AGE OF VICTORIA PODCAST

Episode Overview In the third instalment of our series on famine and revolution, we pull away the veil of headline numbers to investigate the visceral, human reality of the Great Hunger in Ireland. This is an exploration of a land filling with desperation, where the brutal biological mechanics of what happens when the human body begins to consume itself take centre stage. We examine the fate of a terrified people, facing ruin triggered by a disease that wreaked havoc on already weak economies. From the folklore of the Fear Gorta to the harrowing clinical reports of the era, this episode explores how a society is transformed when it is blindsided by biological disaster and administrative indifference. Key Topics Covered: The Information Vacuum: Comparing our modern “Ocean of Information” to the terrifying silence of the 1840s, where the sickly sweet smell of rot was a mystery without an immediate answer. The Folklore of Famine: Why stories like Hansel and Gretel and the Navajo Dine Bahane carry the genetic memory of starvation, and the specific Irish harbinger of death: the Fear Gorta. The Structural Cage: A deep dive into the Rundale system and Gavelkind inheritance. We look at why the West was trapped in a cycle of subdivision while Ulster was shielded by the “Linen Shield” and Tenant Right. The Biology of Starvation: Using modern metabolic science and contemporary medical records to explain the “Blue Nose,” the “Sunken Orbit,” and the terrifying reality of Autophagy—the body cannibalising its own architecture. The Refeeding Trap: The physiological reason why a crust of bread could become a death sentence for a heart shrunken by atrophy. Conspicuous Consumption: The stark contrast between the “Workhouse Swineries” and the elite social calendar, including the dinner menus of the Cork Harbour Regatta. The Gregory Clause: How a single piece of legislation—the Quarter-Acre Clause—was used to engineer the clearances and force the starving into homelessness. The Ledger of the Dead: Analysis of the 1851 Census and the 20–25% demographic erasure that redefined Ireland forever. SOURCES Historical Research & Modern Analysis Delaney, Enda. (2020, December). “‘There But For The Grace of God Go I’: Middle-Class Catholic Responses to Ireland’s Great Famine.” The English Historical Review, Vol. 135, No. 577, pp. 1433–1460. Donnelly, James S., Jr. (2002). The Great Irish Potato Famine. Stroud: Sutton Publishing. Guinnane, Timothy W. (1994). “The Great Irish Famine and Population: The Long View.” The American Economic Review, Vol. 84, no. 2, pp. 303–08. Ó Gráda, Cormac. (2013, March). “Eating people is wrong: Famine’s darkest secret?” UCD Centre for Economic Research, Working Paper No. WP13/02. O’Riordan, Edmund. (2018, May/June). “‘Every Delicacy of the Season’—Conspicuous Consumption During the Great Hunger.” History Ireland, Vol. 26, No. 3, pp. 26–29. Poirteir, Cathal (Ed.). (1999). The Great Irish Famine. Dublin: Mercier Press. Woodham-Smith, Cecil. (1962). The Great Hunger: Ireland 1845–1849. London: Hamish Hamilton. Guinnane, Timothy W. “The Great Irish Famine and Population: The Long View.” The American Economic Review, vol. 84, no. 2, 1994, pp. 303–08. JSTOR, http://www.jstor.org/stable/2117848. Accessed 31 Mar. 2026 Scientific & Medical Analysis of Starvation Anabtawi, O., & Valente, B. (2025, August 12). “The science of starvation: This is what happens to your body when it’s deprived of food.” The Conversation. Donovan, Daniel. (1848). “Observations on the Peculiar Diseases to Which the Famine of Last Year Gave Origin.” Dublin Medical Press. Keys, Ancel, et al. (1950). The Biology of Human Starvation. University of Minnesota Press. (References derived from the Minnesota Starvation Experiment). Primary Documents & Government Records Devon Commission. (1845). Report from Her Majesty’s Commissioners of Inquiry into the State of the Law and Practice in respect to the Occupation of Land in Ireland. Hansard Parliamentary Debates. (1849). HL Deb 15 June 1849 vol 106 cc285-300. (Correspondence of the Earl of Clancarty regarding Ballinasloe). O’Rourke, Canon John. (1875). The History of the Great Irish Famine of 1847. Ridgway, James. (1847). The Irish Relief Measures, Past and Future. Regional Studies & Files Best, Barbara. (2025). “Local Female Orphans and The Earl Grey Scheme 1848-1850.” Tobin, J. “The Famine in Ballyduff and the evictions of Arthur Usher Kiely.” Ballyduff Archive. University College Dublin. (2024). “Hansel and Gretel’s famine folklore origins.” The Cambridge Group for the History of Population and Social Structure. Folklore & Cultural Context Dine Bahane. Navajo creation mythology regarding resource scarcity and survival. Fear Gorta (The Hungry Man). Traditional Irish folklore regarding the personification of hunger. Yoruba Mythology. Oral traditions regarding the “Leopards Famine.” The post EP068 WHEN HUNGER WALKS THE LAND appeared first on AGE OF VICTORIA PODCAST.

Summary While the Great Hunger in Ireland remains one of the most documented tragedies of the nineteenth century, the story of what happened across the Irish Sea in the Scottish Highlands is often overlooked or romanticised. In this episode, we strip away the Hollywood imagery of baronial halls and tartan myths to look at the real experience of the Highland Potato Famine of 1846. We explore the “Geographic Trap” of the Highland Boundary Fault, the Coastal Squeeze of the Clearances, and the legal engineering of the 1845 Poor Law that left the starving with no right to relief. Using the latest research from Sir Tom Devine and Michael Lynch, we investigate the Empathy Gap between the absentee Landlords and the crofters clinging to the soil in the Western Isles. As the “Year of Railway Mania” gripped the England and the Lowlands of Scotland, a biological rot was creeping north. This is a story of how a system that prioritised economic efficiency over human survival turned a bad harvest into a national catastrophe. Listen & Follow Apple Podcasts: https://tinyurl.com/APPLEAgeofVictoriaPodcast Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/SPOTIFYAgeofVictoriaPodcast Website: http://www.ageofvictoriapodcast.com/ Support the Show The Age of Victoria podcast is 100% independent and listener-supported. To help us add more books to the research library and keep the show free for everyone, please consider becoming a patron. Support on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/user?u=19744898&fan_landing=true In this episode, we discuss: The Geographic Trap: How the verticality and isolation of the Highlands created a “Social Silence.” The Lumper Dependency: Why the potato became the biological linchpin of the Highland economy. The Vanishing Middle: The removal of the Tacksman and the death of paternalistic kinship. The Empathy Gap: The psychological distance between the “Managerial Class” and the poor. The 1845 Poor Law: How the Scottish legal system was engineered to exclude the able-bodied from help. The Arrival of the Rot: The “sickly sweet” smell of 1846 and the biological collapse of the North. Main Sources Core Historical Texts Devine, T. M. To the Ends of the Earth: Scotland’s Global Diaspora, 1750-2010. Allen Lane, 2011. Lynch, Michael. Scotland: A New History. Century, 1991. Lynch, Michael (Ed). The Oxford Companion to Scottish History. Oxford University Press. Gray, Malcolm. ‘The Highland Potato Famine of the 1840’s’, The Economic History Review, Vol. 7, No. 3 (1955). Crisis, Ideology, and Class Dynamics Gray, Peter. ‘National Humiliation and the Great Hunger: Fast and Famine in 1847’, Irish Historical Studies, Vol. 32, No. 126 (2000). Howell, David W. ‘The Land Question in nineteenth-century Wales, Ireland and Scotland’, The Agricultural History Review, Vol. 61, No. 1 (2013). Porter, James. ‘The Folklore of Northern Scotland: Five Discourses on Cultural Representation’, Folklore, Vol. 109 (1998). Stroh, Silke. ‘Racist Reversals: Appropriating Racial Typology in Late Nineteenth-Century Pro-Gaelic Discourse’, Gaelic Scotland in the Colonial Imagination (2017). The Psychology of Wealth and the “Empathy Gap” Loewenstein, George. ‘Hot-cold empathy gaps and self-control’, Challenges to Happiness: Perspective from Economics and Psychology (2005). Miller, Lisa. ‘The Money-Empathy Gap’, New York Magazine (July 2012). Primary Sources & Institutional Records Hansard Parliamentary Debates. HC Deb 01 February 1847 vol 89 cc603-12. ‘Distress in Scotland’. The Scotsman. ‘Editorial on the Highland Famine’, 14 November 1846. Museum of Scottish Railways. A Short History of Britain’s Railways. Knox. Social Structure and Land Tenure in Scotland, 1840-1940. The post EP067 HIGHLANDS & HARDSHIP appeared first on AGE OF VICTORIA PODCAST.

Episode Summary: The Age of Victoria continues its 2026 “Famine & Revolution” series by stepping away from the political scandals of Lola Montez and into the microscopic world of a biological invader. In this episode, we begin our deep dive into the “Hungry Forties” by looking at the environmental and material foundations of the era. Using the “Longue Durée” framework of the Annales School, we explore the forces that dictate the fate of civilizations. We examine the “Malthusian Trap”—the point where surging urban populations outstripped the land’s ability to feed them—and why the humble potato was both the savior and the Achilles’ heel of the 19th-century economy. Support the Show: This podcast is fiercely independent and relies on listener support to maintain access to academic archives and primary sources. To help us reach our goal of 25 paying patrons this month and keep the history deep, please join the crew at: Patreon.com/ageofvictoria Key Topics Covered: The Annales School & Fernand Braudel: Why history is more than just economics or the work of great people—it is the slow, grinding reality of the “Longue Durée”: climate, biology, and the material systems that constrain human action. The “Biological Invader”: The science of Phytophthora infestans. How a fungus from the Americas managed to cross the Atlantic and “dissolve” the food supply of a continent. The Malthusian Trap: A demographic analysis of the early 19th century. We look at the “tipping point” where population growth finally collided with limited agricultural resources. Urbanisation & The Hinterland: How industrial mega-cities like London and Paris broke the traditional link between people and their food sources, creating a precarious global supply chain. The Chemistry of the Potato: Why the potato was the “perfect” industrial crop—producing more calories per acre than any grain—and why its monoculture became a death trap. The Global “Hungry Forties”: Debunking the myth that the famine was a localized event; tracing the “Pandemic of Rot” as it moved from the USA to Belgium, Prussia, Scotland, and Ireland. Works Cited & Sources: Donnelly, James S., Jr. The Great Irish Potato Famine. (A principal source for the socio-political impact and the progression of the blight). Braudel, Fernand. The Structures of Everyday Life: The Limits of the Possible. * Allen, Robert C. The British Industrial Revolution in Global Perspective. Diamond, Jared. Guns, Germs, and Steel. Bairoch, Paul. Cities and Economic Development: From the Dawn of History to the Present. Wrigley, E.A. Poverty, Progress and Population. De Vries, Jan. European Urbanization, 1500–1800. Grigg, David. The Agricultural Systems of the World: An Evolutionary Approach. Flinn, M.W. Scottish Population History from the 17th Century to the 1930s. Vaughan, W.E. and Fitzpatrick, A.J. Irish Historical Statistics: Population 1821–1971. Bhardwaj, Raju Lal et al. “An Alarming Decline in the Nutritional Quality of Foods.” Foods (Basel, Switzerland) vol. 13,6 877. Clark, Stuart. The Annales School: Critical Assessments. Trinder, “Britain’s industrial revolution.” pp575-602 https://merl.reading.ac.uk/collections/royal-agricultural-society-of-england/ https://victoryseeds.com/pages/potato-famine  Allen, Robert C., The British Industrial Revolution in Global Perspective. Gráda, Cormac Ó. “The Lumper Potato and the Famine.” History Ireland, vol. 1, no. 1, 1993, pp. 22–23. JSTOR, http://www.jstor.org/stable/27724042. Accessed 29 Jan. 2026. Solar, Peter M. “Why Ireland Starved and the Big Issues in Pre-Famine Irish Economic History.” Irish Economic and Social History, vol. 42, 2015, pp. 62–75. JSTOR, https://www.jstor.org/stable/26375915. Accessed 29 Jan. 2026. The post EP066 THE PANDEMIC OF ROT appeared first on AGE OF VICTORIA PODCAST.

The Age of Victoria returns for the 2026 season with a high-energy prologue to our new series, “Hunger and Revolution”. In this episode, we follow the “magnificent, terrible, magnetic” Lola Montez as she transitions from the stage to the high-stakes world of European politics. Lola becomes an “accidental bunch of dynamite,” moving through the bohemian circles of Paris and the royal halls of Munich. Her volatile relationship with the “rockstar” composer Franz Liszt and her scandalous influence over King Ludwig I of Bavaria serve as a sparking point for the unrest that would soon consume the continent. Against the grim backdrop of the “Continental Famine” and rising industrial tensions, we examine how one woman’s individual actions could help bring the curtain down on the pre-modern age. Key Topics Covered: Bohemian Paris in the 1840s: A city of romance and industry undergoing a transformation marked by early railway stations, gas streetlights, and artistic experimentation. Lisztomania and the Great Composers: Exploring the electric performances and scandalous love life of Franz Liszt—the “rockstar” of the 19th century—who redefined the status of the artist in society. The Duel of Dujarier: Lola’s time in the French literary scene alongside figures like Victor Hugo ended in tragedy when her lover, journalist Alexandre Henri Dujarier, was killed in a reluctant pistol duel. The “Gallery of Beauties”: A look at the 36 oil paintings in King Ludwig’s collection, where Lola’s portrait eventually sparked a national scandal. The Continental Famine: Examining the “parallel story” of the 1845–1847 potato blight across Europe that fueled the urban discontent leading to the 1848 revolutions. The Fall of Munich: The student riots at the University of Munich involving the “Lolamannen,” the exile of Montez, and King Ludwig I’s ultimate abdication. “The Battle of Ballarat”: A summary of Lola’s later years, including her infamous whip-fight with a newspaper editor in the Australian goldfields. Works Cited & Sources: Edmund B. d’Auvergne: Lola Montez: An Adventuress of the ’Forties (Project Gutenberg). Dictionary of Irish Biography: “Gilbert, Eliza Rosana (Lola Montez)” by Lawrence William White. Schloss Nymphenburg: “King Ludwig I’s Gallery of Beauties (Room 15).” Interlude.hk: “Life of Chopin: The Controversial Chopin Biography by Liszt” by Emily E. Hogstad . Interlude.hk: “The Spy who loved me! Liszt and Agnes Street-Klindworth”. Dance Biographies: “Alexandre Henri Dujarier” & “The Fascinating Lola Montez: The European Years.” State Library Victoria: “Wild times with Lola Montez” (The Battle of Ballarat). Elizabeth Kerri Mahon: “Whatever Lola Wants, Lola Gets: The Racy Life of Lola Montez.” Oktoberfest.de: “The History of Oktoberfest”. Encyclopedia of 1848 Revolutions: “Economic Crisis in the first half of 1847” (Ohio.edu). The post EP065 SETTING EUROPE ON FIRE appeared first on AGE OF VICTORIA PODCAST.

Christmas is here, and after a brief hiatus due to a hectic workload, Chris Fernandez-Packham returns with the traditional festive special. This year, we raise a glass to the Victorian origins of the cocktail—a “Golden Age” of social and technological evolution that saw the transition from traditional British punches to the precision of the American “sensation-drink”. From the “Ice King” who shipped New England ponds to Calcutta to the middle-class women of Chicago claiming public spaces one Manhattan at a time, we explore how spirits, science, and social change collided. We conclude, as always, with a classic Victorian ghost story: The Shadow in the Corner by M. E. Braddon. Key Topics Covered: The Original Manuals: Comparing Jerry Thomas’s legendary Bar-Tender’s Guide (1862) with the defensive British response in Drinking Cups & Their Custom (1869). The Science of Bitters: The medicinal origins and industrialization of Angostura and Peychaud’s bitters. Technological Breakthroughs: How the Coffey Still revolutionized spirit consistency and Frederic Tudor created the global ice trade. Cocktails and Gender: The role of the cocktail in helping middle-class women claim public spaces in 19th-century Chicago tea rooms. New Orleans Chemistry: The multicultural melting pot that gave us the Sazerac, the Absinthe Frappé, and the labor-intensive Ramos Gin Fizz. Royal Habits: Queen Victoria’s daily Scotch-and-wine habit and her curious refusal to use ice. Festive Ghost Story: A reading and analysis of The Shadow in the Corner by M. E. Braddon. Works Cited & Sources: Jerry Thomas: The Bar-Tender’s Guide / How to Mix Drinks. Henry Porter & George Roberts: Drinking Cups & Their Custom (1869). Emily A. Remus: “Tippling Ladies and the Making of Consumer Culture” (The Journal of American History). Angostura Bitters: “Our Story”. https://angosturabitters.com/our-story/ Scotch Whisky Magazine: “Whisky Heroes: Aeneas Coffey”. Statista: “U.S. Alcohol Consumption Per Person”. Big Edition: “Queen Victoria’s Food Habits”. Smithsonian Magazine: “Did New Orleans Invent the Cocktail?”. “A Brief History of Ice.” The Alcohol Professor, 19 Mar. 2018, www.alcoholprofessor.com/blog-posts/blog/2018/03/19/a-brief-history-of-ice. Accessed 20 Dec. 2025. “Commercial Ice – Cambridge Historical Society.” History Cambridge, historycambridge.org/innovation/Ice.html. Accessed 20 Dec. 2025. “Planning and Control in the 19th Century Ice Trade.” Accounting Historians Journal, vol. 11, no. 1, Spring 1984, egrove.olemiss.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1196&context=aah_journal. Accessed 20 Dec. 2025. The Ice King: https://fee.org/articles/frederic-tudor-the-entrepreneur-who-brought-ice-to-calcutta/  Sazerac Recipe and History. New Orleans & Company, www.neworleans.com/drink/cocktails/sazerac/. Accessed 20 Dec. 2025. “The Sazerac Story.” The Sazerac Company, www.sazerac.com/our-company/our-story.html. Accessed 20 Dec. 2025. “What is a Coffey Still?” Whiskipedia, 22 May 2020, whiskipedia.com/fundamentals/what-is-a-coffey-still/. Accessed 20 Dec. 2025. The Emergence of New Orleans Cuisine.” The American Menu, 5 June 2024, www.theamericanmenu.com/2024/06/the-emergence-of-new-orleans-cuisine.html. Accessed 20 Dec. 2025. “History of Craft Cocktails in NOLA.” Where Y’at New Orleans, 20 Nov. 2024, www.whereyat.com/new-orleans-craft-cocktail-history. Accessed 20 Dec. 2025. “History of the Cocktail.” New Orleans & Company, www.neworleans.com/things-to-do/history/the-history-of-the-cocktail-and-new-orleans/. Accessed 20 Dec. 2025. The post Christmas special 2025: Anyone for cocktails? appeared first on AGE OF VICTORIA PODCAST.

Larger-than-life, scandalous, and unforgettable – Lola Montez blazed across the Victorian stage and into the history books. But who was she really? A glamorous dancer, a political influencer, a femme fatale, or simply a woman determined to seize control of her own life in a world that demanded obedience? In this episode of the Age of Victoria Podcast, we dive into the extraordinary story of Maria Delores Eliza Rosanna Gilbert – better known as Lola Montez. From her unconventional childhood in India to her explosive marriage, her reinvention as a Spanish dancer, and her stormy debut on the London stage, Lola’s life was anything but ordinary. We’ll explore the myths, the scandals, and the darker truths – from public whippings and political intrigue to the constant reinvention of her own identity. Was Lola a heroine of independence, a dangerous adventuress, or both? Join me as we meet the Magnificent Montez, explore her early life and set the stage for her dazzling – and often destructive – career across Europe and beyond. Listen & Follow Apple Podcasts: https://tinyurl.com/APPLEAgeofVictoriaPodcast Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/SPOTIFYAgeofVictoriaPodcast Website: http://www.ageofvictoriapodcast.com/ Support the show on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/user?u=19744898&fan_landing=true The post EP064 LOLA TAKES THE STAGE appeared first on AGE OF VICTORIA PODCAST.

Episode Summary It’s the 8th anniversary of The Age of Victoria Podcast! Join your host Chris Fernandez-Packham as he celebrates this milestone with a very special episode dedicated to one of the most unforgettable rogues of Victorian historical fiction—Sir Harry Flashman. In this reflective and richly detailed episode, I explore the character of Flashman, the brilliant mind of his creator George MacDonald Fraser, and how the Flashman Papers have become an unconventional yet insightful lens into the Victorian world. Expect deep dives into: The real history behind the Flashman novels Fraser’s impeccable historical research and cheeky literary hoaxes The balance between historical truth and fiction Flashman’s infamous “heroism” in key Victorian conflicts like the First Anglo-Afghan War, the Charge of the Light Brigade, and the US Civil War A who’s-who of real Victorian figures Flashman bedded, betrayed, or bewildered Whether you’re already a fan of Flashy or new to this bawdy, cowardly antihero, you’ll leave with a richer understanding of Victorian hypocrisy, heroism, and how luck and PR shaped the Empire’s image. Key Topics Covered The Flashman Papers and their place in historical fiction George MacDonald Fraser’s approach to mixing fact and satire Flashman’s accidental heroism in major Victorian conflicts Victorian attitudes toward Empire, honour, and race Antiheroes in literature and why they matter Fraser’s links to his own military past and colonial nostalgia Victorian culture, music, and the role of press in myth-making Quotable Moments “If I had been the hero everyone thought I was, or even a half-decent soldier, Lee would have won the battle of Gettysburg…” “Like them or not, the Victorians strode the stage of history in glorious technicolour.” “Some of the most interesting people in history—and in fiction—are really awful in some ways.” Further Reading & Mentions The Flashman Papers series by George MacDonald Fraser Fraser’s interview with historian Saul David Historical figures discussed: Lord Cardigan, Rani of Jhansi, Abraham Lincoln, Lola Montez, and more British colonial history and the forgotten 14th Army of Burma Music: “Garryowen” and its curious journey from Ireland to the US Cavalry Join the Celebration! Thanks to all the listeners who’ve joined the journey over the last 8 years. If you’ve found the show informative, entertaining, or just a good companion on long walks, please consider sharing it or leaving a review. The post 8TH ANNIVERSARY SPECIAL – A FLASHY CELEBRATION appeared first on AGE OF VICTORIA PODCAST.

