In this episode of The History AI Podcast, Chuck and Marco explore the life and legend of Rodrigo Díaz de Vivar — better known as El Cid — one of the most complex and fascinating figures of medieval Spain. From his tumultuous exiles to his cunning mercenary years, El Cid’s journey defies easy labels. He was a Christian knight who fought for Muslim rulers, a hero of the Reconquista who forged alliances across enemy lines, and a military genius whose legacy still shapes Spain’s national identity.

Join us as we unpack the politics, the battles, and the legends that turned a man into a myth. Along the way, we’ll explore how El Cantar de Mio Cid immortalized him as a chivalric hero, even as history reveals a far more nuanced figure.

So saddle up — this is the story of the mercenary who became a legend.

Stay tuned after the episode for the song "El Cid: Knight of Destiny"

The History AI Podcast Linktree: https://linktr.ee/thehistoryaipodcast

In this episode of The History AI Podcast, Chuck and Marco dive deep into the life and legacy of one of history’s most controversial figures: the Marquis de Sade. From his privileged yet turbulent upbringing in 18th-century France to his scandalous writings that shocked polite society—and continue to influence philosophy, psychology, and pop culture today—de Sade’s story is a wild ride through the darkest corners of human nature.

Join Chuck (who shares a birthday with de Sade!) and Marco as they explore his infamous works like Justine, Juliette, and The 120 Days of Sodom—complete with quotes that reveal his radical, disturbing worldview. Along the way, they discuss how de Sade’s legacy evolved from being a reviled pornographer to an unexpected philosophical icon.

Stick around after the episode for a special treat: “Libertine’s Lament” by BL&C, a haunting track that captures the provocative spirit of today’s topic.

The History AI Podcast Linktree: https://linktr.ee/thehistoryaipodcast

Join Chuck and Marco as they plunge into the bloody fields of medieval England in this deep dive into the Battle of Shrewsbury (1403). From the rise of Henry IV and the rebellious fire of Henry “Hotspur” Percy to the pivotal moment that forged Prince Henry into the future warrior-king Henry V, this episode unpacks the chaos, strategy, and drama of one of England’s bloodiest battles.

Stay tuned at the end of the episode for “Blood on the Field (Ballad of Shrewsbury)” by BL&C—an epic musical tribute that captures the passion and tragedy of this historic conflict.

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The History AI Podcast Linktree: https://linktr.ee/thehistoryaipodcast