Siward, a formidable eleventh-century earl in northern England, became legendary for his towering stature and exceptional strength. Rising to prominence under Cnut the Great, he became Earl of Northumbria, ruling a land marked by feuds and independence. By 1033, Siward governed southern Northumbria, modern Yorkshire, for Cnut. He consolidated power amid Scottish raids and local unrest. Loyal to the crown, Siward supported Cnut's successors, Harthacnut and Edward the Confessor, and gained renown through his Scottish campaign against King Macbeth, later inspiring Shakespeare. Fierce and pragmatic, Siward's legacy endures as the last Viking Lord of the North. Music by Alexander Nakarada - CreatorChordsTrack: Celtic Music → "Grundar" by Alexander Nakarada (Royalty Free)Link: Celtic Music by Alexander Nakarada 00:00:00: Introduction00:01:58: Ancestry & Early Life00:05:13: The Earl of Northumbria & Reign of Cnut00:08:11: The Reign of Cnut's sons00:11:46: The Reign of Edward the Confessor00:15:13: War with the Scots00:18:24: Death and Legacy #Siward #Northumbria #Vikings #Anglo-Saxonhistory #CnuttheGreat #EdwardtheConfessor #Macbeth #Scottishhistory #Medieval See show notes: https://inlet.fm/history-profiles/episodes/6954132d8bf240b5b086247f Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Danelaw was a significant region in England from the late ninth century until the Norman Conquest, where Danish laws prevailed over Anglo-Saxon governance. This area emerged due to the Danish Viking conquest and occupation across eastern and northern England during this period. The term Danelaw refers to regions where English kings allowed Viking settlers to maintain their legal customs after the early tenth-century reconquest, in exchange for loyalty to the English crown. This episode traces the Danelaw's full history: its origins, rise to prominence, and eventual decline and disappearance. 00:00 Introduction00:35 First Viking Raids in England (787-851)04:06 The Ragnarsons Invade England (865-878)11:58 Alfred, Guthrum & Establishment of Danelaw (878-899)14:50 Edward the Elder & Æthelflæd reconquer the Danelaw (899-924)19:38 Æthelstan First King of the English (924-939)24:29 Edmund's loss and recovery of the north (939-944)27:44 Eadred defeats the Last Viking King of Northumbria (946-955) All credit for the music goes to: Savfk - MusicLink: Savfk - Music 00:35: First Viking Raids in England (787-851)04:06: The Ragnarsons Invade England (865-878)11:58: Alfred, Guthrum & Establishment of Danelaw (878-899)14:50: Edward the Elder & Æthelflæd reconquer the Danelaw (899-924)19:38: Æthelstan First King of the English (924-939)24:29: Edmund's loss and recovery of the north (939-944)27:44: Eadred defeats the Last Viking King of Northumbria (946-955) #Danelaw #Vikinghistory #Anglo-Saxon #AlfredtheGreat #Æthelflæd #EdwardtheElder #Æthelstan #Vikingraids #Northumbria #Guthrum #VikingEngland See show notes: https://inlet.fm/history-profiles/episodes/694835b40a6f5559ea05551c Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Explore the intriguing lives of Godwin, the Earl of Wessex, Harold Godwinson, the King of England, Tostig Godwinson, the Earl of Northumbria, and Edith of Wessex, the Queen of England. Music: "VOICE OF PRAYER" by Noel Malekar Video Link: Watch here 00:00:00: Godwin, Earl of Wessex (1001 - 1053)00:52:51: Harold Godwinson (1022 - 1066)01:41:54: Tostig Godwinson (1029 - 1066)02:23:10: Edith of Wessex (1025 - 1075) #Godwin #HaroldGodwinson #TostigGodwinson #EdithofWessex #Anglo-Saxonhistory #HouseofGodwin #BattleofHastings #Vikinghistory #Wessex #Northumbria See show notes: https://inlet.fm/history-profiles/episodes/694592b78832d1232310356c Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Explore the epic tales of three legendary Viking kings: Sweyn Forkbeard, Cnut the Great, and Harald Hardrada. Discover their fascinating life stories and lasting impact on history. Sweyn Forkbeard (963-1014) Cnut the Great (990-1035) Harald Hardrada (1015-1066) All credit for the music goes to: Savfk - MusicLink to the music 00:00:00: Sweyn Forkbeard (963-1014)00:57:05: Cnut the Great (990-1035)01:53:27: Harald Hardrada (1015-1066) #SweynForkbeard #CnuttheGreat #HaraldHardrada #Vikingkings #Vikinghistory #medievalhistory #Norwegianhistory #Danishhistory #Englishhistory #Vikingwarriors See show notes: https://inlet.fm/history-profiles/episodes/693efb2f251a5f5acfa070f1 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Canute IV, famously known as Canute the Holy, reigned as the Danish king during the late 11th century. He aimed to bolster the Danish monarchy and reclaim the North Sea Empire, once ruled by his grand-uncle, Canute the Great. Viewing William the Conqueror as an illegitimate ruler of England, Canute initiated multiple raids to extend his influence. A fervent advocate of the Roman Catholic Church, Canute was dedicated to religious reforms, yet this fervor contributed to his downfall. His enforcement of strict tithes (church taxes) led to widespread dissent among his subjects. By empowering the clergy to levy taxes and fines on church land peasants, he estranged the common populace. These grievances incited a peasant revolt in early 1086 in Vendsyssel, coinciding with Canute's presence there. Seeking refuge in a church, he was ultimately killed by rebels, marking a brutal end to his rule. In 1101, the Roman Catholic Church canonized Canute, making him the first Danish king to receive sainthood, and recognizing him as Denmark's patron saint. Music: "VOICE OF PRAYER" by Noel MalekarVideo Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TSpEjSoiZ6c Music by Alexander Nakarada - CreatorChordsTrack: Celtic Music → "Grundar" by Alexander Nakarada (Royalty Free)Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WZjpLQYAnr8 00:00: Introduction01:36: Ancestry & Early Life02:41: Danish Attack on Norman England (1069–1070)06:12: Raid of 107507:17: Ascension to the Danish Throne08:32: A Holy Man10:30: Planned Invasion of England13:26: Peasant Uprising, Death & Legacy #CanutetheHoly #Vikinghistory #Danishmonarchy #NorthSeaEmpire #WilliamtheConqueror #RomanCatholicChurch #religiousreform #peasantuprising #canonizedsaint #Denmark See show notes: https://inlet.fm/history-profiles/episodes/69346f2bb384267ddbf0c9d0 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

As William the Conqueror heralded Norman rule in England, another figure navigated the misty fenlands with different ambitions. Hereward the Wake, an Anglo-Saxon nobleman, resisted the conqueror to avenge his murdered family. Leading a guerrilla group of warriors and deemed an outlaw by the Normans, Hereward became a symbol of native resistance. Despite his fame, he remains an enigmatic figure. What do we truly know about this rebel who defied William and his armies? Reliable information is limited, primarily preserved in the Peterborough Chronicle and the Gesta Herewardi. The latter, an early twelfth-century Latin translation of a lost Old English account, was reportedly written by Leofric, a priest in Hereward’s household. By the time it was copied, the original was already damaged, with missing sections reconstructed from oral tradition. What survives is a mix of memory, storytelling, and history. The origin of his epithet, “the Wake,” is uncertain. Some trace it to an Old English word meaning “watchful,” while others argue it was later invented by an Anglo-Norman family claiming descent from him. By the fourteenth century, he is clearly recorded as “Hereward the Wake,” although he has also been remembered as “the Outlaw” and “the Exile.” Over time, parts of his story may have intertwined with or inspired elements of the Robin Hood tradition. Yet, regardless of legend, Hereward remains in the English imagination as a champion against Norman tyranny—sometimes hailed as “the last Englishman.” Music by Alexander Nakarada - CreatorChordsTrack: Celtic Music → "Grundar" by Alexander Nakarada (Royalty Free) 00:00:00: Introduction00:02:08: Ancestry & Early Life00:03:09: Exile00:07:41: Return to England & Rebellion00:18:09: Legacy & Historicity #HerewardtheWake #NormanConquest #Anglo-Saxon #medievalEngland #WilliamtheConqueror #rebellion #Englishhistory #guerrillawarfare #RobinHoodlegend #historicalfigures See show notes: https://inlet.fm/history-profiles/episodes/692c8627fbde30bad7301571 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In the final days of Japan's samurai era, Nakano Takeko emerged as a beacon of bravery amidst the Boshin War (1868–1869). As a warrior from the Aizu Domain, she stood firm against the rise of Emperor Meiji's forces. Nakano embodied the enduring spirit of the samurai, even as the era was nearing its end. Leading the Jōshitai, or 'Women's Brigade,' Nakano fought fiercely with her naginata, a traditional weapon of Japan's women warriors. Although not formally recognized by the Aizu army, these women bravely defended their land and honor. During the Battle of Aizu, Nakano's valor left a lasting impression on both sides of the conflict. Tragically, Nakano was mortally wounded by a bullet. In her final act of samurai honor, she asked her sister to behead her to prevent her enemy from claiming her head, ensuring her spirit rested peacefully beneath the trees of Aizu. Her legacy as one of the last female samurai lives on, emblematic of fearless loyalty to the samurai code. 00:00:00: Introduction00:02:54: Early Life00:04:35: The Boshin War00:07:55: Battle of Aizu & Death00:11:45: Legacy #NakanoTakeko #femalesamurai #BoshinWar #AizuDomain #Jōshitai #Japanesehistory #samuraicode See show notes: https://inlet.fm/history-profiles/episodes/6921fa2a28e4af852752fadd Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Explore the stories of Japan's legendary samurai, starting with Taira no Masakado, a descendant of Emperor Kanmu. Known as the first samurai, Masakado defied the central government and became a demigod in local folklore, recognized among the “Three Great Onryō of Japan.” Honda Tadakatsu, a formidable samurai and general, served Tokugawa Ieyasu during the Sengoku and Edo periods. Renowned for his invincibility, Tadakatsu never sustained an injury despite his participation in 57 military campaigns. Dive into the life of Miyamoto Musashi, an undefeated swordsman, strategist, and artist. Famous for his double-bladed technique, Musashi founded the Niten Ichi-ryū swordsmanship style and authored the influential works, The Book of Five Rings and Dokkōdō. 00:00:00: Taira no Masakado (900 - 940)00:42:16: Honda Tadakatsu (1548 - 1610)01:14:33: Miyamoto Musashi (1584 - 1645) #samurai #TairanoMasakado #HondaTadakatsu #MiyamotoMusashi #Japanesehistory #swordsmanship #TokugawaIeyasu #NitenIchi-ryū See show notes: https://inlet.fm/history-profiles/episodes/6918bfa49634c1e2f66a2c67 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

From the moment his name was first uttered, Robin Hood captured imaginations as the outlaw who defied authority to champion the poor. But was Robin Hood an actual person—a master archer in the flesh—or merely a legendary figure crafted through generations of storytelling? Numerous theories have aimed to reveal his true identity, yet no definitive proof has emerged to confirm the man behind the legend. What remain are five ancient ballads that shape our understanding of England's most iconic outlaw: Robin Hood and the Monk, Robin Hood and the Potter, Robin Hood and Guy of Gisborne, Robin Hoode his Death, and A Geste of Robyn Hoode. In this episode, we examine these primary sources to trace the origins of the legend. What do they reveal about Robin's life, his loyal allies, and his battle against tyranny? And we contemplate a question that has captivated historians for ages: Was Robin Hood a real person—or simply the ideal hero for a world that yearned for one? Embark on a journey into the depths of Sherwood Forest to unravel the truth behind the Robin Hood legend. Music by Alexander Nakarada - CreatorChords Track: Celtic Music → "Grundar" by Alexander Nakarada (Royalty Free)Link 00:00:00: Introduction00:01:27: Robin Hood and the Monk (1450)00:03:44: A Geste of Robyn Hode (1470–1500)00:06:12: Robin Hood and Guy of Gisborne (1475)00:09:58: Robin Hood and the Potter (1503)00:12:34: Robin Hood his Death (1600s)00:15:04: Conclusion #RobinHood #outlaw #legend #historicalfigure #SherwoodForest #ballads #medieval #folklore #myth #England See show notes: https://inlet.fm/history-profiles/episodes/69122837da4e169acabd086f Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Björn Ironside, a legendary Norse chieftain and king of Sweden, was renowned for his warrior spirit and as the son of famed Viking hero Ragnar Lothbrok. His exploits in England, West Francia, and the Mediterranean are well-documented in history. Björn's legacy is chronicled in medieval sources like the Saga of Ragnar Lothbrok, The Tale of Ragnar’s Sons, Gesta Danorum, Hervarar Saga, and Gesta Normannorum Ducum. Though semi-legendary, his memory lingers in saga, song, and stone. Björn's barrow, a great burial mound in Uppland, Sweden, once marked by a runestone, connects us to Viking kings and mythical heroes. Join us as we explore ancient sources recounting Björn Ironside's life, delve into the origins of his fearsome name, and trace his legendary exploits. We maintain the individuality of each account, honoring the unique narratives. 00:00 Introduction01:33 The Gesta Danorum04:16 The Saga of Ragnar Lodbrok & his Sons05:37 The Chronicon Fontanellense06:55 The Annals of Bertinius07:45 Gesta Normannorum Ducum17:47 Fornaldarsögur Norðurlanda32:32 Hervarar saga33:46 Burial Mound of Björn Ironside Music by Alexander Nakarada - CreatorChordsTrack: Celtic Music → "Grundar" by Alexander Nakarada (Royalty Free)Link 00:00:00: Introduction00:01:33: The Gesta Danorum00:04:16: The Saga of Ragnar Lodbrok & his Sons00:05:37: The Chronicon Fontanellense00:06:55: The Annals of Bertinius00:07:45: Gesta Normannorum Ducum00:17:47: Fornaldarsögur Norðurlanda00:32:32: Hervarar saga00:33:46: Burial Mound of Björn Ironside #BjörnIronside #Vikinghistory #Norsechieftain #RagnarLothbrok #medievalsources #Vikingraids #Swedishhistory #GestaDanorum #HervararSaga #Vikinglegends See show notes: https://inlet.fm/history-profiles/episodes/6908edf5e285dac3cced1dea Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Gunnhild, known from the series Vikings as Bjorn Ironside's wife, contrasts sharply with her historical counterpart. Renowned for sorcery and beauty, Gunnhild was the wife of Erik Bloodaxe, son of Harald Fairhair and King of Norway. She earned the title 'Mother of Kings' as her sons rose to power in Norway. Gunnhild is depicted in over five Norse and Icelandic sagas, often as a villain. Erik Bloodaxe, hardly mentioned in the Heimskringla (Saga of the Norwegian Kings), was unpopular—many believed Gunnhild, with her influence, steered his rule. Snorri Sturleson noted, "Of Eirik Blood-axe's five years' reign there is no separate saga. He appears not to have been beloved by the people and his queen Gunhild seems to have had a bad influence on him." In these sagas, Gunnhild is a formidable character—admired for beauty and generosity but feared for her magic, cunning, and ambition. She is remembered as powerful and ruthless, captivating yet dangerous. This is the story of Gunnhild. Music by Noel MalekarListen here 00:00: Introduction01:53: Ancestry & Early Life04:38: Of Erik Bloodaxe07:16: Conflict with Egill Skallagrímsson10:09: Erik & Gunnhild Flee Norway14:15: The Mother of Kings18:33: Of Gunnhild's Lover21:03: Exile, Death & Legacy #Gunnhild #VikingWitchQueen #ErikBloodaxe #Norway #Norsesagas #sorcery #MotherofKings #Norsehistory See show notes: https://inlet.fm/history-profiles/episodes/68fbbead1609f530071f84e1 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Arthur Guinness, 1st Baron Ardilaun, was a notable Irish businessman, philanthropist, and politician, renowned for his role in the Guinness brewing dynasty. A descendant of the original Arthur Guinness, he was educated at Eton and Trinity College Dublin. His career in politics led him to serve as a Member of Parliament for Dublin before becoming Baron Ardilaun in 1880. Arthur Guinness was passionate about public service and philanthropy, contributing significantly to Dublin's development. He played a major role in the restoration of St. Patrick’s Cathedral and the creation of public spaces like St. Stephen’s Green. As a conservationist, he invested in preserving forests and historic sites, leaving a lasting impact as a benevolent Anglo-Irish noble during transformative times in Ireland. This episode explores his remarkable legacy. Music by Alexander Nakarada - CreatorChords Link 00:00:00: Introduction00:01:24: Early Life00:03:20: Involvement in The Brewery00:04:55: Sexuality00:07:29: Political Life00:09:59: Philanthropy & Death #ArthurGuinness #BaronArdilaun #Guinnessbrewery #Irishhistory #philanthropy #St.Stephen’sGreen #St.Patrick’sCathedral #Anglo-Irishnobility See show notes: https://inlet.fm/history-profiles/episodes/68f264af30450a985e845849 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Battle of Hastings is a legendary conflict in English history, centered on King Harold Godwinson's fight to defend his throne against William, Duke of Normandy, who claimed King Edward the Confessor promised him succession. This battle was not just for the throne but reshaped England's destiny. One enduring image from the Bayeux Tapestry shows Harold struck by an arrow to the eye, but did this iconic scene truly occur? Historical accounts offer differing versions, leaving the truth uncertain. Harold was a seasoned warrior, having defeated a Viking invasion and killed Harald Hardrada at the Battle of Stamford Bridge, marking the end of the Viking Age in England. How fierce was the struggle at Hastings, and how did it truly unfold? Sources from the period offer conflicting tales, challenging modern historians to piece together this contested history. Norman propaganda depicted Harold's death as divine punishment to legitimize William the Conqueror's claim. This narrative suggested Harold broke an oath to William and deserved divine retribution. But how true is this propaganda? Join us as we explore the sources in chronological order to understand the evolution of battle narratives and why modern history teaches Harold's famed arrow-to-the-eye death. Key Timeline:00:00 Introduction02:20 Anglo-Saxon Chronicle (1066)03:10 The Song of the Battle of Hastings (1066-1067)05:35 Bayeux Tapestry (1070s)08:26 Gesta Willelmi ducis Normannorum et regis Anglorum (1071-1077)11:01 Chronicon ex Chronicis (Early 1100s)12:25 Gesta Regum Anglorum (1125)14:10 Historia Anglorum (1129-1135)15:00 Vie de seint Aedward le Rei (1230s-1240s)17:06 Conclusion Music: "VOICE OF PRAYER" by Noel MalekarListen on YouTube 00:00:00: Introduction00:02:20: Anglo-Saxon Chronicle (1066)00:03:10: The Song of the Battle of Hastings (1066-1067)00:05:35: Bayeux Tapestry (1070s)00:08:26: Gesta Willelmi ducis Normannorum et regis Anglorum (1071-1077)00:11:01: Chronicon ex Chronicis (Early 1100s)00:12:25: Gesta Regum Anglorum (1125)00:14:10: Historia Anglorum (1129-1135)00:15:00: Vie de seint Aedward le Rei (1230s-1240s)00:17:06: Conclusion #HaroldGodwinson #BattleofHastings #WilliamtheConqueror #BayeuxTapestry #Normanconquest #Anglo-Saxon #VikingAge #medievalhistory #Englishthrone See show notes: https://inlet.fm/history-profiles/episodes/68e949a288bb078776ec23bd Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Edward Cecil Guinness, 1st Earl of Iveagh, was born on 10 November 1847 into the renowned Guinness brewing dynasty. His family name became synonymous with one of the most successful brewing enterprises globally. A prominent Irish businessman, philanthropist, and peer, Edward played a pivotal role in expanding and modernizing the Guinness Brewery during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, transforming it into the world's largest brewery by production. This episode delves into his life and legacy. Music by Alexander Nakarada - CreatorChordsLink 00:00: Introduction00:44: Early Life02:37: Business Leadership and the Making of a Fortune06:24: Life in Politics11:28: Philanthropy13:12: Death #EdwardGuinness #GuinnessBrewery #Irishhistory #brewingdynasty #philanthropy #19thcentury #20thcentury #businessleadership See show notes: https://inlet.fm/history-profiles/episodes/68e2b22394a319dd5fd8a702 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Explore the life of Edith of Wessex, a formidable woman who played a crucial role during the tumultuous 11th-century England. As queen consort to Edward the Confessor, she navigated complex political landscapes and became the last Anglo-Saxon queen of England. Though overshadowed by figures like her brother, King Harold Godwinson, and William the Conqueror, Edith's story reveals the significant yet often overlooked influence of royal women in pre-Conquest politics. This is her compelling story. Music: "VOICE OF PRAYER" by "Noel Malekar" Video Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TSpEjSoiZ6c 00:00: Introduction01:09: Ancestry & Early Life05:03: Marriage to Edward the Confessor07:24: Exile09:53: The Queen of England11:58: The Norman Conquest14:22: Death & Legacy #EdithofWessex #QueenofEngland #EdwardtheConfessor #HaroldGodwinson #WilliamtheConqueror #Anglo-Saxon #NormanConquest #MedievalEngland #RoyalWomen See show notes: https://inlet.fm/history-profiles/episodes/68debda30e619a5d6f34b241 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Tostig Godwinson, an Anglo-Saxon nobleman and Earl of Northumbria, was the brother of King Harold Godwinson. Known in the Norse sagas as a clever and formidable warrior, Tostig is also depicted in Latin writings as strong, brave, handsome, and gracious. Both Norse and Anglo-Saxon sources portray him as a distinguished man and warrior. Historians consider Tostig's exile pivotal in sparking two major invasions: Harald Hardrada's Norse attack and William, Duke of Normandy's renowned conquest. These events led to the fall of Anglo-Saxon England and a series of brutal battles. Music: "VOICE OF PRAYER" by Noel Malekar Listen here 00:00: Introduction01:08: Ancestry & Early Life05:25: Exile of the Godwinson Family08:16: Tostig's rise to Power & War in Wales13:04: Northumbrian Revolt of 106517:57: Tostig is Exiled from England23:45: Tostig Sways King Harald Hardrada29:34: The Battle of Fulford32:58: The Battle of Stamford Bridge & Death38:08: Legacy #TostigGodwinson #Anglo-Saxon #Northumbria #HaroldGodwinson #HaraldHardrada #WilliamtheConqueror #Norse #NormanConquest #1066 #Vikings See show notes: https://inlet.fm/history-profiles/episodes/68d18ea20bca0e395fc44a94 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Matilda, wife of William the Conqueror, was renowned for her beauty and remarkable education. Admired for her intelligence, generosity, and deep piety, she exemplified the virtues of a queen consort. Celebrated for her needlework, Matilda mastered skills esteemed among noblewomen. Her artistry attracted suitors from Europe's greatest princes, sharing this talent with her cousins. Though much of her work hasn't survived, legend credits her with creating the Bayeux Tapestry, chronicling the Norman conquest of England. This masterpiece would honor her husband's triumph and her needlework prowess. As Queen of England and Duchess of Normandy, Matilda was among Europe's most powerful women. She bore nine children, including future kings William II and Henry I. Her marriage to William was marked by deep affection and loyalty. 00:00: Introduction02:00: Ancestry & Early Life03:16: Matilda & William06:18: 106608:25: The Queen of England10:52: The Worry of Her Eldest Son Robert13:37: Later Life & Death #MatildaofFlanders #WilliamtheConqueror #BayeuxTapestry #Normanconquest #queenconsort #needlework #medievalhistory #Europeanroyalty See show notes: https://inlet.fm/history-profiles/episodes/68ca2432f075d0eaaea0ea6e Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

William the Conqueror's life was marked by triumph and ambition. Orphaned and born illegitimately, his early years were filled with turmoil as rival Norman nobles sought control over him. Despite these challenges, William secured his rule over Normandy. By the 1050s, William was a contender for the English throne, held by his cousin, Edward the Confessor. After Edward's death in January 1066, Harold Godwinson claimed the crown, but William argued it had been promised to him. In September 1066, William invaded England, defeating Harold at the Battle of Hastings and was crowned King of England on Christmas Day. William's reign saw rebellions, notably by Edgar Ætheling. William's response was brutal, as seen in the Harrying of the North, where villages were razed and many died. Chronicler Orderic Vitalis commented on the massacre, stating, “I can say nothing good about this brutal slaughter. God will punish him.” Dissent persisted as Norman earls criticized his harsh rule. His son, Robert Curthose, also rebelled but was later forgiven and given Normandy, while William Rufus inherited England. William's reign included the monumental Domesday Book, a survey of England’s assets and taxes, highlighting his administrative achievements. As a warrior, William was unmatched. The Anglo-Saxon Chronicle stated, “King William was a man of great wisdom and formidable power.” This episode details his story, from his ancestry to his legacy. 