The History of England
David Crowther
This my re-telling of the story of England. I aim to be honest, and rigorous - but always loving of my country's history. It is a regular, chronological podcast, starting from the end of Roman Britain. There are as many of the great events I can squeeze in, of course, but I also try to keep an eye on how people lived, their language, what was important to them, the forces that shaped their lives and destinies, that sort of thing. To listen free of adverts, support the podcast, access a library of 150+ hours of shedcasts of me warbling on, and get new shedcasts every month, why not become a member at https://thehistoryofengland.co.uk/become-a-member ? You know it makes sense... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Episodes
Mentioned books
35 snips
Oct 16, 2011 • 27min
38 Born of the Devil - the Angevins
Geniuses, devils, spoilt brats, villains, heroes; war, sex, violence, bravery, treachery, peace, reform... the Angevins that founded the Plantagenet dynasty have it all, in spades. Not so much history, as soap opera. This week we kick things off with the arrival of Henry II and Eleanor on the English throne.... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
45 snips
Oct 9, 2011 • 30min
37 12th Century Life - Village, Town and Trade
This podcast explores the daily lives of ordinary people in 12th century England. It discusses population growth, 12th century society and village structure, living conditions and agricultural practices. It also touches on the changing economy and social topics of the time.
25 snips
Oct 1, 2011 • 28min
36 Magnates and Churchmen
Delve into the intriguing rise of William the Marshal, whose journey from a humble knight to a powerful Earl mirrors the tumultuous politics of medieval England. Discover the vibrant clash between Anglo-Saxon and Norman cultures and how a nobleman's honor was defended in tournaments. Unravel the complexities of court life and governance under Henry II, alongside the exploration of monastic life and the Knights Templar's pivotal role in medieval society, blending faith, power, and intrigue.
39 snips
Sep 25, 2011 • 29min
35 12th Century Life - A Knight's Tale
This podcast explores the life of William the Marshal, a renowned knight in 12th century England. It discusses the violent nature of medieval society, the importance of loyalty and personal reputation, and the financial obligations and choices faced by knights. It also explores William's setback and eventual rise in his career as he navigates danger and finds success.
15 snips
Sep 18, 2011 • 28min
34 Anarchy III - Resolution
In this podcast, Stephen and Matilda struggle for power until Matilda leaves the stage. Key supporters die weakening her strength. Her son Henry takes over and the power dynamics shift in Normandy. Stephen faces challenges as king in a troubled kingdom.
21 snips
Sep 11, 2011 • 27min
33 Anarchy II - Matilda's Big Chance
In this podcast, the host discusses the tumultuous year of 1141 in England's history. They explore the capture of the king at the Battle of Lincoln, Matilda's attempt to seize the throne, and the negotiations and betrayals that followed. With intriguing insights into medieval warfare and political maneuvering, this episode offers a fascinating look into the chaos and power struggle of the time.
15 snips
Sep 4, 2011 • 31min
32 When Christ and his Saints Slept
'...they said openly that christ and his saints slept'. This stunning phrase gives us an image of devastation hat led to the period being called 'The Anarchy'. In this episode, we look at how the Stephen came to power and how the whole thing started. Click and play podcast: 32... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Aug 14, 2011 • 29min
31 Henry I - Normandy and the Succession
This podcast episode explores the challenges Henry faced in holding onto Normandy and the toll it took on his resources. It also discusses the dangers of childbirth and childhood in that historical time period, as well as Henry's ongoing conflicts with various nobles in Normandy. The episode delves into the events following Henry's control of Normandy and the challenges he faced, including the tragic death of his son. It ends by highlighting King Henry I's successful reign and his skills in diplomacy, administration, and governance.
Aug 7, 2011 • 28min
30 Henry I - Barons, Warfare and Wales
In this podcast, they discuss Henry I's replacement of old conquest families, the changing warfare tactics since Anglo Saxon times, and Henry's control over his barons and Welsh Marchal Lords.
Jul 31, 2011 • 28min
29 England in the reign of Henry I
Discover the intriguing life and reign of Henry I, marked by an era of surprising peace amidst earlier strife. Dive into the church and state tensions that required urgent reform and the heavy taxation that fueled battles in Normandy. Learn about Henry's innovative administrative practices, like the Exchequer system, which laid groundwork for modern governance. Explore the complex familial ties and the controversial legacy of Bishop Ranulf, as the episode uncovers a pivotal moment in English history.
