The British History Podcast

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.

This podcast episode explores the historical context of the Danish invasion in Britain and questions the accuracy of the sagas. It discusses the motives of the Great Heathen Army and the power struggles in Northumbria. The episode also delves into a desperate battle and challenges popular narratives. Lastly, it explores the aftermath of the Danish invasion and the establishment of a puppet kingdom in York.

Exploring the suffering caused by the Great Heathen Army in East Anglia. The chapter discusses divine retribution, personal guilt, and the presence of the Danes. It also explores the formation and leadership of the Viking army. Detailed account of the political situation in Northumbria. Discusses logistical challenges and strategic planning. Explores the origin and evolution of the name 'York'.

Discussion about King Aethelred and the challenges he faces. The presence, origins, and growth of the Great Army. The problem of mutiny and disloyalty faced by the Anglo-Saxons. The rise of Gwyneth and the invasion of East Anglia. The devastating effects of the invasion and the payment of the Danegeld.

Jamie Redfern, a historical enthusiast, joins the 200th episode. Debunking pseudo history and the Roman occupation, debunking the Great Man Theory, answering questions about Britons seeking help and obtaining accurate historical accounts, discussing the lack of romantic attraction to historical figures, and lightheartedly debating the romantic potential of Gildes.

A look into the transfer of the Wessex kingdom after the death of King AEthelberht and the challenges faced by King Athelred. The debate over the existence of the wit-hand as an early form of parliament. The succession agreement between brothers Athelred and Alfred to avoid civil war.