00:00: Introduction03:38: Ancestry04:28: Early Life & turmoil05:54: Battle of Val-ès-Dunes08:11: The Duke of Normandy11:26: English crown succession crisis18:05: The Battle of Hastings22:57: The Norman Conquest33:16: The Harrying of the North37:00: Revolt of the Earls41:01: William's Eldest son Robert Curthose rebels47:51: The Domesday Book49:17: William prepares for a Viking invasion51:10: Final Battle, Death & the succession53:35: Legacy #WilliamtheConqueror #BattleofHastings #NormanConquest #Englishthrone #HaroldGodwinson #EdwardtheConfessor #DomesdayBook #Anglo-SaxonChronicle #medievalhistory See show notes: https://inlet.fm/history-profiles/episodes/68c0e9b38dac52b4e4d0223e Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Discover the captivating tale of Edith the Fair, also known as Edith Swanneck, an Anglo-Scandinavian noblewoman from the 11th century. Edith, one of England’s wealthiest nobles, was renowned for her beauty and was a lover of King Harold Godwinson, with whom she had six children. Raised by her father, Thorkell the Tall, a Viking chief, Edith's life was intertwined with war and loyalty. Despite the chaos, she earned the nickname 'Swanneck' for her gentle nature. Notably, after the Battle of Hastings, she identified Harold's body on the battlefield, ensuring he had a proper burial. This episode dives deep into her ancestry, her relationship with Harold, and her impact during England's turbulent times. Music: "VOICE OF PRAYER" by Noel Malekar Watch on YouTube 00:00: Introduction01:39: Ancestry & Early Life07:05: Relationship with Harold Godwinson11:53: England at War & The Queen Who Never Was15:20: Edith Walks through the battlefield #EdiththeFair #EdithSwanneck #HaroldGodwinson #BattleofHastings #11thcentury #Anglo-Scandinavian #ThorkelltheTall #Viking #medievalEngland #noblewoman See show notes: https://inlet.fm/history-profiles/episodes/68b9d3ade49cc51834dc208c Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Edward the Confessor was the final Anglo-Saxon King from the House of Wessex, growing up in one of England's most tumultuous eras. As the seventh son of King Aethelred the Unready, he was not destined for the throne. However, following the Viking conquest and the downfall of his family, he became one of the last heirs to the Wessex bloodline, the first rulers of England. This tragic tale follows Edward the Confessor, a man who restored his house to power yet during his lengthy and politically frail rule, set the stage for the pivotal Norman Invasion, leading to the end of Anglo-Saxon culture. Discover his story. 00:00 Introduction 00:55 Early Life & The Viking Conquest of England 05:17 Life in Exile & Reign of Cnut 07:27 Reign of Harald Harefoot 13:19 Reign of Harthacnut & Return from Exile 17:05 Edward becomes the King of England 19:33 Magnus' Threatening Letter to Edward 22:02 Edward Takes his Mother's Wealth 24:19 Rivalry with Earl Godwin 36:53 Later Reign 40:22 Death & The Succession 43:39 Veneration & Legacy Music: "VOICE OF PRAYER" by Noel Malekar Video Link: Watch here 00:00: Introduction00:55: Early Life & The Viking Conquest of England05:17: Life in Exile & Reign of Cnut07:27: Reign of Harald Harefoot13:19: Reign of Harthacnut & Return from Exile17:05: Edward becomes the King of England19:33: Magnus' Threatening Letter to Edward22:02: Edward Takes his Mother's Wealth24:19: Rivalry with Earl Godwin36:53: Later Reign40:22: Death & The Succession43:39: Veneration & Legacy #EdwardtheConfessor #Anglo-Saxon #HouseofWessex #Vikingconquest #NormanInvasion #Anglo-Saxonculture #KingAethelred #Vikings #Normans #Englandhistory See show notes: https://inlet.fm/history-profiles/episodes/68b3bab32cc5fa273028b2c4 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices