

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

4 snips
Dec 16, 2013 • 26min
107 – Edwin’s Conversion
Exploring Edwin's potential conversion to Christianity, his skepticism, and the challenges of converting in a polytheistic society. The efforts of Pope Boniface and Edwin's contemplation, seeking counsel's opinion. Doubts expressed by Koife and the discussion of conversion and temple desecration.

Dec 6, 2013 • 24min
106 – If You Give Edwin an Inch…
The podcast explores the rise of Edwin as King of Northumbria, his quest for revenge on King Ceretic of Elmet, the clash of kings in Essex, Edwin's marriage and alliances, the rise of Christianity, and the assassination attempt on Edwin.

4 snips
Nov 25, 2013 • 56min
105 – Sutton Hoo: Treasures of the Dead
Explore the significance and history of the artifacts found in Mound One of Sutton Hoo, including the helmet, sword, and other objects. Learn about burial practices and the agency of the deceased. Delve into the intricate design and craftsmanship of the sword, hilt, and scabbard. Discover various artifacts found at the Sutton Hoo burial site and their possible connections to Christianity and Celtic origins. Test your knowledge with a British history pub quiz. Explore historical events and figures related to Sutton Hoo.

Nov 14, 2013 • 23min
104 – Sutton Hoo: The Finding of Raedwald… and Rabbits
Raedwald, King of East Anglia and Bretwalda, is connected to the famous archaeological site Sutton Hoo. The podcast explores the discovery and excavation of Sutton Hoo, revealing Roman and Byzantine style decorations and remarkable artifacts like Anastasia's dish complex and drinking horns. The finds became the property of Edith and were donated to the British Museum.

Nov 6, 2013 • 22min
103 – Edwin the Conqueror
This podcast delves into the challenges faced by Edwin and Raidwald in establishing their authority over the northern Anglian kingdoms. It explores Ethel Frith's sons' claim to power, the consequences faced by their supporters, and the disappearance of a woman from history. The chapter also explores the exile of prince Oswald and the alliances forged between dynasties, as well as the rising power of ruler Edwin in the North.

Oct 28, 2013 • 24min
102 – Have Exile, Will Travel
This podcast explores the challenges faced by Edwin during his exile, his journey from exile to East Anglia, the high stakes of warfare and the temptation faced by King Raidwald, tensions and preparations for war against Aethl Frith, and the pressure faced by younger warriors to live up to their ancestors' legacy.

Oct 21, 2013 • 26min
101 – I Ran (So Far Away): The Life and Times of Edwin of Deira
This podcast explores the significance of Northumbria in the overall narrative, the challenges faced by Edwin and his dynasty as they sought sanctuary, and the bias in how historical figures are perceived. It also examines the difficult decision faced by King Radewald of East Anglia and the role of advisors and chance in historical events.

Oct 8, 2013 • 22min
100 – There’s a New Barber In Town
The podcast explores the cultural and social significance of hair throughout history, including its impact on identity and social status. It discusses long hair among the upper classes, the meaning of haircuts, and the influence of Christianity on gender relations. The podcast also includes a book review of Seamus Haney's Beowulf.

Oct 1, 2013 • 30min
99 – False Starts
This podcast episode explores religious conversions and power dynamics in early Anglo-Saxon Britain, including the efforts of Augustine to expand Christianity, the pressures faced by King Saborte to convert, the factors contributing to Kent's wealth, the system of multiple kings in Kent, a period of war and religious conflict, and the consequences of King Sabert's death.

Sep 25, 2013 • 35min
98 – The Zeal of Augustine
The Pope's involvement in establishing the English Church, the persistence of paganism in Kent and its impact on fashion, the transition to a stratified society through Kent's laws, the clash between British Christians and the new archbishop, and early religious fault lines in the English church and King Aethelbert's concerns.