Rex Factor

61. Edward VIII (Abdication Crisis)

rexfactor — Wed, 17 Apr 2013 07:08:54 +0000

In 1936, a very different character came to the throne in the shape of Edward VIII. He was handsome, charismatic and a modern man with modern interests. Unfortunately, he was also in love with a twice-divorced American, Wallis Simpson, at a time when the Church of England would not tolerate re-marriage while the former spouse(s) was still alive. At odds with his Prime Minister, Stanley Baldwin, and Archbishop of Canterbury, Cosmo Lang, Edward abdicated after less than a year on the throne, the only monarch to do so voluntarily, and married Wallis. Edward’s reign may have been short, but this is one of the most (in)famous stories in royal history and his later association with Nazism has only increased his notoriety, but does this mean he can’t win the Rex Factor, or will his star quality and famous life win through?

60. George V

rexfactor — Sun, 17 Mar 2013 09:45:42 +0000

George V came to the throne in 1910 in the midst of a constitutional crisis and from that point on things didn’t really get any easier. As monarch, George faced hung Parliaments, social upheaval, the Great Depression and the horrors of the First World War - arguably one of the toughest in-trays for any British monarch. For a man who was rather averse to change and preferred the quiet life of a country squire, this represented something of a challenge and that the monarchy was left still standing by the end of his reign, rebranded as the House of Windsor, was no mean feat - but will it be enough to earn him the Rex Factor?

59. Edward VII

rexfactor — Sun, 13 Jan 2013 23:02:42 +0000

After the epic reign of Victoria, Edward VII (known as Bertie) had a lot to live up to. Lacking in academic rigour, romping and making scandal like his Hanoverian forefathers, Bertie was a source of anxiety for both his parents and the country at large. However, after a nearly 60-year wait, Bertie became King Edward VII in 1901 and proved surprisingly good at kinging. His natural charm and laid-back indulgence was a breath of fresh air and characterised the Edwardian age. Edward found himself at the centre of international diplomacy and, with David Lloyd George’s 1909 “People’s” Budget, at the heart of the biggest political crisis since 1832. But will he save the day and earn himself a place on the Rex Factor mountain?

58. Victoria: The Review (Part 5/5)

rexfactor — Thu, 13 Dec 2012 08:29:24 +0000

After four episodes, we finally review Queen Victoria in full. From the spirited young girl who resisted Conroy’s Kensington System to the dumpy old lady celebrating her Diamond Jubilee, Victoria had her fair show of up’s and downs. Some would criticise her for an often partisan and stubborn approach to politics, while her never-ending mourning for Prince Albert got so tiresome that republicanism even started to raise its head. However, Victoria’s resume can also boast the British Empire, major advancements in electoral and social reform and a record-breaking stint on the throne. So when it’s all put together, will Queen Victoria be worthy of the Rex Factor?

57. Victoria: The Prime Ministers (Part 4/5)

rexfactor — Thu, 29 Nov 2012 21:00:06 +0000

This week we look at Victoria’s Prime Ministers following the death of Lord Palmerston in 1865. Victoria was heavily into mourning Prince Albert, but the efforts of Lord John Russell and the Earl of Derby to introduce electoral reform started to coax her back into national affairs. However, it was the rivalry of the two great politicians of the age - the charming Benjamin Disraeli and the severe William Gladstone - saw her re-emerge as a dominant figure. To Victoria’s great distress, Gladstone proved to be the candle that wouldn’t blow out, replacing her favoured Disraeli and Salisbury before finally retiring and allowing the reluctant Rosebery to become her final (new) PM.

