

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

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
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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.

Jan 7, 2017 • 28min
228 – Alfred and Odda: The Audacity of Nope
Alfred and AEthelnoth bring the war to Guthrum, tactics and strategies in the battle, Abba's motivations in Wessex chaos, a surprise attack on the Vikingur camp

Dec 22, 2016 • 29min
227 – Alfred’s War for the Mind
The podcast discusses Alfred's guerrilla-style tactics in his fight against Guthrum and the challenges he faced in convincing his warriors. It also explores the moral quandary faced by Alfred, the role of belief in his war, and the advantages of guerrilla warfare. The podcast highlights the significance of perspective and cultural rules in rebel armies.

Dec 10, 2016 • 29min
226 – Alfred and Legitimacy: The First Steps to War
This podcast discusses the early steps of Alfred's guerrilla war against King Guthrum, exploring the conditions for guerrilla warfare and the legitimacy of Guthrum's rule. It delves into the internal struggle faced by Anglo-Saxon nobles and the significance of loyalty, cultural context, xenophobia, and religion in shaping their response.

Dec 1, 2016 • 31min
225 – Alfred in Somerset
In January 878, Alfred's dramatic flight through the marshy Somerset Levels reveals his struggle against Danish invaders. As he faces despair after being overthrown, Alfred's emotional turmoil adds depth to his story. The discovery of Athelny symbolizes hope amidst hardship, blending history with folklore. Moreover, the crafting of oral narratives elevates Alfred to a Christ-like figure, uniting the people of Wessex in their fight for freedom.

Nov 23, 2016 • 2min
224 – Chapter Six: Wessex
For generations, the Anglo Saxon dominance in eastern Britain has gone largely unchallenged. In the face of this, the warlike vagabonds that first came to these lands had been transformed into gentry. Power had calcified into the hands of a few, war had become a ritualized way for dynasties to settle arguments over wealth, and […]
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