The British History Podcast

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

The podcast explores the aftermath of the Battle of Englefield and the departure of Ragnar's sons from East Anglia. It challenges the belief of the Great Heathen Army's next move and discusses the strategic decision to target Wessex instead of Wales. The significance of Reading as an administrative center and a favorable location for invasion is highlighted. The brutal Battle of Englefield is described, where the west Saxons caught the Danes by surprise and broke their morale, leading to their retreat.

Explore the impact of Viking attacks on religious communities and the discrepancy between historical records and violent stories of atrocities. Challenge the belief of resilient monasteries suddenly folding in the face of the Great Heathen army. Highlight the need for collaboration between history and archaeology departments. Discuss the continuous religious activity in the Danelaw region and the transformation faced by Christian communities.

The podcast challenges the belief that the Great Heathen Army persecuted Christians in Britain. It explores the lack of reliable evidence for the destruction of Anglo-Saxon churches and discusses the changed motivations and culture of the Vikings. The chapter also examines the timing and authenticity of stories linking Piedabura to the Danes and highlights new evidence regarding the sacking of Medhamstead monastery. It emphasizes the importance of considering the context of historical accounts and the challenges of interpreting the archaeological record.

Exploring Prince Alfred's marriage and his sudden illness, the Danish invasion of Mercia and the battle between King Edmund and King Iver, the targeting of religious houses by the Great Heathen Army, and the return of Iver the Boneless causing troubles for the Anglo-Saxons.

The podcast discusses the strategic considerations of the Great Heathen Army as they head to Mercia. It explores the surprise Danish march to Nottingham and its impact on the Mercian Kingdom. The chapter delves into the siege of Snautingham and the consequences of Alfred's military campaign. It also discusses King Athlvert and the Great Army's events, including danggeld extraction and the conquest of Northumbria.