Category: Podcast Episodes

Every episode of The British History Podcast. This category includes cultural history, storyline episodes, English history, Welsh history, Scottish history, and even some Irish history and Roman history thrown in.

410 – The F Word

on By

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

In 1069, William the Conqueror’s sudden assault on York with a formidable army takes the city by surprise, exploiting strategies learned from previous battles. The city’s defenders, comprising mostly non-combatants, are thrown into chaos, highlighting the harsh realities of warfare on civilian populations. The narrative further delves into the political complexities of the time, including the precarious position of Archbishop Ealdred and the potential crowning of Edgar the Ætheling, which threatens to legitimize a rival claim to the English throne, underscoring the strategic and symbolic power of royal consecration in medieval politics.

Rough Transcript Below:

You are unauthorized to view this content.

409 – The First Sparks

on By 1 Comment

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

In 1068, a pivotal moment unfolds in Northumbria, where the assassination of Earl Robert at Durham sparks a large-scale rebellion against Norman rule. This event signifies a shift in English resistance, transforming disparate uprisings into a coordinated army ready for rebellion. The construction of a castle in Durham underlines the strategic shift, emphasizing preparedness and defiance against Norman oppression. Engagements with external allies, including King Swegn of Denmark and Scottish nobility, further bolster the rebellion, revealing a comprehensive plan to reclaim England and challenge Norman authority through military and political maneuvers.

Rough Transcript Below:

You are unauthorized to view this content.

406 – King’s Rook Takes Pawn

on By

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

In early 1068… as William was preparing for the tactical Coronation of Matilda…  the three sons of Harold Godwinson were in Ireland. They had come to meet with King Diarmad of Dublin and prepare  an invasion force to re-take England.

You are unauthorized to view this content.

404 – The Coronation of Queen Matilda

on By

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Gytha and her supporters had fled into the Severn Estuary, and it was the final nail in the coffin of the Exeter rebellion. With no help coming, they were forced to negotiate a peace. But this wasn’t exactly a victory for William, either. He’d been on the throne for scarcely over a year, and he’d already seen three separate rebellions.

You are unauthorized to view this content.