, 2024
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.
Sun, July 21, 2024
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.
Fri, July 19, 2024
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.
Wed, July 17, 2024
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.
Sun, July 14, 2024
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.
Fri, July 12, 2024
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.
Wed, July 10, 2024
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.
Sun, July 07, 2024
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.
Fri, July 05, 2024
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.
Wed, July 03, 2024
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.
Mon, July 01, 2024
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.
Sun, June 30, 2024
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.
Fri, June 28, 2024
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.
Wed, June 26, 2024
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.
Sun, June 23, 2024
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.
Fri, June 21, 2024
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.
Wed, June 19, 2024
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.
Sun, June 16, 2024
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.
Fri, June 14, 2024
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.
Wed, June 12, 2024
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.
Sun, June 09, 2024
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.
Fri, June 07, 2024
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.
Wed, June 05, 2024
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.
Sun, June 02, 2024
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.
Fri, May 31, 2024
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.
Wed, May 29, 2024
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.
Sun, May 26, 2024
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.
Fri, May 24, 2024
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.
Wed, May 22, 2024
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.
Sun, May 19, 2024
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.
Fri, May 17, 2024
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.
Wed, May 15, 2024
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.
Sun, May 12, 2024
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.
Fri, May 10, 2024
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.
Wed, May 08, 2024
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.
Sun, May 05, 2024
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.
Fri, May 03, 2024
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.
Wed, May 01, 2024
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.
Sun, April 28, 2024
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.
Fri, April 26, 2024
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.
Wed, April 24, 2024
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.
Sun, April 21, 2024
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.
Fri, April 19, 2024
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.
Wed, April 17, 2024
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.
Sun, April 14, 2024
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.
Fri, April 12, 2024
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.
Wed, April 10, 2024
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.
Sun, April 07, 2024
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.
Fri, April 05, 2024
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.
Wed, April 03, 2024
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.
Sun, March 31, 2024
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.
Fri, March 29, 2024
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.
Wed, March 27, 2024
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.
Sun, March 24, 2024
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.
Fri, March 22, 2024
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.
Wed, March 20, 2024
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.
Sun, March 17, 2024
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.
Fri, March 15, 2024
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.
Wed, March 13, 2024
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.
Sun, March 10, 2024
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.
Fri, March 08, 2024
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.
Wed, March 06, 2024
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.
Sun, March 03, 2024
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.
Fri, March 01, 2024
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.
Wed, February 28, 2024
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.
Sun, February 25, 2024
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.
Fri, February 23, 2024
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.
Wed, February 21, 2024
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.
Sun, February 18, 2024
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.
Fri, February 16, 2024
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.
Wed, February 14, 2024
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.
Sun, February 11, 2024
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.
Fri, February 09, 2024
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.
Wed, February 07, 2024
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.
Sun, February 04, 2024
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.
Fri, February 02, 2024
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.
Wed, January 31, 2024
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.
Sun, January 28, 2024
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.
Fri, January 26, 2024
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.
Wed, January 24, 2024
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.
Sun, January 21, 2024
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.
Fri, January 19, 2024
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.
Wed, January 17, 2024
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.
Tue, January 16, 2024
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 feedback - head over to halfarsedhistory.net and use the contact form to get in touch. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Sun, January 14, 2024
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.
Fri, January 12, 2024
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.
Wed, January 10, 2024
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.
Sun, January 07, 2024
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.
Fri, January 05, 2024
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.
Wed, January 03, 2024
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.
Sun, December 31, 2023
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.
Wed, December 27, 2023
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.
Sun, December 24, 2023
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.
Wed, December 20, 2023
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.
Sun, December 17, 2023
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.
Wed, December 13, 2023
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.
Sun, December 10, 2023
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.
Wed, December 06, 2023
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.
Sun, December 03, 2023
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.
Wed, November 29, 2023
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.
Sun, November 26, 2023
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.
Wed, November 22, 2023
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.
Sun, November 19, 2023
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.
