In this gripping episode of History Rage, host Paul Bavill welcomes back acclaimed historian Dr Helen Fry to uncover the hidden world of Belgium’s wartime intelligence networks — the unsung heroes of espionage who risked everything to fight from behind enemy lines. Drawing from her new book The White Lady, Helen reveals how Belgian agents shaped the course of both World Wars, often at extraordinary personal cost.

Far from the glamorous myths of spies in tuxedos and coded martinis, this conversation exposes the real stories of courage, sacrifice, and moral complexity. You’ll hear how intelligence flowed from occupied Belgium to Britain, how messages were smuggled in the most ingenious ways, and why Belgium’s location made it one of the most important hubs of wartime espionage.

Helen also explores the vital – and too often overlooked – role of women in intelligence, from couriers and code-runners to key figures in networks like the White Lady. These were ordinary citizens performing extraordinary acts of defiance, held together by trust, loyalty, and an unwavering sense of duty.

If you think WWII espionage was all about the SOE and France, think again. This episode pulls back the curtain on a hidden front of the intelligence war, filled with daring operations, hidden heroes, and a vast archive of untold stories waiting to be rediscovered.

🎧 Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a fan of true espionage, or simply love hearing history’s myths get blown apart — this is one you can’t miss.

📚 Connect with Helen:

• Follow her on Instagram: @drhelenfry

• Find her on X (Twitter): @drhelenfry

• Purchase her book: The White Lady – The Story of Two Key British Secret Service Networks Behind German Lines at Bookshop.org

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In this enlightening episode of History Rage, host Paul Bavill is joined by historian and author Dr. Francis Young to delve into the often overlooked history of Eastern Europe. Together, they challenge the dominant narratives surrounding the region, particularly the misconceptions that arise from a focus solely on the 20th century and the pervasive influence of Russian perspectives.

Episode Highlights:

• - Uncovering the Past: Dr. Young discusses his latest project, Silence of the Gods, which aims to excavate the religious histories of Eastern Europe, highlighting the unique traditions of its lesser-known pagan peoples.
• - The Misunderstood Region: The conversation critiques the tendency to ignore Eastern Europe's rich pre-20th century history and the impact of this historical short-sightedness on contemporary understanding.
• - The Role of Kyivan Rus: Explore the significance of Kyivan Rus and its legacy in shaping modern Ukrainian identity, as well as the historical contestation between Ukraine and Russia.
• - The Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth: Discover the complexities of this once-great state, its unique political structure, and its cultural diversity, which included a multitude of religions and languages.
• - National Identity and Resistance: Dr. Young highlights the resilience of national identities in Eastern Europe, particularly in Poland and Lithuania, amidst the pressures of imperial powers.
• - Recommendations for Further Reading: Gain insights into essential literature that expands on the themes discussed, including works by Robert Frost and Richard Butterwick Pavlikovsky.

Join us for a thought-provoking discussion that not only sheds light on the historical significance of Eastern Europe but also encourages a deeper appreciation for its diverse cultures and identities. Dr. Young's book, Silence of the Gods, is set to be released in June, and you can find a link to pre-order it in the show notes.

Connect with Dr. Francis Young:

- Follow him on X: @rfrancisyoung

Support History Rage:

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Stay curious, stay passionate, and most importantly, stay angry!

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Discover the untold story of the RAF heroes who photographed victory.

What if the intelligence that won World War II didn’t come from Bletchley Park — but from the skies above? In this gripping episode of History Rage, host Paul Bavill is joined by historians and podcasters Dave Robertson and Tony Hoskins from For You The War Is Over to uncover the hidden story of the RAF’s Photographic Reconnaissance Unit (PRU) — the unarmed pilots who risked everything to capture the images that shaped Allied strategy and victory.

These daring aviators, flying stripped-down Spitfires and Mosquitos, gathered over 26 million photographs during the war — producing 80% of all Allied intelligence. But their story remains one of WWII’s least recognised triumphs.

The Untold Legacy of Aerial Intelligence

Enigma cracked codes, but aerial reconnaissance won battles.

Dave and Tony reveal how the PRU began as a handful of maverick pilots before evolving into a highly specialised global intelligence unit that transformed modern warfare. They share the staggering dangers these pilots faced — flying alone, unarmed, and often without armour — at freezing altitudes to capture photos over heavily defended targets.

From the development of stereography and 3D imaging that made D-Day possible, to the astonishing innovation behind Sandy Gunn’s Spitfire, the episode brings to life the courage, technology, and sacrifice of those who turned cameras into weapons of war.

You’ll also hear how today’s historians and engineers are preserving this legacy — including the restoration of Sandy Gunn’s Spitfire (AA810) and the creation of a new memorial in London to honour PRU crews.

Featuring Guests:

🎙️ Dave Robertson & Tony Hoskins

Hosts of For You The War Is Over — the hit WWII podcast exploring POW escapes and forgotten wartime stories.

👉 Listen to their show here: For You The War Is Over Podcast

📘 Learn more about their projects and the Spitfire restoration at www.spitfireaa810.co.uk

Join Us Live at the Imperial War Museum Podcast Festival 🎤

Both History Rage and For You The War Is Over will be appearing LIVE at the Imperial War Museum Podcast Live Festival on 1st November.

🎟️ Get your tickets now → https://www.iwm.org.uk/events/podcast-live

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