British History Podcast

Historian Nathen Amin sat down with me at Warwick Words History Festival before his talk on "The year of the 3 kings, 1483" to discuss Edward IV's lack of forward planning, the course of events which brought Edward V to London and into the Tower, and when Nathen thinks Richard, then Duke of Gloucester, decided he should not just act as Regent for his nephew, but take his crown and become king.Useful timestamps in this episode:00:00 - The significance of 1483: Year of the Three Kings00:14 - Edward IV's reign and sudden death at 4000:57 - Edward IV’s physical transformation and health neglect01:24 - Succession challenges with young princes02:23 - Rival factions: Woodvilles vs. Richard of Gloucester03:17 - Could Edward IV have prepared better for his death?03:54 - The importance of securing the heir in medieval rulership04:23 - Fears of vulnerability when the king is a child05:24 - The influence of male ambitions after Edward IV’s death06:11 - The movement of Edward V and the importance of his return to London06:40 - The importance of the princes’ crowning and the rise of Richard07:10 - The political tension with Lord Hastings and the Woodville family07:40 - Richard’s diplomatic position and the meeting in Northamptonshire08:08 - Elizabeth Woodville’s reaction and her flight into sanctuary09:06 - The decision to move the princes to the Tower09:34 - The arrest of Lord Hastings and the centralization of Richard’s power10:32 - Richard’s assumption of Lord Protector and consolidating authority11:01 - Elizabeth Woodville’s flight and the rising tensions11:31 - The move of the princes into the Tower of London12:28 - The infamous execution of Lord Hastings and Richard’s ruthlessness13:28 - Richard’s strategic moves and the escalation of violence14:27 - Threats to Richard’s power in the North and the Neville lands15:27 - Richard’s swift consolidation of power and the downfall of rivals16:26 - The anonymous sermon condemning the princes and Richard’s rapid rise17:25 - Richard’s strategic decisions and the perception of his ruthlessness18:10 - The debate over the legitimacy of the princes18:49 - Richard’s potential motives about the princes’ legitimacy and accusations19:19 - The evidence (or lack thereof) around the princes’ deaths and legitimacy20:16 - The political context of Richard’s usurpation21:12 - The legitimacy of Richard’s claim and the legitimacy law21:42 - Richard’s legal justifications, including Titulus Regius22:08 - The question of the princes’ legitimacy and Richard’s evidence22:39 - The political manipulation and timing of Richard’s actions23:08 - Richard’s rapid moves and the urgency of power consolidation24:21 - The moral and religious conflict faced by Richard24:48 - Richard’s faith and the justification of ruthless acts25:17 - The medieval kingship and divine justification for harsh decisions25:46 - Parallels with modern leadership and the justifications for tough choices26:09 - Closing remarks and thanksThank you for listening to this episode, I hope you enjoyed it. There are many more history videos here for you to watch including over 60 fantastic historian interviews with people such as Tracy Borman OBE, Gareth Russell, Helen Castor, Helen Carr and many more. Join my Patreon to enjoy ad-free, extended interviews with bonus content, Historical Book Club, early access to content, exclusive blogs, discounts on British History Events and more, all for £5/month.You can also give me one off support by donating at www.buymeacoffee.com/PhilippaYou can support me for free by commenting on this episode and subscribing to the channel. Visit British History Tours for full details of history tours and events.⚔️⚔️⚔️⚔️⚔️About PhilippaPhilippa is a Historian and the founder of British History Tours and British History Events.Receive weekly history news (including links to new historian interviews) from Philippa by subscribing to my Substack at Substack.com/ ⁨@BritishHistory⁩

Over the past few years Mudlarking, the pastime of scouring river banks for archeology, has become incredibly popular both with those who do it, and those who like to watch videos of, of hear about, new finds.Expert Mudlarker, Lara Maiklem joined me at Harvington History Festival where we talked about how tidal rivers become archaeological treasure troves, the challenges mudlarks face, and what incredible relics she has uncovered.Buy Lara's book 'A Mudlarking Year. Finding Treasure in Every Season' - click here.Thank you for listening to this episode, I hope you have enjoyed it. There are many more historian interviews here for you including over 60 fantastic historian interviews with people such as Tracy Borman OBE, Gareth Russell, Helen Castor, Helen Carr and many more. Please give this podcast a follow and a 5* review if you have enjoyed it as it helps the show be suggested to other people interested in history.

In Philippa’s discussion with historian Nicola Tallis about Lady Jane Grey, we covered some of her true story, achievements, and how perceptions have been shaped over time. We explored her intelligence, potential, and the importance of re-evaluating her legacy.This interview is also available to watch on the British History Youtube channel - click hereChapters00:00 Introduction and Book Reflection00:28 Perceptions of Lady Jane Grey01:23 Changing the Victim Narrative02:22 Jane's Intellectual Achievements04:25 Her Languages and Interests06:50 Her Life and Aspirations08:41 The Loss of Potential10:05 What Kind of Queen Would She Have Been?12:30 Reframing Jane's Legacy and RecognitionThank you for listening to this episode, I hope you enjoyed it. There are many more historian interviews for you to enjoy with people such as Tracy Borman OBE, Gareth Russell, Helen Castor, Helen Carr and many more.

Philippa sat down for a fascinating conversation with Ruth Goodman, a living history expert, and author of the ever popular 'How To Be a Tudor', among other books. Ruth explained her approach to living history and casual experimentation to verify historical practices, the importance of practical research in understanding daily routines, how clothing inventories and household tools reveal regional and social differences in historical records, and the role of hearsay, imagery, and disapproval in uncovering the realities of ordinary people's lives.Watch Episode on YoutubeHi! I'm Philippa, welcome to the British History Channel.If you've enjoyed this please follow and rate this podcast. Thank you for listening to this episode, I hope you enjoyed it. There are many more here for you to browse through including over 60 fantastic historian interviews with people such as Tracy Borman OBE, Gareth Russell, Helen Carr and many more. Buy books from these incredible historians, shipped worldwide from Blackwells - click here (This is an affiliate link. I get a commission on books sold via this link but they are at no extra cost to you).Join my Patreon - click here and enjoy ad-free extended interviews with bonus content, Historical Book Club, early access to content, exclusive blogs, discounts on British History Events and more for all for £5/month.You can also give me one off support by donating at www.buymeacoffee.com/PhilippaYou can support me for free by commenting and rating this episode.  Visit British History Tours for full details of history tours and events.

Tracy Borman joined Philippa on the British History channel to talk about her new novel ‘The House of Boleyn’.Get early access, BONUS content and ad-free viewing go to www.Patreon.com/BritishHistory and join for this and many other history lover benefits including discounts on events, exclusive talks, and to put your questions to future guests. This interview is out on 12th April on the British History Patreon.Tracy tells us about how she tackled the challenge of blending history and fiction, and the inspiration for setting her novel The House of Boleyn at Hever Castle and how it offers a fresh perspective on Tudor family life. We also talked about how she explores the human side of the historical figures, especially Thomas Boleyn and Anne Boleyn, challenging outdated stereotypes.Important to Tracy, and indeed her book, is the role of the servants at Hever Castle and she tells us how she used everyday household details to create authenticity—fireplaces, relationships with servants, and the sensory experience of Tudor life.The House of Boleyn is out 23rd April 2027. Pre/order now and get shipped for free worldwide from Blackwells - Click Here (this is an affiliate link which earns me a commission but adds no cost to you)Watch this episode on Youtube - Click Here

Through the eyes of Eleanor Bruce and Lucilla Gray, collectively known as 'Roman Found,' we uncover the fascinating world of metal detecting. They share their journey—from their first finds to the stories behind ancient objects. We explore their passion for history, the research involved, and their plans for the future discoveries, as well as highlighting the importance of responsible archaeology and some tips for people who want to take up metal detecting as a hobby. You can watch this episode on YouTube at Youtube.com/@BritishHistoryGet bonus content, watch ad-free and have the opportunity to submit your own questions for future guests at Patreon.com/BritishHistory.Buy 'Things We Found in the Ground' and have it shipped anywhere in the world for free from Blackwells - Click Here - (this is an affiliate link)If you enjoy this interview please give it a 5* review and let me know what you liked about it.

In this episode, Jason tells us about his journey from his working-class background to becoming a celebrated Belfast historian, and surprising stories like the Belfast city cemetery's underground wall and Charlie Chaplin’s Belfast connection. We also talked about the challenges and rewards of being a public historian and content creator, and his upcoming books on Belfast’s streets and the Irish revolutionary period from a Belfast perspective.You can watch this episode on Youtube.com/@britishhistoryChapters:00:00 - The curious enthusiasm for Protestants and Catholics protesting together in Belfast's history00:19 - Charlie Chaplin’s brief Belfast stay and the city’s commemorative statues01:04 - Introduction to Jason Burke and his work in sharing Belfast’s vibrant history02:13 - Jason’s background: from inner East Belfast streets to historical research and storytelling04:51 - The influence of WWI street names and Belfast’s community housing for ex-servicemen06:44 - How university sparked Jason’s research passion and his focus on Belfast’s WWI contribution08:01 - The role of community engagement in local history projects and memorial landscapes09:28 - The impact of social media and digital storytelling in today’s public history12:02 - Navigating the challenges of finding or creating opportunities as a historian14:24 - Audience interest in specific periods, like WWI and stories of cooperation across Belfast communities15:46 - The significance of stories that buck societal trends, like the Battle of Messines and 1930s protests18:33 - Personal anecdotes about individuals caught in history, from soldiers to activists22:08 - The story of Belfast’s sectarian cemeteries and the underground walls that separate the communities even in death28:05 - Lesser-known Belfast landmarks: Charlie Chaplin’s statue and historic architecture stories30:52 - The challenges of historic building preservation amidst Belfast’s tumultuous past42:38 - How Jason chooses his podcast topics and the importance of balanced, fact-based storytelling45:58 - Handling controversial topics with sensitivity and respect for multiple perspectives48:20 - The importance of integrity and storytelling in ensuring history endures beyond digital life50:27 - Future projects: exploring Belfast’s revolutionary period and the partition’s impact on the city63:20 - Jason’s upcoming books: street-by-street history of Belfast and Belfast’s role in Irish independence67:20 - Building a career as a self-made public historian and the value of persistence68:35 - Connect with Jason Burke: website, social media handles, and how to follow his workJason's website: https://www.jasonburkehistory.com/

