Dan Jones on England’s Greatest Warrior King, with Kate Williams, Part Two

Oct 17, 2024

Dan Jones, a historian renowned for his insights into medieval English monarchy, teams up with Kate Williams, a historian and novelist specializing in British history. They discuss the complex legacy of Henry V, exploring his military triumphs, including the pivotal Battle of Agincourt, and the societal challenges he faced. The conversation highlights how Henry's leadership both stabilized England and sowed seeds of future conflict. They delve into the strategic decisions that shaped his reign and the intertwining of his personal and political ambitions.

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ANECDOTE

Delayed Succession

Henry V was expected to succeed his ailing father, Henry IV, but the king clung to power.
This delayed Henry V's coronation until he was 26, teaching him a valuable lesson about usurpation.

INSIGHT

Reclaiming France

Henry V aimed to reclaim French lands, viewing it as his birthright.
He cleverly consolidated power and addressed domestic unrest before pursuing this costly endeavor.

ANECDOTE

Agincourt Campaign

Henry V's Agincourt campaign was ambitious, but faced setbacks like illness and dwindling supplies.
Despite advice to retreat, he pressed on, leading to the famous battle.

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This is the second instalment of a three-part episode. Henry V reigned over England for nine years and four months before he died at the early age of 35. He was known as a hardened, sometimes brutal, warrior, yet one who was also intelligent and artistic. He was a leader who made many mistakes, who misjudged his friends and family members, yet always seemed to triumph when it mattered. As king, he saved a shattered country from economic ruin, put down rebellions and secured England’s borders; in foreign diplomacy he made England a serious player on the world stage once more. Yet through his conquests in northern France, he sowed the seeds for three generations of calamity at home, in the form of the Wars of the Roses. In September 2024 historian Dan Jones came to Intelligence Squared to tell the epic story of this controversial historical figure. Drawing from his new book Henry V: The Astonishing Rise of England’s Greatest Warrior King, Jones explained why Henry is such an important figure in English history and why his legacy still inspires cultural and political leaders today. Jones was joined in conversation by historian, broadcaster and novelist Kate Williams.

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