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

Edward Longshanks, towering in stature, earned the title 'Hammer of the Scots' for his relentless campaigns in Scotland. Celebrated by the English as a valiant hero, lawgiver, and warrior king, he is also seen by many as a tyrant known for his cruelty. While many know him from Braveheart, this episode explores his life's entire saga. Before his reign, Edward was known as Lord Edward, the eldest son of Henry III. He became involved in political intrigues early on and embarked on the Ninth Crusade in 1270, known as Lord Edward's Crusade. There, he battled Egyptian Mamluks and the Bahri dynasty and survived assassination attempts, establishing himself as a seasoned warrior. Edward's conquests included Wales and later Scotland, where he attempted to assert feudal authority, sparking the First Scottish War of Independence. An imposing figure, both a soldier and shrewd administrator, Edward was a devout yet feared leader. His achievements include restoring royal authority and establishing Parliament, aiding in the systematic approach to taxation and legal reforms. However, his legacy is tainted by accusations of treachery and a colonial mindset, especially in Wales, Scotland, and Ireland. Edward Longshanks remains a complex figure in history, embodying both power and the moral complexities of an era defined by conquest. 00:00: Introduction02:43: Ancestry & Early Life04:57: Marriage & Early Ambitions11:10: Second Barons' War18:21: The Battle of Evesham24:59: Lord Edward's Crusade33:34: Assassination attempt36:59: King of England & Conquest of Wales41:39: First Scottish War of Independence46:57: Scottish Resistance52:22: Death, Legacy & Character #EdwardLongshanks #HammeroftheScots #Englishhistory #Braveheart #NinthCrusade #ScottishWarofIndependence #Walesconquest #medievalhistory #royalauthority #Parliament See show notes: https://inlet.fm/history-profiles/episodes/689e245ff309a7472927ba4e Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Kaʻahumanu was the queen consort and later regent of the Kingdom of Hawaiʻi, wielding significant influence and authority. As King Kamehameha I's favored wife, she was his confidante and a powerful political partner. Her impact extended beyond his reign, as she governed alongside his successors, shaping Hawaiʻi's future. She served as the foster mother of King Kamehameha II, securing her regency. In 1820, she welcomed Christian missionaries, and five years later, embraced Christianity as Elizabeth, inspiring many Hawaiians to convert. In 1826, Kaʻahumanu played a key role in negotiating Hawaiʻi's first treaty with the United States, marking the start of formal diplomatic relations. Music by Savfk 00:00: Introduction01:49: Early Life03:21: Regent08:25: Conversion to Christianity10:12: First treaty with the United States & Death #Kaʻahumanu #Hawaiʻi #KingKamehamehaI #regent #Christianity #treaty #UnitedStates #diplomacy #Hawaiianhistory See show notes: https://inlet.fm/history-profiles/episodes/6893986048ef1f4b2fb67597 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Kaʻiana, a compelling Hawaiian chief, lived at the intersection of revolution, colonization, and betrayal. His story, often overlooked, is among Hawaii's most intriguing historical narratives. Born into nobility, Kaʻiana was notably distinguished in stature and demeanor. British explorer Captain John Meares, who met him in 1788, described him as “six feet two inches tall, with limbs of Herculean proportion.” Meares remarked on Kaʻiana’s regal demeanor, highlighting his dignified presence. Kaʻiana's ventures carried him beyond Hawaii. Following Captain James Cook's 1779 arrival, he joined British expeditions to locales like China and the Northwest Coast of America, becoming one of the first Hawaiians to travel abroad with Western explorers. His travels fascinated Europe, with books by Portlock and Meares in 1789-1790 featuring engravings of this Hawaiian chief. By the early 1790s, Kaʻiana was known across the Pacific, esteemed both by islanders and foreign visitors alike. Kaʻiana's return from China with weapons significantly supported Kamehameha I's military campaigns. Though his life was brief, he left a vivid legacy, prominently featured in Hawaiian oral histories and European accounts. This is the story of Kaʻiana, an emblematic figure in Hawaii's transformation. Timeline:00:00: Introduction02:43: Ancestry & early Life04:57: Travels around the world10:06: Kaʻiana acquires firearms11:55: War & Death Source: Ka'iana, the Once Famous "Prince of Kaua'i" by DAVID G. MILLER 00:00: Introduction02:43: Ancestry & early Life04:57: Travels around the world10:06: Kaʻiana acquires firearms11:55: War & Death #Kaʻiana #Hawaiianchief #Hawaiihistory #revolution #colonization #KamehamehaI #Hawaiianoralhistories #Westernexplorers #JohnMeares #CaptainJamesCook See show notes: https://inlet.fm/history-profiles/episodes/688ed0e95744c5658e1ce781 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Erik Björnsson, famously known as Eric the Victorious, is a notable figure in Sweden's Viking Age. Recognized as the earliest monarch in a continuous royal lineage, his existence is verified by multiple sources. Nicknamed "the Victorious" for his triumph over his nephew Styrbjörn the Strong and the Jomsvikings at the Battle of Fýrisvellir, Eric's reign marked Swedish expansion and influence. According to medieval chroniclers Adam of Bremen and Saxo Grammaticus, Eric also seized the Danish throne from King Sweyn Forkbeard, ruling both Sweden and Denmark. Eric the Victorious is mentioned in various historical texts such as the Heimskringla, Adam of Bremen's History of the Archbishops of Hamburg, and Saxo Grammaticus’ Gesta Danorum. Despite some legends, such converging references confirm his historical significance. 00:00 Introduction 03:23 Ancestry & Early Life 05:58 Feud with Styrbjörn the Strong 08:07 The Battle of Fýrisvellir 11:28 Marriage to Sigrid the Haughty 12:38 Conquest of Denmark & Invasion of Saxony 16:32 Death & Legacy All credit for the music goes to: Savfk - Music Link 00:00: Introduction03:23: Ancestry & Early Life05:58: Feud with Styrbjörn the Strong08:07: The Battle of Fýrisvellir11:28: Marriage to Sigrid the Haughty12:38: Conquest of Denmark & Invasion of Saxony16:32: Death & Legacy #ErictheVictorious #Sweden #VikingAge #BattleofFýrisvellir #StyrbjörntheStrong #Jomsvikings #Swedishexpansion #medievalhistory See show notes: https://inlet.fm/history-profiles/episodes/688444e8cd0684e8befc74f0 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Taira no Masakado is celebrated as Japan’s first samurai due to his leadership and rebellion against Kyoto's central government during the Heian period. Masakado, from an aristocratic family, lived as a rural knight in the northeast of present-day Tokyo. His legacy was defined by leading the first rebellion against the imperial rule. Quickly and strategically, Masakado took control of several provinces, ousting local officials and seizing symbols of authority. According to the Shōmonki chronicle, a divine oracle proclaimed him as Japan's emperor, a claim that led to his downfall. Legends speak of a mystical encounter where a goddess rendered Masakado almost invincible, save for one vulnerable spot. He was eventually betrayed, leading to his death by an arrow strike. His head was displayed in Kyoto, leaving his spirit restless as one of Japan's “Three Great Onryō.” Over time, Masakado gained reverence as a god, with shrines built in his honor. He is seen as both a vengeful spirit and a protective deity. To this day, people visit his shrine in Tokyo, hoping for his favor or to appease his wrath. This is the tale of Taira no Masakado: the divine rebel and vengeful spirit, who may still wield power in Japan’s spiritual realm. 00:00: Introduction04:01: Japan in the 10th century07:29: Ancestry & early life10:54: Family feud & rise of a legend (Shōmonki)19:46: Taking over regions of Japan (Shōmonki)22:19: Masakado becomes the New Emperor (Shōmonki)24:57: Masakado's letter to the capital (Shōmonki)31:05: Masakado's final battle & death34:50: Masakado's vengeful spirit & legacy #TairanoMasakado #samurai #Japan #Heianperiod #rebellion #Shōmonki #divineoracle #vengefulspirit #Japaneselegend #protectivedeity See show notes: https://inlet.fm/history-profiles/episodes/68812359e07ae4dca3d56e53 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Miyamoto Musashi, a legendary Japanese swordsman, strategist, artist, and writer, is renowned for his unmatched skills and undefeated record in 62 duels, most to the death. His life journey evolved from youthful savagery to profound wisdom. Celebrated as a Kensei, or "sword saint," Musashi earned a title for warriors whose mastery surpasses even the greatest sword masters. He founded Niten Ichi-ryū, a unique swordsmanship style featuring two swords, revolutionizing combat. Musashi's influence extends beyond battles; he authored The Book of Five Rings, a timeless work on martial strategy, philosophy, and spiritual insight. His Dokkōdō, "The Path of Aloneness," offers a disciplined vision of life. Musashi likely fought in the Battle of Sekigahara, Japan’s largest and most consequential feudal clash, and participated in the Siege of Osaka. The campaign marked the end of the Sengoku period and the start of the Edo era, noted for peace and prosperity. Musashi's legacy endures, inspiring warriors and philosophers worldwide with his combat prowess and enduring wisdom. 00:00: Introduction02:12: Early Life & First Duel05:30: The Battle of Sekigahara & Invention of the Two Sword Style11:12: Musashi Defeats the Yoshioka Family17:42: Duel with Shishido Baiken20:50: Duel with Musō Gonnosuke22:30: Duel with Sasaki Kojiro31:51: The Siege of Osaka35:37: Duel with Miyake Gunbei37:40: Duel with Takada Matabē39:49: The Shimabara Rebellion44:21: Later Life & the book of 5 Rings46:27: The Path of Aloneness (Dokkōdō)48:39: Death & Legacy #MiyamotoMusashi #Japaneseswordsman #Kensei #NitenIchi-ryū #TheBookofFiveRings #Dokkōdō #BattleofSekigahara #SiegeofOsaka #Sengokuperiod #Edoera See show notes: https://inlet.fm/history-profiles/episodes/687867688b57ac737e889713 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Explore the captivating legend of the Devil's Bible and its mysterious author, Herman the Recluse. Discover the intriguing tales and myths associated with the Codex Gigas, famously known as the Devil's Bible. Music: "VOICE OF PRAYER" by "Noel Malekar"Listen hereVisit Noel Malekar Music Channel 00:00: The Legend of Herman the Recluse06:30: The Codex Gigas (Devil's Bible) #Devil'sBible #HermantheRecluse #CodexGigas #demonology #occult #myths #legends #historymystery See show notes: https://inlet.fm/history-profiles/episodes/686eae58f98a34809e8acda2 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Empress Matilda emerged as a key contender for the English crown during the chaos of The Anarchy.This relentless civil war, spanning 1138 to 1153 in England and Normandy, led both regions into near-total collapse. Law and order vanished, leaving the land in fear and suffering. A chronicler of the time remarked, "Christ and his saints were asleep during this period." Even by medieval standards, the devastation was exceptional. At the heart of this turmoil stood Empress Matilda—a woman of indomitable will, ambition, and royal lineage. Despite betrayals and resistance, she fought determinedly to claim the throne she believed was hers. This is the saga of Empress Matilda. 00:00: Introduction01:28: Ancestry & Early Life04:09: First Marriage & Holy Roman Empress07:47: English Succession Crisis10:34: Kings & Lords Swear Fealty to Matilda12:56: Mathilda Marries Geoffrey of Anjou14:55: Prelude to War & Coronation of Stephen of Blois19:40: The Anarchy24:00: Battle of Lincoln27:05: Mathilda is Crowned the Queen of England29:16: The Rout of Winchester32:30: Empress Mathilda's Great Escape34:46: The Battle of Wilton36:21: The Final Phase of the War43:00: Later Life & Death #EmpressMatilda #TheAnarchy #Englishcrown #civilwar #medievalhistory #royalty #successioncrisis #medievalbattles See show notes: https://inlet.fm/history-profiles/episodes/6868f7d3ebbcfff2999cf546 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Honda Tadakatsu was a legendary Japanese samurai, general, and daimyo known for his unwavering loyalty to Japan's three great unifiers. He gained prominence during the Sengoku period, a time of civil strife and social upheaval. As the Ashikaga shogunate's power declined, regional daimyos asserted more political authority, commanding stronger armies. Despite the ceremonial significance of the Shogun title, the nation fell into constant warfare as the influence of shoguns waned. Amid this chaos, Honda Tadakatsu emerged as a legendary figure, celebrated for his unmatched swordsmanship and unwavering bravery. Remarkably, he fought in 57 battles without a single wound, earning the title "The Warrior who surpassed Death itself." His distinctive armor, featuring a helmet with great antlers, symbolized his fearless spirit and audacity in battle. Honda Tadakatsu was one of the Four Heavenly Kings of the Tokugawa, the elite samurai generals who supported Tokugawa Ieyasu, the Shogun who ended the Sengoku period. This episode delves into the life and legacy of Honda Tadakatsu, the warrior who defied death. 00:00 Introduction 02:35 Early Life 04:39 Battle of Anegawa 09:02 Campaign against Takeda clan 11:41 The Battle of Mikatagahara 15:18 The End of the Takeda Clan 19:24 Events after the Death of Oda Nobunaga 24:37 Four Heavenly Kings of Tokugawa 26:32 Sekigahara Campaign 30:07 Death & Legacy All credit for the music goes to: No Copyright Music Track: Under the moonlight (Matouqin) NCM version Music provided by YouTube Free Music Library (NCM) Watch: Under the moonlight (Matouqin) 00:00: Introduction02:35: Early Life04:39: Battle of Anegawa09:02: Campaign against Takeda clan11:41: The Battle of Mikatagahara15:18: The End of the Takeda Clan19:24: Events after the Death of Oda Nobunaga24:37: Four Heavenly Kings of Tokugawa26:32: Sekigahara Campaign30:07: Death & Legacy #HondaTadakatsu #samurai #Sengokuperiod #Tokugawa #Japanesehistory #battle #warrior #shogunate #legendarysamurai #FourHeavenlyKings See show notes: https://inlet.fm/history-profiles/episodes/6864a0e9ed2989242c095edf Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices