

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

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.

Aug 24, 2016 • 34min
213 – Danegelds, Peace, and Shame
This podcast explores the controversial concept of danggelds and challenges the Victorian perspective on its effectiveness in maintaining peace. It also discusses King Alfred's opportunism, Mercia's vulnerability to Danish raids, and the importance of retaking London. The betrayal of King Burgred and King Halfdan's triumph in Wessex are also explored, along with the troubles in Northumbria.

Aug 12, 2016 • 30min
212 – Alfred the Last AEtheling
The ongoing conflict between the House of Wessex and the invading army of Danes, Alfred's battles and legitimacy, dire situations faced by Wessex and Reading, the precarious position of King Alfred of Wessex

Jul 28, 2016 • 28min
211 – The Battles of Basing and Meretun
The podcast discusses the events and battles of January 871 in Anglo-Saxon England, highlighting the misconception that nothing notable happened. It explores the challenges faced by the West Saxons after their victory against the Danes, the Battle of Basing where the Danes emerged victorious, and questions the ambiguous details of the battle. It also covers the passing of the crown to Prince Alfred and various battles and political events in Wessex during the Viking Era.

Jul 19, 2016 • 34min
210 – The Battle of Ashdown
This podcast explores the Battle of Ashdown and the perspectives of the Anglo-Saxons in the 9th century. It delves into the trickery of the Danes and the contrasting actions of Prince Alfred and King Atharred during battle. Additionally, it examines the life and leadership style of Alfred the Great, and the preparations leading up to the critical turning point in the conflict.

Jul 8, 2016 • 20min
209 – The Battle of Reading
The podcast explores the occupation of Reading by the Danes, the aftermath of winning and losing battles, the gathering of King Athlered's army, the savage battle between the Wessexons and the Danes, and the contrasting perspectives on battle preparation.