The STRANGE History of the Potsdam Giants

Get early episodes & ad-free audio on Patreon: https://patreon.com/DrowsyHistorian History remembers Prussia for its iron discipline and military brilliance. But hidden in that reputation is one of the strangest regiments ever assembled: the Potsdam Giants. These soldiers weren’t chosen for courage, loyalty, or tactical skill — they were chosen for being exceptionally tall. In this episode, we explore the bizarre world of the Lange Kerls , a regiment prized by King Frederick William I not for battle, but for spectacle. From kidnappings and diplomatic “gifts” of tall men, to failed breeding experiments and endless ceremonial parades, the Potsdam Giants reveal the absurd lengths a monarch could go to indulge his obsession. 🛏️ Drowsy Historian’s Favorite Sleep Tools Looking to upgrade your nighttime routine? These are a few things I personally use or recommend: • Sleep Earbuds for Enhanced Immersion → https://amzn.to/4pVFoJy • Blanket Soft Enough to Make the Plague Feel Tolerable → https://amzn.to/3GSOq8f • Weighted Blanket for Pretending You’re a Mummified Pharaoh → https://amzn.to/4kVJCgE • Sleep Mask Headphones For Total Historical Escape → https://amzn.to/4nWsNVn • Book Light for Reading About Plagues at 2AM → https://amzn.to/4eSg0iu • White Noise Machine for Blocking Out the 21st Century → https://amzn.to/3GJ9jTw These are affiliate links. I may earn a small commission if you purchase through them—at no extra cost to you. Thanks for supporting the show while staying cozy. #History #Prussia #MilitaryHistory #StrangeHistory #DrowsyHistorian #Documentary #WeirdHistory