

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 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'.

7 snips
Feb 19, 2017 • 58min
232 – Fifth Century Britain with Dr. Catherine Hills
Dr. Catherine Hills, expert on material culture, ethnicity, and Anglo Saxon migration discusses the complexities of the Early Anglo-Saxon period, challenges in pinpointing archaeological material from 5th century Britain, and the relationship between material culture and ethnic identity in Britain. Scandinavian contact in East Anglia and the impact of climate change are also explored.

Feb 11, 2017 • 1h 22min
231 – Anglo Saxon Economics and Money with Professor Rory Naismith
Professor Rory Naismith, an expert in Anglo Saxon Economics and Money, discusses the transition from food rent to coinage, the challenges of identifying coin mint locations, the hidden temple in Rome, the political and economic situation in 10th century Rome, Offer's symbolic hairstyle, the mystery of Offer's coin, the use of hack silver as a currency, and the church's role in the economy.

Feb 3, 2017 • 29min
230 – Guthrum Gets a Bath
Alfred's loss at Chippenham marks a turning point. Alfred plans an elaborate baptism ceremony for Guthrum, the pagan scourge. The claim that Alfred saved England from Vikings is questioned. The Viking army returns to Mercia causing political trouble.

Jan 30, 2017 • 13min
A Ten Year Old in WWII: A Memorial
Thank you for always being there for me, Nanna. <3 Support the Show
The post A Ten Year Old in WWII: A Memorial first appeared on The British History Podcast.

Jan 14, 2017 • 26min
229 – The Battle of Edington
Explore Alfred's guerrilla tactics and growing support against the Northmen. Discover the arrival of Alfred's army at the Battle of Edington and their crucial role. Witness the preparations for battle and Alfred's negotiations with Guthrum after the battle.