In this interview with renowned Tudor art and cultural historian Professor Elizabeth Goldring, we go beyond the famous portraits of Hans Holbein the Younger and into his fascinating life — exploring the man behind the masterpieces. (Get early access to all historian interviews plus bonus content and the videos ad-free, so no interruptions at Patreon.com/BritishHistory)Elizabeth shared with me insights into Holbein’s religion, his journey from Augsburg to Tudor England, how the Shrove Tuesday riots in Basel affected him, plus, his relationships, artistic challenges, and the enduring legacy of his work in British history.We discussed Holbein's contribution to how we see the Tudor court of Henry VIII, if the Tudors would have been as famous as they are without Holbein and how Holbein was pivotal in the beginnings of art collecting.Chapters:00:00 Introduction to Holbein's Impact on Tudor History00:24 Holbein's Early Life and Artistic Beginnings01:20 Holbein's Move to England and Court Patronage02:16 Holbein's Personal Life and Challenges12:58 The Basel Riots and the Reformation's Impact on Holbein16:32 Holbein's Role in the Tudor Court and Portraiture24:33 The Realism and Flattery in Holbein's Portraits30:17 Holbein's Death and Legacy49:35 The Roots of Art Collecting and Connoisseurship in England54:59 Holbein's Influence on Modern Perceptions of the TudorsWhat to do next?Visit a museum to see Holbein's works up closeBuy Elizabeth Goldring's book on HolbeinExplore the history of Tudor portraitureWATCH THIS EPSODE ON YOUTUBE AT youtube.com/@britishhistoryThank you for listening to this episode, I hope you enjoyed it. There are many more history episodes here for you to enjoy including around 60 fantastic historian interviews with people such as Tracy Borman OBE, Gareth Russell, Helen Castor, Helen Carr and many more. Join my Patreon to enjoy ad-free, extended interviews with bonus content, Historical Book Club, early access to content, exclusive blogs, discounts on British History Events and more, all for £5/month.You can also give me one off support by donating at www.buymeacoffee.com/PhilippaYou can support me for free by commenting on this episode and subscribing to the podcast.Visit www.BritishHistoryTours.com for full details of history tours and events.⚔️⚔️⚔️⚔️⚔️About PhilippaPhilippa is a Historian and the founder of British History Tours and British History Events.Receive weekly history news (including links to new historian interviews) from Philippa by subscribing to my Substack at Substack.com/ ⁨@BritishHistory⁩

As complex figures go, you can’t get much more complex than Sir Thomas More. Was he a Saint? Was he a Sinner? Was he simply a man of his time? Dr Joanne Paul seeks to answer these questions in her book ‘Thomas More. A Life and Death in Tudor England’ which explores More’s roles as a statesman, scholar, and martyr, and understand how his beliefs, actions, and the historical context shaped his enduring reputation.(WE WILL BE COVERING JOANNE'S BOOK IN BOOK CLUB ON 24TH MAY - JOIN IN AT PATREON.COM/BRITISHHISTORY)In my interview with Joanne, filmed at the Harvington History Festival 2025, I asked her about Thomas More's multifaceted identity, his role in Henry VIII's court, his religious beliefs and persecution of heretics, and his influence on political and religious history.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Thomas More and his significance01:45 Different ways people encounter Thomas More02:40 Was Thomas More as complex as his legacy suggests?03:46 The importance of understanding his life in context05:46 More's family and personal beliefs07:53 The roots of his religious fervor and fear08:54 His stance on heretics and persecution10:53 His beliefs about society and community12:55 The impact of the Reformation on his views13:46 Where to find more about Joanne Paul and her workBuy the book at Blackwells for Worldwide Delivery - Click Here If you've enjoyed this please follow and rate this podcast.Hi! I'm Philippa, welcome to the British History Channel. Thank you for listening to this episode, I hope you enjoyed it. There are many more here for you to browse through including over 50 fantastic historian interviews with people such as Tracy Borman OBE, Gareth Russell, Helen Carr and many more. Buy books from these incredible historians, shipped worldwide from Blackwells - click here (This is an affiliate link. I get a commission on books sold via this link but they are at no extra cost to you).Join my Patreon - click here and enjoy ad-free extended interviews with bonus content, Historical Book Club, early access to content, exclusive blogs, discounts on British History Events and more for all for £5/month.You can also give me one off support by donating at www.buymeacoffee.com/PhilippaYou can support me for free by commenting and rating this episode.  Visit British History Tours for full details of history tours and events.⚔️⚔️⚔️⚔️⚔️About PhilippaPhilippa is a Historian and the founder of British History Tours and British History Events.Receive weekly history news (including links to new historian interviews) from Philippa by subscribing to my Substack