The British History Podcast podcast

The British History Podcast

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.

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.

 

#467

445 – Feeding Frenzy

Matilda was dead and now things were coming apart at the seams. The post [445 – Feeding Frenzy] (https://www.thebritishhistorypodcast.com/445-feeding-frenzy/) first appeared on [The British History Podcast] (https://www.thebritishhistorypodcast.com) . ... Read more

19 Apr 2024

29 MINS

29:56

19 Apr 2024


#466

444 – Holy Beef

Based on the e-mails I have been getting, some of you are having a hard time understanding why on god’s green earth did Odo think he could just trot down to Rome and become the new Pope.  The truth is he was less crazy than we might think, and I’m going to take a moment […] The post [444 – Holy Beef] (https://www.thebritishhistorypodcast.com/444-holy-beef/) first appeared on [The British History Podcast] (https://www.thebritishhistorypodcast.com) . ... Read more

05 Apr 2024

40 MINS

40:02

05 Apr 2024


#465

443 – We’re Bigger Than Jesus

In this episode we delve into the tumultuous reign of King Gruffydd ap Cynan of Gwynedd and the political intricacies of William’s relationship with Matilda and his ambitious half-brother, Bishop Odo. It is an intricate web of power struggles, betrayals, and shifting dynamics between church and state that will only grow more complex and dangerous. […] The post [443 – We’re Bigger Than Jesus] (https://www.thebritishhistorypodcast.com/443-were-bigger-than-jesus/) first appeared on [The British History Podcast] (https://www.thebritishhistorypodcast.com) . ... Read more

26 Mar 2024

37 MINS

37:03

26 Mar 2024


#464

442 – Mynydd Carn

Norman interventionism into their neighbors was only just beginning… and the events at Mynydd Carn gave them just the excuse they needed. The post [442 – Mynydd Carn] (https://www.thebritishhistorypodcast.com/442-mynydd-carn/) first appeared on [The British History Podcast] (https://www.thebritishhistorypodcast.com) . ... Read more

15 Mar 2024

34 MINS

34:03

15 Mar 2024


#463

441 – God Bothering

Tensions rise as rebellion and violence sweep through Northumbria. As news of the uprising reaches the south, King William, though initially absent, takes action and sends his half-brother, Bishop Odo, to deal with it. Odo’s reputation for cruelty was well earned and the people of Durham suffer greatly at his hands. In the midst of […] The post [441 – God Bothering] (https://www.thebritishhistorypodcast.com/441-god-bothering/) first appeared on [The British History Podcast] (https://www.thebritishhistorypodcast.com) . ... Read more

27 Feb 2024

25 MINS

25:25

27 Feb 2024


#462

440 – This is Fine

King Malcolm and the Scots have been raiding the northern reaches of England, leaving the Northumbrians to deal with the aftermath. Meanwhile, William is not speaking to his son Robert and is spreading rumors about him to anyone who will listen. Robert’s enemies are enjoying the show, but not everyone is amused. The powerful members […] The post [440 – This is Fine] (https://www.thebritishhistorypodcast.com/440-this-is-fine/) first appeared on [The British History Podcast] (https://www.thebritishhistorypodcast.com) . ... Read more

11 Feb 2024

29 MINS

29:33

11 Feb 2024


#461

439 – Juggling Responsibilities

William, the Duke of Normandy and King of England, has been humiliated by his son Robert. Despite years of mocking and disrespect from William, Robert has defeated him in battle and spared his life. This has weakened William physically and reputationally. Meanwhile, Robert travels through Europe, attending tournaments and gaining support from powerful nobles who […] The post [439 – Juggling Responsibilities] (https://www.thebritishhistorypodcast.com/439-juggling-responsibilities/) first appeared on [The British History Podcast] (https://www.thebritishhistorypodcast.com) . ... Read more

03 Feb 2024

35 MINS

35:10

03 Feb 2024


#460

438 – Robert’s Rebellion

In a fit of rebellion, Robert, the eldest son of William the Conqueror, marches out on his own, defying his father and seeking adventure. However, reality sets in as he realizes the challenges and consequences of his actions. With the support of his companions, who are wealthy and politically connected, Robert launches a rebellion against […] The post [438 – Robert’s Rebellion] (https://www.thebritishhistorypodcast.com/438-roberts-rebellion/) first appeared on [The British History Podcast] (https://www.thebritishhistorypodcast.com) . ... Read more

23 Jan 2024

36 MINS

36:58

23 Jan 2024


#459

437 – Everyone’s Pissed

Crown Prince Robert and his knights had been humiliated by Rufus and Henry and the royal hall erupts into chaos. This unprecedented public disgrace challenges the honor culture deeply ingrained in Norman society, sparking outrage and a quest for vengeance. The altercation underscores a volatile rivalry within the royal family, exposing deep-seated tensions and ambitions […] The post [437 – Everyone’s Pissed] (https://www.thebritishhistorypodcast.com/437-everyones-pissed/) first appeared on [The British History Podcast] (https://www.thebritishhistorypodcast.com) . ... Read more

