The British History Podcast

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.

Dive into a tale where legendary ransom demands meet historical intrigue, as hereward's 30,000-pound charge for Abbot Turold raises eyebrows. Explore moral dilemmas faced by his band after looting a monastery, accompanied by whimsical guidance from a friendly dog. Follow Heroard's tumultuous journey through chaos and personal strife, including his wife's nunhood. Unravel the complex politics of reconciliation with King William while witnessing the poignant intertwining of Terfrida's life with Hereward's rebellion, culminating in a powerful reunion in death.

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.

Hereward’s raid on Peterborough and subsequent alliance with Danish forces highlight a critical phase in his resistance against Norman oppression. Seeking to protect the Abbey’s wealth from Norman plunder, Hereward’s actions inadvertently lead to the town’s devastation and capture of monks, complicating his mission. This episode reflects the complex interplay of politics, loyalty, and strategy, […] The post 420 – The Wake and the Earl first appeared on The British History Podcast.