Author and journalist Andrew Scott, aka Otto English, has branded Britain's kings and queens 'gangsters' in the first episode of a brand new podcast.
From Below The Balcony is a brand new podcast produced by campaign group Republic and presented by Graham Smith and Abby Tarttelin.
The first episode is out this week and features an extended chat with Andrew Scott.
Author of Fake History and Fake Heroes, Scott compares monarchs to gangsters, and said Henry V is a lot like President Putin.
The podcast looks at how royal history is distorted and a long line of 'murderous bastards' is celebrated and sanitised.
Podcast host and Republic CEO Graham Smith said today:
"This distorted 'Ladybird' version of our history does us all a disservice. We need a warts and all look at what the monarchy is really about."
"I'm really excited to launch this new podcast. From Below The Balcony will not only look at the monarchy, it will also address wider issues of equality, democracy and how we can create a fairer society."
"Chatting to Andrew Scott was fascinating and entertaining. Hearing about the real stories of people like Henry V, the awful George I and the violence committed by so many monarchs is an eye opener."
"When we strip away the fancy titles and mythical tales, it's easy to see kings and queens as gangsters and dictators. That's the legacy and history of the monarchy, that's what we celebrate by retaining this rotten institution."
"From Below The Balcony is aimed at a wide audience, whether you support Republic or not, whether you like the royals or not."
"Through inspiring, informative and entertaining content the podcast will show how issues of inequality, injustice and reform are connected."
"The podcast will include a range of guests from the worlds of entertainment, media, journalism, politics and campaigning."
"Through their stories and views, as we chat about the issues that matter to them, we will connect the cause of a republic to the ambition to change the country for good."
The podcast is set for an initial run of ten episodes, released every fortnight.
For more information visit www.republic.org.uk/podcast.
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