06 Jan 2024

29 MINS

29:07

06 Jan 2024


#458

436 – Taking the Piss

William the Conqueror, preferring Normandy over England, spends his later reign focusing on continental politics and property disputes, often resolving them personally alongside his politically influential wife, Matilda. Meanwhile, their heir Robert grows increasingly frustrated by his limited role and lack of authority within his family’s dominion, feeling sidelined in critical military and political decisions. […] The post [436 – Taking the Piss] (https://www.thebritishhistorypodcast.com/436-taking-the-piss/) first appeared on [The British History Podcast] (https://www.thebritishhistorypodcast.com) . ... Read more

23 Dec 2023

42 MINS

42:11

23 Dec 2023


#457

435 – Trials and Tribulations

In the turmoil of William the Conqueror’s reign, Waltheof, the last English-born Earl, becomes entangled in a complex web of loyalty, rebellion, and the pursuit of justice. His long imprisonment and eventual execution for alleged treason showcase the intricate dance between Norman law and the expectations of nobility, highlighting the deep divisions and political maneuvers […] The post [435 – Trials and Tribulations] (https://www.thebritishhistorypodcast.com/435-trials-and-tribulations/) first appeared on [The British History Podcast] (https://www.thebritishhistorypodcast.com) . ... Read more

18 Dec 2023

42 MINS

42:50

18 Dec 2023


#456

434 – The Boys

As William the Conqueror’s sons grow, their future roles and the weight of their lineage come into sharp focus. Robert, William’s eldest, faces disappointment and tension with his father, revealing cracks in their relationship and Robert’s struggle for recognition and Normandy’s control. Richard, the second son, embodies the chivalric ideal but meets a tragic fate […] The post [434 – The Boys] (https://www.thebritishhistorypodcast.com/434-the-boys/) first appeared on [The British History Podcast] (https://www.thebritishhistorypodcast.com) . ... Read more

09 Dec 2023

32 MINS

32:09

09 Dec 2023


#455

433 – North Wales: I Love Mess

In 1075, King Bleddyn of Gwynedd and Powys, a formidable leader aiming for Welsh unification, finds himself embroiled in a complex web of power struggles. His aspirations clash with King Caradog and the turbulent politics of southwestern Wales. Amidst these tensions, King Bleddyn is cunningly assassinated in a meeting, plunging Gwynedd into a succession crisis. […] The post [433 – North Wales: I Love Mess] (https://www.thebritishhistorypodcast.com/433-north-wales-i-love-mess/) first appeared on [The British History Podcast] (https://www.thebritishhistorypodcast.com) . ... Read more

22 Nov 2023

31 MINS

31:05

22 Nov 2023


#454

Bonus Episode on Courtliness

Here’s a 15 minute sample of what we’re talking about on the Member’s feed. The post [Bonus Episode on Courtliness] (https://www.thebritishhistorypodcast.com/bonus-episode-on-courtliness/) first appeared on [The British History Podcast] (https://www.thebritishhistorypodcast.com) . ... Read more

21 Nov 2023

18 MINS

18:34

21 Nov 2023


#453

432 – The Revolt of the Earls

In 1075, Earl Roger and Earl Ralph lead a significant rebellion against King William, spurred by personal grievances and political ambitions. This insurrection, ignited at a wedding, quickly evolves into a major crisis, challenging the king’s authority. The plot thickens with Waltheof’s involvement, revealing intricate alliances and betrayals among the nobility. The uprising, marked by […] The post [432 – The Revolt of the Earls] (https://www.thebritishhistorypodcast.com/432-the-revolt-of-the-earls/) first appeared on [The British History Podcast] (https://www.thebritishhistorypodcast.com) . ... Read more

11 Nov 2023

49 MINS

49:28

11 Nov 2023


#452

431 – The Gang Has A Wedding

In 1075, amidst the backdrop of William’s strained relations with England and his noble court, a grand wedding intertwines political machinations with matrimonial celebration. Earl Roger and Ralph de Gael, leveraging their noble statuses and familial connections, conspire to challenge William’s authority. Their plot, hatched under the guise of marital bliss, seeks to capitalize on […] The post [431 – The Gang Has A Wedding] (https://www.thebritishhistorypodcast.com/431-the-gang-has-a-wedding/) first appeared on [The British History Podcast] (https://www.thebritishhistorypodcast.com) . ... Read more

27 Oct 2023

35 MINS

35:08

27 Oct 2023


#451

430 – Is It Good To Be King?

As King William navigates the complexities of ruling England, he faces the challenges of governance, church reforms, and foreign affairs with mixed outcomes. His interactions with the newly installed continental clergy and the ecclesiastical restructuring reflect his struggles with power dynamics, cultural integration, and administrative burdens. William’s ventures into Maine and dealings with internal and […] The post [430 – Is It Good To Be King?] (https://www.thebritishhistorypodcast.com/430-is-it-good-to-be-king/) first appeared on [The British History Podcast] (https://www.thebritishhistorypodcast.com) . ... Read more

19 Oct 2023

51 MINS

51:35

19 Oct 2023


#450

429 – Power Brokers and Power Breakers

In 1072, the landscape of power in England and Normandy is tumultuous, with William’s conquest still facing resistance. King Malcolm III of Scotland, with ties to the English throne through his marriage to Margaret, sister of Edgar the Ætheling, poses a subtle threat to William. This period sees a blending of cultural and political norms […] The post [429 – Power Brokers and Power Breakers] (https://www.thebritishhistorypodcast.com/429-power-brokers-and-power-breakers/) first appeared on [The British History Podcast] (https://www.thebritishhistorypodcast.com) . ... Read more

27 Sep 2023

47 MINS

47:58

27 Sep 2023


#449

428 – Tightening the Grip

Five years post-Hastings, England remains embroiled in resistance against William’s rule, witnessing widespread rebellions across its towns and cities. Despite facing unrelenting opposition, William’s ruthless strategies and disregard for societal norms have enabled him to maintain control. His actions reveal not just a desire for kingship but an imperial ambition, aiming to forge a new […] The post [428 – Tightening the Grip] (https://www.thebritishhistorypodcast.com/428-tightening-the-grip/) first appeared on [The British History Podcast] (https://www.thebritishhistorypodcast.com) . ... Read more

12 Sep 2023

33 MINS

33:48

12 Sep 2023


#448

427 – Hereward: Back Into the Mist

Hereward’s audacious demands for ransom, his tactical raids, and the legendary encounter with Saint Peter reflect his complex role in resisting Norman domination. The narrative blends historical events with folklore, showcasing Hereward’s defiance against Norman oppression through strategic captures, demands for exorbitant ransoms, and subsequent retaliatory actions against betrayals. The tale embodies the merging of […] The post [427 – Hereward: Back Into the Mist] (https://www.thebritishhistorypodcast.com/427-hereward-back-into-the-mist/) first appeared on [The British History Podcast] (https://www.thebritishhistorypodcast.com) . ... Read more

28 Aug 2023

41 MINS

41:06

28 Aug 2023


#447

426 – Everyone Has Their Limits

In 1071, amidst the backdrop of Norman conquest and resistance, the narrative unfolds around the tragic fall of the English nobility and the calamitous effects of William’s policies. This year witnesses the catastrophic fallout from the Battle of Cassel, where pivotal Norman figures, entangled in Flemish civil strife, suffer greatly. Simultaneously, William’s manipulation of English […] The post [426 – Everyone Has Their Limits] (https://www.thebritishhistorypodcast.com/426-everyone-has-their-limits/) first appeared on [The British History Podcast] (https://www.thebritishhistorypodcast.com) . ... Read more

21 Aug 2023

47 MINS

47:56

21 Aug 2023


#446

425 – Hereward: The Fall of Ely

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] (https://www.thebritishhistorypodcast.com/425-hereward-the-fall-of-ely/) first appeared on [The British History Podcast] (https://www.thebritishhistorypodcast.com) . ... Read more

07 Aug 2023

50 MINS

50:19

07 Aug 2023


#445

424 – Hereward: ft. Judas Priest

As the siege of Ely intensifies, the story takes unexpected turns with witchcraft, cultural beliefs in the power of water as a spiritual portal, and Hereward’s tactical mastery against Norman forces. William’s repeated failures to breach Ely, despite superior numbers and resources, underscore the resilience and ingenuity of the defenders. The narrative delves into the […] The post [424 – Hereward: ft. Judas Priest] (https://www.thebritishhistorypodcast.com/424-hereward-ft-judas-priest/) first appeared on [The British History Podcast] (https://www.thebritishhistorypodcast.com) . ... Read more

27 Jul 2023

33 MINS

33:32

27 Jul 2023


#444

423 – Hereward: The Lion, The Witch, and the War Hero

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] (https://www.thebritishhistorypodcast.com/423-hereward-the-lion-the-witch-and-the-war-hero/) first appeared on [The British History Podcast] (https://www.thebritishhistorypodcast.com) . ... Read more

07 Jul 2023

25 MINS

25:44

07 Jul 2023


#443

422 – Hereward: The Man, the Myth, The Legend

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] (https://www.thebritishhistorypodcast.com/422-hereward-the-man-the-myth-the-legend/) first appeared on [The British History Podcast] (https://www.thebritishhistorypodcast.com) . ... Read more

28 Jun 2023

42 MINS

42:36

28 Jun 2023


#442

421 – The Wake at Ely

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] (https://www.thebritishhistorypodcast.com/421-the-wake-at-ely/) first appeared on [The British History Podcast] (https://www.thebritishhistorypodcast.com) . ... Read more

20 Jun 2023

33 MINS

33:44

20 Jun 2023


#441

420 – The Wake and the Earl

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] (https://www.thebritishhistorypodcast.com/420-the-wake-and-the-earl/) first appeared on [The British History Podcast] (https://www.thebritishhistorypodcast.com) . ... Read more

09 Jun 2023

38 MINS

38:25

09 Jun 2023