16 posts tagged with "Unobscured"

The spirit of UNOBSCURED has evolved and transformed into a brand new show called GRIM & MILD PRESENTS. We'll still be doing season-long deep-dives into major topics, but releasing episodes bi-weekly throughout the year, rather than all lumped into October and November. Learn more here. Subscribe to Grim & Mild

In this episode, Aaron announces the transformation of the podcast Unobscured into Grim & Mild Presents, which solves the issue of extended hiatuses by offering bi-weekly episodes focused on various historical topics. The new format maintains the essence of engaging storytelling with contributions from Aaron’s team, featuring the current season centered on the American Sideshow. Upcoming seasons promise to keep alive the captivating spirit that listeners have come to enjoy.

Our interview with Helen Rappaport, Fellow of the Royal Historical Society and best-selling author of books on Russia and the Romanovs. Her books like "Four Sisters: The Lost Lives of the Romanov Grand Duchesses," and "The Race to Save the Romanovs: The Truth Behind the Secret Plans to Rescue Russia's

In this episode of 'Unobscured,' Helen Rappaport discusses her unexpected journey into researching the Romanov family, revealing their emotional complexities and domestic lives. She examines Tsar Nicholas II and Tsarina Alexandra's autocratic beliefs, societal pressures regarding heirs, and the family’s secluded existence due to Alexei's hemophilia. Rappaport also addresses the daughters' dynamic, their relationship with Rasputin, and the family's struggles during World War I. Ultimately, she highlights the profound despair and isolation faced by the Romanovs in their final days, while debunking survival myths linked to Anastasia's supposed escape from execution.

Our interview with Dr. Joshua Sanborn, Professor of History at Lafayette College. His book on the collapse of the Romanov regime, "Imperial Apocalypse: The Great War and the Destruction of the Russian Empire," provides a rich history of the Great War through stories of the people on the ground. Restoring

In this episode of 'Unobscured,' Dr. Joshua Sanborn, a Professor of History, explores the significance of World War I from a Russian perspective, particularly through his book 'Imperial Apocalypse.' He discusses complex issues like military conscription, Russification, and the impact of nationalism in occupied territories. The conversation delves into the socio-political changes resulting from the war, including the Duma's role, Stolypin's reforms, and the collapse of the Russian Empire amidst rising national identities and social unrest. Sanborn emphasizes the Eastern Front's overlooked role, suggesting it significantly shaped both the war's outcomes and the eventual collapse of imperial governance.

Our interview with Dr. Heather Coleman, Professor of History at the University of Alberta. In her teaching and writing on the religion of the ninteenth and twentieth centuries, Dr. Coleman has shed new light on the role that religious life played in the modernization of the Russian empire in the

In this episode of Unobscured, Dr. Heather Coleman discusses her research on the religious dynamics in late Imperial Russia, focusing on the impact of various Christian sects, including Baptists and Hlisti, and their role in society during the rise of Bolshevism. She emphasizes the interplay between the Orthodox Church and popular religion, the significance of literacy and print culture in shaping religious practices, and the emergence of mysticism in early 20th century Russia, reflecting on how these factors contributed to social change and the complexities of religious life amid the modernization process leading up to the revolution.

Our interview with Douglas Smith, award-winning historian, author, and translator. His book "Rasputin: Faith, Power, and the Twilight of the Romanovs" is a major study of Rasputin's rise and influence, and the very best historical work available on the life, death, and legacy of the Siberian peasant who became advisor

In this episode, Douglas Smith discusses his extensive research on Grigori Rasputin, emphasizing the separation of myth from reality. His work, primarily through archival research, reveals Rasputin's complex identity shaped by his upbringing in Siberia. The conversation explores the socio-political tensions of Tsar Nicholas II's reign, Alexandra's mysticism, and Rasputin's role in the upper-class women's lives. Smith critiques oversimplified narratives about Rasputin's influence on the Romanov dynasty's collapse, examining the intricate relationships and dynamics within the royal family and history itself.

Grigory was mortal. The autopsy proved that. But as the Romanovs grappled with that reality, the world found that legends and myths were much harder to kill. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Unobscured, titled "S4 – 10: Ghosts", the narrative follows the ramifications of Grigori Rasputin's disappearance, leading to his eventual murder. As his daughter Maria grapples with the horror of his absence, the police inquiry reveals a significant cover-up involving Felix Yusupov, who distorts Rasputin's death into a sensational myth. Despite the physical evidence contradicting these exaggerated tales, the episode highlights how the legacy of Rasputin continues to haunt the Romanovs, illustrating the intersection between historical events and enduring supernatural folklore amidst the backdrop of the Russian Empire's decline.

It seemed Grigory Rasputin was untouchable. If the plots laid against him weren't exposed before they hatched, then the hands set against him failed in their courage at the last moment. But even for a man like Grigory, some day the charm runs out. Learn more about your ad-choices at

In 'Let This Cup Pass,' Grigory Rasputin grapples with increasing paranoia as assassination attempts swirl around him. Despite societal unrest and a dire food crisis plaguing Russia, Rasputin's insights are often ignored due to his controversial status. Meanwhile, Felix Yusupov, who harbors deep resentment towards Rasputin, plots his assassination amidst a climate of distrust and decay. The conspirators' chaotic attempt culminates in their panic-ridden execution of the plan, emphasizing the desperation and complexities of power dynamics as Rasputin's eventual downfall becomes unavoidable.

The empire was bleeding. Who was to blame? As the accusations flew thick and fast, Grigory Rasputin proved once again that the ladder of chaos was an old friend. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In 'S4 – 8: A Time to Live,' the narrative explores the growing chaos in the Russian Empire during 1915-1916, focusing on Tsar Nicholas II's military command influenced by Rasputin. Alexandra's concerns about Nicholas's decisions reveal her desire for strong autocracy, leading to her push for Rasputin-aligned officials. As Rasputin's power grows amid war-induced turmoil, public sentiment shifts towards a perception of conspiracy, particularly against German influences, culminating in widespread distrust and political discord. The episode highlights the complex dynamics of power, loyalty, and manipulation within the imperial court amidst a crumbling empire.

Grigory struggled to heal. But as he swam back to life, another more successful assassination shot a hole in divine autocracy, and The Great War swept over the empires of his world. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In the episode 'S4 – 7: Great Will Be the Ruin,' the narrative delves into Grigory Rasputin's survival following an assassination attempt and the political turmoil leading to World War I. The assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand is explored as a catalyst for escalating violence, influenced by nationalism and the dynamics of regional politics. As Rasputin recovers, he warns Tsar Nicholas II against engaging in the war, emphasizing the devastating consequences. His predictions highlight the tragic misunderstandings surrounding his true beliefs, contrasting public perception with his genuine concerns for Russia's future. The episode captures the intertwining destinies of Rasputin and the empire amidst an era of profound historical significance.

Venomous rumors wrapped Rasputin and the Romanovs in a whirlwind. Grigory himself was at the center of the storm. But when the holy man seemed to promise the only path to healing, it made his grateful patrons turn a blind eye. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for

In 'Laying On of Hands,' the podcast examines the intricate relationship between Grigori Rasputin and the Romanovs during a health crisis involving Alexei, the Tsar's son. Despite rumors undermining Rasputin's status, the royal family's hope hinged on his perceived healing powers. The episode explores Alexandra's reliance on Rasputin's messages as divine reassurance, while also revealing the public's skepticism. Ultimately, it portrays Rasputin's growing notoriety, his struggles with the church, and the increasing political tensions leading to the monarchy's eventual downfall amidst a changing Russian society.

Nicholas and Alexandra found themselves in an endless cascade of battles. Comfort and rest was in short supply. Every path before them seemed to lead to the same dead end. But one voice promised to guide them home. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

At the right hand of the Tsar, Grigory Rasputin turned his newfound power and prestige to vicious ends. And he wasn't the only one. Predators across the empire were howling for blood. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Tsar and his people wrestled for control of the empire. A voice whispering that control was his divine right was exactly what Nicholas wanted to hear. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

His hometown was a crossroads. Money and merchandise passed him by, so when Grigory set out on the road himself, it just made since. But he walked into a future that no one could see coming. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When she traded her name for an empire, Alexandra faced a world that bewildered her—imperial Russia. Even her wedding was overshadowed by death. The darkness of those waters left her searching for a lineline. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.