"The Pharaoh's sinister smile seemed to whisper love me… but fear me.." Embark on a journey into ancient Egypt's shadows with our latest episode, as we delve deep into the enigmatic life of Akhenaten, the heretic pharaoh whose legacy was damned by his own people. We uncover the intriguing tale of Akhenaten's formative years, shaped under the towering influence of his illustrious father, Amenhotep III. With the help of The Amarna Letters, we'll untangle the mysteries surrounding Akhenaten's bizarre physical traits and his shocking depiction in royal imagery, foreshadowing the turbulence of his later rule. As the young Pharaoh's arrogance grows, we witness Akhenaten's defiance against the powerful priesthood of Amun and his audacious vision to revolutionize ancient Egypt. Finally, we follow The Pharoah in his bold quest to establish a new capital city devoted to the sun god Aten, setting the stage for a monumental upheaval in the ancient world. Tune in to unravel the dark story of the heretic pharaoh, offering insights into one of history's most fascinating and controversial figures. CHAPTERS: 00:00:00-Introduction to Akhenaten 00:05:17-Finding the Amarna Letters 00:13:50-Background on the 18th Dynasty 00:20:49-Amenhotep III and The Aten 00:26:30-Amenhotep’s new portrayals 00:30:45-Akhenaten becomes Pharaoh 00:36:35-Akhenaten’s obsession with The Aten Help support the show on Patreon! Sources and Attributions on our website. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Professor Almut Hintze sheds light on the ancient and mysterious religion of Zoroastrianism. For over two millennia, it was one of the world's most practiced religions until the arrival of Islam in the seventh century led to its rapid decline. Today, just 120,000 adherents remain worldwide. Come with us as we dive into Zoroastrianism: Exploring Avestan, the 'Language of God' still used in prayers today, despite its meaning being long forgotten. Discover the ritual complexity of The Yasna and the lighting of 16 Sacred Flames, each kindled from a different source. We also follow the sad history of modern Zoroastrians, a shrinking minority in their homeland of Iran. Professor Hintze's dedication to preserving and cataloguing ancient rituals and their meanings is a testament to her commitment to preserving this fascinating piece of human history. Join us as we discuss the history, rituals and language of one of the worlds oldest religions Help support the show on Patreon! Sources and Attributions on our website. Professor Hintze's brief introduction to Zoroastrianism A recording of the full, transcribed Yasna ritual Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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

"Capitulation is impossible! The 6th Army will do its historic duty." - Adolf Hitler. In the conclusion of our series, we unravel the final months of the Battle of Stalingrad, exploring the consequences of Adolf Hitler's decision to forbid the the Sixth Army to retreat. We witness the long-awaited breakthrough for The Red Army, as Joseph Stalin and Georgy Zhukov launch Operation Uranus. We delve into the emotional impact on German soldiers confronting their mortality. Through their personal letters, we glimpse into their thoughts and feelings about Nazi leadership and Adolf Hitler. After the dust settles, we examine the aftermath of the Battle of Stalingrad and its enduring legacy in Russian history. Tune in for an exploration of this pivotal moment, where the human toll and historical significance intertwine in a tale of sacrifice, resilience, and grit. NOTE: When discussing The Nuremberg trials, I make an error when I refer to Joseph Goebbels who was no longer alive. This should instead be Hermann Göring. Thanks to Albert, Antonik and others for pointing this out. ⚡Help support the show on Patreon check out our supporting reels on Instagram, and receive email updates whenever a new episode drops by joining our mailing list.⚡ CHAPTERS: 00:00-Introduction and Recap 01:58-Episode start 07:27-Fortress Stalingrad begins 16:49-Christmas in Stalingrad 21:05-Last chance at surrender with Winrich Behr 31:36-Paulus loses hope 40:56-Fate of the main characters 45:57-Red Army finds last letters from Stalingrad 📓SOURCES: Barbarossa Through Soviet Eyes: The First Twenty-Four Hours by Artem Drabkin, Alexei Isaev, Christopher Summerville  Stalingrad by Antony Beevor Russia at War, 1941–1945: A History by Alexander Werth  Blood red snow by by Günter K. Koschorrek Through the Maelstrom: A Red Army Soldier's War on the Eastern Front by Boris Gorbachevsky The forgotten soldiers by Guy Sajer  Until the Eyes Shut: Memories of a machine gunner on the Eastern Front by Andreas Hartinger Stalin: Triumph and Tragedy by Dmitri Volkogonov Marshall of Victory: Memoirs of Giorgy Zhukov Blitzed: Drugs In The Third Reich by Norman Ohler The Diary of Wehrmacht Soldier William Hoffman Various accounts: IREMEMBER.RU German Propaganda Archive: Joseph Goebbels: 1933-1945 (calvin.edu)   Barbarossa : the Russian-German conflict, 1941-45 by Alan Clarke  Kiev 1941: Hitler's Battle for Supremacy in the East by David Stahel Reminiscences and Reflections. Volume 1 by Georgii Konstantinovich Zhukov The Third Reich at War by Richard J. Evans  Moscow Strikes Back - 1942 USSR Propaganda Film Molotovs Radio Broadcast:  Transcript: https://www.marxists.org/history/ussr/great-patriotic-war/pdf/22-06-1941-molotov-radiospeech.pdf Audio: https://collections.ushmm.org/search/catalog/irn1000646   🎉PATRONS Tom G 👑 Angus S👑 Seth M👑 Claudia K👑 Phil B Lisa K Malcolm G Alex G Caleb I Alan R Jim G Luke G Tom   ✍🏻ATTRIBUTIONS All images are public domain unless stated otherwise. Paid Artlist.io license for 'Anthology Of Heroes Podcast' utilised for numerous sounds/music Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

"In the blazing city, we do not suffer cowards..." - Vasily Chuikov. This episode marks the penultimate episode of our series tracing Operation Barbarossa, Hitler's 1941 invasion of the USSR. Join us as we follow Marshal Friedrich Paulus and the Wehrmacht 6th Army to their fateful end at Stalingrad. Through poignant handwritten letters, we'll delve into how frontline soldiers grappled with their mortality and the erosion of their faith in Nazi propaganda. Throughout the episode, we explore the ingenious and brutal strategies employed by Marshall Vasily Chuikov to maintain order amidst the chaos. In the desperate streets of Stalingrad, Rattenkrieg, or 'war of the rats,' emerged as a brutal form of close-quarters urban combat, marked by intense, chaotic skirmishes within the sprawling ruins of the city. As the tide turns against the Wehrmacht, we witness the Nazi High Command's struggle against Adolf Hitler's insistence on a symbolic last stand. The Battle of Stalingrad, often deemed the deadliest in history, holds a profound place in Russian pride today. Tune in to learn why. ⚡Help support the show on Patreon check out our supporting reels on Instagram, and receive email updates whenever a new episode drops by joining our mailing list.⚡ CHAPTERS: 00:00-Introduction 03:37-Main Characters Recap 06:30-Episode Start 12:18-Chuikov's Innovations 21:09-Wermacht on brink of victory 29:48-Luftwaffe Bombing Run 35:24-Red Army heroism 40:30-Wermacht dug in for winter 49:38-Operation Uranus begins 📓SOURCES: Barbarossa Through Soviet Eyes: The First Twenty-Four Hours by Artem Drabkin, Alexei Isaev, Christopher Summerville  Stalingrad by Antony Beevor Russia at War, 1941–1945: A History by Alexander Werth  Blood red snow by by Günter K. Koschorrek Through the Maelstrom: A Red Army Soldier's War on the Eastern Front by Boris Gorbachevsky The forgotten soldiers by Guy Sajer  Until the Eyes Shut: Memories of a machine gunner on the Eastern Front by Andreas Hartinger Stalin: Triumph and Tragedy by Dmitri Volkogonov Marshall of Victory: Memoirs of Giorgy Zhukov Blitzed: Drugs In The Third Reich by Norman Ohler The Diary of Wehrmacht Soldier William Hoffman Various accounts: IREMEMBER.RU German Propaganda Archive: Joseph Goebbels: 1933-1945 (calvin.edu)   Barbarossa : the Russian-German conflict, 1941-45 by Alan Clarke  Kiev 1941: Hitler's Battle for Supremacy in the East by David Stahel Reminiscences and Reflections. Volume 1 by Georgii Konstantinovich Zhukov The Third Reich at War by Richard J. Evans  Moscow Strikes Back - 1942 USSR Propaganda Film Molotovs Radio Broadcast:  Transcript: https://www.marxists.org/history/ussr/great-patriotic-war/pdf/22-06-1941-molotov-radiospeech.pdf Audio: https://collections.ushmm.org/search/catalog/irn1000646   🎉PATRONS Tom G 👑 Angus S👑 Seth M👑 Claudia K👑 Phil B Lisa K Malcolm G Alex G Caleb I Alan R Jim G Luke G Tom   ✍🏻ATTRIBUTIONS All images are public domain unless stated otherwise. Paid Artlist.io license for 'Anthology Of Heroes Podcast' utilised for numerous sounds/music Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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

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

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

A quick update on what's coming in season 6, our release schedule, and a few audience Q&A Questions. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

