The Great Famine of 1315: When England's Sky Fell

In this episode, Lucas and Luna explore the Great Famine of 1315-1317, a catastrophic climate event that struck England and northern Europe, killing millions and shaking the foundations of medieval society. They trace how relentless rain and cold ruined harvests for three years, leading to soaring grain prices, mass starvation, and even reports of cannibalism. The hosts examine the science behind the famine, including volcanic eruptions that may have caused the 'Little Ice Age' weather, and how contemporaries like chronicler Johannes de Trokelowe described the horror. They discuss the social and political fallout: the reign of Edward II, already plagued by conflict with his barons, faced riots, food riots, and a rise in crime. The episode also touches on attempts to control prices and the long-term effects, including a shift in agricultural practices and a precursor to the more famous Black Death. Through vivid details—like the haunting image of a father eating his own child, or the official records of parish grain shortages—Lucas and Luna bring this forgotten catastrophe to life, showing how a single climate shock could unravel a kingdom. #GreatFamine #1315 #MedievalEngland #EdwardII #ClimateHistory #LittleIceAge #JohannesDeTrokelowe #HarvestFailure #VolcanicWinter #FoodShortage #MedievalWeather #EnglishHistory #Famine #CropFailure #HistoryPodcast #MedievalEurope #FexingoHistory #History Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo