Restless Times in History: Recent Episodes
restlesstimesinhistory
From the daring escapes of would-be-queens to impossible feats of ordinary people in the past - this podcast covers it all, from chaos, conflict to little known facts that changed the world.
In this podcast episode: The bitterly fought conclusion to the devastating Anarchy saw the rise of a royal dynasty - the Plantagenets.
(New Remix of episode from 2022) The history of the 12th century conflict known as THE ANARCHY The disaster of the sinking of the White Ship in 1120 robbed the Kingdom of England of an heir to inherit the throne. What followed was a 20 year civil war
(New Remix of episode from 2022) The history of the 12th century conflict known as THE ANARCHY The disaster of the sinking of the White Ship in 1120 robbed the Kingdom of England of an heir to inherit the throne. What followed was a 20year civil war
In this podcast episode: Violent victories, devastating defeats, and bitter losses marked the years between 1141-1147 which saw Empress Mathilda wreak vengeance on former allies as King Stephen's wife negotiated for his release. A daring winter escape and unexpected allies ensured that the balance of power constantly shifted between the two cousins fighting for the crown of England
(New Remix of episode from 2022) The history of the 12th century conflict known as THE ANARCHY The disaster of the sinking of the White Ship in 1120 robbed the Kingdom of England of an heir to inherit the throne. What followed was a 20year civil war.
The Anarchy The episode starts with a recap - jumb to 4.21 if you are all caught up!
In this podcast episode: 1141: King Stephen lies in chains in Bristol Castle, and Empress Mathilda enters London in order to prepare for her coronation. But whispers of discontent are soon heard on the streets of London - and Empress Mathilda must contend with treacherous allies and citizens ready to take action...
(New Remix of episode from 2022) The history of the 12th century conflict known as THE ANARCHY
The disaster of the sinking of the White Ship in 1120 robbed the Kingdom of England of an heir to inherit the throne. What followed was a 20year civil war - The Anarchy
In this podcast episode: King Stephen lies in chains in Bristol Castle, and the crown of England is almost in the hands of Empress Matilda. Almost! For new friends and unsteady alliances can tip the scales from triumph to chaos...
(New Remix of episode from 2022) The history of the 12th century conflict known as THE ANARCHY
The disaster of the sinking of the White Ship in 1120 robbed the Kingdom of England of an heir to inherit the throne. What followed was a 20year civil war - The Anarchy
In this podcast episode: A delve into the traits and manners of Empress Matilda - the powerful daughter of a king who fought her cousin for the throne of England.
(New Remix of episode from 2022) The disaster of the sinking of the White Ship in 1120 robbed the Kingdom of England of an heir to inherit the throne. What followed was a 20year civil war, known as The Anarchy-
In this podcast episode: The Battle of Lincoln which saw a king captured - and the reversal of fortune for a would-be queen.
(New Remix of episode from 2022) The disaster of the sinking of the White Ship in 1120 robbed the Kingdom of England of an heir to inherit the throne. What followed was a 20year civil war, known as The Anarchy
King Stephen is crowned but soon his new found friends will turn into rebels - all with their own reasons for turning towards King Stephen's cousin, Matilda, and declaring their support for her right to the crown - a crown promised her by her late father, King Henry - but a crown King Stephen, through speed and promises, managed to secure for himself in the unsettled days following the old king's death.
Years pass - but in 1141, Matilda and Stephen's men at arms face each other for the first time. Battle is joined, the fight for the crown begins!
NEW, previously unreleased EPISODE!
The sinking of the White Ship has robbed King Henry of his heir. In a bid to secure his legacy, the king hastily marries - and later commands his daughter, Matilda, to marry a sometime ally, sometime enemy of his kingdom.
But events unfold contrary to King Henry's wishes - and upon his death - old enemies become unexpected allies, oaths are broken, and a kingdom witnesses a rush to seize the crown of England, as the old king's nephew, Stephen, makes a bid for power against his cousin, Matilda.
A confident king. A popular heir. A festive ship, and a fateful night. A 12th century shipwreck which led to a 20 year-long civil war.
