Vulgar History: Regency Era

Kristina of Sweden, like her distant ancestress Princess Cecilia of Sweden, wasn't going to let being a Swedish Royal get in the way of her just vibing out and doing wtf she wanted. In part one, we learn about her parents, the non-typical manner in which she was brought up, and the first years of her reign. We also talk a bit about her gender identity and the longstanding rumours that she may have had intersex traits. Learn more about intersex people at InterAct Advocates for Intersex Youth: interactadvocates.org Getting Curious with Jonathan Van Ness: How Can We Put The "I" In LGBTQIA+? References: Christina, Queen of Sweden: The Restless Life of a European Eccentric by Veronica Buckley Queer as Fact podcast -- Support Vulgar History on Patreon at patreon.com/annfosterwriter Get merch at http://vulgarhistory.store - use code TITSOUT for free U.S. shipping or TITSOU10 for 10% off your order Vulgar History is an affiliate of Bookshop.org, which means that a small percentage of any books you click through and purchase will come back to Vulgar History as a commission. Use this link to shop there and support Vulgar History: bookshop.org/shop/vulgarhistory Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We're joined by author Maya Deane (Wrath Goddess Sing) to talk about La Chevalière d'Éon, an audacious and incredibly interesting trans woman from 18th century France who was a spy, soldier, author, celebrity, and overall icon. Along the way, Maya also shares the stories of Joseph Boulange Le Chevalier De Saint-Georges, the Abbé de Choisy/Comtesse de Barres, Prince Philippe, and Achilles herself! Learn more about Maya and her book Wrath Goddess Sing, including links to buy a copy, at mayadeane.com Buy a copy of Wrath Goddess Sing from Bookshop --> bookshop.org/a/1419/9780063161184 References: Queer as Fact podcast Article by Hugh Ryan Article by Emma Powys Maurice -- Support Vulgar History on Patreon at patreon.com/annfosterwriter Vulgar History is an affiliate of Bookshop.org, which means that a small percentage of any books you click through and purchase will come back to Vulgar History as a commission. Use this link to shop there and support Vulgar History: bookshop.org/shop/vulgarhistory Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We're joined by author Tracy Dawson, author of Let Me Be Frank: Women Who Dressed Like Men To Do Shit They Weren't Supposed To Do! This book is perfect for the tits out brigade, as it is funny and smart, with gorgeous pictures, Catalina de Erauso is it, and it's feminist as hell. Learn more about Tracy and her book at https://tracydawson.net/ Buy a copy of Let Me Be Frank wherever you get books (or borrow a copy from the public library!), but also if you buy it using this Bookshop link a bit of money will go towards Vulgar History: https://bookshop.org/a/1419/9780063061064 Support Vulgar History on Patreon at patreon.com/annfosterwriter Vulgar History is an affiliate of Bookshop.org, which means that a small percentage of any books you click through and purchase will come back to Vulgar History as a commission. Use this link to shop there and support Vulgar History: bookshop.org/shop/vulgarhistory Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Anne of Denmark (1574-1619) was the second daughter of a loving family in Denmark, who had the misfortune to be married off to King James VI of Scotland AKA the second-worst man in British history (see: witch burnings, colonizing, translating the Bible to be more misogynistic, overall messiness). Her life story includes: SO much drama, a super secret sexy religious conversion, NUMEROUS fabulous jewellery and fashion moments, and one majorly impressive grand entrance. References: This is the article I reference about if Anne was the super secret sexy Catholic patron of the Gunpowder Plot And this is the article I wrote for Bitch magazine about how James I/VI was literally the worst -- Support Vulgar History on Patreon at patreon.com/annfosterwriter Get merch at http://vulgarhistory.store - use code TITSOUT for free U.S. shipping or TITSOU10 for 10% off your order Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

More Qs are A'd this week, including: my fav things to eat and drink, which VH heroines I'd like most to do various social things with, and tits out heroines from Canadian history! Here's further info about each of the Canadian heroines: Filles du Roi thecanadianencyclopedia.ca/en/article/filles-du-roi Thanadelthur thecanadianencyclopedia.ca/en/article/thanadelthur Marie-Joseph Angélique thecanadianencyclopedia.ca/en/article/marie-joseph-angelique Marie Marguerite Rose en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Marie_Marguerite_Rose Emily Carr thecanadianencyclopedia.ca/en/article/emily-carr Viola Desmond thecanadianencyclopedia.ca/en/article/viola-desmond --- Learn more about the National Network of Abortion Funds at abortionfunds.org --- Support Vulgar History on Patreon at patreon.com/annfosterwriter Get merch at http://vulgarhistory.store - use code TITSOUT for free U.S. shipping or TITSOU10 for 10% off your order Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Because all the Internationále research is taking so much time, there isn't a new Vulgar History episode ready this week. But! I did have time to answer Qs from you, the Tits Out Brigade! You submitted questions via Patreon and social media, and I’m here with answers! Click here for a list of all the books recommended in this episode Learn more about the National Network of Abortion Funds at abortionfunds.org Support Vulgar History on Patreon at patreon.com/annfosterwriter Get merch at http://vulgarhistory.store - use code TITSOUT for free U.S. shipping or TITSOU10 for 10% off your order Vulgar History is an affiliate of Bookshop.org, which means that a small percentage of any books you click through and purchase will come back to Vulgar History as a commission. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Special guest Allison Epstein (A Tip for the Hangman) joins us for this action-packed conclusion of this three-part saga of the Lieutenant Nun. This time featuring: a return to Spain, a meeting with The Pope (!!!) and, crucially, how will Catalina fare on the Scandilicious Scale?? Subscribe to Allison's newsletter Dirtbags Through the Ages at rapscallison.substack.com and follow Allison on Instagram @rapscallison and Twitter @rapscallison References: Lesbian historic motif podcast Stuff you missed in history class podcast Deviant women podcast https://www.nationalgeographic.com/history/article/how-basques-became-autonomous-community-spain?loggedin=true https://www.nytimes.com/1996/03/17/books/cross-dressing-for-success.html Memoir of a Basque Lieutenant Nun by Catalina de Erauso (translation by Michele Stepto and Gabriel Stepto) The Life of Catalina de Erauso, the Lieutenant Nun: An Early Modern Biography by Sonia Perez-Villanueva The Lieutenant Nun by Sherry Valasco Support Vulgar History on Patreon at patreon.com/annfosterwriter Get merch at http://vulgarhistory.store - use code TITSOUT for free U.S. shipping or TITSOU10 for 10% off your order Vulgar History is an affiliate of Bookshop.org, which means that a small percentage of any books you click through and purchase will come back to Vulgar History as a commission. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Special guest Allison Epstein (A Tip for the Hangman) joins us to discuss Doña Catalina de Erauso. Catalina was a 17th-century Spanish woman who became known as the Lieutenant Nun because she was a) raised in a convent and b) cross-dressed for success as a man in the Spanish army. She was also c) a dirtbag, d) potentially a serial killer, and e) wildly interesting to talk about. This episode also includes SO MANY LLAMAS so, heads up. Subscribe to Allison's newsletter Dirtbags Through the Ages at rapscallison.substack.com and follow Allison on Instagram @rapscallison and Twitter @rapscallison Lesbian historic motif podcast Stuff you missed in history class podcast Deviant women podcast https://www.nationalgeographic.com/history/article/how-basques-became-autonomous-community-spain?loggedin=true https://www.nytimes.com/1996/03/17/books/cross-dressing-for-success.html Memoir of a Basque Lieutenant Nun by Catalina de Erauso (translation by Michele Stepto and Gabriel Stepto) The Life of Catalina de Erauso, the Lieutenant Nun: An Early Modern Biography by Sonia Perez-Villanueva The Lieutenant Nun by Sherry Valasco Support Vulgar History on Patreon at patreon.com/annfosterwriter Get merch at http://vulgarhistory.store - use code TITSOUT for free U.S. shipping or TITSOU10 for 10% off your order Vulgar History is an affiliate of Bookshop.org, which means that a small percentage of any books you click through and purchase will come back to Vulgar History as a commission. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Special guest Allison Epstein (A Tip For The Hangman) joins us to discuss Doña Catalina de Erauso. Catalina was a 17th-century Spanish woman who became known as the Lieutenant Nun because she was a) raised in a convent and b) cross-dressed for success as a man in the Spanish army. She was also c) a dirtbag, d) potentially a serial killer, and e) wildly interesting to talk about. That's why this is part one of a two-part super special!!! Subscribe to Allison's newsletter Dirtbags Through the Ages at rapscallison.substack.com and follow Allison on Instagram @rapscallison and Twitter @rapscallison References: Lesbian historic motif podcast Stuff you missed in history class podcast Deviant women podcast https://www.nationalgeographic.com/history/article/how-basques-became-autonomous-community-spain?loggedin=true https://www.nytimes.com/1996/03/17/books/cross-dressing-for-success.html Memoir of a Basque Lieutenant Nun by Catalina de Erauso (translation by Michele Stepto and Gabriel Stepto) The Life of Catalina de Erauso, the Lieutenant Nun: An Early Modern Biography by Sonia Perez-Villanueva The Lieutenant Nun by Sherry Valasco Support Vulgar History on Patreon at patreon.com/annfosterwriter Get merch at http://vulgarhistory.store - use code TITSOUT for free U.S. shipping or TITSOU10 for 10% off your order Vulgar History is an affiliate of Bookshop.org, which means that a small percentage of any books you click through and purchase will come back to Vulgar History as a commission. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Njinga, aka Nzinga, aka Ana de Sousa was one of the longest-reigning and most consequential monarchs in history. She ruled over Ndongo and Matamba (near modern-day Angola) for thirty-seven years and is an icon for women over age 40, queer people, and anyone who loves a fashion moment and a grand entrance. References: Njinga of Angola: Africa's Warrior Queen by Linda Heywood Queer as Fact podcast queerasfact.com It's A Continent podcast itsacontinent.com Excuse My African podcast excusemyafrican.com The Humanity Archive podcast thehumanityarchive.com longreads.com/2019/10/03/queens-of-infamy-njinga/ -- Support Vulgar History on Patreon at patreon.com/annfosterwriter Get merch at http://vulgarhistory.store - use code TITSOUT for free U.S. shipping or TITSOU10 for 10% off your order Vulgar History is an affiliate of Bookshop.org, which means that a small percentage of any books you click through and purchase will come back to Vulgar History as a commission. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Njinga, aka Nzinga, aka Ana de Sousa was one of the longest-reigning and most consequential monarchs in history. She ruled over Ndongo and Matamba (near modern-day Angola) for thirty-seven years and NONE of those years was boring. She was a fashion icon, icon for women over age 40 getting shit done, an icon in Black history, an icon in African history, an icon in anti-colonialist history, and SO MUCH MORE. This week is the first half of her saga; next week we'll get into the second half, including how she will score on the scandilicious scale!! References: Njinga of Angola: Africa's Warrior Queen by Linda Heywood It's A Continent podcast itsacontinent.com Excuse My African podcast excusemyafrican.com The Humanity Archive podcast thehumanityarchive.comlongreads.com/2019/10/03/queens-of-infamy-njinga/ -- Support Vulgar History on Patreon at patreon.com/annfosterwriter Get merch at http://vulgarhistory.store - use code TITSOUT for free U.S. shipping or TITSOU10 for 10% off your order Vulgar History is an affiliate of Bookshop.org, which means that a small percentage of any books you click through and purchase will come back to Vulgar History as a commission. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This is the second part of a two-part episode about Hürrem Sultan. It will make most sense if you listen to part one first! Hürrem Sultan, aka Haseki Sultan, aka Roxelana, was born around 1502 and was captured and sold into slavery as a young girl. She caught the attention of the Sultan of the Ottoman Empire and wound up shattering all kinds of glass ceilings for women, the enslaved, and concubines as she ascended to become his Queen. As noted in the episode, this is a video from Bery Istantul Tips that includes Hürrem Sultan's tomb: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UQcHyHoZ9Ys&t=6s References: The Islamic History Podcast islamichistorypodcast.com/ The Ottoman History podcast ottomanhistorypodcast.com Ottoman Lives podcast historyonthenet.com/ottoman-lives Empress of the East: How A European Slave Girl Became Queen of the Ottoman Empire by Leslie Peirce https://www.dailysabah.com/feature/2015/01/09/hurrem-sultan-a-beloved-wife-or-master-manipulator https://listverse.com/2018/06/06/10-little-known-facts-from-the-crimean-slave-trade/ https://magnificentcentury.fandom.com/wiki/Hurrem_Sultan Support Vulgar History on Patreon at patreon.com/annfosterwriter Get merch at http://vulgarhistory.store - use code TITSOUT for free U.S. shipping or TITSOU10 for 10% off your order Vulgar History is an affiliate of Bookshop.org, which means that a small percentage of any books you click through and purchase will come back to Vulgar History as a commission. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hürrem Sultan, aka Haseki Sultan, aka Roxelana, was born around 1502 and was captured and sold into slavery as a young girl. She caught the attention of the Sultan of the Ottoman Empire, and wound up shattering all kinds of glass ceilings for women, the enslaved, and concubines as she ascended to become his Queen. References: The Ottoman History podcast ottomanhistorypodcast.com Ottoman Lives podcast historyonthenet.com/ottoman-lives Empress of the East: How A European Slave Girl Became Queen of the Ottoman Empire by Leslie Peirce https://www.dailysabah.com/feature/2015/01/09/hurrem-sultan-a-beloved-wife-or-master-manipulator https://listverse.com/2018/06/06/10-little-known-facts-from-the-crimean-slave-trade/ https://magnificentcentury.fandom.com/wiki/Hurrem_Sultan https://www.youtube.com/c/BeryIstanbulTips/about Support Vulgar History on Patreon at patreon.com/annfosterwriter Get merch at http://vulgarhistory.store - use code TITSOUT for free U.S. shipping or TITSOU10 for 10% off your order Vulgar History is an affiliate of Bookshop.org, which means that a small percentage of any books you click through and purchase will come back to Vulgar History as a commission. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Malintzin (aka Doña Marina, aka La Malinche) was born in Mexico around 1500. Twice sold into slavery, she found a way to use her multilingualism and skill at diplomacy to make her indispensable to newly-arrived Spanish conquistador Hernán Cortés. In the aftermath of the Spanish conquest, Malintzin has been viewed alternately as victim, villain, seductress, folk legend, and myth. But who was the real person? References: Monstras podcast http://monstraspodcast.com/podcast/episode/4abc6788/la-malinche Fifth Sun: A new history of the Aztecs by Camilla Townsend Malintzin's Choices: An Indian Woman in the Conquest of Mexico by Camilla Townsend Support Vulgar History on Patreon at http://patreon.com/annfosterwriter Buy Vulgar History Merch at http://vulgarhistory.store and use code TITSOUT for free U.S. shipping or TITSOU10 for 10% off your order Vulgar History is an affiliate of Bookshop.org, which means that a small percentage of any books you click through and purchase will come back to Vulgar History as a commission. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week's internationàle destination is North Africa, by way of the Iberian Peninsula. Sayyida al-Hurra, who is known by that name even though it's not actually her name (it's all explained in the episode don't worry), was a refugee from Granada who helped makeover a ruined city, then was named its governor, and also hung out with a very famous (alleged) pirate!! References: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sayyida_al_Hurra https://www.aramcoworld.com/Articles/January-2017/Malika-VI-Sayyida-Al-Hurra https://insidearabia.com/sayyida-al-hurra-governor-pirate-queen-and-trailblazer/ Pirate Women: The Princesses, Prostitutes, and Privateers Who Ruled the Seven Seas by Laura Sook Duncombe A History of Islam in 21 Women by Hossein Kamaly The Forgotten Queens of Islam by Fatima Mernissi The Making of the Modern Mediterranean: Views from the South edited by Judith E. Tucker Support Vulgar History on Patreon at http://patreon.com/annfosterwriter Buy Vulgar History Merch at http://vulgarhistory.store and use code TITSOUT for free U.S. shipping or TITSOU10 for 10% off your order Vulgar History is an affiliate of Bookshop.org, which means that a small percentage of any books you click through and purchase will come back to Vulgar History as a commission. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week Vulgar History's Internationale travels bring us to 14th century Portugal, where Inês de Castro (1325-1355) was kind of a big deal. Her charisma and cleverness were such that she made her way from lady in waiting to the Prince's official mistress to the ZOMBIE QUEEN OF PORTUGAL. But you'll have to listen to the episode to find out how that all happened. Make sure to take a look at instagram.com/vulgarhistorypod for pictures of the truly spectacular tombs mentioned in the episode!! -- References: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/In%C3%AAs_de_Castro http://www.theroyalarticles.com/articles/71/1/Ines-de-Castro-The-Queen-Who-Was-Crowned-After-Death/Page1.html https://www.dailyartmagazine.com/king-pedro-and-ines-de-castro/ https://www.iheart.com/podcast/stuff-you-missed-in-history-cl-21124503/episode/symhc-classics-ines-de-castro-and-89220558/ -- Support Vulgar History on Patreon at patreon.com/annfosterwriter Get Vulgar History merch at http://vulgarhistory.store - use code TITSOUT for free U.S. shipping or TITSOUT10 for 10% off your order Vulgar History is an affiliate of Bookshop.org, which means that a small percentage of any books you click through and purchase will come back to Vulgar History as a commission. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to season 5 of Vulgar History, where things are taking an internationàle flair, starting with this story from 10th century Kashmir! The saga of Rani Didda contains THREE coin minting moments, NUMEROUS mysterious deaths, and a new inductee to the Lady Jane Grey Memorial Award for Outstanding Supporting Performance. Donate to Doctors Without Borders References: https://feminisminindia.com/2019/05/13/queen-didda-kashmir/ https://swarajyamag.com/magazine/didda-controversial-queen-of-kashmir https://www.livehistoryindia.com/story/people/kashmirs-ruthless-queen-didda https://kashmirblogs.wordpress.com/tag/diddakshema/ https://www.everyculture.com/South-Asia/Kshatriya.html https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BDKC3rFrFhQ The Hindus: An Alternative History by Wendy Doniger Early India from the Origins to AD 1300 by Romila Thapar The Position of Women in Hindu Civilization by A.S. Altekar Support Vulgar History on Patreon Vulgar History Merch - use code TITSOUT for free U.S. shipping or TITSOU10 for 10% off your order Vulgar History is an affiliate of Bookshop.org, which means that a small percentage of any books you click through and purchase will come back to Vulgar History as a commission. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

I was so excited to talk all things Fredegund vs Brunhilde with Shelley Puhak, author of The Dark Queens: The Bloody Rivalry That Forged The Medieval World. Learn more about Shelley, her books, and upcoming events at shelleypuhak.com And if you, too want to own a "That's So Fredegund" tote bag, you can peruse that and other Vulgar History merch at vulgarhistory.store Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Enjoy this preview of a new spinoff podcast, Vulgarpiece Theatre! Every month or so, Ann Foster, Allison Epstein, and Lana Wood Johnson will rant our way through scandilicious costume dramas. First up: 1998's Shakespeare In Love aka Pantaloons All Akimbo aka the Daisy Dukes of Pantaloons. You can listen to new episodes of Vulgarpiece Theatre by joining the Patreon at patreon.com/annfosterwriter at the Glorianas level ($5 per month). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sweden's Princess Cecilia was: a teenage party girl, short-lived BFF to Elizabeth I, leader of a pirate fleet, successful diplomat, a petty queen who lived for drama, and our newest tits out icon!! References: Allison Epstein's Dirtbags Through The Ages newsletter Recommended books on Bookshop.org Support Vulgar History on Patreon Vulgar History Merch - use code TITSOUT for free U.S. shipping or TITSOU10 for 10% off your order Vulgar History is an affiliate of Bookshop.org, which means that a small percentage of any books you click through and purchase will come back to Vulgar History as a commission. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Author Lucy Jago joins us to discuss her new book, A Net For Small Fishes. This historical fiction novel explores the real-life story of Frances Howard and her companion Anne Turner, both of whom were found guilty of involvement in the murder of Sir Thomas Overbury. But real talk, if you've ever listened to this podcast you know who Frances Howard is. This is a book about her, our queen and icon!! You can order A Net for Small Fishes wherever you like to buy books, including at Bookshop.org (for the book or eBook) and Libro.fm (for the audiobook). Learn more about Lucy Jago at http://lucyjago.com Vulgar History is an affiliate of Bookshop.org, which means that a small percentage of any books you click through and purchase will come back to Vulgar History as a commission. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Catherine Monvoisin, aka La Voisin was a thriving entrepreneur/sorceress in 17th century France. She provided cosmetics, potions, charms, demonic rituals, and midwifery services to people of all classes. But one of her clients was the King’s mistress and they both got caught up in a witch hunt scenario called The Affair Of The Poisons. References: The Affair of the Poisons: Murder, Infanticide & Satanism at the court of Louis XIV by Anne Somerset Strange Revelations: Magic, poison and sacrilege in Louis XIV’s France by Lynn Wood Mollenauer https://www.syfy.com/syfywire/la-voisin-frances-murderous-fortune-teller https://historyofyesterday.com/the-affair-of-the-poisons-cf31804b3e0 Recommended books on Bookshop.org/shop/vulgarhistory Support Vulgar History on Patreon at patreon.com/annfosterwriter Vulgar History Merch - use code TITSOUT for free U.S. shipping or TITSOU10 for 10% off your order at vulgarhistory.store Vulgar History is an affiliate of Bookshop.org, which means that a small percentage of any books you click through and purchase will come back to Vulgar History as a commission. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Mary Shelley (1797-1851) was the calm in the eye of the storm that was literally everyone in her life: her parents, her stepmother, her stepsister, her husband, her husband's BFF, literally EVERYONE was the most chaotic and she somehow stands out for just keeping it together all these years. She was the ultimate Goth Queen Mom Friend, casually invented a whole new genre of fiction/revolutionized English language literature while on the world's worst couples getaway and while dealing with perpetual pregnancy and grief. To say we stan is an understatement. References: In Search of Mary Shelley by Fiona Sampson Recommended books on Bookshop.org Support Vulgar History on Patreon Vulgar History Merch - use code TITSOUT for free U.S. shipping or TITSOU10 for 10% off your order Vulgar History is an affiliate of Bookshop.org, which means that a small percentage of any books you click through and purchase will come back to Vulgar History as a commission. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Elizabeth Woodville was the first commoner AND the first English woman to marry an English King (in the most super secret sexy wedding ever??), but more importantly for Halloween reasons, was maybe descended from a mythical Luxembourgese mermaid-witch-goddess. References: Royal Witches: Witchcraft and the Nobility in Fifteenth-Century England by Gemma Hollman Recommended books on Bookshop.org Support Vulgar History on Patreon Vulgar History Merch - use code TITSOUT for free U.S. shipping or TITSOU10 for 10% off your order Vulgar History is an affiliate of Bookshop.org, which means that a small percentage of any books you click through and purchase will come back to Vulgar History as a commission. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

All good things must come to an end, and so it is with this three-part exploration of the legend that was FREDEGUND! Her story concludes with yet more innovative military victories, unrelenting badassery, and some info about how she lived during an Ice Age (???). Then comes the moment we're all waiting for: how will this one of a kind Queen score on the scandilicious scale? References: The Dark Queens: The Bloody Rivalry That Forged The Medieval World by Shelley Puhak Recommended books on Bookshop.org Support Vulgar History on Patreon Vulgar History Merch - use code TITSOUT for free U.S. shipping or TITSOU10 for 10% off your order Vulgar History is an affiliate of Bookshop.org, which means that a small percentage of any books you click through and purchase will come back to Vulgar History as a commission. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In part two of this Super Special, we delve into Fredegund's Warrior Queen Era as well as learning more about her Wile E. Coyote-like relationship to Brunhilda. Also: absinthe! And: Breton stripes! References: The Dark Queens: The Bloody Rivalry That Forged The Medieval World by Shelley Puhak Recommended books on Bookshop.org Support Vulgar History on Patreon Vulgar History Merch - use code TITSOUT for free U.S. shipping or TITSOU10 for 10% off your order Vulgar History is an affiliate of Bookshop.org, which means that a small percentage of any books you click through and purchase will come back to Vulgar History as a commission. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Fredegund, Queen of Neustria was a 6th century enslaved girl turned Queen turned regent turned maybe my fav historical person. This is part one of a two part super special episode, because there's too much info to put into one hour. In this part, we learn about who tf were the Merovingian Frankish dynasty, why was Fredegund's sister-in-law Brunhilda so intent on murdering her, and more!! Check back next week when we get into the real meat of this story of QUEEN VS QUEEN as Fredegund arranges more assassinations, becomes a military genius, and a lot more people die of dysentery. References: The Dark Queens: The Bloody Rivalry That Forged The Medieval World by Shelley Puhak Recommended books on Bookshop.org Support Vulgar History on Patreon Vulgar History Merch Vulgar History is an affiliate of Bookshop.org, which means that a small percentage of any books you click through and purchase will come back to Vulgar History as a commission. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Doña Ana de Mendoza was a 16th century Spanish princess who wore a goddamn eyepatch for no reason anyone could figure out, and if that isn't enough to interest you, I don't know what else to say to convince you. Recommended books on Bookshop.org Support Vulgar History on Patreon Vulgar History Merch Vulgar History is an affiliate of Bookshop.org, which means that a small percentage of any books you click through and purchase will come back to Vulgar History as a commission. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sophia Dorothea of Celle (1666-1726), or as we call her in this episode, S.D., is known as England's Uncrowned Queen. She was raised by loving parents who also loved her, but then got married off to her truly odious cousin and things did not go well. References: The Imprisoned Princess: The Scandalous Life of Sophia Dorothea of Celle by Catherine Curzon Recommended history reading: African Europeans: An Untold History by Olivette Otele Recommended books on Bookshop.org Support Vulgar History on Patreon Vulgar History Merch Vulgar History is an affiliate of Bookshop.org, which means that a small percentage of any books you click through and purchase will come back to Vulgar History as a commission. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Lady Arbella Stuart (1575-1615) is one of the lesser-known figures from Tudor and Stuart history. She was Mary Queen of Scots's niece and granddaughter to both Margaret Douglas and Bess of Hardwick. This genealogy meant she was both a threat to Queen Elizabeth and James I/VI (her cousin), but also that she was used as a figurehead by people who wanted to promote their own interests. Her life was like Grey Gardens meets Rapunzel, and all our girl wanted to do was run off and get secret sexy married like her ancestor/role model Katherine Grey had done. And when she finally took her fate into her own hands, it all got WILDLY scandilicious. Recommend history podcast: Telling Our Twisted Histories Recommended history reading: Arbella: England's Lost Queen by Sarah Gristwood Recommended books on Bookshop.org Support Vulgar History on Patreon Vulgar History Merch Vulgar History is an affiliate of Bookshop.org, which means that a small percentage of any books you click through and purchase will come back to Vulgar History as a commission. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Marguerite de Valois (1553 – 1615) was a French princess whose life was truly non-stop scandiliciousness. Poison gloves! Two assassinations! Scandalous memoirs! A fanatic monk! Carrying around the decapitated head of ones lover! A man named Bussy d'Amboise! Recommend history viewing: La Reine Margot / Queen Margot (1994) Recommended history reading: The Rival Queens: Catherine de'Medici, Her Daughter Marguerite de Valois, and the Betrayal that Ignited a Kingdom by Nancy Goldstone Recommended books on Bookshop.org Support Vulgar History on Patreon Vulgar History Merch Vulgar History is an affiliate of Bookshop.org, which means that a small percentage of any books you click through and purchase will come back to Vulgar History as a commission. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Lady Margaret Douglas was the only daughter of Margaret Tudor, making her a niece of Henry VIII on the Scottish-disinherited-side. Her parents had an acrimonious divorce which led to Margaret herself growing up mostly in England with various guardians. She was imprisoned five times, mostly in the Tower of London, but her ruthless scheming and family connections freed her every time. She wanted to be Queen, then amended her goal to see her son as King, then finally wound up being OK with her grandkids being King and/or Queen. Recommend history reading: Luck of the Titanic by Stacey Lee / The Six (documentary) Recommended books on Bookshop.org Support Vulgar History on Patreon Vulgar History Merch Vulgar History is an affiliate of Bookshop.org, which means that a small percentage of any books you click through and purchase will come back to Vulgar History as a commission. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Isabel of Portugal, Queen of Castile and León, is still often referred to as "The Mad Queen." But as Taylor Swift would say, "no one likes a mad woman/ you made her like that." And in Isabel's case, the people who made her like that included her husband, her husband's EVIL advisor, and her stepson. Like, if you lock a woman in psychological distress in a ghost tower for literal years and then call her "mad" that's kind of a self-fulfilling prophecy, right? Recommend history resource: instagram.com/emalineandthem Recommended books: bookshop.org/lists/vulgar-history-recommends Patreon: patreon.com/annfosterwriter Merch: teespring.com/stores/vulgarhistory Vulgar History is an affiliate of Bookshop.org, which means that a small percentage of any books you click through and purchase will come back to Vulgar History as a commission. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This second episode in this series about Women In Towers And the Assholes Who Sent Them There is the season's second Margaret. Margaret Pole was just about as royal as you could be back then without being an actual royal. She worked hard to restore her family's name, but it didn't help literally every male relative was constantly doing treason around her. Recommended History Reading: The Five by Hallie Rubenhold Recommended books: bookshop.org/lists/vulgar-history-recommends Patreon: patreon.com/annfosterwriter Merch: teespring.com/stores/vulgarhistory Vulgar History is an affiliate of Bookshop.org, which means that a small percentage of any books you click through and purchase will come back to Vulgar History as a commission. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We're back! This season is themed: Women In Towers And the Assholes Who Sent Them There. And where else to begin than with the long, weird saga of Margaret of Anjou (1430-1482)! Her story has les twists and les turns enough to make you say oh mon dieu! Recommended History Reading: Alok Vaid-Menon's Instagram Recommended books: bookshop.org/lists/vulgar-history-recommends Patreon: patreon.com/annfosterwriter Merch: teespring.com/stores/vulgarhistory Vulgar History is an affiliate of Bookshop.org, which means that a small percentage of any books you click through and purchase will come back to Vulgar History as a commission. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It's a super special! Author Allison Epstein (A Tip For The Hangman) joins us to share the wildly interesting saga of Christopher Marlowe, the 16th century playwright/SPY. What was his deal, what's his connection to FRANCES HOWARD, and how will our first-ever male subject (!!) score on the scandilicious scale?? You can pre-order Allison's book at Bookshop.org (for the book or eBook) and Libro.fm (for the audiobook with British narrator!!) and learn more about her at her website allisonepstein.com and follow her on socials @rapscallison Also, click here to read the scandilicious Baines Note written about Marlowe Vulgar History is an affiliate of Bookshop.org, which means that a small percentage of any books you click through and purchase will come back to Vulgar History as a commission. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Lettice Knollys (8 November 1543 – 25 December 1634) was the first cousin once-removed of Queen Elizabeth I (on the Boleyn side). Lettice was also basically the Queen's younger, prettier lookalike which you know Elizabeth didn't like. And THEN Lettice secret sexy married to the Queen's boyfriend, dirtbag Robert Dudley, and that's just the BEGINNING of this remarkable woman's tits out life. How many people named "Robert" are in this story? A LOT. And how will Lettice score on the scandilicious scale??? References: Elizabeth's Rival: The Tumultuous Life of the Countess of Leicester: The Romance and Conspiracy That Threatened Queen Elizabeth's Court by Nicola Tallis Other stuff: Recommended books: bookshop.org/lists/vulgar-history-recommends Patreon: patreon.com/annfosterwriter Merch: teespring.com/stores/vulgarhistory Vulgar History is an affiliate of Bookshop.org, which means that a small percentage of any books you click through and purchase will come back to Vulgar History as a commission. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Anne Stanley (May 1580 – c. 8 October 1647) was a descendant of Mary Tudor through Eleanor Brandon. Following the death of the three Grey sisters, she became a potential heir to the English throne. She testified against her second husband, the Earl of Castlehaven, in a rape trial, setting the precedent that a wife could give evidence against her husband. The scandal of the trial ruined her reputation, ensuring she would never inherit the throne from her relative Elizabeth I. References: A House in Gross Disorder: Sex, Law, and the 2nd Earl of Castlehaven by Cynthia B. Herrup “Such Daughters and Such a Mother”: The Countess of Derby and her Three Daughters, 1560-1647 by V.J. Wilkie Other stuff: Recommended books: bookshop.org/lists/vulgar-history-recommends Patreon: patreon.com/annfosterwriter Merch: teespring.com/stores/vulgarhistory Vulgar History is an affiliate of Bookshop.org, which means that a small percentage of any books you click through and purchase will come back to Vulgar History as a commission. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Lady Mary Grey (c. 1545 – 20 April 1578) was the youngest sister of Lady Jane Grey. Through her grandmother, Mary Tudor, she had a claim on the crown of England. Mary did her best to stay out of trouble, but her secret marriage to a non-royal landed her in a world of trouble. References: The Sisters Who Would Be Queen: Mary, Katherine, and Lady Jane Grey: A Tudor Tragedy by Leanda de Lisle Other stuff: Recommended books: bookshop.org/lists/vulgar-history-recommends Patreon: patreon.com/annfosterwriter Merch: teespring.com/stores/vulgarhistory Vulgar History is an affiliate of Bookshop.org, which means that a small percentage of any books you click through and purchase will come back to Vulgar History as a commission. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Katherine Seymour, Countess of Hertford (25 August 1540 – 26 January 1568), born Lady Katherine Grey, was the younger sister of Lady Jane "Nine Days Queen" Grey. Following the execution of her older sister, Katherine was seen as a potential new heir to the throne/a royal rival to both Queen Mary I and Elizabeth I. But Katherine didn't care about all of that, she was all about her secret sexy marriage to Ned Seymour, which would prove her undoing. Also, she had a pet monkey. References: Elizabeth’s Women: Friends, Rivals, and Foes Who Shaped the Virgin Queen by Tracy Borman Crown of Blood: The Deadly Inheritance of Lady Jane Grey by Nicola Tallis Devices and Desires: Bess of Hardwick and the Building of Elizabethan England by Kate Hubbard The Betrayal of Mary, Queen of Scots: Elizabeth I and her Greatest Rival by Kate Williams The Sisters Who Would Be Queen: Mary, Katherine, and Lady Jane Grey: A Tudor Tragedy by Leanda de Lisle https://www.britain-magazine.com/carousel/tudor-of-the-month-katherine-grey/ https://tudortimes.co.uk/guest-articles/love-and-loss-lady-katherine-grey https://englishhistoryauthors.blogspot.com/2012/03/born-in-tower-crimes-of-lady-katherine.html -- Recommended books: bookshop.org/lists/vulgar-history-recommends Patreon: patreon.com/annfosterwriter Merch: teespring.com/stores/vulgarhistory Vulgar History is an affiliate of Bookshop.org, which means that a small percentage of any books you click through and purchase will come back to Vulgar History as a commission. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Lady Jane Grey (c. 1537 – 12 February 1554) was kinda the first-ever woman to rule England, except she was technically a girl and technically sort of didn't actually rule? Hence this whole season-long discussion. Anyway, this week is LJG's time to shine!! Learn about how and why she sort of reigned for nine days, how and why she was executed, and most importantly: how will she score on our scandilicous scale?? References: Crown of Blood: The Deadly Inheritance of Lady Jane Grey by Nicola Tallis The Sisters Who Would Be Queen: Mary, Katherine, and Lady Jane Grey: A Tudor Tragedy by Leanda de Lisle Lady Jane (the movie, starring baby Helena Bonham Carter and baby Cary Elwes!!) Recommended books: bookshop.org/lists/vulgar-history-recommends Patreon: patreon.com/annfosterwriter Merch: teespring.com/stores/vulgarhistory Vulgar History is an affiliate of Bookshop.org, which means that a small percentage of any books you click through and purchase will come back to Vulgar History as a commission. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Frances Grey, Duchess of Suffolk (16 July 1517 – 20 November 1559), was an English noblewoman. As the daughter of Mary Tudor and niece of Henry VIII, she was of royal lineage and in the line of succession. She was also the stepdaughter of Katherine Willoughby, and the mother of Lady Jane Grey, Lady Katherine Grey, and Lady Mary Grey. But mostly as the Kris Jenner of her age, she was a behind-the-scenes power player who dedicated her life to maintaining her family's prestige even in the face of great odds. Also apparently she's long had a bad reputation among historians, almost definitely undeserved!! References: Elizabeth’s Women: Friends, Rivals, and Foes who shaped the Virgin Queen by Tracy Borman Henry VIII: The King and His Court by Alison Weir Crown of Blood: The Deadly Inheritance of Lady Jane Grey by Nicola Tallis The Sisters Who Would Be Queen: Mary, Katherine, and Lady Jane Grey: A Tudor Tragedy by Leanda de Lisle The Death and Burial of Frances, Duchess of Suffolk by Susan Higganbotham The Maligned Frances Grey, Duchess of Suffolk by Susan Higganbotham Frances Brandon, Duchess of Suffolk (The Freelance History Writer) -- Recommended books: bookshop.org/lists/vulgar-history-recommends Patreon: patreon.com/annfosterwriter Merch: teespring.com/stores/vulgarhistory Vulgar History is an affiliate of Bookshop.org, which means that a small percentage of any books you click through and purchase will come back to Vulgar History as a commission. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Anne Askew (1521-1546) was one of the earliest-known female poets to compose in the English language, the first Englishwoman to demand a divorce, and wound up the only recorded woman to be tortured in the Tower of London. She died via explosion when one of her supporters hid gunpowder in the pyre for her execution by burning. An icon! References: The Queen and the Heretic: How Two Women Changed the Religion of England by Derek Wilson Anne Askew Sentenced to Death (The Anne Boleyn Files) Anne Askew (Spartacus Educational) Anne Askew: Dangerous Convictions (Dangerous Women Project) The Examinations of Anne Askew -- Recommended books: bookshop.org/lists/vulgar-history-recommends Patreon: patreon.com/annfosterwriter Merch: teespring.com/stores/vulgarhistory Vulgar History is an affiliate of Bookshop.org, which means that a small percentage of any books you click through and purchase will come back to Vulgar History as a commission. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Catherine Parr (1512-1548) is best known for surviving being the sixth and final wife of Henry VIII. She had three other husbands, one of whom was worse than even Henry; she was held hostage; she broke new ground for women writers in England; she was a member of the Renaissance Reformation Girl Squad, AND ALSO she was the guardian to (and role model for) Lady Jane Grey. References: Katherine the Queen: The Remarkable Life of Katherine Parr, the Last Wife of Henry VIII by Linda Porter Catherine Parr: Wife, Widow, Mother, Survivor, the Story of the Last Queen of Henry VIII by Elizabeth Norton Other stuff: Recommended books: bookshop.org/lists/vulgar-history-recommends Patreon: patreon.com/annfosterwriter Merch: teespring.com/stores/vulgarhistory Vulgar History is an affiliate of Bookshop.org, which means that a small percentage of any books you click through and purchase will come back to Vulgar History as a commission. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Katherine Willoughby de Eresby (22 March 1519 – 19 September 1580), later Katherine Brandon, then Katherine Bertie, was an English heiress, Protestant rebel, and overall total heroine. From a pretty gross start (being married at age 14 to her adoptive father figure), she wielded her wealth and privilege to support other women and Protestants. References: The Six Wives and Many Mistresses of Henry VIII by Amy Licence Understanding the life of Katherine Willoughby (On The Tudor Trail) Katherine Willoughby, the Lincolnshire Lady who nearly married Henry VIII (LincolnshireLife) Katherine Willoughby by Sarah Bryson (Tudor Society) Other stuff: Recommended books: bookshop.org/lists/vulgar-history-recommends Patreon: patreon.com/annfosterwriter Merch: teespring.com/stores/vulgarhistory Vulgar History is an affiliate of Bookshop.org, which means that a small percentage of any books you click through and purchase will come back to Vulgar History as a commission. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Mary Tudor (9 October 1514 – 1 January 1515), not to be confused with Queen Mary I or Mary, Queen of Scots, was briefly Queen of France. She then had a secret marriage to her boyfriend, Charles Brandon, and lived an interesting and -- dare I say -- scandlicious life. She was also the grandmother of Lady Jane Grey, which sets us up for this season's theme: How To Lose A Queen In Nine Days aka The Lady Jane Grey Scenario. References: The Sisters of Henry VIII: The Tumultuous Lives of Margaret of Scotland and Mary of France by Maria Perry Henry VIII: The King and His Court by Alison Weir Other stuff: A Tip for the Hangman by Allison Epstein Recommended history books: bookshop.org/lists/vulgar-history-recommends Patreon: patreon.com/annfosterwriter Merch: teespring.com/stores/vulgarhistory Vulgar History is an affiliate of Bookshop.org, which means that a small percentage of any books you click through and purchase will come back to Vulgar History as a commission. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Smallpox was a highly contagious, deadly disease which likely first appeared around the 3rd century BCE in Egypt. From then on, it followed trade routes and colonization, decimating populations in many countries. The development of the smallpox vaccine can be traced back many centuries, to people in India, China, West Africa, and the Ottoman Empire who used a technique known of variolation to inject healthy people with pus from those afflicted by smallpox. In the late 18th century in England, Dr. Edward Jenner popularized and advocated for the injection of cowpox cells to immunize humans against smallpox, leading to the eradication of the disease by 1980. Crowdfunding site for Dr. Jenner’s House Museum and Garden References: Princesses, Slaves, and Explosives: The Scandalous Origin of Vaccines by Kiona Smith-Strickland, Gizmodo Get Well Soon: History’s Worst Plagues and the Heroes who fought them by Jennifer Wright COVID-19 May Permanently Shutter Museum Devoted to Vaccination Pioneer (Smithsonian) Vulgar History is an affiliate of Bookshop.org, which means that a small percentage of any books you click through and purchase will come back to Vulgar History as a commission. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

From 1485 - 1551, England experienced several epidemics of a mysterious illness known only as the sweating sickness. Unlike other diseases that affected the very young, very old, and the poor, this one seemed to target young, healthy, rich people. And two of the rich people affected were King Henry VIII and his mistress, Anne Boleyn. EDIT: Two corrections were brought to my attention after this episode published. 1) Henry VII defeated Richard III in the Battle of Bosworth on August 22 1485; therefore, he and his troops did not arrive in England from France on August 28th, as I stated in the episode. What happened is that the first case of English sweating sickness was reported on August 28 1485, and 2) Henry VIII's BFF/brother-in-law was *Charles* Brandon, not Henry Brandon, as I said in the episode. Charles Brandon's son Henry died in the sweating sickness. References: The 'Sweating Disease' That Swept Across England 500 Years Ago is Still a Medical Mystery (Discover Magazine) The Sweating Sickness Returns (Discover Magazine) Anne Boleyn and the Tudor sweating sickness (On the Tudor Trail) The Mysterious Epidemic That Terrified Henry VIII (History.com) Anne Boleyn: 11 Surprising Facts (History Extra) How Did King Henry VIII 'Self-Isolate' From The Sweating Sickness? (History Extra) Vulgar History is an affiliate of Bookshop.org, which means that a small percentage of any books you click through and purchase will come back to Vulgar History as a commission. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Joanna of Naples (1326-1382) was Queen of Naples, Jerusalem, and Sicily for thirty action-packed and highly scandilicious years. This story has it all: kidnappings! Revenge murders! Evil popes! Evil husbands! Being trapped in an iron cage for fourteen years! The black plague! But how will Joanna herself score on our scandilicious scale? The results may SURPRISE YOU!! — References: Queens of Infamy: Joanna of Naples by Anne Theriault on Longreads The Lady Queen: The Notorious Reign of Joanna I, Queen of Naples, Jerusalem, and Sicily by Nancy Goldstone — Sign up for the Vulgar History mailing list! — Get 15% off all the gorgeous jewellery and accessories at common.era.com/vulgar or go to commonera.com and use code VULGAR at checkout — Get Vulgar History merch at vulgarhistory.com/store (best for US shipping) and vulgarhistory.redbubble.com (better for international shipping) — Support Vulgar History on Patreon — Vulgar History is an affiliate of Bookshop.org, which means that a small percentage of any books you click through and purchase will come back to Vulgar History as a commission. Use this link to shop there and support Vulgar History. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Anne I (1665 – 1714), best known as the main character of the movie The Favourite, was Queen of England, Scotland and Ireland and then of Great Britain and Ireland for twelve years. Her life story is a gossip buffet of rivalry, death, and resiliency. But how will she score on the scandilicious scale?? References: Queen Anne: Politics and Passion by Anne Somerset The Favourite: The Life of Sarah Churchill and the History Behind the Major Motion Picture by Ophelia Field — Sign up for the Vulgar History mailing list! — Get 15% off all the gorgeous jewellery and accessories at common.era.com/vulgar or go to commonera.com and use code VULGAR at checkout — Get Vulgar History merch at vulgarhistory.com/store (best for US shipping) and vulgarhistory.redbubble.com (better for international shipping) — Support Vulgar History on Patreon — Vulgar History is an affiliate of Bookshop.org, which means that a small percentage of any books you click through and purchase will come back to Vulgar History as a commission. Use this link to shop there and support Vulgar History. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices