Shows
A History of Europe, Key Battles69.2 Schleswig War of 1864When in November 1863 King Frederick VII of Denmark died, a dispute arose over who had a legitimate claim to rule over the Duchies of Schleswig and Holstein. Otto von Bismarck saw this as a great opportunity to increase Prussian power in the region and decided, together with the Austrians, to invade Denmark.The key battle in the war was the siege of Dybbøl in April 1864This month, August 2022, I'm doing a cycling challenge to raise money for Brain Tumour Research. More info at: www.justgiving.com/fundraising/carl-rylett-cycle2742022-08-2623 min
A History of Europe, Key Battles69.1 Schleswig War of 1864 - BackgroundA border dispute between the German Confederation and the Kingdom of Denmark in the regions of Schleswig and Holstein breaks out into an inconclusive war in 1848-1850, and tensions remain into the 1860's.Meanwhile, a common culture was developing across the German population of Europe, with the literary works of Goethe and Schiller, and philosophers Kant and Hegel. On the political scene, Otto von Bismarck rises to power as the Prussian chief minister. He urges the need for the king’s military reforms, famously stating that the great questions of the time would not be resolved by...2022-08-1923 min
A History of Europe, Key Battles52.3 The English Civil WarThe English Civil War Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2020-08-2829 min
A History of Europe, Key Battles52.2 Build-up the English Civil WarBuild-up to the English Civil War, with growing tensions between King Charles I and the ParliamentMusic: John Dowland - Lachrimae, or Seven Tears; Lassus - Susanne un jour (piano); Thoinot Arbeau - Orchésographie - Pavane: Belle qui tiens ma viePicture: Attempted Arrest of the Five members, by Charles West Cope Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2020-08-2129 min
A History of Europe, Key Battles52.1 King James I of England (VI of Scotland)Part 1 on the English Civil War. The reign of the first Stuart king of England, James I (James VI of Scotland) was relatively calm, but there were religious tensions, including the Gunpowder Plot 1605, and disagreements with parliament, which presaged the later troubles of his son Charles IMusic: Orlando Gibbons, Silver Swan Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2020-08-1421 min
A History of Europe, Key Battles51.7 Peace of WestphaliaLast decade of the Thirty Years War - French, Swedish, Spanish, German, and imperial armies fight to gain strategic advantage in a central Europe already devastated by many years of conflict and pillaging. Finally in 1648 the sides agree to the Peace of Westphalia.Music: Claudio Monteverdi - Lamento della ninfa, 1638, dedicated to Emperor Ferdinand III Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2020-07-1735 min
A History of Europe, Key Battles51.6 The French Enter the Thirty Years WarThe French, her foreign policy led by Cardinal Richelieu, enter the Thirty Years War after the Battle of Lutzen 1632Music: Giovanni Paolo Cima - O Dulcedo Meliflua, 1610 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2020-07-1020 min
A History of Europe, Key Battles51.5 Battle of Lutzen 1632Gustavus Adolphus, King of Sweden, launches a stunning attack into Germany and dramatically turns the tide of the Thirty Years War, concluding at the Battle of Lutzen 1632 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2020-07-0327 min
A History of Europe, Key Battles51.4 Early Wars of Gustavus AdolphusBefore Gustavus Adolphus, King of Sweden, got involved in the 30 Years War, he had already fought wars against Denmark, Poland and Russia Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2020-06-1934 min
A History of Europe, Key Battles51.3 Invasion of Christian IV of DenmarkWarfare engulfs central Europe as Spain and the Dutch renew their war and Christian IV of Denmark invades the Holy Roman empire. Ferdinand II declares the Edict of Restitution to reassert Catholicism and imperial authority Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2020-06-1229 min
A History of Europe, Key Battles51.2 The Bohemian Revolt, Defenestration of Prague 1618The Thirty Years war is triggered by a revolt in Bohemia, and the famous Defenestration of Prague 1618. Frederick V of the Palatinate accepts the rebels' invitation to lead them, leading to the Battle of White Mountain for control of Prague. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2020-06-0529 min
A History of Europe, Key Battles51.1 Thirty Years War 1618-48, BackgroundThe 17th century was one of the most bloody of European history. The Thirty Years War in particular is notorious for the sustained carnage and destruction it caused, and still burns in German memory as the most bloody period in their history before the twentieth century. Today's episode describes the situation on the continent leading up to the conflict. Pictured: Emperor Ferdinand II and Frederick V of the Palatinate. Music: Giovanni Palestrina Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2020-05-2931 min
A History of Europe, Key Battles50.4 Battle of Khotyn 1621Sultan Osman II leads a massive invasion force to Poland, confident of victory after defeating a Christian army the year before. The Ottomans meet a combined Polish-Cossack army near the Romanian-Polish border by the fortress of Khotytn (pictured). And so commences a month long battle for control of the region. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2020-02-2923 min