56. Victoria: The Prime Ministers (Part 3/5)

rexfactor — Sat, 17 Nov 2012 23:07:53 +0000

Having looked at Victoria’s personal life, we now look at the events of her reign through her Prime Ministers. In this first of two episodes, we encounter the first six of her ten leaders. Her first PM, Melbourne, was an old-school Whig with a penchant for anecdotes and little work, while Sir Robert Peel’s efforts to modernise the Conservative party saw a split that threw politics into confusion for the next ten years. Lord John Russell (Whig) and the Earl of Derby (Conservative) both struggled to hold their respective governments together, while the Earl of Aberdeen’s talented coalition was brought down by the Crimean War. Victoria had positive relationships with all five, but it was the roguish, charming, womanising, unpredictable Lord Palmerston who came to dominate, winning the support of the public and overseeing the formation of the Liberal Party.

55. Victoria’s Biography (Part 2/5: 1861-1901)

rexfactor — Fri, 12 Oct 2012 07:16:38 +0000

Following the death of her beloved husband, Albert, Victoria plunged into mourning, wearing black for the rest of her life and refusing to perform her duties in public. Her reclusive habits saw her popularity plunge and the spectre of republicanism being discussed even in Parliament. However, the efforts of two prime ministers, Gladstone and Disraeli, to coax her back into public life, plus the support of a Scottish ghillie, John Brown, started to have some effect. The turning point proved to be the illness and recovery of her eldest son, Bertie, after which Victoria once again became a figure of popular sympathy. From the 1870s, Victoria was a symbol of British imperial expansion and was once more at the heart of national and international affairs. But eventually, time would catch up with her and the Victorian sun would set…

54. Victoria’s Biography (Part 1/5: 1817-61)

rexfactor — Fri, 28 Sep 2012 07:24:23 +0000

In the first of five podcasts we look at the life and reign of Queen Victoria, beginning in 1817 with the death of the Prince Regent’s only legitimate child, Princess Charlotte, and the race among George III’s sons to produce a legitimate heir. The Duke of Kent was the winner, but he did not have long to enjoy it, leaving Victoria under the thumb of Sir John Conroy and her mother in the Kensington System, keeping her under strict control. In this episode, we follow her stand against Conroy, her early years as queen with the genial PM Lord Melbourne, and finally her marriage to Prince Albert. This is a very different Victoria from the popular memory: young, spirited, laughing and sensual - but the tragedy of 1861 would change everything…

53. William IV

rexfactor — Sat, 11 Aug 2012 09:26:15 +0000

Sandwiched between the Georgians and Queen Victoria, poor old William IV is perhaps the most forgotten of monarchs. Little was expected of William IV as a young man - an excitable character sent off to the navy by George III, he lived the typical life of a sailor and came home with rough habits and bad language. When he came to the throne in 1830 he proved hard-working, conscientious and arguably Britain’s first truly constitutional monarch and oversaw the passing of the 1832 Reform Act which proved a major step forward in parliamentary democracy. His final challenge was to survive long enough to ensure that his niece, Victoria, would not face the regency of her mother. Could he ensure a stable legacy for Victoria? Could he be the first Hanoverian Rex Factor?

(Parental Advice: There’s one instance of censored bad language by the Sailor King!)

52. George IV (the Prince Regent)

rexfactor — Mon, 16 Jul 2012 20:58:39 +0000

When George III descended into his final madness in 1811 his eldest son became the Prince Regent, finally becoming George IV in 1820. Unlike his sober and dutiful father, George IV was a drinking, gambling, womanising figure of huge controversy who was extremely unpopular in a difficult period of economic and political strife. However, he was also one of the monarchy’s most entertaining characters, surprisingly kind in person and in his cultural patronage left a glorious legacy still enjoyed today. Some would call him one of the worst monarchs, but could this be his chance for redemption?

