The British History Podcast

Controversial rise of King Harold and the challenges he faced, societal dynamics of chivalric knights, political landscape in medieval England and Normandy, contrasting nobilities and Duke William's reaction

As King Edward's impending death brings uncertainty, foreign powers eye the throne. The Godwin family feud and downfall of the kingdom are revealed through poems and ancient sources. The significance of the poems in the Vita is explored, challenging traditional views. Contradictions in the poetry of the Vida Edwardi present Godwin and his sons as responsible for England's downfall. The poetry in the Vita Ædwardi Regis comments on the political situation and explores the implications for Tostig and Harold. Tostig's alleged cannibalism and alliance with Harold bring peace. The Christmas court and King Edward's failing health were notable events. King Edward dies from a stroke, leaving uncertainty about the throne.

A 14th century monk made it weird. Or Wyrd? I dunno… it’s weirdly wyrd, though. The post 2021 Halloween Special first appeared on The British History Podcast.

It was 1065.  And King Edward was falling ever more ill. The post 382 – Bros Before Thrones first appeared on The British History Podcast.

After the traitorous murder of King Gruffydd,  Harold returned to England victorious… and as for Wales.  Well, their King had been assassinated and their lands were carved up between rival nobles who were subservient to England. The post 381 – Weekend at William’s first appeared on The British History Podcast.

Up in the hills of Snowdonia, pinned between the sea and the English midlands, King Gruffydd fought against the invading forces of the Godwinsons.  And he was giving the English such a hard time that even  the Life of King Edward admits it in the record. The post 380 – Everybody Is Killing Everybody Else And Nobody Is Talking About It: Part 3 first appeared on The British History Podcast.

Earl AElfgar and his alliance with King Gruffydd of Wales was likely the one true barrier that stood between Harold Godwinson and the throne of England. The post 379 – Everybody Is Killing Everybody Else And Nobody Is Talking About It: Part 2 first appeared on The British History Podcast.

On the year 1059, there is an enigmatic entry in the Welsh Chronicle. The post 378 – Everybody is killing everybody else and no one is talking about it first appeared on The British History Podcast.

Water, and the ability to control water ways, was an important aspect in the Welsh imagination. In fact, the importance of Welsh power on the seas even appears in the Mabinogion. The post 377 – The King of Wales first appeared on The British History Podcast.

The podcast explores the warring between Scottish kings, the mysterious death of a king in Wales, the differences in English and Welsh systems of administration, fortification strategies in medieval Wales and England, and the military strategy of Welsh kings.