"A life of sin, cleansed by his final act" Join us for the conclusion of our two-part series on the 1566 Siege of Szigetvár, featuring Nikola Zrinski's renowned last stand. In this episode, we delve into the captivating backstory of Nikola Zrinski, also known as Nikola Šubić Zrinski or Zrínyi Miklós—a celebrated national hero in Croatia and Hungary. Explore his life's journey and the events leading to the siege's dramatic climax. Amid the unfolding siege, we unpack the simmering feud between Roxelana and Ibrahim Pasha, two profoundly influential figures in the life of Suleiman The Magnificent. Tune it to learn about the enduring legacy of these towering figures in history. Help support the show on Patreon!(https://www.patreon.com/anthologyofheroes) Submit a question on Instagram(https://www.instagram.com/anthologyofheroes) Submit a question on our website(https://anthologyofheroespodcast.com/szigetvar2) Submit a question through email (mailto:anthologyofheroespodcast@gmail.com) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

"The Battle That Saved The Civilization" In this series, we explore the 1566 Siege of Szigetvár, a crucial castle on the Hapsburg-Ottoman border. When the 71-year-old Ottoman Sultan, Suleiman the Magnificent, besieged Szigetvár, he didn't anticipate the fierce resistance. Led by Count Nikola Zrinski (also known as Zrínyi Miklós or Nikola Šubić Zrinski), the garrison was determined to defend their fortress to the last man.   As the aged Sultan Suleiman marched toward the fortress we explore his personal life. From his controversial relationship with his Grand Vizier to his taboo romance with his favorite concubine.   Join us to uncover the story of Suleiman the Magnificent and the Siege of Szigetvár, a clash of compelling characters battling for legacy.   Help support the show on Patreon! (https://www.patreon.com/anthologyofheroes) Submit a question on Instagram(https://www.instagram.com/anthologyofheroes) Submit a question on our website(https://anthologyofheroespodcast.com/szigetvar1) Submit a question through email (mailto:anthologyofheroespodcast@gmail.com) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

"Go tell the Spartans passerby, that here, obedient to our laws, we lie...." In this episode Mark and I continue our deep-dive into the epic Battle of Thermopylae (480BC). In the shadow of a dusty gorge in southern Greece, 300 valiant Spartan warriors, led by the indomitable King Leonidas, stood resolute, awaiting the impending battle against Xerxes and his gigantic army. Guided by Herodotus and other ancient sources we transport you to the heart of the battlefield, painting a vivid picture of the terrain, strategies, and emotions that swirled around this monumental conflict. As the dust settles on the battlefield, learn about Sparta's diminishing influence and the tragic fates of Aristodemus and Eurytus, the two survivors of Thermopylae who died in shame... Tune in to learn the true story behind history's favorite battle! Listen to Warlords Of History Podcast Help support the show on Patreon! Sources and Attributions on our website. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

"Eat well Spartans for tonight we dine with Hades!" - King Leonidas I In this series I'm joined by Mark Pimenta, host of the Warlords Of History Podcast. Mark and I discuss the lead up to one of the most famous events in world history: The Battle of Thermopylae. In 480BC the outnumbered forces of Greece made their stand against the enormous army of Shah Xerses I and his Achaemenid Persian Empire. The Persians had numbers on their side, but the Greeks 300 of the best trained soldiers in the world led by the steely King of Sparta, Leonidas I. In this episode we discuss the lead up to the battle, and delve deep into the strange society in which The Spartans lived. Join us for fascinating insights about one of the strangest and most brutal cultures in world history. Listen to Warlords Of History Podcast Help support the show on Patreon! Sources and Attributions on our website. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Bonus episode from the podcast 'Cauldron - A Military History Podcast'. At the outset of the battle, several mailed horsemen rode up to the Viking lines. Tostig Godwinson moved up to hear what the Anglo Saxon riders had tot say. The leader of the men was his brother, King Harold, and he offered Tostig peace and his life. When Tostig asked what the King offered to his ally, Harald Hardcounsel, the King, responded, "Six feet of English ground, and then some more as he is taller than most men." With this little quip, the second most important battle in English history began. At Stamford Bridge, the fate of the Viking World hinged, and the future of the rest of the world was changed. Cauldron - A Military History Podcast can be found on all podcasting platforms. Cauldron Website Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

"Woe! Woe to us Hungarians! What an evil age we have entered..." On August 29, 1526, the forces of Christendom clashed with the mighty Ottoman Empire, transcending the borders of Hungary and leaving an indelible mark on world history. Join us in this episode as we delve into the cataclysmic Battle of Mohács and explore its profound significance. This gripping episode unravels the causes of the battle, examining the geopolitical landscape and the escalating tensions between East and West. As Hungarian forces, led by the lackluster King Louis II, confronted the formidable Ottoman army commanded by Suleiman the Magnificent, the fate of Christian Europe teetered on the edge. Through the use of numerous sources and poignant quotes, we shed light on the enduring impact of this pivotal moment. Join us as we understand why the Battle of Mohacs stands as a crucible of world history. And discover why Hungarians still say 'Több is veszett Mohácsnál' - 'More was lost at Mohács' Whether you are a history enthusiast or simply curious about the turning points that shape our world, this episode promises an engaging and insightful journey. Help support the show on Patreon! Sources and Attributions on our website. Bibliotheca Corvina Virtualis Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

