Real Dictators

Herod the Great, the ruler of Judea, embarks on a quest to win over his people through marriage, building works, and even murdering his in-laws. The podcast explores the infamous Slaughter of the Innocents and delves into Herod's ruthless nature, declining health, and the division of his kingdom. It also examines the challenges faced by Herod in uniting Judaism and protecting Judea from Roman influence.

Delve into the true story of King Herod, a figure known for his infamous portrayal in the Nativity story. Discover his tyrannical rule, architectural ventures, and family drama. Explore the impact of Roman annexation on the Jewish people and Herod's tasks to tackle bandits. Follow Herod's journey to Rome, where he seeks Roman support and faces the challenge of gaining support from the Roman Senate.

The podcast explores the events leading up to the capture of Saddam Hussein, the search for WMDs, Saddam's grip on power and his vanishing act, divided opinions on the invasion of Iraq, war, transition, and the Abu Ghraib scandal, sectarian violence, and Saddam Hussein's trial.

The podcast discusses Saddam Hussein's determination not to be defeated, the impact of sanctions on Iraq, Saddam Hussein's excessive building of palaces and monuments, his religious manipulation of the population, the personality cult surrounding him, and his venture into writing novels amidst ongoing feuds and bombing raids.

Saddam Hussein's nationalization of the Iraq Petroleum Company, clash with Iran's new leader, and the heinous atrocities committed by 'Chemical Ali'. Plus, the establishment of Saddam's personality cult and his readiness for war. Saddam Hussein's paranoia and control, religious persecution, and escape from Iraq. Tactics of fear and assassination, dedication to national development, and post-war financial struggles. The unintended green light from the US ambassador leading to the invasion of Kuwait.

Saddam Hussein consolidates power, targets families with secret police. Iraqi Jews face restrictions, attempt to flee. The Hatchet Man's terrifying spree of murders and shocking revelations. Conspiracy within the Bath Party, inhumane treatment, show trial, imprisonment. Saddam's deteriorating health, consolidation of power, method of fear and manipulation through violence.

Saddam Hussein, a global infamous leader who rose from a tough peasant background, discusses his early life, political history, rise to power, and the formation of Iraq. The podcast explores his childhood trauma, involvement in nationalist movements, removal of King Faisal II, and his ultimate rise as the vice chairman of the Revolutionary Command Council.

With President Macías in power, educated Equatoguineans come under attack, as a bizarre vendetta is pursued against teachers, lawyers and doctors. Things take a turn for the metaphysical, as Macías declares himself God. Finally, as paranoia completely overwhelms him, his inner circle will take matters into their own hands…Narrated by Paul McGann. A Noiser production, written by Sean Coleman.This is Part 2 of 2.Get every episode of Real Dictators a week early with Noiser+. You’ll also get ad-free listening, bonus material and early access to shows across the Noiser network. Click the Noiser+ banner to get started. Or, if you’re on Spotify or Android, go to noiser.com/subscriptions Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This is the extraordinary, blood-curdling story of a dictator you may never have heard of. From 1968-1979, the African nation of Equatorial Guinea was helmed by its first, and to date only, freely elected president. Initially, Francisco Macías Nguema was seen by the Spanish colonial authorities as a safe choice. He proved to be anything but. Things went off the rails at an astonishing rate, as Macías rapidly turned the country into what would be called the ‘Dachau of Africa’. His is a tale of sheer opportunism on the way up, and drug-fuelled paranoia on the way down…Narrated by Paul McGann. A Noiser production, written by Sean Coleman.This is Part 1 of 2.Get every episode of Real Dictators a week early with Noiser+. You’ll also get ad-free listening, bonus material and early access to shows across the Noiser network. Click the Noiser+ banner to get started with a 7-day free trial. Or, if you’re on Spotify or Android, go to noiser.com/subscriptions. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Explore the dramatic conclusion of Hitler's downfall as he makes his last stand in the Führerbunker. Learn about the macabre ritual of marriage, murder, and suicide that unfolds underground. Delve into Hitler's manipulation of German public opinion and the spread of rumors, as well as the occupation of Poland and the construction of Nazi camps. Gain insight into the final days of Hitler's regime, the investigation into his end, and the lasting legacy of Hitler on Germany and understanding dictators.