51. George III (Review)

rexfactor — Fri, 22 Jun 2012 23:30:41 +0000

In the second part of the George III podcast we review his reign in the traditional fashion. However, reviewing George III is no easy task, for his epic reign contains some of the most glorious highs and disastrous lows of any reign. From the disastrous loss of America Britain moves to the defeat of Napoleon via its two greatest military heroes, Nelson and Wellington. George’s interference in politics causes ministerial instability and he is anything but a friend of reform, yet he is a decent and affable man who oversees cultural patronage, the industrial revolution and the abolition of slavery. And of course, through all of the factors is the dilemma of his final decade where his mental illness meant his son, the Prince Regent, was in effect ruling. When everything has been through the Rex Factor computer, it proves to be one of the tightest decisions yet…

Radio Times Podcast of the Week!

rexfactor — Thu, 31 May 2012 19:57:38 +0000

We were very excited to be named the Radio Times podcast of the week for their Jubilee Special edition - and in celebrating Elizabeth II’s incredible 60 years on the throne it’s a great chance to have a look back at the many monarchs who preceded her.

If you’re new to Rex Factor, what we do is spend one episode looking at each monarch of England (and, from 1603, Britain), spending one half of the review going through the main events of their reign while in the second half we review them on a number of factors: how good they are in battle, notable scandal, how well they rule, how long they rule for and how many children they have. Finally, we consider whether they have that mark of greatness, the lasting legacy and star quality that we call “Rex Factor”.

For our newest episode, George III, we found his life and reign so long and momentous that we’ve actually decided to split the biography and review into two episodes. A very interesting reign, but if you want to get a sense of a normal episode first, why not try his predecessor George II or the highly entertaining Charles II.

If you want to get in touch with us, you can send us an email (rexfactorpodcast@hotmail.com) follow us on Twitter (@rexfactorpod), like us on Facebook or leave a comment on this website.

50. George III (the biography)

rexfactor — Wed, 30 May 2012 07:09:52 +0000

It’s a slight change in format this episode as we split George III in half (so to speak) - this episode will focus on the events and background to his reign while the next will see us review him in the usual fashion and decide whether he has the Rex Factor. So why does “Mad King George” need two episodes? Besides the madness, George’s reign encompasses the end of the Seven Years War, the American Revolution, the French Revolution and Napoleonic Wars, the political rivalry between Pitt the Younger and Charles Fox…and much more besides!

49. George II

rexfactor — Sat, 05 May 2012 12:39:18 +0000

It’s a case of history repeating itself when George II comes to the throne in 1727 - like his father, he has Robert Walpole as his ‘prime minister’, is at odds with his eldest son, has a Jacobite rebellion to deal with, gets involved in the wars and diplomacy of continental Europe and is keen to get back to Hanover as much as possible. Where George II does differ, however, is in his strong and happy marriage to Caroline of Ansbach and the military triumph enjoyed under his rule, with Britain becoming a major worldwide power under the direction of Pitt the Elder. With victories against France and Bonnie Prince Charlie, could George II become the first Hanoverian Rex Factor winner?

48. George I

rexfactor — Thu, 12 Apr 2012 21:01:37 +0000

A lack of Protestant Stuarts in 1714 meant the start of a new dynasty with George I and the Hanoverians. Poor George wasn’t the happiest of monarchs - he was perfectly happy in Hanover and went back as often as he could, while his British subjects weren’t too enamoured with him as a dull German who didn’t speak much English. Nevertheless, George’s was an interesting reign, seeing the defeat of Jacobite rebellions from the Old Pretender, the rise of Robert Walpole (particularly during the South Sea Bubble Crisis) and the naturalisation of classical composer Handel. George also set a template for all Georgian monarchs: argue with your son and create plenty of juicy scandal!

47. Anne

rexfactor — Sun, 25 Mar 2012 01:19:37 +0000

The tumultuous Stuart dynasty comes to an end in this episode with Queen Anne, but otherwise it’s an era of new beginnings. John Churchill (Duke of Marlborough) leads England to military glory against Louis XIV, particularly at Blenheim, while at home the Act of Union with Scotland sees the creation of Great Britain. In many ways a glorious reign, and yet Anne’s reputation has never been very good. Has she been unfairly sullied by her once best friend, Sarah Churchill, or is history right to forget the last of the Stuarts?

46. William & Mary (Glorious Revolution)

rexfactor — Sat, 03 Mar 2012 11:58:30 +0000

With the removal of James II in 1688 in the Glorious Revolution came the unusual position of joint rulers: the husband and wife team of William III and Mary II. William held executive power and spent most of his time fighting wars against his arch nemesis, Louis XIV of France (the Sun King), as well as stopping James II clawing his way back to England. As well as the wars, this was a period of significant constitutional and economic development that would be vital in forming the modern British state. William and Mary may have shared the throne, but will they be able to share the Rex Factor?

45. James II

rexfactor — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 00:17:34 +0000

The monarchy was left in a pretty good state by Charles II in 1685, but the trickiest part of his reign had been to prevent Parliament excluding his Catholic brother, James, from the throne, so how would Parliament react to its first Catholic ruler since Mary I? James’s life and reign proved to be somewhat turbulent and to a large degree the difficulties were of his own making. Would he be able to persuade his anti-Catholic Parliament to grant religious toleration to Catholics? Would he be want to emulate the absolutist monarchy of Louis XIV? And what is his son-in-law, William of Orange, doing with all those troops in the Netherlands?

44. Charles II (Restoration)

rexfactor — Sat, 28 Jan 2012 14:13:40 +0000

After the republican interlude of the Commonwealth, Charles II leads the restoration of the monarchy in 1660. After an adventurous youth alongside his father in the Civil War and a thrilling escape from Cromwell’s clutches in 1651, Charles was intent on having a good time and taking things easy. However, increasing tensions around foreign policy and religion (specifically the Catholicism of Charles’s brother, James) saw the country once more in fear of civil strife. Will Charles II succeed where his father failed? Will he be able to put out the Great Fire of London? And most importantly, will he win the Rex Factor?

43. Oliver Cromwell

rexfactor — Tue, 10 Jan 2012 19:55:39 +0000

The execution of Charles I in 1649 created something of a dilemma for England, needing to find a completely new way to govern itself. Various parliamentary outfits were tried, but throughout it all one man dominated until in 1653 he officially became the Lord Protector for the Commonwealth and Free State of England. This man was from the lower gentry, at one time a farmer, and little known until the Civil War when he became a renowned cavalry leader. He would become perhaps England’s most powerful ruler, the conqueror of England, Scotland and Ireland (where he is still reviled as a mass-murdering monster) and the displayer of the most famous warts in history. He is, of course, Oliver Cromwell. But can a man who abolishes the institution of the monarchy be eligible to win its greatest award in the Rex Factor?

http://rexfactor.podbean.com/test-page/whos-who-oliver-cromwell/

42. Charles I (Civil War)

rexfactor — Tue, 20 Dec 2011 12:48:29 +0000

Charles I’s accession in 1625 would prove a momentous moment in English history, leading to numerous conflicts with Parliament which resulted in civil war and the abolition of the monarchy. Charles’s early years were blighted by military failures under the Duke of Buckingham and conflict with Parliament, leading to the Personal Monarchy where he ruled by his own stead. Conflict with Scotland forced the recall of Parliament in 1640 and after two years of tensions the civil war broke out, finishing with Charles’s execution and the end of the monarchy. Is there a reputation to be salvaged from this disastrous course of events?

http://rexfactor.podbean.com/test-page/whos-who-charles-i/

41. James I (VI of Scotland)

rexfactor — Fri, 02 Dec 2011 09:08:06 +0000

The Tudor dynasty came to an end in 1603 to be replaced by the Stuarts, headed by James VI of Scotland (now James I of England). James had much promise as an experienced king in Scotland with a tendency towards religious toleration, peaceful rule and informality. However, he inherited numerous problems from Elizabeth, in particular a powerful parliament with various grievances and an empty treasure chest. A reign of mixed fortunes saw James survive the Gunpowder Plot, patronise the King James Bible and struggle in vain to convince Parliament to stop being so difficult and let him have more money. But will the first Stuart be able to shine out from the shadow of the Tudors to win the Rex Factor?

http://rexfactor.podbean.com/test-page/whos-who-james-i/

40. Elizabeth I

rexfactor — Mon, 14 Nov 2011 08:15:31 +0000

After the short and troubled reign of Mary I, Elizabeth came to the throne in 1558 facing numerous challenges: a country deeply divided on religion, threatened by France and Scotland (via Mary Queen of Scots), an awkward relationship with Mary’s widower, Philip II of Spain, plus great uncertainty as to who was next in line to rule the country. Elizabeth survived all these challenges, outlasted her rivals and has become one of the most revered monarchs in English history, but is her beloved status deserved or is there more to find than the traditional mythology?

If all the names get a bit confusing, check out our handy who’s who guide to the episode:

http://rexfactor.podbean.com/test-page/whos-who-elizabeth/

39. Mary I

rexfactor — Sat, 15 Oct 2011 16:42:19 +0000

A lack of male Tudors meant that in 1553 a woman would, for the first time, inherit the throne. Edward VI wished his cousin, Lady Jane Grey, to take the throne but instead it was his older sister, Mary. Mary was Henry VIII’s oldest child had seen her fortunes fluctuate dramatically. Beloved by Henry VIII but ostracised for failing to accept his Supremacy, only to be restored to his full affection before being ostracised by her brother, Edward VI, for refusing to comply with his Protestant reforms. Her unlikely triumph in 1553 was a sadly fleeting, for her unpopular marriage to Philip of Spain and failure to produce an heir made her reign troubled and unhappy, while the burnings of Protestant led to her being defined merely as ‘Bloody Mary’.

If you lose track of who’s who, have a look at our handy guide for this week’s episode:

http://rexfactor.podbean.com/test-page/whos-who-mary-i/

38. Edward VI

rexfactor — Mon, 26 Sep 2011 07:10:08 +0000

After the tumultuous reign of Henry VIII, in 1547 his young son Edward VI comes to the throne. As a minor, Edward’s reign is dominated the machinations of the key men at court, particularly his uncles (Edward Seymour, Duke of Somerset, and Thomas Seymour), and John Dudley (Duke of Northumberland), while Thomas Cranmer pushes forward radical Protestant reforms. However, Edward himself shows great promise and intelligence and comes to exert a real influence on events, particularly in religion and concerning his oldest sister, Mary. Often dismissed as an insignificant interlude, Edward’s reign is another fascinating episode in the Tudor dynasty - but is it a successful one?

If you get confused by all the different names (and indeed, promotions mean some people change their name!) check out our Who’s Who guide:

http://rexfactor.podbean.com/test-page/whos-who-edward-vi/

37. What Happened to Henry VIII?

rexfactor — Sun, 18 Sep 2011 21:12:48 +0000

In a departure from our usual fare, this week we take a closer look at Henry VIII and consider how it was that the promising 17 year-old who came to the throne in 1509 should turn into the tyrannical monster that died in 1547. Was his personality altered on account of injuries or ill health? Could his change have been due to traumatic events which pushed him over the edge into tyranny? Or maybe the expectations of 1509 were misplaced and he was always a tyrant, or at least a ticking bomb waiting to off…

Let us know what you think - what happened to Henry VIII? Email rexfactorpodcast@hotmail.com, follow us on Twitter @rexfactorpod leave a message on our Facebook wall or a comment on the Podbean website.

Normal reviewing service resumes next time with Edward VI.