A History of Europe, Key Battles50.3 Build-up to the Battle of Khotyn 1621Cossacks raid the Black Sea coast as far as Kaffa and Istanbul. King Sigismund III of Poland vies for control of Moldavia, today a region in Romania with the Turks. In response Sultan Osman II declares war on Poland, gaining victory at Cecora in 1620 (pictured). The next year the Ottomans prepare a much bigger army for an invasion of Poland Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2020-02-2122 min
A History of Europe, Key Battles50.2 Ottoman Empire - Beginning of the DeclineA succession of weak rulers begins the gradual decline of the Ottoman Empire. Their fight with the Habsburgs for control of Hungary continues with the Long Turkish War 1593-1606 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2020-02-1428 min
A History of Europe, Key Battles50.1 The CossacksBackground to the Battle of Khotyn 1621. The Cossacks occupy a central place in the history of Ukraine and surrounding region. They were not so much a distinct race but a way of life, a military caste whose service, though not always loyalty, was brought for concessions of land and limited independence. They inhabited a no-mans land in south-eastern Europe between the Christian states of Poland-Lithuania and Muscovy to the north, and the Ottoman Turks and their vassals to the south east Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2020-02-0720 min
A History of Europe, Key Battles49.5 Anglo-Spanish War 1585-1604The famous Spanish Armada of 1588 was only one of several battles in the Anglo-Spanish War of 1585-1604. Elizabeth hoped to take advantage of her victory by striking another blow to the Spanish fleet but in truth her own forces were exhausted. The conflict continued for several more years, and became embroiled in continental affairs; the Dutch Revolt and rise of Henry IV of France. Finally, I look at the legacies of Philip II of Spain and Elizabeth I of England Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2019-08-0930 min
A History of Europe, Key Battles49.4 The Spanish Armada 1588The famous attempted invasion of England by the Spanish Armada in 1588 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2019-08-0231 min
A History of Europe, Key Battles49.3 Spain Fights Back against the Dutch RebelsThe Duke of Parma (pictured), sent by Philip II of Spain, makes good progress putting down tough resistance in the Dutch Revolt. Spanish success prompts Elizabeth I to get more involved Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2019-07-1920 min
A History of Europe, Key Battles49.2 The Dutch Revolt BeginsOrigins of the Dutch Revolt (1568–1648). Philip II of Spain inherits the Netherlands, the Kingdom of Naples and the newly discovered Americas as well as the Iberian Peninsula. Unrest breaks out in the Netherlands, and resistance grows against Philip's rule. Meanwhile, Anglo-Spanish relations are further strained by the discovery of a Spanish plot to kill Queen Elizabeth, the Ridolfi plotPictured: Philip of Spain and William of Orange, leader of the revolt Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2019-07-0518 min
A History of Europe, Key Battles49.1 The Reign of Mary of England and Philip HabsburgThe kingdoms of England and Spain are allies during the reign of Mary I of England and her husband Philip Habsburg, son of Emperor Charles V. Mary, however, dies childless and is succeeded by her sister Elizabeth, a Protestant. Meanwhile Mary Queen of Scots is briefly Queen of France, but on the death of her husband returns to Scotland, causing a dilemma for Queen Elizabeth. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2019-06-2827 min
A History of Europe, Key Battles48.1 Interview with Jacob F. FieldSomething different this week - an interview with historian and author Jacob F. Field, whose works include:One Bloody Thing After Another: The World's Gruesome HistoryWe Shall Fight on the Beaches: The Speeches That Inspired HistoryAnd more recently - A History of Europe in Bite Sized Chunks Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2019-04-2634 min
A History of Europe, Key Battles47.4 French Wars of Religion - ConclusionConclusion of the French Wars of Religion. On the death of all four sons of Catherine de Medici, the Valois dynasty dies out, leaving a committed Protestant, Henry of Navarre, as heir to the throne. He would go on to become Henry IV, founder of the Bourbon dynasty and one of France's greatest kings.https://aca.st/370288 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2019-04-1924 min
A History of Europe, Key Battles47.3 St Bartholomew's Day MassacreFighting breaks out in France between Protestants and Catholics in a series of conflicts known as the French Wars of Religion. The most infamous event of all is the St Bartholomew's Day Massacre 1572 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2019-04-1216 min
A History of Europe, Key Battles47.2 French Wars of Religion - BackgroundThe Protestant Faith is spreading fast when Henry II (pictured) ascends to the throne of France in 1574. His early death destabilizes the French Crown Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2019-04-0428 min
A History of Europe, Key Battles47.1 Martin Luther, the Reformation and the Printing PressBeginnings of the Reformation, triggered in 1517 by Martin Luther, whose ideas spread quickly thanks to the recent invention of the printing press. Also the economy of France flourishes during the reign of Francis I (1515-1547) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2019-03-2923 min
A History of Europe, Key Battles46.4 Livonian Wars 1558-1583The final years of Livonia Wars, the struggle for control of the southern Baltic coastline between Sweden, Denmark, Poland-Lithuania and Russia. King Stephan Bathory of Poland leads a campaign into Muscovite territory and besieges the city of Pskov (pictured). Also, the legacy of Ivan IV the Terrible Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2019-02-2225 min
A History of Europe, Key Battles46.3 Ivan the Terrible and the OprichninaIvan the Terrible, convinced of treachery all around him, orders the execution of anyone he suspects of disloyalty. He then creates the Oprichnina, a state within a state in Muscovy, and subjects his people to successive waves of terror, including the massacre of Novogord 1569. Moscow comes under threat in 1571 from an immense army of Crimean Tatars leading to the Battle of Molodi. Meanwhile Denmark and Sweden fight the Seven Years War. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2019-02-1529 min
A History of Europe, Key Battles46.2 History of Medieval Scandinavia and Hanseatic LeagueThe History of Medieval Scandinavia and the Baltic Sea, and rivalries between the Hanseatic League (a naval merchant alliance), Denmark, Sweden and Poland-Lithuania Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2019-02-0823 min
A History of Europe, Key Battles46.1 Battle of Ermes 1560, Fall of the Livonian OrderThe Livonian Order, in decline for years, suffers defeat at the Battle of Ermes 1560 against an army of Ivan the Terrible, triggering a conflict to fill the power vacuum; the Northern Wars Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2019-02-0125 min
A History of Europe, Key Battles45.5 Battle of Lepanto 1571The Battle of Lepanto - the largest naval battle in Western history since classical antiquity. A clash for supremacy of the Mediterranean between the Ottomans and a Christian Holy League Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2019-01-0422 min
A History of Europe, Key Battles45.4 Ottoman Invasion of CyprusSultan Selim II directs an Ottoman invasion against the Venetian controlled island of Cyprus, leading to the siege of Famagusta which lasted almost a year from September 1570 to August 1571 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2018-12-2117 min
A History of Europe, Key Battles45.3 Siege of MaltaPhilip II of Spain suffers a major setback by the failure to capture the port of Tripoli. Then in 1565 the Ottomans, in the ascendancy in the Mediterranean, attempt to capture the island of Malta, leading to one of most epic sieges of all time. Also, the passing away of Suleiman the Magnificent Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2018-12-1419 min
A History of Europe, Key Battles45.2 Charles V and Sultan Suleiman the MagnificentThe Ottoman Turks and their Barbary Pirate allies fight against Emperor Charles V and Italians for influence in the Mediterranean but form an alliance of convenience with France which shocks Christendom. Meanwhile there is court intrigue in Constantinople centred around the sultan's harem. And Charles V decides to abdicate after a long reign (pictured: a tapestry of the abdication ceremony) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2018-11-3020 min
A History of Europe, Key Battles45.1 Conflict in the MediterraneanBarbary Pirates fill a political vacuum in North Africa in the 1400's. Then in the 1500's, after the capture of Cairo, the Ottomans expand into the Mediterranean. Emperor Charles V captures the strategic city of Tunis in 1535 but Christendom soon after faces numerous setbacks against the Turks, most notably defeat the naval Battle of Preveza 1538 (pictured) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2018-11-2323 min
A History of Europe, Key BattlesPodcast Update, 11 June 2018Unfortunately I must put the podcast on hiatus for 4 months. Having been elected to represent my local village of Eynsham, for a period I will not realistically be able to keep the podcast going at the same rate as before. But when I'm back, there will be lots of great stories to tell of key battles, from the Battle of Lepanto 1571, Spanish Armada, French Religious Wars of Religion, and many more. See you again in the autumn. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2018-06-1103 min
A History of Europe, Key Battles44.3 Siege of Kazan 1552The Siege of Kazan 1552. The conquest of Kazan and Astrakhan by Muscovy can be seen as the birth of a Russian Empire. It had profound consequences for the steppe region and beyond, allowing Russian expansion eastwards, eventually as far as the Pacific. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2018-05-2515 min
A History of Europe, Key Battles44.2 Ivan the Terrible - Early YearsEarly years of Ivan IV, the Terrible. On his reaching maturity, Moscow resumes its bid for control of the neighbouring khanate of Kazan, already weakened by decades of instability Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2018-05-1821 min
A History of Europe, Key Battles44.1 Muscovy and her Asiatic neighbours 1400s-early 1500sThe story of the complex relationship between the Russians and their southern and eastern neighbours in 1400s-early 1500's. Those neighbours were the successor states of the once mighty Mongol-Tatar empire known as the Golden Horde; the khanates of Kazan, Crimea, Siberia, the Great Horde and Nogay Horde. These relationships were at least as important to Muscovy as those with her western neighbours. Pictured: QolSharif Mosque in the city of Kazan, Russia Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2018-05-1130 min
A History of Europe, Key Battles43.2 Battle of Mohacs 1526Suleiman the Magnificent leads a huge army across the Balkans to confront the leadership of the Kingdom of Hungary. The Battle of Mohacs proved to be a key event in the history of eastern Europewww.historyeurope.net Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2018-04-0628 min
A History of Europe, Key Battles43.1 Battle of Mohacs 1526 BackgroundExpansion of the Ottoman Empire in the early 1500's. Conquest of the Balkans and Mamluk-controlled Egypt, and rivalry with Shia Persia. Also, the story of the kingdom of Hungary in the same period, leading up to the Battle of Mohacs 1526. Pictured - the coat of arms of Matthias Corvinus, King of Hungary 1458-1490www.historyeurope.net Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2018-03-3023 min
A History of Europe, Key Battles42.4 Battle of Diu 1509The fight for naval supremacy of the lucrative spice trade of the Indian Ocean between the Mamluk Sultanate based in Cairo and the Portuguese.www.historyeurope.netwww.patreon.com/historyeurope Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2018-02-1627 min
A History of Europe, Key Battles42.3 Portuguese Conquests in IndiaThe Portuguese begin to seize control of the spice trade of the Indian Ocean, by a mixture of diplomacy and brute force. For King Manuel of Portugal, his new maritime empire becomes not just an end in itself but a possible opportunity to weaken the Mamluk Sultanate, and perhaps even a means to recover the Holy Land for Christianity. Pictured: the Zamorin of Calicut.www.historyeurope.netwww.patreon.com/historyeurope Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2018-02-0919 min
A History of Europe, Key Battles42.2 Portuguese Discovery of IndiaThe epic voyage of Vasco Da Gama 1497-1499, who sailed from Portugal, around the southern tip of Africa, along the eastern coast of Africa and then onto India. The discovery of a sea route from Europe to India began the European age of exploration, with huge consequences for both Europe and the rest of the worldwww.historyeurope.netwww.patreon.com/historyeurope Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2018-02-0227 min
A History of Europe, Key Battles42.1 Portuguese Voyages of DiscoveryPortugal, having established its position in Iberia, begins to make conquests in Morocco. At the same time the Portuguese prince Henry the Navigator (pictured) sponsors the beginning of a series of discoveries along the west coast of Africa. In 1487-88 Europeans, led by Bartolomeu Dias , circumnavigate the southern tip of Africa for the first time, and reach the Indian Ocean www.historyeurope.netwww.patreon.com/historyeurope Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2018-01-2626 min
A History of Europe, Key Battles41.2 Russo-Lithuanian Wars 1500-1503Russo-Lithuanian Wars 1500-1503. Ivan III the Great (pictured) continues the expansion of Muscovy by the capture of Lithuanian territories Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2017-12-2917 min
A History of Europe, Key Battles41.1 Conquest of Novgorod by Ivan III of MoscowRussia in the 1400's. The Conquest of Novgorod by Ivan III the Great, Grand Prince of Moscowwww.historyeurope.netwww.patreon.com/historyeurope Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2017-12-2224 min
A History of Europe, Key Battles40.5 Battle of Fornovo 1495King Charles VIII of France, following his conquest of Naples, heads back through Italy to France but is attacked on his way back by a combined Venetian-Milanese army. The two sides meet near the village of Fornovo, near Parma. Although ultimately a failure, Charles' expeditions had major repercussions for it triggered the decades long Italian Wars, when the Italian peninsula became the battleground between foreign powers Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2017-11-2418 min
A History of Europe, Key Battles40.4 Charles VIII of France Invades NaplesCharles VII leads his army into Italy to invade the Kingdom of Naples. He is invited into the peninsula by Ludovico Il Moro of Milan, concerned about aggression from Naples. Ludovico had expected the French to to travel to Naples largely by sea, and with a smaller force, not the full deployment of the French crownwww.historyeurope.netwww.patreon.com/historyeurope Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2017-11-1725 min
A History of Europe, Key Battles40.3 Lorenzo the Magnificent, FlorenceLorenzo il Magnifico, ruler of Florence 1469-1492. In the so-called Pazzi Conspiracy Pope Sixtus IV organises an assassination attempt on Lorenzo and his brother Giuliano. Lorenzo survives and goes on to help negotiate a peace treaty between the five great powers of Italy. For his influence and diplomatic skills he becomes known as 'the needle of the Italian compass'. Lorenzo also sponsored great artists such as Botticelli and Michelangelo da Vinci. However, towards the end of his reign, the people of Florence grow increasingly resentful about economic disruptions and turn to the radical preacher Savonarola2017-11-1019 min
A History of Europe, Key Battles40.2 Renaissance Florence & MediciRise of the Medici dynasty in Florence. Renaissance Italy sees a remarkable flourishing of art and literature, with such writers as Dante, Bocaccio and Petrarch, the architects Brunelleschi and Michelozzo, and the artists Giotto and Pisano. Florence creates a republican system of government, although imperfect, democratic for its time. Cosimo de Medici, a skilled diplomat, rises to power in Florence and helps organise the Peace of Lodi, which brings a period of relative peace and stability to the Italian peninsulawww.historyeurope.netwww.patreon.com/historyeurope Hosted on Acast. See acast...2017-11-0426 min
A History of Europe, Key Battles40.1 Italy in 1400'sOverview of Italy in the 1400's in the lead-up to the Renaissance and Italian Wars. The 5 main powers were The Papacy, Milan, Florence, Naples and Venice, each with very different characteristics. The Maritime Republic of Venice, its overseas territories threatened by the Ottomans, attempts to expand on the mainland. Also, the turbulent history of Naples in 1300's and 1400'swww.historyeurope.net Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2017-10-2730 min
A History of Europe, Key Battles39.3 Battle of Nancy 1477, Fall of BurgundyThe Burgundian Wars 1474-1477. Charles the Bold of Burgundy captures the Duchy of Lorraine. But he faces fierce resistance from his neighbours who form an alliance called the League of Constance, which includes several Swiss towns. The culmination of the wars is the Siege of Nancy 1476-77www.historyeurope.net Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2017-09-2929 min
A History of Europe, Key Battles39.2 Burgundy in the 1470'sCharles the Bold of Burgundy imposes his will on the citizens of Low Countries but, in so doing, creates resentment. Meanwhile, stoked by Louis XI of France, tensions rise between Charles and the Swisswww.historyeurope.net Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2017-09-2225 min
A History of Europe, Key Battles39.1 Western Europe in late 1400'sSurvey of Western European powers around 1460's, including England, France, Burgundy, Switzerland, Savoy, and the major antagonists; King Louis XI of France (pictured) and Duke Philip the Good of Burgundywww.historyeurope.net Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2017-09-1527 min
A History of Europe, Key Battles38.2 The Hussite Wars 1419-1434The Hussite Wars; a series of crusades in the Kingdom of Bohemia (Czech Republic) against religious dissidents, prepared to go to war to protect their religious freedoms against the Catholic Churchwww.historyeurope.net Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2017-08-1830 min
A History of Europe, Key Battles38.1 Early History of Bohemia (Czech Republic)Early History of Bohemia (approx modern day Czech Republic). The Golden Age of Prague (pictured) under Emperor Charles IV, and execution of Jan Hus for alleged heresy, which triggered the Hussite Wars Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2017-08-1128 min
A History of Europe, Key Battles37.4 Battle of Castillon 1453, End of the Hundred Years WarCulmination of the Hundred Years War at the Battle of Castillon 1453. The French rapidly advance into English-held territory in Normandy and Aquitaine Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2017-07-2125 min
A History of Europe, Key Battles37.3 French Recovery Begins (100 Years War)The English fail to capture Orleans, famously defended by Joan of Arc. Charles the Dauphin makes gains against the English and is crowned at the Cathedral of Reims. Philip the Good, meanwhile, concentrates on building up his Duchy of Burgundy. In 1435 the Treaty of Arras is signed between France and Burgundy - a major diplomatic defeat for the English Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2017-07-1426 min
A History of Europe, Key Battles37.2 The English Kingdom in FranceAfter the death of Henry V, the English, under the leadership of John Duke of Burgundy, attempt to consolidate their hold on northern France and push into the south. Resistance forms in France around Charles the Dauphin. Also involved is Philip the Good, Duke of Burgundy (pictured) although his main focus of attention is in his own lands to the east. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2017-07-0733 min
A History of Europe, Key Battles37.1 History of Burgundy, French Civil War in 1400'sA History of Burgundy through the centuries. Civil war and the assassination of John the Fearless, Duke of Burgundy leaves France vulnerable to invasion by King Henry V of England and helps lead to defeat at Agincourt in 1415 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2017-06-3034 min
A History of Europe, Key Battles36.2 Battle of Agincourt 1415Agincourt 1415 - the most famous battle of The Hundred Years War. An army led by King Henry V of England achieves a resounding victory over the French Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2017-05-2620 min
A History of Europe, Key Battles36.1 Hundred Years War, Build-up to Agincourt 1415Relations between England and France after the Battle of Poitiers 1356 and in the lead-up to the Battle of Agincourt 1415. I briefly cover the reigns of Kings Richard II and Henry IV of England, and Charles V and Charles VI of France Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2017-05-1921 min
A History of Europe, Key Battles35.4 Battle of Grunwald/Tannenberg 1410The Battle of Grunwald/Tanneberg 1410 - an important battle in the history of Poland and the Baltic Region. Fought between the Teutonic Knights with guest crusaders on one side and on the other, a combined Polish/Lithuanian army. Also discussed is the battle's aftermath and its relevance today Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2017-05-0633 min
