The British History Podcast

Jamie Jeffers
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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Jan 16, 2016 • 27min

189 – What on earth is an English

This podcast discusses the emergence and significance of the English people in Eastern Britain during the ninth century. It explores the challenges in understanding English unity and identity, as well as the formation of a new community through trust and trade. Additionally, it delves into 'othering' in the Viking Age and the role of English identity as a unifying force.
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Jan 8, 2016 • 28min

188 – Rebellion and Succession in the Kingdom of Wessex

This podcast explores topics such as Viking armies marching near the Wrekin, a rebellion in Wessex after King Aethelwulf's marriage to Queen Judith, the rise of Rodry Maurer as king of the Britons, a succession crisis in Wessex, limited rights for Princesses and European women, and the difficult journey of Judith after her scandalous marriage.
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Jan 2, 2016 • 27min

187 – The Queen of Wessex: aka The Worst Midlife Crisis Ever

Exploring the Viking invasion routes and their impact on settlements, high mortality rate of Anglo-Saxon kings due to Viking attacks, King Aethalwolf's trip to Rome and the decimation of his lands, political dynamics within the Wessex dynasty and the consequences of Princess Judith's marriage.
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Dec 19, 2015 • 20min

186 – Wessex: A story of Myth building, Opportunism, and Annexation

This podcast explores the rise of the powerful House of Wessex, their expansion into Mercia, and their consolidation of power in the south. It delves into the mysterious succession and disappearance of the Mercian king and his family, raising questions about the new king and a possible coup. The episode also highlights the manipulation of events by Wessex to gain more control and power. Additionally, it discusses the lack of information about Welsh history and the tragic losses suffered by Wales. Furthermore, it examines the doubts surrounding Alfred's consecration as king and the historical discrepancies in the records.
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Dec 11, 2015 • 33min

185 – Building the House of Wessex

This podcast explores the rise of Wessex under King Egbert and King Aethal Wolf, their shift towards centralized leadership, and their relationship with the church. It also discusses the impact of extreme wealth disparity in Western Europe, power struggles among dynasties, and the House of Wessex's strategic management of relationships with the church and nobility. Additionally, it delves into battles with Viking invaders, the challenges faced by Anglo-Saxons, and the experiences of civilians during the Viking invasion.

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