

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

Apr 3, 2016 • 23min
198 – The Great Heathen Army Begins
The podcast explores the arrival of a powerful Scandinavian fleet in Kent and the threats they posed, as well as Viking raid strategies and tactics in the South of England. It also delves into the suspicious disappearances and deaths of kings during the Viking presence, and discusses Norse mythology's god identities and relationships.

Apr 1, 2016 • 1min
The April Fool’s Episode
Things are changing at the BHP, and here’s a preview!
The post The April Fool’s Episode first appeared on The British History Podcast.

Mar 26, 2016 • 48min
197 – The Sons of Ragnar Lodbrok (versus Battle-Cattle)
The podcast explores the fascinating story of the Great Heathen Army, the mythic and historical accounts of Ragnar Lothbrok and his sons, their revenge against King Alah, the creation of London, and the betrayal of the brothers. It also includes a pub quiz about historical figures and a discussion on Alfred the Great's life.

Mar 16, 2016 • 28min
196 – Vikings and Mercs and Franks. Oh My!
This podcast explores the Viking raid on Wessex and the challenges of interpreting historical accounts. It discusses the decline in Viking raids due to the hiring of Viking mercenaries and economic factors. It also delves into Alfred's search for relief from his illness through religion and medicine, and his education and preparation for war.

Mar 7, 2016 • 23min
195 – Red Sea Rising
Today's episode explores the succession and civil war in Britain, debunks the misconception of short life expectancies in Anglo-Saxons, discusses the unexpected crowning of King Athaburt of Kent, delves into the political instability and economic collapse in Northumbria, and explores Alfred's adolescent struggles and the emerging threat of the great heathen army.

Feb 27, 2016 • 37min
194 – My Big Fat Dark Age Wedding
In this episode, the podcast covers a range of fascinating topics including King AEthelbald of Wessex, Queen Judith, Bjorn Ironsides, Prince Alfred, King Charles the Bald, Pope Nicholas I, Baldwin Iron Arm, and Ivar the Boneless. It explores complex family dynamics, power struggles, Viking raids, and ambitious plans. The episode also delves into the dilemma of the new king and the agency and political skill of Queen Judith. Additionally, it unravels the love story of Baldwin and Judith, and how their defiance led to the rise of Flanders as a dominant force in France.

Feb 21, 2016 • 34min
193 – Alfred the Young Part Two
This podcast delves into the personal life of Alfred the Young, discussing his upbringing as a skilled hunter and his frustration with illiteracy. It explores his childhood experiences, the importance of his mother's loss, and comparisons to another historical figure. The podcast also explores Queen Osbor's lineage, the challenges Alfred faced after his mother's death, his journey to Rome and Francia, and the reasons behind an important alliance. Additionally, it delves into Alfred's anger and its impact on his parenting style.

Feb 13, 2016 • 22min
192 – Alfred the Young
The podcast explores the succession of King Athelwulf to the Kingdom of Wessex and the forgiveness of his past rebellion. It delves into the challenges and potential importance of Alfred the Great's childhood. It discusses the fallibility of memory and its implications on historical accounts. It examines Alfred the Great's early life, upbringing, and education, highlighting his love for hunting. It also explores contrasting narratives about Alfred's literacy and personality.

Feb 6, 2016 • 26min
191 – Urban Fervor
This podcast explores the significant changes happening in Britain during the era of Danelaw and the rise of Alfred the Great. Topics discussed include the development of urban centers, the growth of trade towns, the importance of specialized settlements, and the collapse of trading towns during the Viking Age.

Jan 29, 2016 • 43min
190 – House (of Wessex): Everybody Lies
Addressing pronunciation issues with Aethilbert and revealing little-known facts about the House of Wessex. Exploring conflicting narratives and political motives in historical sources. Delving into the truth about life in southern Britain through the selective reporting in Aser and the Chronicle. Manipulating the Christian community and using propaganda as a sickly leader. Exploring the Viking threat and historical events related to the House of Wessex in Anglo-Saxon England.