

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

May 3, 2017 • 1h 38min
The Achavanich Beaker Burial Project: Discovering Ava with Maya Hoole
Maya Hoole, an archaeologist and researcher, discusses the fascinating Achavanich Beaker Burial Project and the discovery of Ava, a Bronze Age woman. Topics include facial reconstruction, funding challenges, archaeological objects, the significance of flint and cattle bone, bronze age inspired gin, controversy surrounding naming, food consumption and status, the life and burial of Ava, pursuing passions, accessing information, and the CAMOR database.

Apr 27, 2017 • 26min
241 – Haesten
Alfred's reaction to a massive Viking fleet, the accuracy of 'The Last Kingdom' TV show, Alfred's fortress and the arrival of Hastin, the threat of the fleet and King Alfred's strategy, negotiations with Hastin and the challenges of reconstructing historical events

Apr 21, 2017 • 29min
240 – Viking Roadshow: Rollo edition
Impending danger of a massive Viking fleet heading for Alfred's realm. Viking army's occupation in Wessex, battle with the Franks, and conquests in various territories. Siege of Paris with a defiant Count, fighting bishop, and the defense of the city.

Apr 13, 2017 • 31min
239 – The Dying Time
Unveiling hidden stories of overlooked historical figures, the aftermath of Guthram Athlstan's death and King Eric's succession, the fragmented nature of the Welsh kingdoms and Alfred's plans to annex the Midland kingdom pose challenges for the West Saxons. Aser's motive behind writing the life of Alfred is also explored.

Mar 31, 2017 • 29min
238 – A Patchwork of War
The powerful sons of Rhodri Mawr face the threat of war in Gwyneth. They consider forming an alliance with the Danes. The siege of London is explored, highlighting conflicting details. The fortification of London by King Alfred is discussed, along with his increasing assertiveness. King Alfred's insecurities and his close relationship with advisor Aser are also examined.

Mar 25, 2017 • 28min
237 – Asser
Asser, a man who sought common cause with the Danes of Jorvik and the ruler of vast swaths of Wales, talks about the sons of Rhodri joining forces with the Danes to prepare for war. The podcast explores the struggles of St. David's Monastery and Asser's journey to meet King Alfred the Great. It also discusses Asser's illness and return to St. David's, as well as the expansion of Wessex's dominion in Wales.

Mar 17, 2017 • 33min
236 – A Return to Scholarship
The podcast explores the reign of Alfred the Great and his dedication to knowledge, highlighting his pursuit of scholarly excellence. It also discusses his efforts to revive knowledge and scholars in his kingdom, the Viking invasion he faced, and the changes he implemented upon returning to the throne.

4 snips
Mar 10, 2017 • 24min
235 – Alfred’s Educational Reforms
Learn about Alfred's educational reforms and how his translations shed light on his personality as a king. Explore his views on Wessex and the Anglo-Saxon territories, his military and construction projects in Wessex, and his challenge of getting nobles to read. Discover how Alfred incorporated biblical laws in his own code, linking his rule to God's divine law.

Mar 3, 2017 • 27min
234 – The Sons of Rhodri and AEthelred’s Beautiful Hair
The podcast discusses the challenges of narrating historical events in the 880s due to a lack of chronological information. It explores Alfred's pursuit of power and Mercian unity, as well as King Rodgeri Maurer's successful resistance against Viking invasions. The podcast also delves into King Alfred's ambitions and the potential transformation of Wales under Roger the Great.

Feb 25, 2017 • 34min
233 – Alfred’s Powerplay and the Restructuring of Wessex
This podcast explores Guthrum-AEthelstan's cultural changes in East Anglia, including issuing coins and the impact on the elite supporters and peasants. It also discusses the restructuring of the Whitann and how Alfred consolidated his power. Additionally, it delves into Alfred's military reforms in response to the Danish threat and his construction of fortified settlements called 'burrs'.