The British History Podcast

This podcast reveals a tale of palace intrigue, murder, and unusual hair loss that starts with a real estate transaction. It explores the mystery of who received Canute's lands among the Thorkels, delves into a trial involving murder and perjury, and discusses the significance of Thorkel the Tall as a formidable Viking nobleman and potential rebellion threat during Canut's rule.

Exploring the significance of Shrove Tuesday and the beginning of Lent. The connection between Lent, Shrove Tuesday, and Carnival. The difference between Mardi Gras and Shrove Tuesday in the UK. The origins of Shrove Tuesday and the tradition of pancake making.

Contrasting historical accounts of King Cnut, the transition from the Age of Athelred to the Age of Knute, the influence of climate change on England's prosperity, Knute's interest in Denmark's fertile land, and his rivals and alliances.

King Cnut of England made smart moves such as outlawing corruption, marrying Queen Emma of Normandy, and gaining support from English collaborators. He imposed heavy taxes, defeated a Viking army, and eliminated the threat of Viking raids. The podcast also explores the accusations against King Harold II and the challenges faced by King Cnut after his brother's death.

Cnut rejects execution of English claimants, Outlaws Eadwig, and exiles Edmund's sons to Sweden. Uncertainty around Cnut's marriage proposal to Emma. Cnut rewards loyal companions after raids on Worcester. Accounts and embellishments of Edric's execution. Knute executes resistance members and reconciles with Edwig. Knute deals with ally's betrayal by strategically executing him.

The podcast explores the unexpected outcome of King Edmund losing the kingdom to Cnut, the dynamics between them, the culture of corruption, Cnut's rise to power, his strategies to secure his position as king, and his hidden tactics.

King Edmund Ironside's progress in his war, surprise attack on Clayhanger, failed assault on London, preparations and beginning of battle, exchange of hostages and division of kingdoms, uncertainty of King Edmund Ironside's death

This episode of the podcast explores the rise of King Edmund Ironside and the challenges he faces in maintaining power. It discusses the division of power in Northumbria, the Danish siege of London, and the controversial account of Queen Emma's betrayal. It also delves into the first battle between King Edmund and the Danes at Pencilwood.

Explore the ancient roots of Christmas as a winter feast and the significance of winter feasts in building bonds, the brutal campaign launched by Canute and Edrich in 1016, the unintended consequences of military reforms, the failures of kings and nobles, and the downfall of King Atharad and the challenges faced by the nobles of London.

Noble brothers Morcar and Sigeferth join the Wulf dynasty, face a royal assault, and receive land from King Athloret. The Northern Lords navigate uncertainty after Forkbeard's death. Murder, power plays, and Prince Edmond's rebellion against his father. Edmund marries Sigafert's widow for political gain. Complex network of alliances and power struggles in Denmark and England.