DDH - Blood on St. Brice's Day

The Dave Bowman Show

On November 13, 1002, Æthelred the Unready, King of England, took a drastic step that changed the course of English history: he ordered the massacre of Danish settlers throughout his kingdom. In this episode, we dive into the chaotic world of 11th-century England, where Viking invasions, Danegeld payments, and cultural clashes fueled tensions between Anglo-Saxons and their Danish neighbors. We’ll explore Æthelred’s decision, fueled by paranoia and resentment, and the bloody consequences of that day. From the surprising cultural divides (like the Danes’ penchant for bathing!) to the brutal legacy that followed, this is a story of fear, politics, and one of history’s most tragic missteps. Join us as we uncover the St. Brice’s Day Massacre and the lasting impact it had on England.