Wed, November 15, 2023
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.
Sun, November 12, 2023
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.
Wed, November 08, 2023
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.
Sun, November 05, 2023
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.
Wed, November 01, 2023
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.
Sat, October 28, 2023
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.
Wed, October 25, 2023
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.
Sun, October 22, 2023
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.
Wed, October 18, 2023
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.
Sun, October 15, 2023
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.
Wed, October 11, 2023
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.
Sun, October 08, 2023
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.
Wed, October 04, 2023
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.
Sun, October 01, 2023
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.
Wed, September 27, 2023
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.
Sun, September 24, 2023
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.
Wed, September 20, 2023
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.
Sun, September 17, 2023
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.
Wed, September 13, 2023
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.
Sun, September 10, 2023
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.
Wed, September 06, 2023
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.
Sun, September 03, 2023
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.
Wed, August 30, 2023
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.
Sun, August 27, 2023
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.
Wed, August 23, 2023
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.
Sun, August 20, 2023
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.
Wed, August 16, 2023
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.
Sun, August 13, 2023
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.
Wed, August 09, 2023
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.
Sun, August 06, 2023
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.
Wed, August 02, 2023
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.
Sun, July 30, 2023
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.
Wed, July 26, 2023
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.
Sun, July 23, 2023
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.
Wed, July 19, 2023
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.
Sun, July 16, 2023
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.
Wed, July 12, 2023
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.
Sun, July 09, 2023
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.
Wed, July 05, 2023
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.
Sun, July 02, 2023
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.
Wed, June 28, 2023
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.
Fri, June 23, 2023
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.
Wed, June 21, 2023
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.
Sun, June 18, 2023
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.
Wed, June 14, 2023
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.
Sun, June 11, 2023
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.
Wed, June 07, 2023
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.
Sun, June 04, 2023
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.
Wed, May 31, 2023
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.
Sun, May 28, 2023
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.
Wed, May 24, 2023
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.
Sun, May 21, 2023
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.
Wed, May 17, 2023
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.
Sun, May 14, 2023
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.
Wed, May 10, 2023
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.
Sun, May 07, 2023
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.
Wed, May 03, 2023
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.
Sun, April 30, 2023
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.
Wed, April 26, 2023
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.
Sun, April 23, 2023
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.
Wed, April 19, 2023
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.
Sun, April 16, 2023
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.
Wed, April 12, 2023
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.
Sun, April 09, 2023
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.
Sun, April 02, 2023
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.
Sun, March 26, 2023
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.
Sun, March 19, 2023
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.
Sun, March 12, 2023
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.
Sun, March 05, 2023
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.
Wed, March 01, 2023
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 the contact form to get in touch. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Sun, February 26, 2023
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.
Sun, February 19, 2023
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.
Sun, February 12, 2023
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.
Sun, February 05, 2023
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.
Sun, January 29, 2023
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.
Sun, January 22, 2023
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.
Sun, January 15, 2023
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.
Sun, January 08, 2023
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.
Sun, January 01, 2023
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.
Sun, December 25, 2022
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.
Sun, December 18, 2022
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.
Sun, December 11, 2022
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.
Sun, December 04, 2022
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.
Sun, November 27, 2022
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.
Sun, November 20, 2022
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.
Sun, November 13, 2022
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.
Sun, November 06, 2022
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.
Sun, October 30, 2022
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.
Sun, October 23, 2022
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.
Sun, October 16, 2022
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.
Sun, October 09, 2022
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.
Sun, October 02, 2022
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.
Sun, September 25, 2022
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.
Sun, September 18, 2022
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.
Sun, September 11, 2022
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.
Sun, September 04, 2022
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.
Sun, August 28, 2022
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.
Sun, August 21, 2022
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.
Sun, August 14, 2022
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.
Sun, August 07, 2022
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.
Sun, July 31, 2022
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.
Sun, July 24, 2022
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.
Sun, July 17, 2022
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.
Sun, July 10, 2022
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.
Sun, July 03, 2022
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.
Sun, June 26, 2022
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.
Sun, June 19, 2022
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.
Sun, June 12, 2022
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.
Sun, June 05, 2022
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.
Sun, May 29, 2022
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.
Sun, May 22, 2022
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.
Sun, May 15, 2022
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.
Sun, May 08, 2022
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.
Sun, May 01, 2022
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.
Sun, April 24, 2022
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.
Sun, April 17, 2022
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.
Sun, April 10, 2022
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.
Sun, April 03, 2022
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.
Sun, March 27, 2022
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.
Sun, March 20, 2022
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.
Sun, March 13, 2022
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.
Sun, March 06, 2022
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.
Sun, February 27, 2022
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.
Sun, February 20, 2022
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.
Sun, February 13, 2022
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.
Sun, February 06, 2022
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.
Sun, January 30, 2022
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.
Sun, January 23, 2022
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.
Sun, January 16, 2022
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.
Sun, January 09, 2022
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.
Sun, January 02, 2022
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.
Sun, December 26, 2021
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.
Sun, December 19, 2021
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.
Sun, December 12, 2021
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.
Sun, December 05, 2021
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.
Sun, November 28, 2021
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.
Sun, November 21, 2021
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.
Sun, November 14, 2021
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.
Sun, November 07, 2021
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.
Sun, October 31, 2021
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.
Sun, October 24, 2021
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.
Sun, October 17, 2021
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.
Sun, October 10, 2021
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.
Sun, October 03, 2021
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.
Sun, September 26, 2021
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.
Sun, September 19, 2021
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.
Sun, September 12, 2021
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.
Sun, September 05, 2021
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.
Sun, August 29, 2021
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.
Sun, August 22, 2021
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.
Sun, August 15, 2021
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.
Sun, August 08, 2021
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.
Sun, August 01, 2021
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.
Sun, July 25, 2021
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.
Sun, July 18, 2021
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.
Sun, July 11, 2021
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.
Sun, July 04, 2021
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.
Sun, June 27, 2021
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.
Sun, June 20, 2021
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.
Sun, June 13, 2021
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.
Sun, June 06, 2021
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.
Sun, May 30, 2021
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.
Sun, May 23, 2021
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.
Sun, May 16, 2021
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.
Sun, May 09, 2021
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.
Sun, May 02, 2021
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.
Sun, April 25, 2021
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.
Sun, April 18, 2021
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.
Sun, April 11, 2021
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.
Sun, April 04, 2021
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.
Sun, March 28, 2021
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.
Sun, March 21, 2021
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.
Sun, March 14, 2021
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.
Sun, March 07, 2021
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.
Sun, February 28, 2021
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.
Sun, February 21, 2021
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.
Sun, February 14, 2021
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.
Sun, February 07, 2021
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.
Sun, January 31, 2021
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.
Sun, January 24, 2021
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.
Sun, January 17, 2021
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.
Sun, January 10, 2021
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.
Sun, January 03, 2021
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.
Sun, December 27, 2020
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.
Sun, December 20, 2020
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.
Sun, December 13, 2020
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.
Sun, December 06, 2020
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.
Sun, November 29, 2020
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.
Sun, November 22, 2020
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.
Sun, November 15, 2020
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.
Sun, November 08, 2020
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.
Sun, November 01, 2020
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.
Sun, October 25, 2020
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.
Sun, October 18, 2020
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.
Sun, October 11, 2020
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.
Sun, October 04, 2020
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.
Sun, September 27, 2020
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.
Sun, September 20, 2020
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.
Sun, September 13, 2020
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.
Sun, September 06, 2020
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.
Sun, August 30, 2020
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.
Sun, August 23, 2020
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.
Sun, August 16, 2020
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.
Sun, August 09, 2020
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.
Sun, August 02, 2020
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.
Sun, July 26, 2020
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.
Sun, July 19, 2020
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.
Sat, July 11, 2020
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.
Sun, July 05, 2020
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.
