

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

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.

Dec 4, 2020 • 26min
361 – W A Poet
This podcast explores King Edward's ascension to the throne, his revenge against Queen Emma, and the political challenges he faced. It also discusses the absence of Norman nobles at Edward's coronation, Harold's time as a mercenary and imprisonment in Constantinople, political intrigue and alliances in the Byzantine Empire during Empress Zoe's reign, and Edward's complex relationships and political marriages.

Nov 19, 2020 • 30min
360 – The Long Game
Explore the challenges faced by Macbeth as he ascends to the throne of Scotland through regicide. Discover the battles between Macbeth and Yarl Thorfinn, and the political maneuverings and alliances that threaten his rule. Uncover the rise of Swain Estrasin and the battle against the invading Wens. Join the journey of King Magnus and his victorious return home.

Oct 30, 2020 • 29min
359 – Play Autocrat Games; Win Autocrat Prizes
Explore the controversial arrival of Hartha Knute as the new king in England in 1040, his foreign ruling style, the formation of a rebel alliance, the Battle of Worcester and the delayed royal response, a brutal order and the refuge on an island, the aftermath of the attack on Worcester, and the reign of King Arthur Knut and the invitation of Edward.

Oct 23, 2020 • 10min
The Witch of Fife
A man confronts his wife about her rumored witchcraft. Witches in Fife engage in magical activities and gain powers. An old man tries to uncover his wife's secrets. A man faces consequences for meddling with witches.