INDIA SERIES 10 In this episode of The Age of Victoria Podcast, your host Chris Fernandez-Packham takes a deep dive into the personal and social side of the British presence in early Victorian India. With the wars of the frontier temporarily behind us, we explore what it really meant to travel to India during the 1840s—not as a soldier, but as a settler, civil servant, or family member. From the monotony of months-long sea voyages to the complexities of Anglo-Indian identity, this episode is packed with insights, untold stories, and plenty of surprising realities about imperial life. Episode Highlights: The long, difficult voyage to India—rats, scurvy, seasickness, and cramped cabins. Life aboard ship: class differences, gender restrictions, and DIY cabin prep tips. Settling in India: Calcutta, Madras, and Bombay as key British hubs. The social fabric of Empire: Anglo-Indians, cultural fusion, and community tensions. Museums, mapping, and the start of Britain’s permanent cultural footprint in India. The rise of steamships and the decline of the old East Indiamen sailing ships. The paradox of empire: boredom, brutality, ambition, and adaptation. Key Takeaways: (I) Empire wasn’t just built by armies—it was built by administrators, families, and everyday people. (II) Travel to India in the 1840s was a daunting journey, often filled with discomfort and danger. (III) Anglo-Indian identity and integration were far more complex than the tidy labels of race and class suggest. (IV) British settlers and Indian society deeply influenced each other in ways that still resonate today. Next Episode Teaser:We’ll continue our look at early Victorian India, focusing on the settlers themselves—their backgrounds, motivations, and the lives they built in a land both foreign and familiar. Host’s Note:A big thank you to listener HRW13 for the kind review (and fair feedback)! Spotify access should now be fixed, and as always, your support means everything. The post EP063: Are We Nearly There Yet? appeared first on AGE OF VICTORIA PODCAST.

INDIA SERIES 09 Episode Summary:The British Empire does not take humiliation lightly. In this episode, we follow the Army of Retribution as it storms back into Afghanistan to rescue prisoners, avenge the disastrous retreat from Kabul, and send a clear message to the world. But was it all just an expensive, bloody display of imperial pride? Episode Highlights: General Pollock’s stunning victory at the Khyber Pass—breaking a long-standing military myth. The dramatic rescue of British prisoners, including officers, women, and children. The controversial destruction of Kabul’s grand bazaar—vengeance or war crime? General Nott’s relentless battles in Kandahar. The war’s ultimate failure—thousands dead, nothing truly gained. The rise of Sir Charles Napier and Britain’s next imperial adventure in Sind. Key Takeaways: The Army of Retribution was about restoring military prestige, not long-term strategy. Afghanistan remained outside British control, but the empire proved it could strike hard when provoked. The British were already shifting their focus—India’s northwest frontier was just one piece of a larger imperial puzzle. With Afghanistan behind them, the British set their sights on Sind. Enter Sir Charles Napier, a man who would Expand the empire in his own unique style. Host’s Note:Thanks for listening! If you enjoy the podcast, please leave a review or consider supporting on Patreon to keep the show going. The post EP062 SHALL WE NOT REVENGE appeared first on AGE OF VICTORIA PODCAST.

INDIA SERIES 08 Happy 2025, and welcome back! In this episode, we conclude our deep dive into the 1st Anglo-Afghan War with one of the most infamous military disasters of the Victorian era—the catastrophic retreat from Kabul in 1842. As British forces, led by the indecisive General Elphinstone, attempted to escape through the freezing Khyber Pass, they faced relentless Afghan attacks, starvation, and total collapse. Episode Highlights: The disastrous leadership of General Elphinstone and Sir William MacNaughten. The brutal winter retreat and the suffering of British troops and civilians. The last stand at Gandamak—courage, chaos, and ultimate defeat. The survival of Dr. William Brydon and the myths surrounding the retreat. How this catastrophe shaped Victorian imperial policies and perceptions of Afghanistan. Key Takeaways: Leadership failure can turn a bad situation into a total catastrophe. The realities of empire-building were far bloodier and more chaotic than the myths suggest. The First Anglo-Afghan War left a lasting legacy, shaping British military thinking for years to come. Next Episode Teaser:Stay tuned as we explore the British response to this defeat—because when an empire stumbles, it rarely stays down for long. Host’s Note:Thank you for your ongoing support! If you’re enjoying the series, please leave a review and consider joining our Patreon community. The post EP061 DON’T CARRY ON UP THE KHYBER appeared first on AGE OF VICTORIA PODCAST.

Get ready for a holly-jolly dive into Christmas history! In this special episode, I unwrap how the Victorians shaped the modern holiday, turning it into a celebration of family, charity, and festive cheer. From Prince Albert’s Christmas trees to the rise of Santa Claus, discover the origins of the traditions we know and love today. Plus, enjoy a classic Victorian ghost story to complete the holiday magic! Episode Highlights: How the industrial revolution made Christmas possible. The Victorian invention of “ancient traditions” (like Christmas cards). The birth of Santa Claus and his merger with Father Christmas. Victorian holiday pastimes: poems, ghost stories, and more. A chilling Victorian ghost story to end the episode. Key Takeaways: Christmas, as we know it, is a product of Victorian modernization and commercialization. Cultural evolution transformed Christmas into a global phenomenon of joy, family, and charity. Traditions like Santa Claus, the Christmas tree, and holiday cards have complex and fascinating histories. Stay tuned for more historical deep dives in the new year. Thank you for a wonderful season of learning and laughter! Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to all our listeners! Thank you for your support through a challenging year. We’re excited to bring you even more content in 2025. Cheers to the journey ahead! The post CHRISTMAS SPECIAL 2024 SANTA CLAUS IS COMING appeared first on AGE OF VICTORIA PODCAST.

INDIA SERIES 07 Episode Summary:In this dramatic episode, we unpack the chain of events that led to the catastrophic unraveling of British occupation in Kabul during the First Anglo-Afghan War. From strategic blunders to leadership failures, General Elphinstone’s indecision turns a precarious situation into full-scale disaster. Listen to the cautionary tale of how poor planning, arrogance, and hubris can unravel even the mightiest empires. Highlights: Flawed Occupation Strategy: Mismanagement of finances and diplomacy stoked rebellion. The Fall of “Agent 00Burnes”: The assassination of Alexander Burnes ignited unrest among Kabul’s population. Indecision in Command: General Elphinstone’s hesitations worsened an already dire situation. Military Blunders: Failed offensives, logistical failures, and poor morale among British troops. Historical Parallels: Comparing the First Anglo-Afghan War to modern conflicts in the region. Key Takeaways: Effective leadership is critical in crisis management. Misunderstanding local dynamics and culture can have disastrous consequences. Historical lessons from imperial conflicts remain relevant today. Next Episode Teaser:In our next installment, we follow MacNaughten’s ill-fated attempts to negotiate a resolution and the devastating aftermath of his decisions. Host’s Note:Thank you for your patience as I navigate some personal and health challenges. Regular episodes will resume next year with exciting content and bonus shows. Your support means the world—cheers to the journey ahead! The post EP060 Agent Down! Catastrophe in Kabul appeared first on AGE OF VICTORIA PODCAST.

INDIA SERIES 06 This episode continues the exploration of the Anglo-Afghan War, focusing on the British occupation and the deteriorating situation in Afghanistan. Key topics covered include: Death of Sir Henry Durand: The episode begins by discussing the tragic death of Lt. Henry Durand, a prominent British officer, who was crushed by an elephant while passing through a low gateway. The British Army: The episode provides a brief overview of the ranks of the British Army during the Victorian era. The attempted return of Dost Mohammed: Dost Mohammed, the former Afghan king, returns to Afghanistan and begins to gather forces to challenge British rule. British Mistakes: The episode highlights several critical mistakes made by the British, including the establishment of a vulnerable cantonment and the appointment of an incompetent commander. Ruling by Fear and Western Views on Oriental Despotism: The episode discusses the British belief in the need to rule through fear and intimidation in Asian countries, reflecting Western views on “Oriental despotism.” This approach proved to be counterproductive and further alienated the Afghan population. General Elphinstone: The episode highlights the incompetence and poor leadership of General Elphinstone, who was appointed to command the British forces in Afghanistan despite his lack of experience and health problems. Growing Hostility: The Afghan population becomes increasingly hostile towards the British, fuelled by cultural clashes, economic hardship, and the perception of British arrogance. If you want to get in touch, I’d love to hear from you. You can email me at [email protected], follow me on twitter @ageofvictoria, visit the website at www.ageofvictoriapodcast.com. The show also has a facebook page and group. Just search for Age of Victoria. Don’t forget to leave a review on Apple Podcasts, it takes less time than making a coffee. You can also subscribe for free on most major podcast apps. To support the show on Patreon, either CLICK HERE or you can go to Patreon and search for Age of Victoria podcast or my name. Take care and bye for now. The post EP059 INDIA SERIES 06 THE QUAGMIRE OF OCCUPATION appeared first on AGE OF VICTORIA PODCAST.

INDIA SERIES 05 This episode focuses on the continuation of the British invasion of Afghanistan in 1839. Here are the key things I cover: British capture Kandahar: The poorly prepared British army, led by Generals Keane and Cotton, struggles through deserts and mountains but manages to capture Kandahar with little resistance. Shah Shuja is reinstated as king, but the locals are not enthusiastic. Difficulties and discontent: The British underestimate the logistical challenges and the hostility of the Afghan people. Food shortages, inflation, and a lack of military intelligence create problems for the British. Siege of Ghazni: The heavily fortified city of Ghazni stands in the way of the British advance. Despite lacking siege equipment, the British launch a desperate night attack led by Lieutenant Durand and his engineers. After a fierce battle, the British capture the city following a bloody urban warfare. British brutality: The capture of Ghazni is marred by a brutal rampage by British and Sepoy troops who loot the city and commit rape and murder. Fall of Dost Mohammed: The fall of Ghazni and illness of his son force Afghan king Dost Mohammed to flee Kabul and negotiate with the British. He proposes a power-sharing deal that is rejected by the British. Arrival of Shah Shuja: Shah Shuja returns to Kabul as king, but has no real support from the Afghan people. The British establish a military presence in the city. British incompetence: The episode concludes by highlighting the poor leadership and outdated tactics of the British army. Next episode: The upcoming episode will delve into the disastrous failures of the British occupation and their eventual retreat from Afghanistan. The post EP058 ONCE MORE UNTO THE BREACH DEAR FRIENDS appeared first on AGE OF VICTORIA PODCAST.