The calamitous event which led to The Anarchy, and inspired literary works such as House of the Dragon.
This is a remix of an episode from 2022
What do you know about The Pestilence, The Black Death, The Plague of the 14th century?
Here's a quick quiz with 4 questions on the What, How, and When of it all.
Don't forget newest quiz on Ancient Rome - 3 new questions - find them HERE
3 questions about 3 famous battles!
Commanders, tactics, and battle grounds - How well do you know the famous battles of the ancient and early medieval world?
Interested in classical literature - here's a quiz about the classics - on Literature, Laughter, and Learning
From founding myths to the twilight of the Roman city - How well do you know Ancient Rome? In this episode you can guess along on 3 questions on Ancient Rome from its founding to its end. Answers are provided at the end of the episode. Like classical literature? Consider listening to my other channel as well: Literature, Laughter, and Learning
The aftermath and long term consequences of the Stockholm Bloodbath
From a dream of unity to the concept of individual kings and kingdoms.
Like classical literature? Consider listening to my other channel as well: Literature, Laughter, and Learning
The daring, deadly, and disastrous events of 7th-10th November 1520 which concluded with blood flowing in the streets of Stockholm.
Like classical literature? Consider listening to my other channel as well: Literature, Laughter, and Learning
Did one man's years long quest for vengeance lead to hundreds of deaths in the Stockholm Bloodbath?
King Christian marches on Sweden, intent on conquering the kingdom - and while he amasses an ocean of enemies - he finds an unexpected ally at the centre of a power struggle in Sweden.
Like classical literature? Consider listening to my other channel as well: Literature, Laughter, and Learning
Villain? Hero? Duke of...?
5 interesting facts about Richard III whose name will forever be linked to the mystery of the Princes in the Tower, his own two nephews, one of them heir to the throne - who disappeared without a trace.
Richard III - a king whose legacy still divides opinions!
Like classical literature? Consider listening to my other channel as well: Literature, Laughter, and Learning
The dreams, hopes, and ideals of a united North, would ultimately be realised by an ambitious queen. Who fought, schemed, killed, and died to make the union of Norway, Sweden, and Denmark happen - events which would lead to a horrific bloodbath?
Like classical literature? Consider listening to my other channel as well: Literature, Laughter, and Learning
On 4th November 1520, the kingdoms of Norway, Denmark, and Sweden were united under the rule of one King. But days later, a bloodbath occurred in the town square of the Swedish capital, Stockholm, with roots in late medieval feuds and with ramifications felt for centuries...This series examines the what and why of the Stockholm Bloodbath of 1520.Part 1: The Danish angle. Like classical literature? Consider listening to my other channel as well: Literature, Laughter, and Learning
A quiz about Ancient Rome
Do you know the answers:
Remembered words
Friends, foes, and allies
A pivotal moment...and many more
Like classical literature? Consider listening to my other channel as well: Literature, Laughter, and Learning
Do you know the answers to history facts about:
A battle for the ages
A legendary conqueror
A lost child in WWII
Part 2 of a quick history quiz.
Next episode upload will be in 2 weeks, regular schedule.
Like classical literature? Consider listening to my other channel as well: Literature, Laughter, and Learning
Extra history episode with a quick quiz, based on 3 historical films
Do you know the answers to history facts about:
A violent upheaval
The "other" hero
The ambitious outwit the angry
Like classical literature? Consider listening to my other channel as well: Literature, Laughter, and Learning
Second and concluding episode on this 2 part series on the amazing life and adventures of the 12th century adventurer, Margaret of Beverley, who walked from Yorkshire into the heart of some of the pivotal battles of the late 12th century - and lived to see the wonders of Rome - and survived a death sentence at the hands of her foes...
Like classical literature? Consider listening to my other channel as well: Literature, Laughter, and Learning
A Re-edit (of an earlier episode) and more info in this 2 part series on the amazing life and adventures of the 12th century adventurer, Margaret of Beverley, who walked from Yorkshire into the heart of some of the pivotal battles of the late 12th century.
