

The British History Podcast
Jamie Jeffers
The BHP is a chronological retelling of the history of Britain with a particular focus upon the lives of the people. You won’t find a dry recounting of dates and battles here, but instead you’ll learn about who these people were and how their desires, fears, and flaws shaped the scope of this island at the edge of the world. And some of those desires are downright scandalous.
Episodes
Mentioned books

6 snips
Aug 8, 2022 • 35min
397 – William: The Devil Inside
William, associated with crowning England's new King in 1066, discusses aggressive behavior and destructive tendencies. The podcast talks about the chaos after his coronation, the knights setting London on fire, William's severe taxes, distribution of titles, and the quiet resentment of the English people.

8 snips
Jul 27, 2022 • 54min
396 – King William I of England
Duke William was experienced at wielding terror. Whether he was at home or on campaign, William often employed terror tactics. The people of France were well aware of this, and now the English were learning his skill first hand.
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Jul 5, 2022 • 47min
395 – Rearranging the Deck chairs on HMS England
It was autumn of 1066 and after weeks of deliberation, political wrangling, and arguing the English nobility had finally selected their next King. This may seem like a long time, considering there was a whole invasion happening at the time. And it was. But, to be fair, the politics were very confusing.
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Jun 10, 2022 • 45min
394 – Godwinson’s Revenge
The podcast discusses the aftermath of the Battle of Hastings, the burning of a castle by the Normans, the conditions and logistics of the Norman army, potential candidates for the English throne, the arrival of William and his men in Canterbury, and the English army's preparations for an attack.

May 20, 2022 • 33min
393 – To Kill a Legend
Here is how you probably heard the story of the Battle of Hastings. William the Conqueror boarded a ship, won a battle at Hastings, and was crowned King. Kingdom. Conqueror. Conquered.
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May 12, 2022 • 24min
392 – The Night is Dark and Full of Terrors
The podcast explores the chaos and brutality of medieval battles, including the risks English soldiers faced and the sadistic actions of Duke William during the Norman Conquest. It also highlights the English soldiers' tactical retreat and their tricky trap set up in a ravine.

May 2, 2022 • 1min
A Quick Update From Zee
A new shop talk episode dropped featuring an interview discussing the Battle of Hastings, covering major sources, common narratives, and scholarly debates. Z teases an upcoming regular episode and poses the question of how Harold actually died, mentioning various opinions from different sources.

Apr 28, 2022 • 4min
Chapter Nine – The Normans
The podcast explores the impact of the Norman invasion on England and the resistance of the English people against the invaders.

32 snips
Apr 18, 2022 • 3h 24min
391 – The Battle of Hastings
The podcast explores the devastating consequences of the Battle of Hastings, including the anxious wait for news of loved ones and William the Bastard's violent reputation. It also discusses the chaotic preparations to cross the sea again, Harold's emotional state, and the advantages of the chosen landing site. The consequences of power games played by aristocrats and the suffering inflicted upon New Romney are covered, as well as the Pope's support for William and the brutal tactics during the Battle of Hastings. The Carmen de Hastiné Proleo reveals the dark story of the battle, and challenges faced by Harold in defending England. The events leading to the battle, the lack of reliable eyewitness accounts, and the preparations and positioning of both armies are also discussed. The intense and brutal battle of Hastings is described, including a turning point that caused chaos and panic among the English soldiers.

22 snips
Mar 20, 2022 • 1h 17min
390 – Stamford Bridge
King Harold, his Huscarls, and the fyrd of Wessex were driving north as fast as they could.
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