Welcome to the podcast! I’m recording this episode while dealing with selling my house and going through a divorce. The podcast is a great escape for me during these difficult times. Quick housekeeping: I’m pleased to welcome new patron Matt Anderson as a Loveable Chimney Sweep. Update on transcripts: I’ve been working on fully footnoted transcripts back to episode 32. Apple Podcasts now automatically produces transcripts for all episodes, which is great for accessibility. Today we’re continuing our series on the invasion of Afghanistan. If you haven’t listened to episodes 054-056 yet, start there first. Prelude to the invasion: The First Anglo-Afghan War is remembered as a great military disaster and a masterclass in bad political decision-making. I discuss how this war doesn’t fit neatly into typical frameworks like colonialism or imperialism. The British goal was to install a friendly king as a buffer, not to rule directly. Different world views I explore the concept of Orientalism and how it applied to British views of Afghanistan at the time. We look at quotes from British envoys and compare them to Roman descriptions of Germanic tribes, noting similarities in how “frontier” peoples were viewed. I discuss the Afghan perspective and capabilities, including their use of the jezail rifle. The key British players introduced: Lord Auckland (Governor General) Sir William Macnaughten (Secretary to Governor General) Alexander Burnes (British agent) Sir John Keane and Sir Willaby Cotton (Generals leading the invasion force) Professionals talk logistics I detail the enormous logistical challenges of planning the invasion, including assembling troops, supplies, and animals. The invasion force had to take a longer desert route instead of the Khyber Pass, covering over 1,200km on foot. Hunger and missed opportunities The army starts to starve, and has to force the grim Bolan pass Next episode: We’ll follow the army as it pushes deeper into Afghanistan and attempts to put Shah Shuja on the throne. If you want to get in touch, I’d love to hear from you. You can email me at [email protected], follow me on twitter @ageofvictoria, visit the website at www.ageofvictoriapodcast.com.  The show also has a facebook page and group. Just search for Age of Victoria. Don’t forget to leave a review on Apple Podcasts, it takes less time than making a coffee. You can also subscribe for free on most major podcast apps. To support the show on Patreon, either CLICK HERE or you can go to Patreon and search for Age of Victoria podcast or my name. Take care and bye for now. The post EP057 FORWARD MARCH TO THE PASS appeared first on AGE OF VICTORIA PODCAST.

Introduction: Welcome, everyone, to The Age of Victoria Podcast! Today marks a special milestone – our 7th anniversary! I’m incredibly grateful for your continued support and enthusiasm over the years. In this celebratory episode, we’re diving into a fascinating topic: the reality of Sherlock Holmes, despite his fictional origins. We’ll also explore the core of Holmes’ character and finish off with my top 5 Sherlock Holmes movies and TV series. Segment 1: Is Sherlock Holmes Real? Discussing the intriguing philosophical question: Can a fictional character be considered real? Exploring the concept of “literary realism” and how Sherlock Holmes has transcended fiction to become a cultural icon. Segment 2: The Core of Sherlock Holmes’ Character Analyzing the essential traits that make Sherlock Holmes an enduring character: His unparalleled intellect and powers of observation. The importance of his friendship with Dr. John Watson. Holmes’ unique personality quirks and eccentricities. The moral and ethical dimensions of his detective work. Discussing how Sir Arthur Conan Doyle developed Holmes’ character through the stories. The evolution of Holmes over time and his adaptability to different eras and media. Segment 3: My Top 5 Sherlock Holmes Movies and TV Series Sharing my personal favorites and why they stand out: Jeremy Brett (The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes, 1984-1994 Granada TV Series) – Featuring the iconic and definitive portrayal of Holmes. Peter Cushing (Various adaptations, including Hammer Films and BBC series) – Known for his intense and meticulous interpretation of the character. Robert Downey Jr. (Sherlock Holmes, 2009 Film) – Directed by Guy Ritchie, showcasing a dynamic and action-packed Holmes. Ian Richardson (The Sign of Four, 1983 & The Hound of the Baskervilles, 1983 TV Films) – Bringing a classic and sophisticated portrayal to the small screen. Tom Baker (The Hound of the Baskervilles, 1982 BBC TV Film) – Offering a unique and memorable take on Holmes, distinct from his Doctor Who fame. Discussing the strengths and unique interpretations of each adaptation. Encouraging listeners to share their favorite Holmes adaptations and why they love them. Closing: Wrapping up with a heartfelt thank you to all the listeners who have supported the podcast over the past seven years. Inviting feedback and suggestions for future episodes. Reminding everyone to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast. Outro: Thank you for joining me on this special 7th anniversary episode of The Age of Victoria Podcast. Remember to stay curious and keep exploring the fascinating world of the Victorian era. Until next time, take care and keep the spirit of adventure alive! If you want to get in touch, I’d love to hear from you. You can email me at [email protected], follow me on twitter @ageofvictoria, visit the website at www.ageofvictoriapodcast.com. The show also has a facebook page and group. Just search for Age of Victoria. Don’t forget to leave a review on Apple Podcasts, it takes less time than making a coffee. You can also subscribe for free on most major podcast apps. To support the show on Patreon, either CLICK HERE or you can go to Patreon and search for Age of Victoria podcast or my name. Take care and bye for now. The post 7TH ANNIVERSARY SPECIAL “SURELY HOLMES?” appeared first on AGE OF VICTORIA PODCAST.

SHOWNOTES: EP056 INDIA SERIES 03 THE AFGHAN FRONTIER Introduction I discuss enjoying Easter treats like nut-free eggs and binge-watching Shogun. Shout out to Two Broads Cider on the west coast of the U.S. Note about using some AI voice clips in the previous episode Welcome to new Patreon supporter Sean Spada Main Topic: The Borders of Victorian India and Afghanistan Victorian Views on Borders/Imperialism Importance of defined borders to nation-states vs. historical blended territories Empires tended to use geographic features like rivers/mountains as borders Motivations for expanding empire borders: security, resources, preventing rival expansion Debate around British motivations – security concern vs. aggression Geography of Afghanistan Overview of Afghanistan’s mountainous terrain and extreme climate variations Significance of the Hindu Kush mountain range and Khyber Pass Historical importance as a crossroads along Silk Road trade routes Challenges the terrain posed for military movement/supply lines Main topic: Afghan culture Predominantly Muslim, but rich cultural diversity beyond Taliban stereotypes Alignment between conservative Victorian and Muslim values in some areas Debate around female dress codes and varying interpretations Primacy of tribal/kinship affiliations over national identity Ethnic groups like Pushtuns and history of conflicts with groups like Sikhs Afghan Border Security Concerns for Britain Main topic: Preventing Russian expansion from Central Asia into India Recent history of Afghan rulers invading India (Mughals) Unease over Russian/French intrigues to court Afghan allies against Britain Main topic: The Adventures of Sir Alexander Burnes Early life and join the East India Company’s military Daring diplomatic missions mapping rivers and intelligence gathering Writing bestseller “Travels into Bokhara” about his experiences Main topic: Burnes’ Afghan Mission (1836-1838) Dispatched to Kabul to monitor Russian influence Built relationships with Afghan leaders like Dost Mohammad Khan Recommended installing Shah Shuja as British-friendly ruler Laid groundwork for the disastrous First Anglo-Afghan War Views dismissed by Sir William Macnaghten in favor of war hawks Main topic: British Decision to Invade Afghanistan Fears over Dost Mohammad allying with Russia/Persia against Britain Failure to reach terms protecting British interests Plan to depose Dost and reinstate former ruler Shah Shuja Overconfident manifesto expecting quick regime change Inability to concede to Dost’s demands over Peshawar and Sikh rivalry Declaration of War! If you want to get in touch, I’d love to hear from you. You can email me at [email protected], follow me on twitter @ageofvictoria, visit the website at www.ageofvictoriapodcast.com. The show also has a facebook page and group. Just search for Age of Victoria. Don’t forget to leave a review on Apple Podcasts, it takes less time than making a coffee. You can also subscribe for free on most major podcast apps. To support the show on Patreon, either CLICK HERE or you can go to Patreon and search for Age of Victoria podcast or my name. Take care and bye for now. The post EP056 INDIA SERIES 03 THE AFGHAN FRONTIER appeared first on AGE OF VICTORIA PODCAST.

INDIA SERIES 02 In today’s episode, I’m taking you on a journey back in time to explore the Honourable East India Company (EIC), focusing on its monumental role during the Victorian era. We’ll dive deep into its interactions with the Mughal Empire, its profound influence on art, the Maratha Wars, and the governance under Governor Hastings. Join me as we uncover the legacy of what was once the world’s most powerful corporation and its foundational impact on the British Empire in India. Introduction I start with a brief overview of the EIC’s origins and its meteoric rise to power, setting the stage for a saga of commerce, conquest, and culture. I reflect on the company’s unique status as a corporate behemoth wielding the might of a sovereign nation. The Victorian Era and the EIC I delve into how the EIC evolved during the Victorian era, influencing and being influenced by British colonial policies in India. I share thoughts on Victorian society’s fascination with India, from tea to textiles, and how this shaped British culture and perceptions. Art and the East India Company Art holds a mirror to history, and in this segment, I explore the EIC’s impact on art in Britain and India. I discuss the patronage of Indian artisans by the company and the introduction of Indian aesthetics to the British isles. Highlighting notable artists and works, I reveal stories of cultural fusion that still resonate today. The EIC and the Mughal Empire The declining Mughal Empire presented both an opportunity and a challenge for the EIC. I recount how the company navigated this complex relationship to expand its territories. Key battles and treaties illustrate the delicate dance of diplomacy and warfare. The Maratha Wars The Maratha Wars were a turning point for the EIC. I share insights into the military engagements that reshaped the Indian subcontinent’s power dynamics. The outcomes and strategies of these conflicts offer lessons in resilience and strategy. Governor Hastings Warren Hastings, the first Governor-General of India, is a figure of controversy and reform. I take a closer look at his tenure, exploring his reforms, the controversies he was embroiled in, and his contributions to the EIC’s dominion in India. Reflecting on Hastings’ legacy, I ponder the complexities of governance and morality in the context of empire. Conclusion I wrap up by considering the enduring impact of the EIC on both India and Britain, contemplating the historical lessons we can draw from this extraordinary chapter in global history. If you want to get in touch, I’d love to hear from you. You can email me at [email protected], follow me on twitter @ageofvictoria, visit the website at www.ageofvictoriapodcast.com. The show also has a facebook page and group. Just search for Age of Victoria. Don’t forget to leave a review on Apple Podcasts, it takes less time than making a coffee. You can also subscribe for free on most major podcast apps. To support the show on Patreon, either CLICK HERE or you can go to Patreon and search for Age of Victoria podcast or my name. Take care and bye for now. The post EP055 INDIA SERIES 02 THE ORIGINAL CORPORATE RAIDERS appeared first on AGE OF VICTORIA PODCAST.

In this year’s festive episode, dive into the enchanting world of Victorian curiosities and captivating storytelling. First, join me for a mesmerising 10-minute journey through intriguing Victorian trivia, unraveling captivating tales from an era of innovation and eccentricity. From lesser-known facts to enthralling historical anecdotes, this brief exploration sheds light on the unique essence of the Victorian age. Discover the astonishing details behind events like the Sonning cutting railway disaster, providing a glimpse into the quirks and tragedies of the time. Following this insightful introduction, the episode unfolds into a spellbinding narrative as I take listeners on a literary adventure. Prepare to be transported to the ethereal realm of Rudyard Kipling’s “The Phantom Rickshaw.” Through my evocative reading, experience the haunting and gripping tale set against the backdrop of colonial India, where love, tragedy, and the supernatural intertwine in a captivating narrative. I invite you to immerse yourself in the essence of the Victorian era, uncovering its mysteries and indulging in the timeless allure of storytelling. Join me for a delightful holiday treat as to celebrate the spirit of Christmas in the grandeur of Victorian storytelling, painting vivid landscapes and evoking emotions that transcend time. If you want to get in touch, I’d love to hear from you. You can email me at [email protected], follow me on twitter @ageofvictoria, visit the website at www.ageofvictoriapodcast.com. The show also has a facebook page and group. Just search for Age of Victoria. Don’t forget to leave a review on Apple Podcasts, it takes less time than making a coffee. You can also subscribe for free on most major podcast apps. To support the show on Patreon, either CLICK HERE or you can go to Patreon and search for Age of Victoria podcast or my name. Take care and bye for now. The post CHRISTMAS SPECIAL 2023 “The phantom rickshaw” appeared first on AGE OF VICTORIA PODCAST.

To become a patron on Patreon, CLICK HERE INDIA SERIES 01 Join me as I embark on a captivating journey through India’s vibrant history and cultural intricacies during the Victorian era. Join me as I start uncover the complexities of the Victorian’s in India. Delve into some fascinating transformations of place names that shaped India’s identity during this era. Explore the reasons behind these changes and their enduring impact on the country’s cultural fabric. I provide a succinct yet comprehensive overview of India’s history up to the Victorian era from cave paintings to the first great civilisation. Explore the simmering tensions between Hindu nationalism and the Muslim population, dissecting the socio-political nuances that left an indelible mark on Victorian-era India and continue to resonate today. Immerse yourself in the diverse geographical landscapes that define India, from the majestic Himalayas to the tropical coastlines. Explore how India’s geography intertwined with its history and Victorian experience Finally discover an intriguing array of potential topics that will be further explored in upcoming episodes. From the East India Company’s influence to social reforms, industrialization, and cultural exchange, oh and of course sex and cricket. If you want to get in touch, I’d love to hear from you. You can email me at [email protected], follow me on twitter @ageofvictoria, visit the website at www.ageofvictoriapodcast.com. The show also has a facebook page and group. Just search for Age of Victoria. Don’t forget to leave a review on Apple Podcasts, it takes less time than making a coffee. You can also subscribe for free on most major podcast apps. To support the show on Patreon, either CLICK HERE or you can go to Patreon and search for Age of Victoria podcast or my name.  The post EP054 INDIA SERIES 01 THE BASICS appeared first on AGE OF VICTORIA PODCAST.

In this episode I’ll delve into the fascinating world of Prince Albert, the consort to Queen Victoria. I’ll explore his significant role in transforming Buckingham Palace, his artistic endeavors, his influential involvement in redecorating the Houses of Parliament, and the controversial dismissal of Baroness Lehzen.In the early 19th century, Buckingham Palace was in a state of disrepair. Prince Albert, however, had a grand vision for the royal residence. He saw it not only as a home for the monarchy but as a symbol of British culture and innovation.Prince Albert’s reforms included architectural updates, the incorporation of modern amenities, and a focus on art and culture within the palace walls.Prince Albert’s influence extended beyond Buckingham Palace. His involvement in the extensive redecoration of the Houses of Parliament left an indelible mark on the iconic building. Learn about the aesthetic choices, architectural improvements, and the political implications of Prince Albert’s contributions to the Houses of Parliament.In a surprising turn of events, we’ll discuss the controversial decision by Prince Albert to dismiss Baroness Lehzen, Queen Victoria’s trusted governess and advisor. Uncover the reasons behind this decision, the impact it had on the royal household, and the reactions from Queen Victoria and the court. This episode will explore the political intrigues surrounding this event, and his first huge argument with the Queen, with its implications for the monarchy.I will also take you through the birth of the unique British art scene in the early Victorian era, the importance of Raphael and Fresco’s, and the influence of William Dyce, as British art steps onto the world stage.Thanks for joining me. I hope you’ve enjoyed it as much as I did! Don’t forget to subscribe and share the Age of Victoria Podcast with your fellow history enthusiasts. Until next time, keep exploring the past and embracing the knowledge it offers.If you want to get in touch, I’d love to hear from you. You can email me at [email protected], follow me on twitter @ageofvictoria, visit the website at www.ageofvictoriapodcast.com.The show also has a facebook page and group. Just search for Age of Victoria.Don’t forget to leave a review on Apple Podcasts, it takes less time than making a coffee. You can also subscribe for free on most major podcast apps. To support the show on Patreon, either CLICK HERE or you can go to Patreon and search for Age of Victoria podcast or my name. Take care and bye for now. The post EP053 ALBERT THE ROYAL MAKEOVER EDITION appeared first on AGE OF VICTORIA PODCAST.

I’m excited to take you on a journey through time today as we cover Queen Victoria’s first pregnancy & child. Together, we’ll delve into the intriguing world of historical events, focusing on the remarkable early reign of Queen Victoria and the dramatic affairs that unfolded during this era. Recap  Starting with a recap of the most significant events that the podcast has covered between 1817 and 1840. From technological advancements to political revolutions and cultural milestones, this retrospective will bring our threads together. Queen Victoria’s First Pregnancy Then it’s time to focus on Queen Victoria, one of the most iconic and influential monarchs in British history. We’ll explore the joyous yet challenging time of her first pregnancy. Let’s discover the emotions, expectations, and anxieties surrounding the young queen as she embarked on the path to motherhood and the implications this had for the monarchy and the nation. The Ottoman Affair of 1840 In this segment, we’ll delve into the lesser-known but no less fascinating affair that unfolded in 1840 involving the Ottoman Empire. Join me as we unravel the intricate political maneuvers, diplomatic intricacies, and the significant impact this event had on European powers during this time, and on Queen Victoria.  The Birth of Victoria’s First Child Continuing our exploration of Queen Victoria’s life, let’s dive into the much-anticipated birth of her first child and I’ll shed light on the rise of Prince Albert’s political influence during Victoria’s pregnancy. As Prince Consort, Albert’s role transcended mere ceremonial duties, and he became a trusted advisor and confidant to the Queen.Conclusion Thanks for joining me on this captivating journey through the early Victorian era and the significant events that shaped the world between 1817 and 1840. I hope you’ve enjoyed it as much as I did! Don’t forget to subscribe and share the Age of Victoria Podcast with your fellow history enthusiasts. Until next time, keep exploring the past and embracing the knowledge it offers. If you want to get in touch, I’d love to hear from you. You can email me at [email protected], follow me on twitter @ageofvictoria, visit the website at www.ageofvictoriapodcast.com. The show also has a facebook page and group. Just search for Age of Victoria. Don’t forget to leave a review on Apple Podcasts, it takes less time than making a coffee. You can also subscribe for free on most major podcast apps. To support the show on Patreon, either CLICK HERE or you can go to Patreon and search for Age of Victoria podcast or my name. Take care and bye for now. The post EP052 “A PRETTY LITTLE PRINCESS” appeared first on AGE OF VICTORIA PODCAST.

Celebrating 6 years of the podcast. I delve into the world of detectives in England during the 1840s. It’s time to explore the fascinating development of Victorian detective work, and how it was used to solve some of the most notorious crimes of the era, including the Bermondsey Horror. I begin by looking at the emergence of detectives in England during the early 19th century. Learn how detective work evolved from the work of primitive thief-takers and the Bow Street Runners, and how the creation of the Metropolitan Police in 1829 helped to professionalize the field of criminal investigation.  Then I’ll show how one of the most sensational crimes of the era: the murder of Daniel Good in 1842, turned into the catalyst for the new kind of policeman – the detective. I’ll show how the case showed a desperate need for detectives as an essential part of the criminal justice system, but also highlights the barbarity of the Victorian public execution. Then I’ll put it all in context, bringing together changes in society & technology, set against the background of crime & then look at what kind of people these early detectives were. With the detectives in place, I’ll help you explore another gruesome crime that shocked Victorian England: the Bermondsey Horror of 1849. A descent into the slums together together to see detectives working tirelessly to unravel the mystery of the crime, and. We’ll also discuss how the case highlighted the darker side of Victorian society, including poverty, vice, and crime. Finally I’ll show you the inevitable outcome of the crime; a scaffold and a rope. I’ll help you understand the fear of the victim and criminal to leave you to muse philosophically on crime and the death penalty.  If you want to get in touch, I’d love to hear from you. You can email me at [email protected], follow me on twitter @ageofvictoria, visit the website at www.ageofvictoriapodcast.com. The show also has a facebook page and group. Just search for Age of Victoria. Don’t forget to leave a review on Apple Podcasts, it takes less time than making a coffee. You can also subscribe for free on most major podcast apps. To support the show on Patreon, either CLICK HERE or you can go to Patreon and search for Age of Victoria podcast or my name. Take care and bye for now. The post ANNIVERSARY SPECIAL 2023 “THERE SIMPLY MUST BE A CORPSE” appeared first on AGE OF VICTORIA PODCAST.

