The British History Podcast

Explore the challenges of interpreting 11th century Welsh history and the difficulties faced by King Gruffith in maintaining a united kingdom. Learn about the impact of the Norman Conquest on the English church, the replacement of local traditions with Norman-approved rituals, and the discontent among English and continental churchmen. Follow Count Folk's rise to power and William the Conqueror's conquest of England, including a brawl between Archbishop John of Rouen and local monks. Join Edgar's ill-fated rebellion and his apology to King William after a shipwreck.

The podcast explores the reign of King Malcolm Canmore in Scotland and his marriage to Margaret, sister of Edgar the Athling. It discusses William's worries about Scotland as a sanctuary for English nobles and his decision to gather a formidable army. The podcast also delves into controversies over clergy celibacy and power struggles within the delegation to Rome. It highlights King William's land grab in Scotland and the rise of France in medieval Britain and Europe.

The podcast discusses the challenges faced by the Normans in maintaining control over England after the conquest, William the Conqueror's ambitions and setbacks in building his empire, the profound influence of the Norman conquest on English aristocratic culture, the impact of the conquest on language and communication, the mistreatment of English women by the Normans, and the effects of Norman colonization on English fashion, language, and culture.

Thirty thousand pounds.  That’s what the Gesta claims Hereward charged the Normans for the return of their warlike Abbot Turold. Thirty thousand. It is such an obviously inflated number that it almost feels like the scribe is looking directly in the camera and saying “Hey, don’t forget, some of this story is legendary… but we […] The post 427 – Hereward: Back Into the Mist first appeared on The British History Podcast.

The podcast explores the collapse of the Godwinson dynasty, the global crises during William's rule, and the strengths and weaknesses of his leadership. It also discusses the political situation in Flanders, the consequences of family conflicts, and the actions of important figures that affect William's rule.

In 1071, the betrayal by Abbot Thurstan to William, revealing Ely’s defenses, marks a pivotal moment in Hereward’s resistance. Despite starvation and siege hardships, Hereward’s refusal to surrender underscores his unyielding spirit against Norman dominance. William’s struggle to amass a willing army for the final assault, due to past failures, reveals his reliance on promises […] The post 425 – Hereward: The Fall of Ely first appeared on The British History Podcast.

Fascinating guest, Judas Priest, talks about the struggles faced by William and his army in breaching Hereward's fortress. The podcast also explores the political context surrounding Hereward's band and the violent lives of the Norman nobility in the 11th century.

William’s efforts to conquer Ely, hindered by the resourceful Hereward, climax with a bold yet flawed strategy involving commandeering all boats for a siege. The narrative weaves through a series of mishaps, including an incendiary sabotage by Hereward, resulting in a disastrous loss for the Normans. This account not only highlights the cunning and resilience […] The post 423 – Hereward: The Lion, The Witch, and the War Hero first appeared on The British History Podcast.

Hereward the Wake, embodying the essence of a folk hero, engages in a daring operation to infiltrate King William’s camp, armed with only his wit and courage. Disguised as a potter, he navigates through enemy lines, gathering intelligence on the King’s plans. Despite the threat of exposure and the dire consequences of his mission, Hereward’s […] The post 422 – Hereward: The Man, the Myth, The Legend first appeared on The British History Podcast.

King William’s siege of Ely, motivated by Hereward’s defiance, epitomizes the struggle between Norman conquest and English resistance. William’s frustration peaks as he witnesses Hereward not just surviving but thriving, bolstering his legend. The king’s attempts to storm Ely through a makeshift causeway and incentivized bravery culminate in a disastrous and almost comical failure, as […] The post 421 – The Wake at Ely first appeared on The British History Podcast.