Lions Led By Donkeys Podcast

Exploring the bizarre gunpowder ingredients used by rebels in the Taiping Rebellion, brutal working conditions in a dog blood factory, unconventional tactics like bribing pirates for protection, and the rebel leader's evolution into a police state ruler.

A failed civil service exam leads to the deadliest civil war in China, exploring the syncretism of Taiping Christianity, the rise and fall of the Manchu Dynasty, the divine visionary Hong Zhuquan, and the violent origins of the Taiping Rebellion.

Crassus attempts to go to war to build his own resume. He ignores everyone's advice and marches his legions into the most predictable defeat on earth. Support the show: https://www.patreon.com/lionsledbydonkeys Sources: Plutarch. Crassus. Mary T. Boatwright. The Romans: From Village to Empire Roman-Persian Wars: The Battle of Carrhae

A sex worker rises to lead a massive pirate confederation and creates a parallel state with rules, pensions and passports. Naval tactics exploit local waterways and improvised weapons to outmaneuver imperial forces. Negotiated amnesty folds many pirates into official roles while brutal enforcement and strict discipline keep order.

In a dramatic retelling, the hosts explore the disastrous Battle of Hattin, highlighting the Crusaders’ critical error of neglecting their water needs. They unravel the political intrigue within Jerusalem's leadership and the strategic miscalculations of King Amalric. Saladin's cunning tactics, including psychological warfare and horse archer harassment, prove decisive. The harrowing march into the desert leads to a catastrophic rout for the Crusaders, altering the course of history and setting the stage for the fall of Jerusalem.

The hosts dive into the chaotic world of World War I, weaving humor through grim realities. They discuss military miscommunication, showcasing the blunders of Russian General Samsonov. Anecdotes about bicycle battalions add a layer of intrigue to historical warfare, revealing unexpected rescues. Personal experiences highlight the chaos of military life, contrasting combat challenges with the comforts of home. The episode wraps up with a look at the quirks of East Prussia's transformation and the absurdities of the Battle of Tannenberg.

The story of the battle of tannenberg continues part 2/3 Support the show: https://www.patreon.com/lionsledbydonkeys

In a humorous kickoff to a legendary WWI battle, the hosts dive into the sensory connections of smell and its quirky memories, including odd scents from the NYC subway. They tackle the often-overlooked narratives of the Eastern Front and the complex history between Germany and Russia. A lighthearted take on the bizarre pickle halberd adds comedy while contrasting military strategies and the geopolitical tensions leading to Tannenberg. The dysfunctional state of the Russian military before the battle offers a chaotic glimpse into what’s to come.

Once upon a time the United States came shockingly close to annexing the Dominican Republic. support the show: https://www.patreon.com/lionsledbydonkeys Sources: https://www.jstor.org/stable/2717114 https://journals.openedition.org/nuevomundo/61771?lang=en https://news.yahoo.com/1871-us-almost-acquired-dominican-135435379.html https://www.insider.com/annexation-of-santo-domingo-act-ulysses-grant-dominican-republic-2022-7 CORRECTION: Samuel Doe was murdered by Prince Johnson, an ally of Charles Taylor, but not Charles Taylor himself.

Discover the remarkable story of the all-female Soviet night bomber unit in WWII that terrorized the Nazis. Learn about their daring tactics, including silent gliding attacks and the use of a slow but effective wooden biplane. Hear how Marina Raskova championed women's roles in aviation despite significant gender barriers and training challenges. Explore the gripping legacy of these pilots, their surprising success, and the sexism they faced even postwar. It's a captivating mix of bravery, strategy, and history!