

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

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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7 snips
Feb 27, 2022 • 1h 1min
389 – The Tyrant and the Muddy Crossing
The shores of Saint Valery must have been quite the sight. Looking at the records, which discuss the size of this fleet and other notes that let us estimate the size of the original fleet launched from the River Dives, and comparing those to the records of the fleet following it’s mooring at Saint Valery…historians […]
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4 snips
Feb 11, 2022 • 42min
388 – The Stupid Before The Storm
This podcast explores the intriguing life of King Harold Hadrada, including his reputation as a seductive warrior poet. It also delves into the tension and audacity of Tostig's plea for support in invading England. The preparations and waiting for invasion, as well as the challenges faced by William's fleet, add to the excitement. The devastating losses and William's desperate plea for divine intervention complete this thrilling episode.

4 snips
Jan 28, 2022 • 40min
387 – The Douche is Cast
War loomed in England as King Harold II faced political conflicts and sought support. William prepared for the invasion, framing it as a holy war. Troubles with knights and valuable skills affected crop and ship production. The Duke's tactics and motivations were analyzed. Tostig's journey to Scandinavia for support against his brother was explored.

8 snips
Jan 18, 2022 • 41min
386 – God’s Messenger
William had secured his promises. Each Baron and lesser noble of Normandy swore to serve him faithfully and take part the invasion of England. And William made sure the nerds wrote every single oath down on paper.
The post 386 – God’s Messenger first appeared on The British History Podcast.

7 snips
Jan 6, 2022 • 50min
385 – The Audacity of Boats
Ok nerds, take this down. Dear Harry, I was saddened to hear of King Edward’s death. but, I am writing to inform you that my beloved cousin promised me the throne a while back. Don’t worry if this is news to you, it was a secret so I understand if you are a little surprised. […]
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