A History of Europe, Key Battles35.3 Battle of Grunwald 1410 Part 3, LithuaniaIn the 14th century Lithuania became a major European power under the leadership of Algirdas, his brother Kęstutis, and their respective sons Jogaila and Vytautas (pictured), This episode describes Lithuania and her relations with the Teutonic Knights leading up to the Battle of Grunwald 1410 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2017-04-2820 min
A History of Europe, Key Battles35.2 Teutonic Knights and Medieval PolandStruggle for Pomerania and Danzig/Gdansk between the native population, Teutonic knights and Kingdom of Poland. Teutonic knights move base to Marienberg. King Casimir the Great of Poland. Dynastic union of Poland and Lithuania in 1390's. Includes quotes from Chaucer's Canterbury Tales. Picture: Marienburg/Malbork fortress (visitmalbork.pl) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2017-04-2029 min
A History of Europe, Key Battles35.1 Baltic Region in 13th CenturyBaltic Region in the 13th Century. Origins of the Teutonic Knights. Expansion of the Duchy of Lithuania as far south as the Black Sea at the expense of the declining Mongol Empire Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2017-04-1429 min
A History of Europe, Key Battles34.2 Battle of Kulikovo 1380In September 1380 Grand Prince Dmitri of Moscow led an army which confronted an invasion force of Mongols on the banks of the River Don. After his victory he became known to history as Dmitri Donskoi, and a great Russian hero. But to what extent is it justified to portray Dmitri as a symbol of Russian resistance against Tatar repression? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2017-03-1720 min
A History of Europe, Key Battles34.1 Rise of Muscovy. Russia under the 'Tatar Yoke'Build up to the Battle of Kulikovo, fought between Russian and Mongol armies in 1380. Covers the rise of Muscovy, and Russia under the 'Tatar Yoke' Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2017-03-1021 min
A History of Europe, Key Battles33.1 Battle of Poitiers 1356, Hundred Years WarEdward the Black Prince, son of King Edward III of England, wins the Battle of Poitiers 1356. The French King, John II, is captured and ransomed, while civil war erupts in his kingdom Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2017-02-1720 min
A History of Europe, Key Battles32.1 Battle of Crecy 1346, Hundred Years WarThe Battle of Crecy was the first major land battle of the Hundred Years War - an important victory for the English and a landmark moment in European military history Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2017-02-0322 min
A History of Europe, Key Battles31.1 Battle of Sluys 1340. Hundred Years WarOne of the greatest naval battles of the European Middle Ages, the English victory at The Battle of Sluys, fought at the coast of Flanders, was crucial to starting The Hundred Years Warwww.historyeurope.net Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2017-01-1319 min
A History of Europe, Key Battles30.2 Hundred Years War Introduction Part 2King Edward III of England declares war on France to begin The Hundred Years Warwww.historyeurope.netPicture: King Edward III of England Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2016-12-3017 min
A History of Europe, Key Battles30.1 Hundred Years War Introduction Part 1Background to The Hundred Years War (1337-1453). Thirteenth century France thrives; King Philip IV the Fair of France; Avignon Papacy beginswww.historyeurope.netPicture: Philip IV of France Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2016-12-2330 min
A History of Europe, Key Battles29.3 Battle of Rio Salado, Gibraltar Crusades (Rio Salado Part 3)The Battle of Rio Salado 1340 and the subsequent Siege of Algeciras were the key moments in the struggle for the Straits of Gibraltar between Christian Spain, Muslim North Africa and the Sultanate of Granada, the last remaining Muslim state in Iberiawww.historyeurope.netPicture: Battle of Rio Salado Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2016-09-0218 min
A History of Europe, Key Battles29.2 Gibraltar Crusades, Castile, Granada and Morocco (Rio Salado Part 2)The Gibraltar Crusades is the name given to the struggle for control of the Straits between Spain and Morocco in the 13th and 14th centuries. Castile and the Marinid dynasty of Morocco fought each other and Granada, the last Muslim state in Iberia.www.historyeurope.netPicture: Remnants of the city of al-Mansoura, constructed by the Marinids during their siege of Tlemcen Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2016-08-2618 min
A History of Europe, Key Battles29.1 Thirteenth Century Spain (Rio Salado Part 1)After the Battle of Las Navas de Tolosa 1212 the Christians of Iberia, especially the Castillians, are able to conquer much territory from the Muslims. Plus an overview of thirteenth century Spainwww.historyeurope.netPicture: Fernando III of Castille Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2016-08-1921 min
A History of Europe, Key Battles28.3 Battle of The Kalka River 1223, Mongols vs Kievan RusThe princes of Kievan Rus gather an army to confront a Mongol force which has invaded the Pontic Steppe. The two sides meet at the Battle of The Kalka River 1223www.historyeurope.netPicture: Mongol cavalrymen Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2016-07-2318 min
A History of Europe, Key Battles28.2 The Mongols Invade Eastern EuropeAfter conquering northern China the Mongols of Genghis Khan launch a campaign westwards through Persia and the Caucasus Mountains and into Europewww.histyoryeurope.netPicture: Genghis Khan Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2016-07-1518 min
A History of Europe, Key Battles28.1 Golden Age of Kievan Rus 988-1200. Rise of Vladimir Suzdal and NovgorodFor two centuries after Vladimir the Great's conversion to Christianity Kievan Rus enjoyed a golden age. A common culture and sense of identity formed in the lands of the Rus' despite political turmoil. The three main centres of power, each different in character, were Vladimir Suzdal, Novgorod and Volynia-Galiciawww.historyeurope.netPicture: St Olga by Nesterov Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2016-07-0821 min
A History of Europe, Key Battles27.5 Siege of Cherson 988, Conversion of Russians to ChristianityVladimir the Great is credited with transforming Kievan Rus into a true medieval state with Christianity at the heart of its sense of identity. The story is linked to the siege of the Crimean city of Cherson in 988 and the Byzantine Emperor Basil II The Bulgar Slayerwww.historyeurope.netPicture: Baptism of Saint Prince Vladimir in Kherson (Viktor Vasnetsov) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2016-06-1732 min
A History of Europe, Key Battles27.4 Early Kievan Rus. Rurik to SvyatoslavThe dynasty of Rurik builds the foundations of a new power in eastern Europe - Kievan Rus. Princess Olga takes vengeance on a rebel town by burning it down, but after converting to Christianity was later sainted. Her son, Syvatoslav defeats the Khazars and then tries to resettle his people in Bulgaria before his early death.www.historyeurope.netPicture: Rurik on the Monument 'Millennium of Russia' in Veliky Novgorod Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2016-06-1025 min
A History of Europe, Key Battles27.3 Slavs, Their Origins and Early HistoryThe origins of the Slavs are shrouded in uncertainty. We rely on scraps of contemporary writings and later writings such as The Primary Chronicle of Kievan Rus. They tell us of the unification by Vikings of scattered tribes in the region of the Baltic - Black Sea waterwayswww.historyeurope.netPicture: The Invitation of the Varangians: Rurik and his brothers arrive in Staraya Ladoga (Viktor Vasnetsov) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2016-06-0421 min
A History of Europe, Key Battles27.2 Crimea and Black Sea 500BC-800ADBrief history of Crimea and North Black Sea region 500BC-800 AD, during which time many different peoples having left their mark, including Greeks, Scythians, Romans, Goths, Byzantines, Bulgarians and Khazarswww.historyeurope.netPicture: Crimea Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2016-05-2722 min
A History of Europe, Key Battles27.1 Early History of The Black Sea, Perspectives on Ukrainian and Russian HistoryIntro is the Russian Presidential Address of 2014. Then an outline of different perspectives on Ukrainian and Russian History, and next a description of the geography and early history of the Black Sea region from the time of the Ancient Greekswww.historyeurope.net Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2016-05-2029 min
A History of Europe, Key Battles26.1 Albigensian Crusade, Second Half 1215-1229Simon de Montfort probably hoped to quickly finish off the last pockets of resistance after the Battle of Muret. Instead conflict continued for another one and a half decades. What would happen to Simon, to Count Raymond and the people of Languedoc at this critical period for the region?www.historyeurope.netPicture: Fortress of Montsegur Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2016-04-3019 min
A History of Europe, Key Battles25.3 Battle of Muret 1213, Part 3, Simon de Montfort vs King Peter II of AragonIn September 1213 in southwestern France two Christian armies faced each other off. One was led by King Peter II of Aragon, who after his glorious victory against a Muslim army at the Battle of Las Navas de Tolosa the previous year, was not only one of the most respected monarchs of Christendom but a favoured son of the Church. The other army was composed of crusaders, mainly from northern France, fighting on behalf of the Pope to root out heresy from the French region of Languedocwww.historyeurope.netThe Battle of Muret: illustration from...2016-04-2416 min
A History of Europe, Key Battles25.2 Albigensian Crusade in Languedoc, France Meets ResistanceSimon de Montfort becomes leader of the Albigensian Crusade against the Cathars of Languedoc. He meets resistance from Count Raymond VI of Toulouse and the general population of the region.www.historyeurope.netPicture: Carcassonne Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2016-04-1524 min
A History of Europe, Key Battles25.1 Cathars, Albigensian Crusade in Southern FranceBackground to the Cathars and the Albigensian Crusade in Languedoc, southern Francewww.historyeurope.netPicture: The Albigensian massacre, chronicle of Saint-Denis, 14th century, London, British Library Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2016-04-0824 min
A History of Europe, Key Battles24.3 Battle of Bouvines 1214, Part 3, Decisive Battle in Medieval FranceA powerful league unites against Philip II Augustus of France, including King John of England, Emperor Otto IV, and numerous counts of France. Historians are pretty unanimous, that this was a decisive battle which helped shape western Europe.www.historyeurope.netPicture: A detail of one of the stained-glass windows installed in the parish church of Bouvines in 1914 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2016-03-1820 min
A History of Europe, Key Battles24.2 King John of England prepares to Invade FranceKing John prepares to invade France and recover his lost territories. In the meantime King Philip Augustus of France consolidates his gains on the continent, provoking resistance among local rulers, especially in Flanders.www.historyeurope.netPicture: King John's tomb Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2016-03-1113 min
A History of Europe, Key Battles24.1 German Emperors Frederick I, Henry VI, Otto IV Brought into Capetian-Plantagenet ConflictIn the year 1204, Philip Augustus of France wrested control of the duchy of Normandy from King John of England. The long Capetian-Plantagenet struggle for power, however, was not yet over and would reach another decisive point a decade later at the Battle of Bouvines, 1214. This time the leaders of the other main power of the western Europe, Germany, would be brought into the conflict, and so also have important consequences for central Europe and Italy. And so for this episode I will get us up to date with the political situation in Germany.www.historyeurope.net2016-03-0417 min
A History of Europe, Key Battles23.5 Las Navas de Tolosa 1212, Part 5Battle of Las Navas de Tolosa. Caliph al-Nasir, also known as Miramamolin invades Spain with a huge Muslim army which is met in the Sierra Nevada mountains by a Christian army, including King Alfonso VIII of Castile, Pedro/Peter II of Aragon and Sancho VII of Navarrewww.historyeurope.netPortrayal of the Battle of Las Navas de Tolosa by Francisco de Paula Van Halen (1864) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2016-02-1217 min
A History of Europe, Key Battles23.4 Las Navas de Tolosa 1212, Part 4The Almohads invade Spain from North Africa while the Christian kings bicker among themselves. Alfonso VIII suffers a heavy defeat at the Battle of Alarcos in 1195www.historyeurope.netPicture: Hassan Tower in Rabat (Morocco) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2016-02-0524 min
A History of Europe, Key Battles23.3 Las Navas de Tolosa 1212, Part 3, Medieval Spain, Rise of the AlmohadsThe Almohads arrive in Spain from North Africa and threaten to overwhelm the peninsula. The greatest resistance comes not from the Christian kingdoms, but from a fellow Muslim known as 'El Rey Lobo' (The Wolf King), head of a kingdom based in Murcia, a city in its golden agewww.historyeurope.netPicture: Muhammad ibn Mardanish. El Rey Lobo Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2016-01-2921 min
A History of Europe, Key Battles23.2 Las Navas de Tolosa 1212, Part 2The birth of the kingdom of Portugal, the Siege of Lisbon, and the Union of Aragon and Catalonia - the political map of the peninsula begins to formwww.historyeurope.netPicture: Spanish town of Tortosa Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2016-01-2217 min
A History of Europe, Key Battles23.1 Early Muslim Medieval SpainBefore 1085 in Spain there was little question that it was the Muslims who had the upper hand in the balance of power. But after King Alfonso VI captured the city of Toledo in 1085, the Christians became much more confident and threatened to rapidly take over the whole peninsula. Why this didn’t happen can be explained for two reasons – firstly, the infighting between Christian rulers, and secondly, the influx of Muslim peoples from north Africa, firstly the Almoravids Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2016-01-1635 min
A History of Europe, Key Battles22.1 End of The Hundred Years War, Guest Episode on History of England PodcastA recent guest episode for the History of England podcast on the End of the Hundred Years War, in brief the years after Agincourt 1415, but focusing on the last four years from 1449-1453 and the Battles of Formigny and Castillon. In England the victories at Agincourt, Crecy and Poitiers are well known, but less so, the events around the end of the war, and how the French eventually drove the English from all the continent, except for Calais. www.historyeurope.netPicture: Battle of Formigny Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more...2016-01-0639 min
A History of Europe, Key Battles21.4 Chateau Gaillard 1203-04, Part 4, King John, Philip II AugustusKing John of England in his first year or two of rule achieved some successes, but his lack of tact and diplomacy, plus poor decision-making lost him many allies in France. The focus of the escalating conflict between the Plantagenets and Capetians became Chateau Gaillard, a magnificent fortress in the key borderlands between Normandy and the French royal demesne around Paris.www.historyeurope.netPicture: Ruins of Chateau Gaillard Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2015-12-1228 min
A History of Europe, Key Battles21.3 Sons of King Henry II of England Rebel, Encouraged by Philip II of FranceThe sons of King Henry II of England, impatient for power of their own and encouraged by Louis VII and then Philip II Augustus of France, rebel against their father and end up damaging the cause of their dynasty, the Plantagenets.www.historyeurope.netPicture: Effigy of Richard I Lionheart, Church of Fontevraud Abbey Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2015-12-0330 min