The British History Podcast

This podcast explores the contradictions and complexities of Athelstan's reign, discussing his piety, generosity, and ruthless military leadership. It delves into Britain's rare period of peace in the 10th century and the impact of violence on society. Athelstan's leniency in military demands, strategic marriages, and acceptance of refugees boosted England's manpower. The arrival of clergy and holy relics shaped England's culture, economy, and status. The challenges of creating a unified kingdom and annexing different kingdoms are explored, highlighting the influence of archbishops and nobles.

The podcast explores King AEthelstan's aggression towards the Kingdoms of Wales and Cornwall. It delves into the establishment of the Welsh border, integration of Welsh kings into AEthelstan's court, and the adoption of English methods of rule. It also discusses AEthelstan's triumphs in defeating Scandinavian kings, attracting foreign princes through marriage, and dealing with pirates and Viking attacks. The challenges of governing his double-stuffed kingdom and his diplomatic alliance with King Henry the Fowler are also explored.

From a disfavored bastard to the most powerful English king, this podcast explores King Athelstan's rise to power and his achievements in expanding his kingdom. It also dives into the impact of the Welsh on Anglo-Saxon politics, the reign of Who Will Thought and his kingdom of the High Barth, and the relationships between the Welsh kingdoms and the English. Additionally, it highlights the dangers of justifying atrocities and the importance of learning from history.

This podcast explores the strategic choices and diplomatic relationships of King AEthelstan as he annexes Jorvik. Topics include the pursuit of rivals, the capture and surrender of an enemy claimant, the significance of feasting and drinking in bonding and diplomacy, establishing peace with the King of Dublin through cultural exchanges, and the strategic choices made by AEthelstan to unify England under his rule.

This podcast explores the political tools of AEthelstan, such as marriage alliances and fostering. It discusses the opposition faced by Athlstan, the rise of Yorvik, and the unexpected alliance between Athlstan and King Citric. The consequences of apostasy, the suspicious death of King Citric, and the downfall of Edward and Athlstan's arrangements are also explored.

Unraveling King AEthelstan's love life and the theories surrounding his lack of an heir. Examining the evidence of his relationships, including the mention of a possible wife named Maude. Exploring speculation about his sexuality and the challenges he faced in Wessex. Discussing his role as a guardian and father figure to the next generation of monarchs.

Explore the absence of Edward's death in the Irish annals and the concept of dynastic cults in ancient Britain. Discover the power dynamics and shifting relationships between Old Minster and Sherborne in Wessex. Delve into the establishment of double monasteries and the cultivation of a patron saint for Wessex.

In this podcast, they discuss the challenge of presenting new historical information and the cognitive bias towards well-known figures. They celebrate King Athelstan, a beloved but overshadowed figure in 12th century England. They explore his piety and contrasting predecessors, and highlight his generosity and ruthlessness, describing him as a thunderbolt.

Learn about the challenges faced by King AEthelstan in Anglo-Saxon England and how he strategically used marriage to enhance his political power. Explore the marriages of his siblings and half-siblings for securing alliances. Discover the significance of the meeting between AEthelstan and King Citric in reshaping British diplomatic relations.

This podcast discusses the complex rule of King Edward and his achievements in expanding Anglo-Saxon land. It explores the accounts written by William and their significance in preserving historical knowledge. The contrasting approaches of King Alfred and Edward in securing heirs are analyzed. The relationships between other kings and Edward, as well as the Welsh rebellion against him, are examined. The podcast also delves into the succession crisis in Wessex and the rise of Athlstan as king.