Sun, June 28, 2020
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.
Sun, June 21, 2020
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.
Sun, June 14, 2020
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.
Sun, June 07, 2020
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.
Sun, May 31, 2020
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.
Sun, May 24, 2020
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.
Sun, May 17, 2020
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.
Sun, May 10, 2020
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.
Sun, May 03, 2020
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.
Sun, April 26, 2020
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.
Sun, April 19, 2020
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.
Sun, April 12, 2020
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.
Sun, April 05, 2020
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.
Sun, March 29, 2020
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.
Sun, March 22, 2020
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.
Sun, March 15, 2020
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.
Sun, March 08, 2020
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.
Sun, March 01, 2020
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.
Sun, February 23, 2020
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.
Sun, February 16, 2020
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.
Sun, February 09, 2020
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.
Sun, February 02, 2020
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.
Sun, January 26, 2020
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.
Sun, January 19, 2020
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.
Sun, January 12, 2020
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.
Sun, January 05, 2020
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.
Sun, December 29, 2019
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.
Sun, December 22, 2019
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.
Sun, December 15, 2019
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.
Sun, December 08, 2019
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.
Sun, December 01, 2019
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.
Sun, November 24, 2019
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.
Sun, November 17, 2019
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.
Sun, November 10, 2019
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.
Sun, November 03, 2019
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.
Sun, October 27, 2019
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.
Sun, October 20, 2019
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.
Sun, October 13, 2019
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.
Sun, October 06, 2019
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.
Sun, September 29, 2019
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.
Sun, September 22, 2019
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.
Sun, September 15, 2019
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.
Sun, September 08, 2019
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.
Sun, September 01, 2019
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.
Sun, August 25, 2019
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.
Sun, August 18, 2019
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.
Sun, August 11, 2019
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.
Sun, August 04, 2019
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.
Sun, July 28, 2019
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.
Sun, July 21, 2019
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.
Sun, July 14, 2019
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.
Sun, July 07, 2019
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.
Sun, June 30, 2019
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.
Sun, June 23, 2019
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.
Sun, June 16, 2019
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.
Sun, June 09, 2019
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.
Sun, June 02, 2019
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.
Sun, May 26, 2019
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.
Sun, May 19, 2019
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.
Sun, May 12, 2019
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.
Sun, May 05, 2019
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.
Sun, April 28, 2019
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.
Sun, April 21, 2019
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.
Sun, April 14, 2019
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.
Sun, April 07, 2019
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.
Sun, March 31, 2019
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.
Sun, March 24, 2019
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.
Sun, March 17, 2019
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.
Sun, March 10, 2019
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.
Sun, March 03, 2019
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.
Sun, February 24, 2019
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.
Sun, February 17, 2019
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.
Sun, February 10, 2019
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.
Sun, February 03, 2019
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.
Sun, January 27, 2019
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.
Sun, January 20, 2019
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.
Sun, January 13, 2019
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.
Sun, January 06, 2019
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.
Sun, December 30, 2018
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.
Sun, December 23, 2018
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.
Sun, December 16, 2018
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.
Sun, December 09, 2018
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.
Sun, December 02, 2018
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.
Sun, November 25, 2018
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.
Sun, November 18, 2018
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.
Sun, November 11, 2018
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.
Sun, November 04, 2018
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.
Sun, October 28, 2018
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.
Sun, October 21, 2018
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.
Sun, October 14, 2018
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.
Sun, October 07, 2018
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.
Sun, September 30, 2018
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.
Sun, September 23, 2018
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.
Sun, September 16, 2018
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.
Sun, September 09, 2018
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.
Sun, September 02, 2018
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.
Sun, August 26, 2018
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.
Sun, August 19, 2018
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.
Sun, August 12, 2018
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.
Sun, August 05, 2018
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.
Sun, July 29, 2018
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.
Sun, July 22, 2018
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.
Sun, July 15, 2018
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.
Sun, July 08, 2018
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.
Sun, July 01, 2018
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.
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