

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

Nov 17, 2016 • 29min
223 – King Alfred and Chippenham
Podcast explores King Alfred's difficulties in 877, including the loss of coastal strongholds and dominance of Guthrum's military. The burial of a king in Nantua and feasting traditions during King Alfred's time are discussed. Guthrum's successful sneak attack on Chippenham and Alfred's escape are also mentioned.

Nov 11, 2016 • 23min
222 – Viking Kings and The Black Pool
The podcast explores the establishment of a Viking trading center in Dublin and the conflicts and betrayals within its leadership. It also delves into Guthrum's struggles in securing loyalty and the capture of Gloucester as a strategic base. Additionally, it discusses the challenges faced by King Cholwulf II of Mercia, including dealing with Guthrum's puppet king status and the arrival of Danish armies.

Nov 3, 2016 • 26min
221 – Alfred and Guthrum: The Price of Peace
Alfred raises an army to besiege a port town while negotiating with Guthrum. Guthrum's consolidation of power and the dilemma Alfred faces. The devastating consequences of a thick fog on the approaching Viking fleet. The stalemate and resolution of the situation.

Oct 29, 2016 • 32min
220 – Alfred and Guthrum: Magic, Madness, Heaven, Sin
Viking attack on Rouen, death of King Louis, splitting of Frankish kingdom, Guthrum's winter attack on Wessex, Guthrum's stealthy march through Wessex, Guthrum's strategic takeover of Warum, challenges of assembling forces for Alfred, historical trivia and questions.

Oct 21, 2016 • 19min
219 – The Halloween Special: The Statement of Randolph Carter
The Halloween Special of a British History podcast explores HP Lovecraft's story. The narrator talks about their experiences with Harley Warren, an ancient cemetery expedition, uncovering a sepulchre, and the decision to stay on the surface. The chapter ends with a distressing message and the revelation of the companion's death.

Oct 19, 2016 • 39min
218 – The Kingdom of Jorvik
Explore the obscure history of Orkney and its recent transformations. Discover the strategic importance of Orkney and the Shetlands for the Northmen. Learn about the settlement of the Kingdom of Jorvik and its impact on the region. Dive into the transition and conversion of warriors in Jorvik. Discuss the aftermath of the Danish invasion in Northumbria and East Anglia. Explore the nuanced reality of the Viking era and King Egbert II's reign.

Oct 6, 2016 • 28min
217 – Halfdan’s Ravaging of the North
This podcast explores the ancient British kingdom Alt-Clute and its challenges, including Viking sieges and currency reform. It also delves into how King Alfred used coins to establish his authority and the naval victory of the West Saxon fleet.

Sep 29, 2016 • 32min
216 – The Great Heathen Army: Always Be Prepared
This podcast explores the impact of the Great Heathen Army on the Anglo-Saxon kingdoms, including Alfred's guerrilla war against the Vikings and his victory. It also delves into the motivations and actions of the Great Army leaders, the Viking occupation, and preparations for war. A Pub Quiz about historical events related to the Great Heathen Army is included.

Sep 16, 2016 • 51min
215 – King Burgred and the end of the Danish Sausage Fest
This episode of the podcast explores the occupation of Mercia by Halfdan, the Danish attack on Repton, the controversy surrounding sexing human remains in archaeological digs, and the presence of female immigrants in Repton. It also discusses the roles of Scandinavian women in Viking remains and challenges existing assumptions about gender roles in the Viking Age.

Sep 4, 2016 • 24min
214 – National Lampoon’s Viking Vacation
King Half-Dan receives Danegeld from Mercia and Wessex, resides in London. Fate of London citizens under Danish occupation. Half-Dan faces challenges of mutiny and loss of Jorvik. Decision-making and consequences of paying Danegeld. Half-Dan's return south and march to Repton.