The fantastic history of Robert Carey's incredible horseback ride from Richmond Palace in England to Scotland in just 2 days, in March 1603 - in a dash to be the first to bend the knee to a new Stuart king. A story of death, ambition, a secret ring, and friends in the right places...
For the full story of the last days of Elizabeth I - see the 3 part podcast episode
Last Days of Elizabeth I
The Justinian Plague of 542 CE ravaged the mighty city of Constantinople and had lasting consequences for the Eastern Roman Empire.
In this concluding episode, we explore the aftermath and wide ranging effects of the Justinian Plague - and speculate on what might have happened, had the plague not left Constantinople, ravaged, hungry - and bereft of half its population?
Like classical literature? Consider listening to my other channel as well: Literature, Laughter, and Learning
The Justinian Plague of 542 CE ravaged the mighty city of Constantinople and had lasting consequences for the Eastern Roman Empire.
Why did the plague pandemic erupt at this particular time in history?In this third episode, the possible meteorological, biological, and socio-cultural events which affected the progression of the plague are examined.
Like classical literature? Consider listening to my other channel as well: Literature, Laughter, and Learning
The Justinian Plague of 542 CE ravaged the mighty city of Constantinople and had lasting consequences for the Eastern Roman Empire.
In this second episode, the emperor persists with his dreams of conquest even as Constantinople is ravaged by the plague. But enemies take stock of a weakened city...and internal conflict threatens to overwhelm the hard hit citizens...
Like classical literature? Consider listening to my other channel as well: Literature, Laughter, and Learning
The Justinian Plague of 542 CE ravaged the mighty city of Constantinople and had lasting consequences for the Eastern Roman Empire.
In this first episode, the plague arrives by grain ship - and as physicians are overwhelmed, the emperor is preoccupied with other matters...
Like classical literature? Consider listening to my other channel as well: Literature, Laughter, and Learning
Part 2/2 Arthur Ransome's fantastic escapes in 1919
Arthur Ransome is best remembered as a successful author of children's books, most notably Swallows and Amazons.
But in 1919 he had a series of truly remarkable, daring, improbable - and fantastic escapes through partisan forests and vast landscapes, as he attempted to reach Estonia and escape with the woman, he loved.
Like classical literature or film reviews in general? Consider listening to my other channel as well: Literature, Laughter, and Learning
Arthur Ransome is best remembered as a successful author of children's books, most notably Swallows and Amazons.
But in 1919 he had a series of truly remarkable, daring, improbable - and fantastic escapes through partisan forests and vast landscapes, as he attempted to reach Estonia and escape with the woman, he loved.
Like classical literature or film reviews in general? Consider listening to my other channel as well: Literature, Laughter, and Learning
A NON-SPOILER review of the historical film, OPPENHEIMER, currently showing in cinemas.
Who, why, and what makes this film an exceptional experience
Like classical literature or film reviews in general? Consider listening to my other channel as well: Literature, Laughter, and Learning Right now featuring a review of the 1982 best picture winner, Chariots of Fire
In the concluding episode of this podcast series on Harald Bluetooth, we examine the continued legacy of this 10th Viking king, who lived and died by the sword.
Bluetooth technology was named after Harald Bluetooth. But who was Bluetooth really and why did his achievements in the late Viking age, lead a group of young tech inventors in the 20th century to name an innovative technology after him? We examine possible answers - and similarities!
Like classical literature? Consider listening to my other channel as well: Literature, Laughter, and Learning
In the year 985: With all to win and nothing to lose, King Harald Bluetooth must join battle with his greatest foe and most deadly rival - his own son and heir - for the crown of Denmark
Bluetooth technology was named after a 10th century Danish King, Harald Bluetooth. But who was Bluetooth, and why did his achievements in the late Viking age, lead a group of young tech inventors in the 20th century to name an innovative technology after him?
Like classical literature? Consider listening to my other channel as well: Literature, Laughter, and Learning
Part 5: After years of fighting external enemies and leading successful Viking raids - Bluetooth finally realizes, that deadly enemies are far closer to home.
Bluetooth technology was named after a 10th century Danish King, Harald Bluetooth. But who was Bluetooth, and why did his achievements in the late Viking age, lead a group of young tech inventors in the 20th century to name an innovative technology after him?
Like classical literature? Consider listening to my other channel as well: Literature, Laughter, and Learning
Part 4: Friends may fade away, but enemies are always close at hand...
Bluetooth technology was named after a 10th century Danish King, Harald Bluetooth. But who was Bluetooth, and why did his achievements in the late Viking age, lead a group of young tech inventors in the 20th century to name an innovative technology after him?
Like classical literature? Consider listening to my other channel as well: Literature, Laughter, and Learning
Part 3: With Norway as an ally, Bluetooth looks south for land to conquer
Bluetooth technology was named after a 10th century Danish King, Harald Bluetooth. But who was Bluetooth, and why did his achievements in the late Viking age, lead a group of young tech inventors in the 20th century to name an innovative technology after him?
Like classical literature? Consider listening to my other channel too: Literature, Laughter, and Learning
Part 2: Bluetooth rules his kingdom of Denmark even as he covets the lands of his neighbours
Bluetooth technology was named after a 10th century Danish King, Harald Bluetooth. But who was Bluetooth, and why did his achievements in the late Viking age, lead a group of young tech inventors in the 20th century to name an innovative technology after him?
Like classical literature? Consider listening to my other channel too: Literature, Laughter, and Learning
Part 1: Prologue
Bluetooth technology was named after a 10th century Danish King, Harald Bluetooth. But who was Bluetooth, and why did his achievements in the late Viking age, lead a group of young tech inventors in the 20th century to name an innovative technology after him?
Like classical literature? Consider listening to my other channel too: Literature, Laughter, and Learning
How did tennis evolve from an 11th century game played behind the cloistered walls of French monasteries to becoming the sport of kings?
Part 3: Henry VIII knew how to acquire a magnificent residence complete with tennis court - by gifting his old friend's possessions to himself. Anne Boleyn never received her winnings - and Elizabeth I enjoyed a bet.
The conclusion to the 3 part series on the history of medieval and early modern tennis - once known as royal tennis - today called real tennis.
Follow on Instagram for images of the historical events recounted on the podcast
Part 2 of the history of royal tennis, today known as real tennis.
As game courts increased in number, so too did the punishments meted out to those, who attempted to sell dirty balls. By the 15th century, the game had become The Sport of (warrior) Kings. But just as kings played the game, the game could still be the death of kings, leading to sovereigns dying in squalor in France or trapped in tunnels in Scotland.
Do you have a suggestion for a future topic? If yes, let me know: restlesstimesinhistory@gmail.com
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Part 1 of the history of royal tennis. A ball game once practised by 12th century monks, up against monastic walls, it came to be the favoured sport of medieval kings. But even as sovereigns played on their own newly constructed courts, medieval tennis would be at the heart of several sudden, brutal, and unusual deaths among those, who ruled.
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From devil's tool to the instrument of modesty - the fork has been called many things!
A king, who would be beheaded, a sovereign, known as the Sun King, a queen, hailed as Gloriana - all had an opinion on the fork, which saw its fortunes rise and fall, as Empires came and went, and the fork came to represent the ideals of a new era.
"Devil's tool. Murder Weapon, Diplomatic Device"
From the Far East to the Byzantine Empire - from Constantinople to the Jewel of the Renaissance and on to the city of lights. The fork, as we know it, has a colourful history.
The battle defeat of King Henry III of England led to the captivity of his son and heir, Edward, who was held under guard by the king's greatest enemy. But Edward planned a daring escape!
Why do Danes celebrate Morten's Aften - Martin's Eve - by eating geese? And who was Martin of Tours, who is celebrated on that day?
For suggestions for future podcast topics, please write to restlesstimesinhistory@gmail.com
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A metalworker, a surgeon, and quite possibly a counterfeiter. But also, an unsung hero of the 15th century - but for him, the famous Battle of Agincourt might never have happened!
The Vikings are here! What happened at Lindisfarne on 8th June 793 - and what was the reaction at the time to the viking raid.
Part 1: Lead up to the Viking raid on Lindisfarne
What was the significance of Lindisfarne, and why did it come to the attention of the 8th century Vikings?
She was a 4th century woman in the Roman Empire, at a time when Christmas was not even celebrated. So what is the history of Lucia and how did she become so closely associated with the festive season and Christmas - learn more on this episode.
Happy Holidays everyone!
It was an old tune from the frontier, which became a marching song during the American Civil War. But what inspired the 19th century poet and activist, Julia Ward Howe, to write the hymn BATTLE HYMN OF THE REPUBLIC - and how did it become so popular? Vocals and arrangement: Carlymillerproductions Lyrics: Julia Ward Howe License purchased November 2022
The end of Elizabeth Gloriana as England waits with bated breath for what's to come. A daring midnight ride from London to Scotland, which ensures the fortune of one man, and causes another to exact furious vengeance. It is the last of the Tudors and first of the Stuarts.
12 potential claimants to the throne of England could mean conflict. Queen Elizabeth's advisor goes behind her back to secure a smooth transition of power.
Tensions are high in 1603 as Queen Elizabeth falls sick - but refuses to name an heir to the crown of England.
The final episode in the story of the 17th century witch trials in Iceland, that saw the fear of the devil and mistrust of magic weave its way into a rural society, which had in former times viewed magic as akin to wisdom, and had placed no particular importance on the devil.
In this episode we shall explore 2 harrowing stories, which highlight the devasting consequences for all involved, when one person is accussed, charged, and condemned of being a witch. The episode concludes with possible answers as to why the witch trials started - and why they ended.
During the middle ages, Iceland had been a Catholic country, closely aligned with Norway - and in Iceland, the ancient Norse traditions lived on as an integral part of Icelandic culture. This included the belief in and high regard of magic and magic users. This all changed in the early modern period, when Iceland's society changed, as religious views evovled in Europe, and the balance of power shifted in Scandinavia. In this episode, we examine how this led to a period of witch trials in Iceland from 1625-1683.
An earthquake, which led to a revolt, that resulted in an insult, and culminated in all-out war. The Sparta earthquake impacted the ancient Greek world for centuries.
Was it murder, illness, or injury, that caused Edgar Allan Poe to die at the age of 40? The 19th century American author, Edgar Allan Poe, wrote short stories that helped popularise the genre of the detective novel. But Edgar Allan Poe died surrounded by strangers in 1849, under circumstances that remain suspicious to this very day. A few years ago, a scholar suggested a new cause of death, which might answer the question: What brought about the sudden death of Edgar Allan Poe?
Duty, Dinner, and Death - and all the wrong lessons learned!
The devasting events at Edinburgh Castle on the evening of 24th November 1440 - The Black Dinner, and its aftermath.
Who dined and died at the Black Dinner of 1440?
2 young boys, heirs to great power and land, were invited to Edinburgh Castle in 1440 – the events that unfolded on the night of their arrival shocked Scotland to the core, resulted in year long strife, and partly inspired George RR Martin's writing of The Red Wedding.
An ancient Greek commander, schemer, and survivor, who escaped his enemies (and friends!) again and again!
How an unrepentant warrior and sworn enemy of Rome was spared certain death, by telling the emperor “You and I could have been friends!”
Did any Spartans survive the Battle of Thermopylae – Yes. What happened to them - Nothing good! This podcast delves into the tumultuous lives of 3 Spartan warriors – and the fate of a foolhardy traitor.
She walked, she fought, she marvelled. An ordinary girl, who lived an extraordinary life in the 12th century.
Part 7 - The hard won conclusion to the 12th Century historical period, known as The Anarchy
The penultimate episode of the history of The Anarchy
A King in February, a prisoner in March. A desperate Empress besieged in September, a would-be-queen hailed for her courage in December. What a year, 1141!
Darkness has found a home in the anarchy of England - who will put an end to the chaos?
Triumph is a fickle thing So, so tantalizing close to victory! But chance and fortune can destroy the best laid plans.
What were the circumstances, that led to that historical period in English history known as The Anarchy?
In this episode: A shipwreck on a cold, November's night changes the course of English history.