This is the final episode in the series on Charles Darwin’s five-year journey aboard the HMS Beagle. I delve into Darwin’s impressions of Australia and the European contact history during his visit in 1835. Episode Highlights: Arrival in Australia: After months of sailing, HMS Beagle arrived in Sydney, Australia, in January 1836. Darwin was fascinated by the diversity of flora and fauna that he encountered upon his arrival. He marveled at the unique wildlife, including kangaroos, platypus, and various species of parrots, which were vastly different from what he had seen in other parts of the world. Interaction with Indigenous People: During his time in Australia, Darwin also had the opportunity to interact with the indigenous people. He was struck by their unique cultures, customs, and ways of life. He observed their hunting techniques, studied their tools and weapons, and learned about their rich spiritual beliefs and traditions. However, Darwin also noted the detrimental effects of European colonization on the indigenous populations, including the loss of land, resources, and cultural heritage. Darwin reflected on the impact of colonization on the local ecosystems, including deforestation, introduction of foreign species, and disruption of natural habitats. Scientific Observations: As a naturalist, Darwin made extensive scientific observations during his time in Australia. He collected specimens of plants, animals, and fossils, and conducted studies on geology, zoology, and botany. His observations and collections from Australia provided critical evidence for his later work on the theory of evolution, including his groundbreaking book “On the Origin of Species.” Impacts on Darwin’s Thinking: Darwin’s time in Australia had a profound impact on his scientific thinking. He witnessed firsthand the rich biodiversity and complex ecosystems of the continent, which contributed to his understanding of the interconnectedness of life on Earth. He also witnessed the consequences of human activity on the environment and indigenous cultures, which influenced his ideas on adaptation, natural selection, and the fragile balance of ecosystems. Keeling Islands: During his voyage on HMS Beagle, Darwin also visited the Keeling Islands, a remote group of coral atolls in the Indian Ocean, which are now known as the Cocos (Keeling) Islands. Darwin was fascinated by the unique ecosystems of these islands, including the diverse marine life and the complex interactions between coral reefs and their inhabitants. He conducted extensive studies on the geology, flora, and fauna of the islands, and his observations contributed to his understanding of the formation and evolution of coral atolls, as well as the adaptation of species to their environments. Mauritius: Darwin’s journey then took him to Mauritius, an island in the Indian Ocean. During his time there, he studied the island’s rich biodiversity, including its unique flora and fauna. He was particularly interested in the giant tortoises of Mauritius, which were endemic to the island and had a significant impact on the local ecosystem. Darwin’s observations of the extinct dodo, a flightless bird that once inhabited Mauritius, also provided important insights into the concept of extinction and the vulnerability of species to environmental changes. His time in Mauritius further enriched his understanding of the interplay between species, ecosystems, and environmental conditions. Reflections on His First Three Years Back in England: After his voyage on HMS Beagle, Darwin returned to England in 1836 and spent the next three years reflecting on his experiences and conducting further research. He meticulously documented his findings and worked on analyzing the vast amount of data he had collected during his voyage. He corresponded with fellow scientists, including botanists, geologists, and zoologists, and shared his observations and ideas. Darwin also continued to explore and study specimens from his collections, including fossils, plants, and animals, which further deepened his understanding of the natural world. Evolution vs Religion: During this period, Darwin also faced challenges in reconciling his scientific discoveries with his religious beliefs, as his observations on the voyage had challenged traditional Christian views on the origin and diversity of life. His thoughts on evolution and natural selection began to take shape, and he started to develop the framework for his groundbreaking theory of evolution, which he would later publish in his seminal work, “On the Origin of Species.” The voyage home: Charles Darwin’s voyage on HMS Beagle to Australia, the Keeling Islands, and Mauritius was just the beginning of his remarkable scientific journey. His reflections and research during the first three years back in England after his voyage were crucial in shaping his groundbreaking theories on evolution and natural selection. Darwin’s scientific legacy continues to influence our understanding of the natural world and remains a cornerstone of modern biology, making him one of the most significant and enduring figures in the history of science. If you want to get in touch, I’d love to hear from you. You can email me at [email protected], follow me on twitter @ageofvictoria, visit the website at www.ageofvictoriapodcast.com. The show also has a facebook page and group. Just search for Age of Victoria. Don’t forget to leave a review on Apple Podcasts, it takes less time than making a coffee. You can also subscribe for free on most major podcast apps. To support the show on Patreon, either CLICK HERE or you can go to Patreon and search for Age of Victoria podcast or my name. Take care and bye for now. The post EP051 DARWIN DOWN UNDER appeared first on AGE OF VICTORIA PODCAST.

This is episode four of series on Charles Darwin’s five-year journey aboard the HMS Beagle. Darwin arrived in Tahiti in November 1835 and spent a month there. He was struck by the beauty of the island and its people, whom he described as “the finest race of savages in the world.” He was particularly impressed by their hospitality, noting that they were “good-tempered and cheerful, honest and obliging.” Darwin also observed the Tahitians’ social customs, such as their elaborate tattoos and their practice of polygamy. Learn about his time on the island, the start of European colonisation, and the coming of Christianity. Conflict and conquest cast a shadow over Tahiti’s future. European contact with Tahiti had immense consequences for the Tahitians. It brought new technologies and goods, such as firearms and textiles, but it also introduced diseases such as smallpox, which decimated the population. See how European visitors and traders exploited the Tahitians, leading to conflict and resentment. There was also the immense impact of the London Missionary Society, and the spread of Christianity. Missionaries viewed Tahiti less as paradise, and more as a place of vice and paganism.  Despite these challenges, the Tahitians maintained their distinct culture and way of life. Darwin’s visit to the island provided a glimpse into their world and contributed to his understanding of the diversity of human societies. In 1842, France claimed Tahiti as a protectorate, and in 1843, it established a naval base on the island. This led to a series of conflicts between the French and the Tahitians, culminating in the French Tahitian War in 1844.  Darwin’s visit was a window into a vanishing world. Join me as we cover Darwin’s time in paradise and learn about the last decade of independent Tahiti before the arrival of the French in the 1840s.  If you want to get in touch, I’d love to hear from you. You can email me at [email protected], follow me on twitter @ageofvictoria, visit the website at www.ageofvictoriapodcast.com. The show also has a facebook page and group. Just search for Age of Victoria. Don’t forget to leave a review on Apple Podcasts, it takes less time than making a coffee. You can also subscribe for free on most major podcast apps. To support the show on Patreon, either CLICK HERE or you can go to Patreon and search for Age of Victoria podcast or my name. Take care and bye for now. The post EP050 DARWIN IN PARADISE appeared first on AGE OF VICTORIA PODCAST.

The world can be a dangerous place. For explorers like Darwin to see the treasures of nature, they had to go boldly to the ends of the world. Join me as Darwin sails into savage and stormy seas, and find breathtaking beauty. Intro.  The lonely lands of Tierra Del Fuego. Isolation. A fragile speak on a vast stormy sea. The Beagle Channel Into the Pacific Chile & the great quake Exploring the Andes More evidence – the scientific data mounts up Onwards to the Tortoises Of tortoises and more interesting animals. If you want to get in touch, I’d love to hear from you. You can email me at [email protected], follow me on twitter @ageofvictoria, visit the website at www.ageofvictoriapodcast.com. The show also has a facebook page and group. Just search for Age of Victoria. Don’t forget to leave a review on Apple Podcasts, it takes less time than making a coffee. You can also subscribe for free on most major podcast apps. To support the show on Patreon, either CLICK HERE or you can go to Patreon and search for Age of Victoria podcast or my name. Take care and bye for now. The post EP049 DARWIN AT THE END OF THE WORLD appeared first on AGE OF VICTORIA PODCAST.

January is here, and we are all feeling poor after Christmas. Time to talk about money. This is the first in a series of minisodes on Victorian money. To get things started we are looking at Victorian Coins. The age of gold, silver, sound money, and not having two farthings to rub together Intro, thank you’s and reviews.  Choosing a topic Its pre-decimal so I’m going slightly mad Remember this long list of coins This is not a very difficult question – time for some maths Some problems with the coins A matter of design; florins, shillings, and silver six pence A stunning Gothic Silver Crown What’s money worth in tough times? Looting the Summer Palace Is imperial loot really priceless? Victorian coins in practice Victorian coins have some drawbacks Liquidity, mental maths, and not enough change. If you want to get in touch, I’d love to hear from you. You can email me at [email protected], follow me on twitter @ageofvictoria, visit the website at www.ageofvictoriapodcast.com. The show also has a facebook page and group. Just search for Age of Victoria. Don’t forget to leave a review on Apple Podcasts, it takes less time than making a coffee. You can also subscribe for free on most major podcast apps. To support the show on Patreon, either CLICK HERE or you can go to Patreon and search for Age of Victoria podcast or my name. Take care and bye for now. The post <strong>MINI021 VICTORIAN MONEY – COINING IT IN</strong> appeared first on AGE OF VICTORIA PODCAST.

Christmas is here, so we really need to watch Charles Dickens “A Christmas Carol” but how to choose the best version? Sentimental? Accurate? Musical? This episode has got you covered; Intro, thank you’s and reviews.  A little reminder of the essentials Honourable mentions Pick a film, any film A traditional ghost story. If you want to get in touch, I’d love to hear from you. You can email me at [email protected], follow me on twitter @ageofvictoria, visit the website at www.ageofvictoriapodcast.com. The show also has a facebook page and group. Just search for Age of Victoria. Don’t forget to leave a review on Apple Podcasts, it takes less time than making a coffee. You can also subscribe for free on most major podcast apps. To support the show on Patreon, either CLICK HERE or you can go to Patreon and search for Age of Victoria podcast or my name. Take care and bye for now. The post CHRISTMAS SPECIAL 2022 – WHAT TO WATCH appeared first on AGE OF VICTORIA PODCAST.

Darwin’s great voyage of discovery continues. The ancient past was a vast mystery, with many claiming that God alone was the explanation for all things. As Darwin travelled and jotted his observations in his little notebooks, he began to lift the veil on the ancient past. New species, now long vanished, were discovered. Darwin began to build the foundations for our understanding of the world. This episode covers; Intro, thank you’s and reviews.  The problem with fossils Time in Brazil The horror of slavery Flying spiders Uncovering giants in Argentina The problems with Taxonomy The problems with Richard Owens, genius and git Toxodon platensis and other megafauna The Clovis extinction debate The problem of intermediate forms Let’s talk about giant sloths, small sloths, and the importance of sloths “I saw sea shells, no where near the sea shore” Terraces, and continental uplift Until next time. If you want to get in touch, I’d love to hear from you. You can email me at [email protected], follow me on twitter @ageofvictoria, visit the website at www.ageofvictoriapodcast.com. The show also has a facebook page and group. Just search for Age of Victoria. Don’t forget to leave a review on Apple Podcasts, it takes less time than making a coffee. You can also subscribe for free on most major podcast apps. To support the show on Patreon, either CLICK HERE or you can go to Patreon and search for Age of Victoria podcast or my name. Take care and bye for now. The post <strong>EP048: A BIT OF SLOTH</strong> appeared first on AGE OF VICTORIA PODCAST.

Darwin, and his Theory of Evolution by Natural Selection; in this podcast we’ve covered the creation of the new settler Empire and the transition to the new energy form of coal & steam, then the railways, but Darwin had a bigger impact on civilisation than even those. This episode is the start of a series of episodes on Darwin and Evolution. It covers; Intro, thank you’s and reviews.The philosophy of mind & matterDarwin’s dangerous ideaThe young studentA trip to WalesHMS Beagle; how to get a bad ship ready for adventureCaptain FitzRoy, a troubled manGeology, physics and the age of the EarthThe journey begins. If you want to get in touch, I’d love to hear from you. You can email me at [email protected], follow me on twitter @ageofvictoria, visit the website at www.ageofvictoriapodcast.com. The show also has a facebook page and group. Just search for Age of Victoria. Don’t forget to leave a review on Apple Podcasts, it takes less time than making a coffee. You can also subscribe for free on most major podcast apps. To support the show on Patreon, either CLICK HERE or you can go to Patreon and search for Age of Victoria podcast or my name. Take care and bye for now. The post EP047 DARWIN BEGINS appeared first on AGE OF VICTORIA PODCAST.

Just for fun, here’s a fiendishly difficult pub quiz which has been requested by many listeners. Good luck! The post PUB QUIZ 0CT 2022 appeared first on AGE OF VICTORIA PODCAST.

The death of Queen Elizabeth II is a momentous event in modern British history. This special episode contains some facts about her life, reflections on events, thoughts about King Charles III, the Royal Finances, the constitution, national decline, the Commonwealth, and possibilities for the future. This episode covers; Intro Birth, coronation & televisionWW2 & the ATSPost war austerity, the Elizabethan rebirth, more televisionThe start of the Commonwealth & retreat from EmpireFamous friends, anecdotes and ginInternationalismRoyal financesConstitutional problemsColonialism, anti colonialism, reparations and artefactsThe Koh-i-NoorTroubled waters ahead.A last note of hope? If you want to get in touch, I’d love to hear from you. You can email me at [email protected], follow me on twitter @ageofvictoria, visit the website at www.ageofvictoriapodcast.com. The show also has a facebook page and group. Just search for Age of Victoria. Don’t forget to leave a review on Apple Podcasts, it takes less time than making a coffee. You can also subscribe for free on most major podcast apps. To support the show on Patreon, either CLICK HERE or you can go to Patreon and search for Age of Victoria podcast or my name. Take care and bye for now. The post SPECIAL: DEATH OF QUEEN ELIZABETH II appeared first on AGE OF VICTORIA PODCAST.

The essential guide to the Victorian class system. There was more to being middle class than drinking tea, and the working class weren’t all up the Chimney. From the well dressed footman, to the Haymarket prostitute, to the pie seller, and duke. All of Victorian life is here. This episode covers. Intro. A discussion of what is Class.A tiny bit of Marx.Life at the top.I say, those young people today, they are frightfully uptight.We are a most humble Queen.Prince Albert knows his place, and he doesn’t like it.The Spencers.The middle class – super stars and clubs.The middle class – the rest.The vibrant skilled working class and their poets.Upstairs, Downstairs.Beaulieu; all hands to the pumps.The desperate poor on the scrap heap.Anglo Indians, and the native Indian Aristocracy.Travellers.Minorities and the oppressed.The great north south divide.North & South; Gaskell and industrialists.The outsiders; Superstars and the Out of Place.“This Green and Pleasant Land”. If you want to get in touch, I’d love to hear from you. You can email me at [email protected], follow me on twitter @ageofvictoria, visit the website at www.ageofvictoriapodcast.com. The show also has a facebook page and group. Just search for Age of Victoria. Don’t forget to leave a review on Apple Podcasts, it takes less time than making a coffee. You can also subscribe for free on most major podcast apps. To support the show on Patreon, either CLICK HERE or you can go to Patreon and search for Age of Victoria podcast or my name. Take care and bye for now. The post EP046 A TOUCH OF CLASS appeared first on AGE OF VICTORIA PODCAST.

This much requested episode deals with the important but fun topic of women’s clothes and fashions in the 1840s. If you want to understand how a Victorian woman dressed and why, this is the episode for you.  This episode covers. Intro & reviews.The importance of dressing well.We don’t do business casual. Victoria, a Goth.Starting the day, the chemiseBloomers, and worries about the French.Stockings, colours and fun.The corset – Patriarchy not included.The corset – exploding the mythsThe corset – tight lacing, narrow waists, health hazards and missing ribs.Corsets – a big hit with the men.Dresses, daywear and sewing.Don’t forget your hat, I mean bonnet.Some shoes, and dressing for the weather. Riding outfits.Evening dresses, and gowns fit for an Empress. What you wear is not a political statement yet. If you want to get in touch, I’d love to hear from you. You can email me at [email protected], follow me on twitter @ageofvictoria, visit the website at www.ageofvictoriapodcast.com. The show also has a facebook page and group. Just search for Age of Victoria. Don’t forget to leave a review on Apple Podcasts, it takes less time than making a coffee. You can also subscribe for free on most major podcast apps. To support the show on Patreon, either CLICK HERE or you can go to Patreon and search for Age of Victoria podcast or my name. Take care and bye for now. The post MINI020 WOMEN GETTING DRESSED 1840s style appeared first on AGE OF VICTORIA PODCAST.

This episode deals with the real and harrow position for women during with contraception, pregnancy, and abortion in the Victorian era. Campaigners like Annie Besant attacked the patriarchy, and fought for the right to be heard. Women risked their lives getting dangerous abortions, in constant fear of the law, whilst the great scandal of the Victorian era, infanticide, loomed in the background. From the courts to the back alleys, join me in experiencing the reality of life before the pill.  This episode covers.  Intro & reviews. Musings on the direction of the podcast The basics of periods What the doctor though – 1840s style. Women’s underwear and period pain. Menstrual leave, a feminist issue. Ovulation and fertility. Birth control. Annie Besant goes on the warpath. Mortality and unstable families. Victorian Birth Control Abortion and the criminal law Religion and gender. Abortion in practice. Abortion – a personal account by Mary Wolfe Murder charges When things went wrong. Illegitimacy as a motivation. Infanticide, the great scandal. The crime of concealment of birth. Criminals preying on the vulnerable. A tough lot. If you want to get in touch, I’d love to hear from you. You can email me at [email protected], follow me on twitter @ageofvictoria, visit the website at www.ageofvictoriapodcast.com. The show also has a facebook page and group. Just search for Age of Victoria. Don’t forget to leave a review on Apple Podcasts, it takes less time than making a coffee. You can also subscribe for free on most major podcast apps. To support the show on Patreon, either CLICK HERE or you can go to Patreon and search for Age of Victoria podcast or my name. Take care and bye for now. The post EP045: THE GRAVEST CHOICE – VICTORIAN ERA ABORTION appeared first on AGE OF VICTORIA PODCAST.

This anniversary is a memorable event and naturally deserves to be photographed by the paparazzi. But what was the story of the invention of the photograph, and how did it become a Victorian icon? A story filled with invention, persistence, a lot of daring do, and possibly holding back some manly tears. Not to mention artistic nudes, pioneering thinking from governments, lots of chemicals and real dedication.   This episode covers.  Intro & reviews.Some all time great photographs.The veil of history.Early steps towards photography.No invention is a vacuum.The Daguerreotype and patentsHenry Fox Talbot & the Calotype.The Collodion processPhotography spreads out around the world.What was photography for?Photography in India.The unflappable Samuel Bourne.Yes, but it it art?The female nude.It’s not just naked women; other uses for photographs.The artist creates the truth by destroying it; making fake photos for art.What is art, truth and how did all this matter?A plea for supportThank you’s.The Daguerreotype and patents If you want to get in touch, I’d love to hear from you. You can email me at [email protected], follow me on twitter @ageofvictoria, visit the website at www.ageofvictoriapodcast.com. The show also has a facebook page and group. Just search for Age of Victoria. Don’t forget to leave a review on Apple Podcasts, it takes less time than making a coffee. You can also subscribe for free on most major podcast apps. To support the show on Patreon, either CLICK HERE or you can go to Patreon and search for Age of Victoria podcast or my name. Take care and bye for now. The post 5TH ANNIVERSARY SPECIAL – SAY CHEESE appeared first on AGE OF VICTORIA PODCAST.

Our dive under the covers continues. How did sex and religion come together in the Victorian era? How was the bible such an influence on men & women’s sexuality? Should a religious Victorian be having sex? Some evolutionary pitfalls, social problems and a couple of wedding nights to talk about. This episode covers. Intro & reviews.The duties of Eve.A morally ambiguous bible.Seems risky.Those teenager cave people.Wars, unrest and shipping em off to the Empire.Art and desexualisation.Is she really a seamstress?Queen Victoria enjoys herself…….Ruskin and Effie do not.On that bombshell, it’s good night from me. If you want to get in touch, I’d love to hear from you. You can email me at [email protected], follow me on twitter @ageofvictoria, visit the website at www.ageofvictoriapodcast.com. The show also has a facebook page and group. Just search for Age of Victoria. Don’t forget to leave a review on Apple Podcasts, it takes less time than making a coffee. You can also subscribe for free on most major podcast apps. To support the show on Patreon, either CLICK HERE you can go to Patreon and search for Age of Victoria podcast or my name. Take care and bye for now. The post EP044 SEX RELIGION AND WEDDING NIGHT BLUES – VICTORIA SEX PT2 appeared first on AGE OF VICTORIA PODCAST.

Why yes, we will be asking what Victoria did with Albert. We will be asking about the how’s and why’s of Victorian sex & sexualities. There’s a lot to say, so we are getting started with just how reserved were they really, and did the have a lot of sex? This episode covers. Intro & reviews.General biologyDarwin & sexPublic health – a deceiving lensNo, people really do like sex.Poor Bonny BetA porn writer remembers……. If you want to get in touch, I’d love to hear from you. You can email me at [email protected], follow me on twitter @ageofvictoria, visit the website at www.ageofvictoriapodcast.com. The show also has a facebook page and group. Just search for Age of Victoria. Don’t forget to leave a review on Apple Podcasts, it takes less time than making a coffee. You can also subscribe for free on most major podcast apps. To support the show on Patreon, either CLICK HERE you can go to Patreon and search for Age of Victoria podcast or my name. Take care and bye for now. The post EP043 VICTORIAN SEX PT1: GETTING DOWN TO IT. appeared first on AGE OF VICTORIA PODCAST.

What could be more of a traditional Victorian Christmas than carols by candlelight with an orchestra, piano and harp? Quite a bit actually. Victorian piano’s were a late addition and the carols were a really new thing. Find out how carols and piano’s go together like new age German synth and wannabe edgy 20 somethings. This episode covers. Intro & reviews.The Victorian carols hitlist.Good King thingy and the famous Reverend Doctor Neale.Queen Victoria’s rather gaudy piano.The Victorian piano market.A quick note about the class system.Industrialisation & piano’s.So what should I use for a Victorian Carol Concert?A nice little story. Golden C18th Style Grand Piano, made by French firm S & P Erard, it was gilded and painted by the miniature painter François Théodore Rochard. If you want to get in touch, I’d love to hear from you. You can email me at [email protected], follow me on twitter @ageofvictoria, visit the website at www.ageofvictoriapodcast.com. The show also has a facebook page and group. Just search for Age of Victoria. Don’t forget to leave a review on Apple Podcasts, it takes less time than making a coffee. You can also subscribe for free on most major podcast apps. To support the show on Patreon, either CLICK HERE you can go to Patreon and search for Age of Victoria podcast or my name. Take care and bye for now. The post CHRISTMAS SPECIAL 2021 – TICKLING THE CHRISTMAS IVORY appeared first on AGE OF VICTORIA PODCAST.

Marriage isn’t easy, even in the early days, especially a royal marriage. It’s even harder if you are an intellectual who dabbles in cutting edge music, but your wife only thinks of you as a sex object. It wasn’t easy being Albert. Victoria had a lot of on her plate too, what with being a new Queen, starting her journey to Empress, and that pesky pregnancy. Oh and saving the political system of the U.K. Intro & reviews.Albert & the music.Beethoven.The invention of the neutrality of the crown.Corruption, reform & sexual politics.A woman’s role as queen.India sounds interesting.Good governance.Pregnancy & child birth.A might have been. If you want to get in touch, I’d love to hear from you. You can email me at [email protected], follow me on twitter @ageofvictoria, visit the website at www.ageofvictoriapodcast.com. The show also has a facebook page and group. Just search for Age of Victoria. Don’t forget to leave a review on Apple Podcasts, it takes less time than making a coffee. You can also subscribe for free on most major podcast apps. To support the show on Patreon, either CLICK HERE you can go to Patreon and search for Age of Victoria podcast or my name. Take care and bye for now. The post EP042 EARLY DAYS OF A ROYAL MARRIAGE appeared first on AGE OF VICTORIA PODCAST.

An ancient tradition, but surely one that the Victorians didn’t celebrate? Wrong, they did celebrate. Oh boy was it a big dangerous, flaming drunken party of a holiday. Join me to explore a Victorian Halloween. This episode covers Intro & reviews. The birth of Halloween. The ancient rites. Religion & superstition. The loss of the old ways. Queen Victoria’s Halloween’s. Parties, games, drinks and danger – a typical Victorian Halloween. If you want to get in touch, I’d love to hear from you. You can email me at [email protected], follow me on twitter @ageofvictoria, visit the website at www.ageofvictoriapodcast.com. The show also has a facebook page and group. Just search for Age of Victoria. Don’t forget to leave a review on Apple Podcasts, it takes less time than making a coffee. You can also subscribe for free on most major podcast apps. To support the show on Patreon, either CLICK HERE you can go to Patreon and search for Age of Victoria podcast or my name. Take care and bye for now. The post HALLOWEEN SPECIAL 2021 appeared first on AGE OF VICTORIA PODCAST.

With the hardships of the voyage across the ocean over, the settlers had to build a life in South Africa. An unsettled land, with slavery, war, opportunity, growth and social conflict, early colonial South Africa was no paradise for the rich and idle of Britain. For the lucky and hard working, their were opportunities and fortunes, but for most their was only dust, sweat and blood. This episode covers Intro & reviews.A new land.Opportunities for allOrder & the social hierarchy; know your place.The 80:20 ruleMissionaries & evangelismSlavery & EmpireXhosa & settler relationsLanguage evolvesGrowth and dangerRise of the ZuluThe great Boer TrekA profitable war If you want to get in touch, I’d love to hear from you. You can email me at [email protected], follow me on twitter @ageofvictoria, visit the website at www.ageofvictoriapodcast.com. The show also has a facebook page and group. Just search for Age of Victoria Podcast. Don’t forget to leave a review on Apple Podcasts, it takes less time than making a coffee. You can also subscribe for free on most major podcast apps. To support the show on Patreon, either CLICK HERE you can go to Patreon and search for Age of Victoria podcast or my name. Take care and bye for now. The post EP041 ROOTS OF BLOOD appeared first on AGE OF VICTORIA PODCAST.

An empire lives on the backs of people; its own or those it conquers. For the British, South Africa needed colonists to clear the forests, build the farms, and man the armies. But getting them from Britain to South Africa was no easy task. Learn about the hard start to a colonists voyage from the frozen Thames to the heat of the tropics to the far south, and for the unlucky, the horrors of being lost at sea. This episode covers Intro & reviews. An insatiable need for manpower. The horror of slavery in early South Africa. The 1820 settlement scheme organisation and planning The colonists; almost honest and upstanding. The ships; HMS Weymouth. What was the voyage like. The horror of the Abeona. Life aboard, and the people. A glympse of the future. Patreons special promo. If you want to get in touch, I’d love to hear from you. You can email me at [email protected], follow me on twitter @ageofvictoria, visit the website at www.ageofvictoriapodcast.com. The show also has a facebook page and group. Just search for Age of Victoria. Don’t forget to leave a review on Apple Podcasts, it takes less time than making a coffee. You can also subscribe for free on most major podcast apps. To support the show on Patreon, either CLICK HERE you can go to Patreon and search for Age of Victoria podcast or my name. Take care and bye for now. The post EP040 ACROSS THE SEAS appeared first on AGE OF VICTORIA PODCAST.

The story of the British Empire in South Africa continues. The first battles were being won, but the cost was blood on the soil, spilt by the British and shed by the native peoples as well as the soldiers in red. This episode covers Intro & reviews. Col Graham and the imperial mindset. Warfare is a continuation of culture by other means. The clash between British and Xhosa mindsets. The problems perspectives on history can cause. War, brutality, and the British establishment. The New Men: Lord Somerset & Dr Barry. What Florence Nightingale thought of the Doctor. Well that is a mystery. Lord Somerset has a plan. Come settle me boyo’s, there’s land for all. A new utopia. History of Africa Podcast promo. If you want to get in touch, I’d love to hear from you. You can email me at [email protected], follow me on twitter @ageofvictoria, visit the website at www.ageofvictoriapodcast.com. The show also has a facebook page and group. Just search for Age of Victoria. Don’t forget to leave a review on Apple Podcasts, it takes less time than making a coffee. You can also subscribe for free on most major podcast apps. To support the show on Patreon, either CLICK HERE you can go to Patreon and search for Age of Victoria podcast or my name. Take care and bye for now. The post EP039 BLOOD ON THE LAND appeared first on AGE OF VICTORIA PODCAST.

The British Empire was vast, but it didn’t spring up over night. South Africa was a vital imperial staging post, then a fledgling colony. The story of how it got to be is intimately linked to the land and the people. Start the next series on empire, this episode covers Intro and reviews Why South Africa? Mythbusting: Africa, a continent of cities and kingdoms. The many African migrations throughout History. South Africa: The land – beauty and danger. Islands and ship wrecks. The Dutch arrive, and the Napoleonic Wars. Ours by right of conquest – the British take the Cape from the Dutch. The Dutch Boer migrations begin. The Xhosa & War. The British decide to remove the Xhosa from the neutral zone. Col Graham and the first British Imperial War in South Africa. If you want to get in touch, I’d love to hear from you. You can email me at [email protected], follow me on twitter @ageofvictoria, visit the website at www.ageofvictoriapodcast.com. The show also has a facebook page and group. Just search for Age of Victoria. Don’t forget to leave a review on Apple Podcasts, it takes less time than making a coffee. You can also subscribe for free on most major podcast apps. To support the show on Patreon, either CLICK HERE you can go to Patreon and search for Age of Victoria podcast or my name. Take care and bye for now. The post EP038 A TOEHOLD IN AFRICA appeared first on AGE OF VICTORIA PODCAST.

Prison is never nice, but the Victorian prison of Port Arthur in Van Diemen’s Land combined starvation, deprivation, desperation, and isolation. It was considered a hell on Earth. This episode covers: Intro & reviews.Guest podcast promo’sA vision of a better future.Reality check – isolation and mental healthNarrowly avoiding prisonThe problems of institutionalisationPost release problemsA modern inmate speaks out.Convict labour, exploitation capitalism, big companies, echos of slavery.The convict melting potA dispossible labour force.Convicts and convict ancestors – image and identity in Australia.The unfortunate Hannah Herbert, an epitaph If you want to get in touch, I’d love to hear from you. You can email me at [email protected], follow me on twitter @ageofvictoria, visit the website at www.ageofvictoriapodcast.com. The show also has a facebook page and group. Just search for Age of Victoria. Don’t forget to leave a review on Apple Podcasts, it takes less time than making a coffee. You can also subscribe for free on most major podcast apps. If you want to support the show on patreon, or you can go to Patreon and search for age of victoria podcast or my name. Take care and bye for now. The post EP037 INSIDE THE GATES OF HELL appeared first on AGE OF VICTORIA PODCAST.

To celebrate the 4th anniversary, the episode will be all about Lovelace and Babbage; the true inventors of the computer age. The episode covers Intro & reviews. “There must be an easier way to do this” – why being lazy can change the world What were these engines? Ada Lovelace, a life in Technicolour Ada’s Victorian childhood – of course it was awful. Mentorship and marriage. Lovelace and Babbage – a very productive partnership. Lovelace’s really quite brilliant idea’s. Ada writes a really not very nice letter. Oh what might have been; Bernoulli numbers and more besides. Lovelace and cancer. Babbage becomes yesterday’s man. If you want to get in touch, I’d love to hear from you. You can email me at [email protected], follow me on twitter @ageofvictoria, visit the website at www.ageofvictoriapodcast.com The show also has a facebook page and group. Just search for Age of Victoria. Don’t forget to leave a review on Apple Podcasts, it takes less time than making a coffee. You can also subscribe for free on most major podcast apps. If you want to support the show on PATREON, or you can go to Patreon and search for age of victoria podcast or my name. Take care and bye for now. The post 4TH ANNIVERSARY SPECIAL – LOVELACE AND BABBAGE appeared first on AGE OF VICTORIA PODCAST.

At its heart, a prison is the people. But what kind of people ended up in the hellish Port Arthur Prison in Van Diemen’s Land? Was it really just for the worst of the worst? Or was it a machine that simple chewed people up indiscriminately. How can we begin to understand it. Join me to walk a mile or two in a convicts shoe. The episode covers Intro & reviews. The cultural melting pot A philosophy of civilisation? Who were they, these desperado’s? What is a historical prison? The site and the barracks; evidence of the past & imaginations. Prisoners; working for their own good and other people’s greed. The transportation of civilisation. Christian salvation was built into the land. Christianity & criminal justice. If you want to get in touch, I’d love to hear from you. You can email me at [email protected], follow me on twitter @ageofvictoria, visit the website at www.ageofvictoriapodcast.com. The show also has a facebook page and group. Just search for Age of Victoria. Don’t forget to leave a review on Apple Podcasts, it takes less time than making a coffee. You can also subscribe for free on most major podcast apps. If you want to support the show on patreon, CLICK HERE or you can go to Patreon and search for age of victoria podcast or my name. Take care and bye for now. The post EP036 MEET THE PRISONERS appeared first on AGE OF VICTORIA PODCAST.

How does it feel to be cast out? To lose everything you’ve ever known and be sent to the ends of the world? Want to understand what being a convict transported to Tasmania feels like? This show is for you. It covers;– Intro & reviews.– Introducing Hannah to the Court.– How did it feel to be a convict?– Her voyage.– Another convict – Linus Wilson Miller.– His feelings & has journey.– The legal problems caused by convicts– An uneasy melting pot. If you want to get in touch, I’d love to hear from you.You can email me at [email protected], follow me on twitter @ageofvictoria, visit the website at www.ageofvictoriapodcast.com. Or reach me on the Facebook page and group. Just search for Age of Victoria.Don’t forget to leave a review on Apple Podcasts, it takes less time than making a coffee.If you want to support the show on patreon, click here, or you can go to Patreon and search for age of victoria podcast or my name.  The post EP035 THE UNFORTUNATE HANNAH HERBERT appeared first on AGE OF VICTORIA PODCAST.

Clothes maketh the man; but how did a gent dress in the 1840s? This episode features; Intro & podcast update. Clothing, class, and mindset. Beauty standards. Aspirational dressing. Wasn’t it cold! Men getting dressed in 1840. Underwear. Shaving – a risky business. Shirts & sewing. Trousers. Waistcoats. A riot of colour & overcoats. Men get pockets; pistols optional. Reviews and spoilers! Link for the art work is https://artsandculture.google.com/asset/the-derby-day/9QFrgLs_sK6O9Q?hl=en-GB&ms=%7B%22x%22%3A0.6521343994140625%2C%22y%22%3A0.656402587890625%2C%22z%22%3A10.463752784311872%2C%22size%22%3A%7B%22width%22%3A0.6957312011718749%2C%22height%22%3A0.6871948242187499%7D%7D Thanks for your listening. I hope you enjoy. If you want to get in touch, I’d love to hear from you. You can email me at [email protected], follow me on twitter @ageofvictoria, visit the website at www.ageofvictoriapodcast.com. The show also has a facebook page and group. Just search for Age of Victoria. Don’t forget to leave a review on iTunes, it takes less time than making a coffee. If you want to support the show on patreon, just click here, or you can go to Patreon and search for age of victoria podcast or my name.     The post MINI0019 Men Getting Dressed 1840’s style appeared first on AGE OF VICTORIA PODCAST.