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Showing episodes and shows of
Douglas Wrattle
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History for You with Douglas and Hugh
Vikings!
It's been a long time coming, but it's finally here. Douglas and Hugh have finally decided to tackle those vicious, bloodthirsty Nordic warriors. But were they really vicious and bloodthirsty? Time to pillage truth from the village of myth. We've also compiled a run down of the top ten most iconic vikings who ever lived. And some who probably didn't. What a treat. So pull up a longship, sup on your horns of mead and prepare yourself for sagas untold!------History for You with Douglas and...
2025-05-01
33 min
History for You with Douglas and Hugh
Sir Winston Churchill: Part Two - The Not As Early Years
War! Europe is crumbling under attacks by the ruthless Kaiser Wilhelm. There are heroes on both sides. Evil is everywhere. But whither, you may ask, is WINSTON CHURCHILL? Well, that's what Douglas and Hugh reveal as they continue their informed and unbiased account of the man some believe to be BRITAIN'S GREATEST BRITISH PERSON.This thrilling episode follows the political and military career of Winnie during the First World War. And what a tale it is. One of astonishing highs and catastrophic lows...You'll also discover if there's ben any fallout...
2025-04-16
36 min
History for You with Douglas and Hugh
Sir Winston Churchill: Part One - The Early Years
Many consider Winston Churchill to be the greatest British human who ever lived. But was he, when it comes down to it, a massive bellend? Come with us brave time traveller, and join Douglas and Hugh on the first part of an epic journey as they debate the life, deeds, beliefs, politics and legacy of the man who helped shape the twentieth century. Also, Douglas has some very exciting news. Very exciting indeed...------History for You with Douglas and Hugh is a spoof comedy podcast about history written, performed and produced by Adrian Mackinder...
2025-03-30
36 min
History for You with Douglas and Hugh
House of Medici: The Original Renaissance Mafia
In this episode, Douglas and Hugh take the Hyundai over to Italy where you'll meet the original Godfathers of crime, corruption, extortion, murder and much much more: The Medicis. For centuries, this extravagant gangsta dynasty kept a vicelike grip over Italy -vice being the operative word. Experience their rise and fall, as well as the Humanist world in which they lived and died, better known as The Renaissance. You'll also discover why chafing has forced Hugh to wear short shorts out of season and why Douglas has a real beef with his local florist.
2025-03-06
36 min
History for You with Douglas and Hugh
The Rise and Fall of Orson Welles: Genius or Fake?
Lights! Camera! Silence on the set! Tape rolling...3,2,1 ACTION!!This episode follows the unique life of a true titan of cinema: the mighty Orson Welles. Join Douglas and Hugh as they explore this remarkable filmmaker, actor, wit, intellect, lover, bon vivant and consumer of many many pies. From the precocious cinematic genius that changed the medium, to the frustrated raconteur who became an extra large, we leave no stone unturned. Discover how Welles convinced a nation that the martians were coming all over them, how he annoyed media mogul William Randolph Hearst and why Douglas...
2025-02-19
39 min
History for You with Douglas and Hugh
The Rise and Fall of Newspaper Mogul William Randolph Hearst
Imagine a time when wealthy, privileged bullies controlled the minds of millions by making up stories to publish in their rotten newspapers. A time when rich old men married young aspiring Hollywood starlets and wild zebras roamed the hills of California.... STOP THE PRESS!! We're back! In the first episode of 2025, Douglas and Hugh present the rise and fall of the world's first notorious international media mogul, American newspaper magnate William Randolph Hearst. Discover how Hearst built his name during the final years of the nineteenth century, fought a bitter newspaper war with rival Joseph...
2025-01-29
36 min
History for You with Douglas and Hugh
Outtakes and Bloopers 2024
As is now tradition (i.e. we did it once before, last year), here's a bonus Christmas present: five minutes of us failing to keep it together. A MASSIVE THANK YOU to all of you who have listened to our silly little show throughout the year. We don't run ads, we don't make a penny on these shows, we do it for the love of history, sending up history and sending up those history podcast presenters a bit too keen on the sound of their own voices. You know who you are.
2024-12-25
04 min
History for You with Douglas and Hugh
Christmas Compilation: Part Three
Season's greetings! For our third and final Christmas compilation - and the last full-length episode of 2024 - Douglas and Hugh unwrap the gift of truth from under the Christmas tree of lies. In this slice of historical Yule log, you'll discover the erotic side of XXXmas, the REAL reason we have a dying pine tree in the corner of our living room ever December, how Queen Victoria's bareknuckle prowess gave Boxing Day its name and the origins of that horrific festive tradition: panto. Warning. This episode contains nuts. ------
2024-12-19
45 min
History for You with Douglas and Hugh
Christmas Compilation: Part Two
Season's greetings! Welcome to the second of our Holy Trinity of festive specials, where we take our collected Christmas mini episodes from the archive and smush them together into full-length episodes to get you through the Yuletide period. In this episode Douglas and Hugh tuck in to the history of Christmas food and drink throughout the ages, the world's weirdest Christmas rituals, the truth behind the Nativity and iconic Victorian Christmas traditions. You'll finally discover the real difference between a current and a raisin, why egg nog is actually called egg nog and why there...
2024-12-11
55 min
History for You with Douglas and Hugh
Christmas Compilation: Part One
Last Christmas we gave you our hearts. We recorded twelve mini-episodes all about different aspects of the festive period - and they were incredible. So this year, because we're both going on holiday (separately, you understand), Hugh has asked his nephew Gavin to cut these episodes together into a trio of full-length episodes for your ears. And this is the first. In this episode, expect a staggeringly incisive analysis of Christmas carols, the Roman origins of Christmas and everything we know - and don't know - about the big man himself: Father Christmas (or Santa...
2024-12-03
44 min
History for You with Douglas and Hugh
The Great Exhibition and the Crystal Palace
In 1851, Prince Albert, Royal Consort to Queen Victoria, held a magnificent celebration of his adopted homeland. Think Cool Britannia only less cocaine and more things stolen from other countries. To house this Great Exhibition, he had built an enormous Crystal Palace, a marvel of Victorian architecture and a shrine to Empire, excess and elephants. Today, not a single shard of glass from this vast building remains. Why? What happened? And what exactly was inside its shimmering walls? Don't get upset. Douglas and Hugh are about to open the doors and lead you inside this enormous nineteenth century...
2024-11-27
30 min
History for You with Douglas and Hugh
Tutankhamen and the Curse of the Pharaohs
Grab your pickaxe, we're going digging! Let Douglas and Hugh take you back to Egypt, at once thousands of years, and then just over a century ago, as we expose the life of the most famous Egyptian king Tutankhamen - a life tragically cut short. We then flash forward to Howard Carter and Lord Carnarvon uncovering King Tut's majestic tomb in the Valley of the Kings, which came with all the mod cons you expect from a royal burial chamber - and a terrible TERRIBLE curse. Or so they say... Talking of dangerous mummies, Douglas also reveals...
2024-11-13
40 min
History for You with Douglas and Hugh
A Wicked History of Witchcraft
We're back for another Halloween special episode for the Spooky Season and Douglas and Hugh are delving into the mucky and grim history of witchcraft in Europe. Why were so many men so scared of women? Which King of England wrote arguably the definitive book on witches, warlocks, demons, goblins and imps? And what terrible secret has Douglas unearthed in his loft? All will be revealed if you lend us your ears... ------ History for You with Douglas and Hugh is a comedy podcast about history written, performed and produced by Adrian...
2024-10-30
36 min
History for You with Douglas and Hugh
Spooky Season Special: Hampton Court Palace
This episode has divided Douglas and Hugh. The former believes it to be a Halloween special, the latter insists that it isn't. As ever, you be the judge! Prepare for an unforgettable trip back to Tudor England as we guide you inside Hampton Court, arguably the most famous British royal palace that doesn't have an actual royal currently living in it. We invite you to tiptoe nervously through its grand arches, mind-boggling maze, candlelit chapels, bustling kitchens and decadent chambers, you might just experience the odd ghostly apparition, mysterious sound and unexplained phenomenon. Listen. If...
2024-10-16
35 min
History for You with Douglas and Hugh
The Genius of Leonardo da Vinci
The term "genius" is banded around all too casually these days. Very few deserve the title. But this man definitely does. Artist. Anatomist. Engineer. Aviator. Gardener. There was nothing Leonardo da Vinci couldn't do. If he were alive today, he'd probably also be an excellent podcaster. But he isn't, so you're going to have to make do with Douglas and Hugh. In this episode, we examine the world of Leonardo da Vinci. The Mona Lisa. The Last Supper. The helicopter. All singular creations, all from the same massive brain. Come join us as we...
2024-10-02
39 min
History for You with Douglas and Hugh
Prohibition, the Mob and the Rise and Fall of Al Capone
In this obscenely violent episode, Douglas and Hugh become a pair of American wise guys as they blow the lid off bootlegging on the streets of New York and Chicago during the 1920s and 30s. A time where crime most definitely DID pay. A time of Prohibition. Discover how Al Capone rose through the ranks of street hoodlums to become the most notorious gangster who ever lived, how Hugh managed a forty a day smoking habit before he was twelve, why Douglas has cancelled al plans for an extension to his extension, and why...
2024-09-18
33 min
History for You with Douglas and Hugh
The History of the Motorcar
We've all seen one. We've all been in one. Doulgas frequently crashes one. But who actually invented the car? And how the hell did we manage without them? From donkeys to horsepower, from Henry Ford's Model T to where all self-driving cars go to die, Douglas and Hugh take you on a crash course through the complete history of the car. So buckle up, it's a bumpy road ahead! ------ History for You with Douglas and Hugh is a comedy podcast about history written, performed and produced by Adrian Mackinder and James Devonshire, with music...
2024-09-04
36 min
History for You with Douglas and Hugh
Aviation and the Magnificent History of Flight
As it's still the summer holidays, brace yourself. These are your captains speaking. Douglas and his co-pilot Hugh will now take your ears through the many thrilling attempts by humanity to take to the skies. From trying to harness owls and heated air to the sheer misery of your average budget airline, strap yourself in for the flight of your life as we leave nothing behind in the terminal. Oh and you'll never guess what Douglas found in the compost heap. The horror...the horror... ------ History for You with Douglas...
2024-08-21
37 min
History for You with Douglas and Hugh
Listener Request: Queen Elizabeth the First
She was the last Tudor monarch who ushered in a Golden Age for her country - without even needing to score any goals in a major international tournament. In fact, she was actually able to defeat the Spanish. Join Douglas and Hugh as they unravel the extraordinary life of Queen Elizabeth I of England. Discover the plots on her life, the pretenders to her throne and whether or not she could be a convincing TV weather presenter. It's all here - and more - in another action-packed listener-requested episode of the greatest pod in...
2024-08-07
37 min
History for You with Douglas and Hugh
Vampires: Myths, Folklore and the "Real Dracula", Vlad The Impaler
In this episode of the BEST HISTORY PODCAST EVER MADE, Douglas and Hugh cross oceans to time to find you, and boldly become vampire hunters! Join them as they dig up the myths and legends that gave rise to belief in vampires and the undead. They will debunk vampire lore (garlic, crucifixes, sunlight, holy water). They will also introduce the real life historical figure that inspired Irish novelist Bram Stoker to write Dracula: fifteenth century voivoide of Wallachia, Vlad Tepes, AKA Vlad the Impaler. National hero or bloodthirsty monster? You decide!
2024-07-24
43 min
History for You with Douglas and Hugh
The Three Musketeers and the Extraordinary Life of Alexandre Dumas
En Guard! Strap on your sword, rapier and whatever flintlock pistol you may have about your person. Douglas and Hugh invite you to enlist in the French King's most elite fighting force, The Three Musketeers! But who were the real-life swashbucklers? What did they do to inspire legendary French playwright and author Alexandre Dumas to write his iconic novel? And what of the man himself? Experience a life as large and colourful as the characters he wrote about. You'll also learn why it's crucial to check if the back doors of a...
2024-07-10
31 min
History for You with Douglas and Hugh
Debunk Special: Area 51, the Roswell Incident and Alien Conspiracy Theories
In this week's episode, Douglas and Hugh put on their foil hats and x-ray specs as they travel back to the 1950s in search of...ALIENS! But because this is a bona fide history podcast, Our very own Mulder and Scully don't want to believe, they want to know - and they're not afraid to expose themselves in the process. What REALLY happened on that hillside in Roswell, New Mexico? What's REALLY inside Area 51? And what about the other 50 areas?! The truth is out there...and we've found it! ----
2024-06-26
34 min
History for You with Douglas and Hugh
The Mystery of Stonehenge and the Druids
As we approach the halfway point in the year for the Summer Solstice on June 21st, Douglas and Hugh travel to Stonehenge, the most famous of all the henges, and one of England's most ancient, celebrated and fascinating landmarks. They also reveal the true identity of the people who worshipped at this hallowed site: the Druids. Who REALLY built Stonehenge? What was it for? And how do you get an elderly woman off the kitchen floor without further injury? All will be revealed - and more - in another spectacular episode! ------ History...
2024-06-19
32 min
History for You with Douglas and Hugh
The Knights Templars
Who were the Knights Templars? What is their connection with The Holy Grail? And why was Douglas and Hugh refused entry into Shingles nightclub on the High Street? All will be revealed - and more - when we remove the chainmail of mystery to expose the flabby pink flesh of truth. Gasp with pleasure as you learn of their special role in the Crusades. Groan with excitement as we uncover the secrets kept by this medieval order of warrior monks, and whimper with bottled-up frustration as we unveil their lasting legacy. ------
2024-06-12
31 min
History for You with Douglas and Hugh
The Lost Ark of the Covenant
The Ark of the Covenant is one of the world's most famous archaeological prizes. But what actually is it? Does it even exist? And if so, can it really melt your face off? Douglas and Hugh don their fedoras, grab their bullwhips and steer clear of snakes as they raid the truth behind this most holy of holy relics. Discover the Ark's biblical origins, why it got lost and where it may currently reside. Douglas will also reveal his own version of the Ten Commandments. Fingers crossed it doesn't invoke God's wrath...
2024-06-05
34 min
History for You with Douglas and Hugh
The Erotic Adventures of Catherine the Great
Few monarchs have been plagued by so many scurrilous rumours as this one. Catherine the Great was Empress of Russia during the back end of the eighteenth century and under her long reign, she is said to have transformed her country for the better. She was also rumoured to be obsessed with nookie, took an army of lovers and fell foul of a proud horse. But is there any truth in these stories? Join Douglas and Hugh as they unsheathe their fact sticks and probe the past for answers. ------
2024-05-29
28 min
History for You with Douglas and Hugh
William Shakespeare
To listen or not to listen. THAT is the question. And the answer is, of course, yes. In this episode, Douglas and Hugh tackle another of history's big hitters: William Shakespeare. Writer of such incredible works such as Romeo and Juliet, Hamlet and Slippery When Wet. The most famous playwright who ever lived, but what do we know about the man behind the curtain? What inspired him? How did he become so famous? Where did he buy his quills? All will be revealed in this most theatrical episode. ------ History for You with Douglas and...
2024-05-22
32 min
History for You with Douglas and Hugh
The Palace of Versailles and King Louis XIV
If you met a king, would you bow and curtsy, or punch him in the face? Fortunately, Douglas and Hugh know EXACTLY what to do, and they're about to tell you. We cordially invite you to sup with King Louis XIV of France at the royal palace of Versailles - but for Christ sake, remember the RULES! Because if you don't...well. There will be trouble. From what to wear, what to say and how to behave, here's the lowdown on all the ridiculous ways you can impress a pompous 17th century French monarch with a god complex.
2024-05-15
34 min
History for You with Douglas and Hugh
Florence Nightingale
With International Nurses Day right round the corner, in this episode, Douglas and Hugh shine a lamp on the celebrated Victorian social reformer, statistician and founder of modern nursing: Florence Nightingale. Flo's revolutionary "common sense" approach saved the lives of thousands of soldiers during the Crimean War and changed the face of how we stop sick people from dying. You'll also get a lowdown on the new Chinese restaurant that's just opened round the corner, if the French actually do smell of garlic and why Douglas loves to hang around the toilets of the WI.
2024-05-08
32 min
History for You with Douglas and Hugh
Buffalo Bill and the Wild Wild West
We're back! One becomes two as Hugh rejoins Douglas for another cracking episode, fresh from his nautical misadventure. Prepare to be amazed as Hugh reveals what actually happened on that ferry after the Taylor Swift concert. And then, strap on your peacemakers and mount your steed. We are galloping across the Great Plains to meet William "Buffalo Bill" Cody - a soldier, scout, hunter, showman and mass murdering moustachioed ringmaster. Buffalo Bill gave us much of what we think of when we think of the Wild West, but what do we really think of when we think...
2024-05-01
35 min
History for You with Douglas and Hugh
Special News Update: Hugh's Safety and Your Tweets
This is a public service announcement. Sadly we cannot bring you our regularly scheduled episode due to the fact Hugh is..well, you should really listen to this. But don't worry, all is well, he's safe, albeit slightly adrift. Fortunately Douglas is here to hold the fort, where he answers some of YOUR questions and concerns that YOU submitted to us. So enjoy this little mini-episode and we shall resume our regular service in a matter of days. Thanks for listening. ------ History for You with Douglas...
2024-04-17
09 min
History for You with Douglas and Hugh
The Rise and Fall of Roman Gladiators
If you were in the Colosseum, what animal would you fight? What weapon would you wield? Travel back to Ancient Rome as Douglas and Hugh reveal their preferred creature to dispatch, why Gladiators were treated like rock stars and then fell out of favour, and why Douglas' son has got his hand stuck behind the temporary shed. Thumbs or thumbs down, let us know your thoughts! ------ History for You with Douglas and Hugh is a comedy podcast about history - entirely written, performed and produced by Adrian Mackinder...
2024-04-03
38 min
History for You with Douglas and Hugh
Genghis Khan and the Terrifying Mongol Empire
We venture into uncharted waters this episode as Douglas and Hugh expose themselves. Not literally. Neither of them know much about Genghis Khan the legendary Mongol warrior/emperor/ king/mass murderer/serial adulterer. But of course, they still know more than you, so strap yourself in as we travel back to quake in the might of the man responsible for founding the largest contiguous empire in the history of everything. ------ History for You with Douglas and Hugh is a comedy podcast about history written, performed and produced by Adrian Mackinder and James Devonshire, with...
2024-03-20
42 min
History for You with Douglas and Hugh
Cleopatra
The relationship between Cleopatra of Egypt and Mark Antony of Rome is one of the great romances in human history - much like Hugh's marriage, only not at all. Join us as we reach back to antiquity and uncover the real woman behind the legendary Queen. Discover why everyone in Egypt had the same name. Marvel at how Cleo was able to marry her relatives, have an affair with Julius Caesar AND deliver over a thousand children. And titter as you hear about the saucy Euro camping holiday Douglas and Hugh shared as...
2024-03-06
39 min
History for You with Douglas and Hugh
Dick Turpin, Highwaymen and Public Executions
STAND AND DELIVER! YOU'RE MONEY OR YOUR WIFE!! That's right. We're galloping back to the golden age of highway robbery. While the most famous mounted cad was Dick Turpin, there were others equally notorious and nefarious. Discover the many types of murderous highwaymen and women who roamed the English countryside during the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries. Recoil in horror as Douglas and Hugh also unveil what grisly justice awaited them when they were all eventually caught. Chilling. ------ History for You with Douglas and Hugh is a comedy podcast about history written, performed and produced...
2024-02-21
35 min
History for You with Douglas and Hugh
The Black Death and The Great Fire of London
This episode you get two for the price of one! Douglas and Hugh discover what REALLY caused the Great Plague, otherwise known as the Black Death. Then we cough and splutter our way to Pudding Lane, where one of the greatest catastrophes to ever hit England's fair capital began: The Great Fire of London. But how many people actually perished? Which buildings were incinerated? And what does women's urine have to do with it? All will be revealed... ------ History for You with Douglas and Hugh is a comedy podcast about history written, performed and...
2024-02-07
38 min
History for You with Douglas and Hugh
Listener Request: The Great Stink
Another request from one of our loyal listeners, and you better hold your nose for this one! Douglas and Hugh are taking you back to Victorian London, which was so filled with poo, dead bodies, disease and general filth you'd think you were in France. Join us as we sniff out the Great Stink of 1858. What was it? What caused it? and how many pine cone air fresheners were needed to get rid of it? All will be revealed in an episode that quite literally has gone straight down the toilet. ----
2024-01-24
39 min
History for You with Douglas and Hugh
Listener Request: Robin Hood
We kick off 2024 with an episode suggested by one of our keen fans. We do that, by the way. So if you want to hear our take on a historical person or event that tickles your fancy, drop us a line either in the comments where you get your podcasts or via our social channels listed below. Anyway, this episode is about England's most famous outlaw, Robin Hood - and things get pretty testy between Douglas and Hugh over whether or not he ever existed and, therefore, if this even constitutes a historical topic...
2024-01-10
39 min
History for You with Douglas and Hugh
Christmas Bonus: Outtakes and Bloopers
A HUGE historical thank you to all of you who have found, listened, recommended and supported History For You since we launched only four months ago. We have fun making these, hope you enjoy listening to them half as much. We wish you a merry Christmas, happy New Year and hope you will enjoy many more episodes to come. Until then, as a special treat, here's another bonus festive gift: four minutes of us not being able to do this very well at all. -------
2023-12-25
04 min
History for You with Douglas and Hugh
The Twelve Days of Christmas: Day Twelve - The Christmas Panto
This is it. The final day in our midwinter dozen. And what a way to end the year. Oh no it isn't! Oh yes it is! Douglas and Hugh explore the colourful history of the longstanding Christmas tradition of Pantomime, or Panto for short. Minor celebrities, gender reversal, fairy tales...it's "fun for all the family". Oh no it isn't! Or IS it? Join us for the final mini episode and discover our verdict. We hope you've enjoyed our Twelve Days of Christmas. If you have made it this far, give yourself a gold star. Go on...
2023-12-23
13 min
History for You with Douglas and Hugh
The Twelve Days of Christmas: Day Eleven - The Christmas Tree and Decorations
We're at the home stretch now. Our penultimate bonus episode on the Twelve Days of Christmas is all about why we decorate our homes with tinsel, fairy lights and, of course, that most beloved of our festive ornaments, the Christmas Tree. But can a dead chunk of oversized shrub really make a happy home? And why was Douglas abandoned as a boy to walk Regent Street alone in the cold night air? All will be revealed on this glorious Winter Solstice. ------ History for You with Douglas and Hugh is a comedy podcast about history...
2023-12-21
15 min
History for You with Douglas and Hugh
The Twelve Days of Christmas: Day Ten - Boxing Day
We all know why Christmas Day is called thus. You'd have to be an utter idiot not to. But even clever folk are stumped about Boxing Day. Is it named after the sport? Boxes? Geometry? Who knows? Well. Douglas does and he's about to blow Hugh's - and your mind. Discover the origins of Boxing Day, why Queen Victoria was an excellent prize fighter, and whether or not Hugh is allowed back in the house after the whole "Holly" incident... ------- History for You with Douglas and Hugh is...
2023-12-19
11 min
History for You with Douglas and Hugh
The Twelve Days of Christmas: Day Nine - The Holly and the Ivy
As we creep closer to a festive crescendo for the Twelve Days of Christmas, we get acquainted with two bits of common or garden foliage commonly associated with yuletide. But did you know that the historical roots for both the Holly and the Ivy are profoundly erotic? Well they are. Deeply so. Join Douglas and Hugh as they strip away the layers of myth to reveal the undergarments of truth - and hope they don't encounter any nasty pricks along the way... ---- History for You with Douglas and...
2023-12-17
16 min
History for You with Douglas and Hugh
The Twelve Days of Christmas: Day Eight - Charles Dickens and the Victorian Christmas
Ever wonder why we have Christmas crackers? Or Christmas cards? Or why elderly relatives eat discarded sprouts off the floor? Well, like so much in the modern world, we owe many festive traditions to the Victorians. And of course, no yuletide is complete without Charles Dickens' immortal classic, A Christmas Carol. Join Douglas and Hugh as they reveal for the first time that earlier drafts of this timeless novella featured many more Muppets than were depicted in the final film. ----- History for You with Douglas and Hugh is...
2023-12-15
12 min
History for You with Douglas and Hugh
The Twelve Days of Christmas: Day Seven - The Nativity of Jesus
This is it. The story that started it all. Or DID it? Well, luckily for you, Douglas and Hugh are on hand to reveal the truth behind the Nativity Story, the most famous baby tale ever told. Or IS it? Well, luckily for you, Douglas and Hugh are on hand to reveal just why baby Jesus was born in an animal husband centre. Or WAS he? Well - you get the idea. ------- History for You with Douglas and Hugh is a comedy podcast about history written, performed and...
2023-12-13
12 min
History for You with Douglas and Hugh
The Twelve Days of Christmas: Day Six - Weird Christmas Traditions
Do you leave a mince pie for Santa? Kiss under the mistletoe? Punch a badger? Whatever your festive traditions, you'll love this journey through some of the world's most weird, odd and downright baffling rituals people perform every Christmas. Join Douglas and Hugh as they also explore the even more curious superstitions behind them. You'll never look at a broom the same way again! ---- History for You with Douglas and Hugh is a comedy podcast about history written, performed and produced by Adrian Mackinder and James Devonshire, with...
2023-12-11
13 min
History for You with Douglas and Hugh
The Twelve Days of Christmas: Day Five - Christmas Food and Drink
Grab a napkin - and perhaps a bucket! Time to tickle your tastebuds as Douglas and Hugh take you on a festive taster menu through the ages. All the classic Christmas food and drink gets a sample, from the very first pre Christmas Winter feasts to what we all enjoy round the Yuletide table today. And find out how homemade mulled wine got Douglas out of an awkward legal dispute. To confirm: no charges were pressed. ------- History for You with Douglas and Hugh is a comedy podcast about...
2023-12-09
17 min
History for You with Douglas and Hugh
The Twelve Days of Christmas: Day Four - Santa
He goes by many names. But how does he know if little kiddies are naughty or nice? And who appointed him judge of all children everywhere anyway? Douglas is about to open his sack and hand out truth gifts to everyone, regardless of their behaviour. Meanwhile, Hugh wrestles with an upset stomach for reasons we won't go int here. Day Four in our Twelve Days of Christmas is all about Father Christmas (or to give him his colonial name, Santa Claus). Unwrap and enjoy! ---- History for You with...
2023-12-07
17 min
History for You with Douglas and Hugh
The Twelve Days of Christmas: Day Three - Kings, Wise Men and Gifts
How many kings visited baby Jesus in Bethlehem? Were they really that wise? And why did they bring with them such silly gifts? Join Douglas and Hugh as they follow the star of truth that leads us all to the stable of facts. Unwrap the real meaning of gold, frankincense and myrrh - and discover why school nativity plays are really effective contraceptives. ------ History for You with Douglas and Hugh is a comedy podcast about history, written, performed and produced by Adrian Mackinder and James Devonshire, with music by Mike Jones. Let u...
2023-12-05
10 min
History for You with Douglas and Hugh
The Twelve Days of Christmas: Day Two - Saturnalia
Bet you thought the paper crown in your Christmas cracker was because of the Three Kings? Well, think again. Then be astounded, confounded and dumbfounded as we unwrap the second of our Twelve Days of Christmas mini episodes. In this festive frolic, our two esteemed historians look back at the Roman pagan festival of Saturnalia, which gave us so many Christmas traditions. This is also a very special episode because it is the first time that Douglas actually annoys Hugh. Expect fireworks. ------ History for You with Douglas and Hugh is a comedy podcast about...
2023-12-03
11 min
History for You with Douglas and Hugh
The Twelve Days of Christmas: Day One - Carols
We kick off our dozen Christmas mini episodes for the festive season with this cracker! We all know the tunes, we pretend to know the lyrics, but what do we really know about Christmas Carols? Well, Hugh is about to gift Douglas - and all you merry gentlefolk - with some baubles of truth that will illuminate the tree of confusion. WARNING: this episode contains aggressive wassailing and a nasty case of shingles. -------- History for You with Douglas and Hugh is a comedy podcast about history written, performed...
2023-12-01
16 min
History for You with Douglas and Hugh
Napoleon Bonaparte - Part Two
This is it. The Big Fight. This epic tale reaches its thrilling conclusion with the iconic Battle of Waterloo, which put an end to little tiny Napoleon and his special exo-suit. Why did Nappy surrender? Why was the Duke of Wellington such a total git? And what does no one talk about Gebhard Leberecht von Blücher? History may have forgotten him, but Douglas and Hugh certainly haven't! Shove this in your ears and enjoy the ride! ----- History for You with Douglas and Hugh is a comedy podcast a...
2023-11-24
30 min
History for You with Douglas and Hugh
Napoleon Bonaparte - Part One
The rise and fall of Napoleon Bonaparte is a truly epic tale. So epic, Douglas and Hugh need two episodes to uncover the man behind the myth. The leader behind the legend. Just how short was he? Did he really write erotic fiction? And where did he get those fabulous hats? From his birth on the island of Corsica to his decisive defeat at the Battle of Waterloo, prepare to have the infantry of lies blown away by the cannons of truth. Enjoy part one of two, right now! -----
2023-11-22
26 min
History for You with Douglas and Hugh
Jack the Ripper and the Autumn of Terror
In 1888, the slums of London's East End were gripped by fear. An unknown murderer lurked the lamplit streets and fog-filled alleys, committing foul deeds and even worse penmanship. The name? Jack the Ripper!!!! Join Douglas and Hugh as they walk the trail of history's most notorious serial killer, only to discover that there were several other murderers operating in Whitechapel at that time. But who were they? And marvel as Douglas reads out never-before-read-out letters sent by the killer to the press. And why did so many people in Victorian London smell of trout..?
2023-11-08
32 min
History for You with Douglas and Hugh
Bonfire Night Special: The Gunpowder Plot
"Remember, Remember The Fifth of November..." This explosive episode sees Douglas and Hugh take you back to the Autumn of 1605, where they place thirty six barrels of truthpowder under the Houses of History and light the fuse. Discover why Guy Fawkes and the rest of the Gunpowder plotters failed to blow up the English Parliament, how King James had exceedingly large nostrils and why people have been shoving paella through Douglas' letter box.. --------- History for You with Douglas and Hugh is a comedy podcast about history written, performed and produced...
2023-11-01
32 min
History for You with Douglas and Hugh
Halloween Special: Ghosts and Hauntings
Join Douglas Wrattle and Hugh Canard for a decidedly spooky episode about things that go bump in the night. From Victorian séances and bare bottoms in Bermondsey to satanic ungulates and pro-celebrity debunker Harry Price, we suggest you draw the curtains, dim the lights and hide behind the sofa. Not in that order. TRIGGER WARNING: This episode features at least one phantom chicken. ---------- History for You with Douglas and Hugh is a comedy podcast about history written, performed and produced by Adrian Mackinder and James Devonshire, with music by Mike Jones. Le...
2023-10-30
42 min
History for You with Douglas and Hugh
No Trick Two Treats: Double Event Trailer
The days grow shorter, the shadows longer, the leaves are falling and our breath swirls and dissipates in the night air. This time of year is all rather magical - and spooky! To celebrate the rapidly approaching Halloween on October 31st and Bonfire Night on November 5th, we are releasing two episodes within a week of each other...here's a teaser! History for You with Douglas and Hugh is a comedy podcast about history written, performed and produced by Adrian Mackinder and James Devonshire, with music by Mike Jones.
2023-10-30
01 min
History for You with Douglas and Hugh
The Legend of King Arthur
Douglas and Hugh take a seat at the Round Table to drink from the Holy Grail. Custard! Baked Beans! How do these kitchen larder staples stack up in the story of Arthur? The once and future podcast History For You takes a dip with the Lady of the Lake and doggy paddles through the misty mythical moat of Camelot to bring you all the stuff. -------- History for You with Douglas and Hugh is a comedy podcast about history written, performed and produced by Adrian Mackinder and James Devonshire, with music by Mike...
2023-10-30
32 min
History for You with Douglas and Hugh
1066 - The Battle of Hastings and the Norman Conquest
Men named by dogs! Boobie pens! New Build Housing in Hereford! Douglas and Hugh take you on a day trip to Hastings in 1066 for the first royal rivalry between a William and Harry. Learn all the things about 1066: The Battle of Hastings with Douglas and Hugh on History for You. ---- History for You with Douglas and Hugh is a comedy podcast about history written, performed and produced by Adrian Mackinder and James Devonshire, with music by Mike Jones. Let us know your thoughts and s...
2023-10-30
36 min
History for You with Douglas and Hugh
King Henry VIII and his Six Wives
Douglas and Hugh lose their history heads in the Tudor dynasty. More men named by dogs! Why you should always kiss your delivery men! The trouble of two Thomases! Join History For You as they take on everyone’s favourite ginger nutter, Fat Hank, friary flip-flopper, Tinder terroriser and royal sponsor of axe murderers everywhere. --- History for You with Douglas and Hugh is a comedy podcast about history written, performed and produced by Adrian Mackinder and James Devonshire, with music by Mike Jones. Let us...
2023-10-30
34 min
History for You with Douglas and Hugh
Boudica: Warrior Queen of the Iceni
Nothing stirs the blood like an uprising! Douglas and Hugh grapple with one of history's most formidable warrior women and reveal why she took on the might of the Roman Empire - and almost won. This episode invites you to get under the skin of a true British national heroine in an iconic tale of blood, Essex, heavy metal and Harry Potter! --- History for You with Douglas and Hugh is a comedy podcast about history written, performed and produced by Adrian Mackinder and...
2023-10-30
28 min
History for You with Douglas and Hugh
Pirates!
Avast! Join us aboard the Queen Anne's Revenge as Douglas and Hugh set sail across time in search of pirates! Discover such despicable crimes as murdering someone with a bucket, how the roaring spice trade enabled a golden age of marine skullduggery, and come ear to face with old flaming Blackbeard himself, Edward Teach! History for You with Douglas and Hugh is a comedy podcast about history written, performed and produced by Adrian Mackinder and James Devonshire, with music by Mike Jones. Let us know your thoughts and suggestions for future episodes. Co...
2023-10-30
36 min
History for You with Douglas and Hugh
Season One Trailer
Season One of the brand new comedy history podcast launches on Wednesday September 13th. And because we're feeling generous, we're dropping the first three episodes all at once. In the meantime, here's an extended sneak peek. Tally ho!
2023-09-06
02 min
History for You with Douglas and Hugh
Season One Teaser
Season One of the new comedy podcast, History for You with Douglas and Hugh, launches September 13th. Here's a teaser...
2023-09-01
01 min