"More was lost at Mohacs" - Hungarian proverb In this series we journey into the events leading up to the disastrous Battle of Mohacs in 1526. This pivotal battle forever altered the course of Hungarian and European history. It marked the collapse of Hungary and paved the way for the relentless advance of the Ottoman Empire into Central Europe. In this episode, we delve into the remarkable reigns of two Hungarian heroes, John Hunyadi and his son Matthias Corvinus (aka Hunyadi Mátyás) . These visionary leaders reshaped the medieval kingdom, propelling it to the status of a European superstate. However, with the passing of these influential figures, we bear witness to a realm spiralling into anarchy and chaos. As weak-willed kings succumb to the influence of greedy nobles, a new Ottoman Sultan emerges, casting Hungary into a state of uncertainty... Join us for this episode, where the triumphs, tragedies, and profound consequences of the Battle of Mohacs unfold before your eyes. Help support the show on Patreon! Sources and Attributions on our website. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

"If we had a military division of these birds it would face any army in the world!" In this episode we explore one of the wackiest chapters in military history. In 1932, Australia declared war on its native bird, the emu. Veteran soldiers armed with machine guns and high hopes took to the battlefield, ready to take down these seemingly harmless birds. What followed was a series of strange battles that left the Australian army (and the public) scratching their heads in disbelief. Emus, with their lightning-fast speed and surprising cunning, proved to be more than a match for them. Major Meredith And His Merry Men were left dodging beaks and feathers, as the emus outmaneuvered them at every turn. Join us as we delve into the absurdity of the Great Emu War, where machine guns was no match for a horde of feathery foes. Help support the show on Patreon! Sources and Attributions on our website. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

'Last fight of the Crusaders' In this episode we witness the climax of an era: The Crusaders' "last stand" in the Holy Land. Journey back in time to the fortified city of Acre, where the Crusaders faced their final battle against the Mamluk Sultanate. Renowned author and historian, Roger Crowley, joins us, offering unparalleled insights into this monumental event. Uncover the intense siege unleashed by Sultan Al-Ashraf Khalil upon the Crusader stronghold. Explore the strategic tactics, massive siege engines, and fierce battles that unfolded within the city's walls during its final hours. Tune in as we reveal how the Fall of Acre forever altered the balance of power in the Holy Land and shaped the course of history. Don't miss this gripping episode that combines expert analysis and historical narrative to illuminate the enduring impact of the Crusaders' last stand. Help support the show on Patreon! Sources and Attributions on our website. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

‘"Jews revolted ...Some escaped ... foreign guards dead. ...SEND HELP!" In this episode, we delve into the remarkable journey of four survivors of the Sobibor Escape: Toivi Blatt, Sasha Perchersky, Schlomo Szmajzner, and Leon Felhendler. Following their daring escape from Sobibor, these four individuals encountered incredible obstacles as they battled for survival until the war's end. We'll unveil their extraordinary tales of bravery and tenacity as they evaded Nazi capture and fought to preserve their lives. In 1965, the Sobibor Trial united survivors and perpetrators, seeking justice for the murdered and those who endured. We'll explore this pivotal trial and its profound impact on the survivors. Additionally, we'll share the remarkable account of Toivi Blatt's interview with SS Karl Frenzel, one of the perpetrators responsible for the horrific acts at Sobibor. Join us as we chronicle the aftermath of the Sobibor Concentration Camp revolt, showcasing the indomitable courage and resilience of the survivors, in their unwavering pursuit of justice and remembrance. Help support the show on Patreon! Sources and Attributions on our website. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

'They terrified at the impetus of the badly armed Jewish legions' This episode is Part 2 of our series on the Sobibor Escape. In this episode, we'll delve into the rebellion itself and the pivotal role played by Sasha Pechersky. Sasha was a Jewish Red Army soldier who had been captured and sent to Sobibor. He was instrumental in inspiring and organizing the prisoners to revolt against the Nazi regime. Through firsthand accounts from survivors and historical research, we'll take you through the tense and dramatic moments leading up to the revolt, and the risks and challenges the prisoners faced to carry it out. We'll also explore Sasha's role in leading and inspiring the prisoners towards freedom. Join us as we tell the story of one of the most incredible acts of resistance during the Holocaust and the remarkable roles played bySasha Pechersky, Toivi Blatt, Leon Felhendler and Szlomo Szmajzner. Help support the show on Patreon! Sources and Attributions on our website. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices