

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

Nov 12, 2014 • 41min
142 – The Failed Dynastic Politics of Mercia and Northumbria
This podcast discusses the bloody dynastic politics in Mercia and Northumbria, the role of sub-kingdoms in maintaining stability, King Aethalright's retirement to a monastery, political tensions in Northumbria and Mercia, the murder of King Osred, power struggles and violence in 8th century Northumbria, and the significance of book land in shifting power dynamics.

Oct 29, 2014 • 33min
141 – King Aldfrith and St. Wilfrid
This podcast explores the power dynamics between Bishop Wilfred, King Aldfrith, and other Northumbrian kings. It discusses Wilfred's journey from being jilted for the position of Archbishop of Canterbury, the lineage of King Edwin and King Bridey, troubled family dynamics, an ecclesiastical showdown in England, and a quiz on kings, bishops, and history of Northumbria and Wessex.

Oct 21, 2014 • 27min
140 – Wilfrid: How to Win Friends and Influence People
Former Bishop of York, Wilfrid, friend of pagan king Caedwalla, discusses power struggles among Anglo-Saxon kingdoms, King Al-Fryth's reign in Northumbria, and the obstacles faced by Wilfred in becoming the next Archbishop of Canterbury.

Oct 14, 2014 • 34min
139 – The Rise of Aldfrith and Caedwalla
In this episode of the podcast, we explore the rise of King Aldfrith of Northumbria and the insecure nature of the throne. We also delve into the political and military events of the time, including power struggles in Mercia and Kent. The reign of Cade Walla and the power vacuum in the south are also discussed, highlighting the violent and chaotic era of the Heptarchy.

Oct 7, 2014 • 29min
138 – Religious Lives in Britain
This podcast explores the diverse beliefs and practices of religious communities in Anglo-Saxon Kingdoms and delves into the living conditions of monks and nuns in monasteries in Britain. It also discusses the monastic life at Nazingbury and the unveiling of lives, highlighting the role of women, servants, and children. The podcast concludes with reflections on the discoveries from the digs at Nasingbury and Hartleypool, emphasizing the importance of status and the difficulties faced by non-royals under religious orders.

Sep 29, 2014 • 25min
137 – Preaching in the Dark Ages
Exploring the crazy environment of early Christian converts in the Dark Ages, the influence of kings and kingdoms in the conversion from paganism to Christianity, the confusion and different brands of Christianity, the practice of veneration of oblates and the penalties imposed for consuming food from a pagan sacrifice, and the efforts to eradicate paganism in Dark Ages society.

Sep 16, 2014 • 31min
136 – The Power of Mercia
This episode explores the power dynamics between King Egg Frith, King Aethyl Red, and King Bridey. It discusses the consequences of Bishop Wilfred's return to Northumbria and his subsequent imprisonment and expulsion. The chapter also explores the ongoing conflict between Mercia and Northumbria and the significant territorial changes resulting from the Battle of Dunnagen.

Sep 10, 2014 • 26min
135 – A Reshuffling of Power
This podcast discusses the power dynamics and tensions between King Wulfhere of Mercia, King Ecgfrith of Northumbria, and Bishop Wilfrid. It explores the aftermath of a battle, the death of King Wulfhere, and the issues faced by Mercia. There is also a focus on the political marriage between two kingdoms, the precarious nature of land ownership, and the power struggles between Wilfrid and Ecgfrith.

Sep 5, 2014 • 26min
134 – The Power of Northumbria
King Ecgfrith of Northumbria, a tough dude, and King Wulfhere of Mercia, a veteran warrior, discuss the power shifts and conflicts in Anglo-Saxon Kingdoms. They cover topics like reintroducing coinage, controlling Pictish regions, alliances, battles, and the decline of Mercia and the rise of Northumbria.

Aug 26, 2014 • 35min
133 – Scotcast: Part Ten
Discover the rise and fall of King Urian, explore the Battle of Katerik and insights from 'Egodothan', learn about religion and resistance in Pictland, and delve into the significant Battle of Ethel Frith.


