

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

10 snips
Apr 22, 2021 • 34min
370 – Breaking Bread
Medieval church pluralism, conflicts between Rome and Constantinople, events leading to the Great Schism, King Edward's religious devotion, and the motivations behind the construction of Westminster Abbey are discussed in this episode.

Apr 12, 2021 • 27min
Bonus Episode from the Archive: The Poet’s Curse
Explore the power and fear associated with poets and their curses throughout history. Discover the story of a king challenging the chief poet of Ireland, leading to a threat of curses. Also, uncover the mystery of the location of Fatad Eric Theok's grave and the return of a warrior from the past.

6 snips
Mar 26, 2021 • 34min
369 – Move or You Will Be Moved: Part 4
The podcast discusses the Godwins' plans for invasion and the mobilization of forces to protect the coast. It also covers the aftermath of a storm that affected both fleets and the raiding campaign launched by Earl Godwin and his son Harold. Additionally, the podcast highlights various battles and conflicts taking place during this period and Godwin's armada leading the invasion of London. Lastly, it explores the spiritual pilgrimage and mysterious death of Swain Godwinson.

6 snips
Mar 19, 2021 • 23min
368 – Move or You Will Be Moved: Part 3
Explore the virtues and significance of the four guarantors of England's peace and the consequences of breaking the pact. Analyze a poem comparing Godwin and his children to Christian martyrs. Discover Godwin's strategic moves for social improvement and reconciliation. Delve into the recruitment efforts in Flanders and the importance of gaining local support. Uncover the symbolism and PR strategy behind England's re-issued coinage.

Mar 2, 2021 • 22min
367 – Move, or You Will Be Moved Part 2
Swegn Godwinson's exile and the Godwins' dependence on the king's mercy, tense negotiations between Godwin and King Edward, the beginning of the purge of the Godwins, Duke William of Normandy's visit to King Edward, and the potential plot between Duke William and Count Eustace II to ignite a civil war in England.

Feb 27, 2021 • 32min
366 – Move, or You Will Be Moved: Part 1
In this podcast, the summer of 1051 is explored where a French aristocrat instigated violence in Dover, resulting in the massacre of townspeople. The conflicting duties faced by Earl Godwin, the power dynamics between noblemen, and alliances between Normandy, Flanders, and Denmark are discussed. Additionally, the impact of honor culture, escalating conflicts, and the preparations for a potential civil war in England are examined.

Feb 13, 2021 • 38min
365 – The Red Cliffs of Dover
In this podcast, the host explores the diplomatic trips of Thorfinn, Macbeth, and Swain Godwinson to Rome, their motivations for visiting, and the consequences of Swain's actions. The power dynamics between Godwin and Bishop Eldred are discussed, along with the tensions and succession concerns in the kingdom. The process of selecting the next Archbishop of Canterbury is also explored.

Jan 31, 2021 • 30min
364 – Reconciliation
The podcast explores the benefits and drawbacks of living in an interconnected society, the vulnerability of specialization, and the impact of Scandinavian events on British history. It discusses the struggles of average individuals during the Viking raids, Count Baldwin's involvement in Viking activity, and Bjorn's tragic murder during his voyage with Swain Godwin.

Jan 13, 2021 • 29min
363 – Treason!
The podcast discusses the political ascent of Earl Godwin and his family in England, their exile and potential involvement in the Norse invasion. It also explores Macbeth's early reign in Scotland and the opposition he faced, as well as the complex political situation involving Denmark, Norway, and England. The power struggles and divisions within the court are also examined, highlighting Earl Godwin's diminishing influence and the pressures faced by Swain Godwinson.

Dec 9, 2020 • 29min
362 – Meet the Godwins
Discover the complex and messy history of humans across time. Explore King Edward's marriage to Edith, Queen Edith's efforts to enhance the king's palace, the Godwin family's rise to power, and King Gruffeth's struggles ruling Gwyneth amidst Viking problems.