36. Henry VIII

rexfactor — Thu, 08 Sep 2011 08:13:11 +0000

In 1509, England’s most (in)famous monarch comes to the throne - Henry VIII. Henry dominates the popular imagination even to this day and his reign dramatically altered the course of English history. It all started very pleasantly, with a good-looking and athletic king on the verge of his 18th birthday taking over to great acclaim, but his lack of a male heir led to his annulment of Catherine of Aragon, marriage to Anne Boleyn and the Reformation, where England broke from Rome and the Catholic Church. From 1536, his reign was a succession of dramas, including the Dissolution of the Monasteries and the Pilgrimage of Grace, numerous executions (including some of his six wives) and an ongoing rivalry with France and Spain. He is perhaps England’s most famous king, but is he worthy of the Rex Factor?

As ever, lots of characters crop up in the episode, so check out our who’s who to keep track of them all:

http://rexfactor.podbean.com/test-page/whos-who-henry-viii/

35. Henry VII

rexfactor — Wed, 10 Aug 2011 22:32:10 +0000

With victory in the Battle of Bosworth in 1485, Henry VII becomes the first of the new Tudor dynasty. Henry had a difficult time facing down numerous threats to his reign, particularly from pretenders such as Lambert Simnel and Perkin Warbeck, but governed effectively, particularly in improving the country’s finances. His marriage to Elizabeth of York helped symbolise a unity between the Lancastrian and Yorkist factions in the Wars of the Roses and his legacy was the powerful Tudor dynasty, and yet he has been largely forgotten by history. Is his obscurity justified, or is this the time for his place in history to be celebrated?

If you lose track of who is doing what to who (and there are a lot of names in this one!) check out our handy who’s who guide to the episode:

http://rexfactor.podbean.com/whos-who-henry-vii/

34. Richard III

rexfactor — Tue, 26 Jul 2011 23:12:43 +0000

By usurping his nephew, Edward V, in 1483 Richard III started his route to infamy and his place in English history as perhaps the most notorious and monstrous king of them all. However, to this day he has passionate supporters who claim he was a far better king than Shakespeare gave him credit. Did his death at the Battle of Bosworth end prematurely a great king? Or was England better off without the last of the Plantagenets?

If you lose track of who all the people mentioned in the episode are, check out our handy who’s who guide:

http://rexfactor.podbean.com/whos-who-richard-iii/

33. Edward V (Princes in the Tower)

rexfactor — Sun, 17 Jul 2011 09:37:15 +0000

The name Edward V is unfamiliar to most, but the fate of the Princes in the Tower (Edward and his brother, Richard) is one of the most famous and mysterious issues in English royal history. The 12 year-old king came to the throne in 1483 but never received his coronation, instead being usurped by his uncle Richard Duke of Gloucester (soon to become Richard III). As a reign there’s not much to review, but this week Rex Factor goes all whodunit and investigates who was responsible for the murder of the princes or if, indeed, they escaped their fate.

Remember to check out our who’s who guide to the episode if you lose track of who everybody is: http://rexfactor.podbean.com/whos-who-edward-v-princes-in-the-tower/

Who’s Who - Edward V (Princes in the Tower)

rexfactor — Sun, 17 Jul 2011 09:26:30 +0000

To keep track of who is who in this week’s episode, have a look at our instructively named Who’s Who Guide:

http://rexfactor.podbean.com/whos-who-edward-v-princes-in-the-tower/

Who’s Who - Edward IV

rexfactor — Wed, 06 Jul 2011 08:29:35 +0000

Losing track of who is on which side with what claim to the throne during the Wars of the Roses? Check out our handy who’s who guide!

http://rexfactor.podbean.com/whos-who-edward-iv/

32. Edward IV

rexfactor — Wed, 06 Jul 2011 07:32:44 +0000

The Yorkists come to power in 1461 in the form of Edward IV. 19 years old, very tall, exceptionally attractive and a courageous soldier to boot, Edward is a very different prospect to the ailing Henry VI but his reign is not without difficulty. His marriage to Elizabeth Woodville shocks the country and he faces outright rebellion from his former champion, Warwick the Kingmaker, and his upstart brother, George Duke of Clarence. Overmighty subjects caused chaos for Henry VI but will Edward IV prove more capable and worthy of the greatest honour of all - the Rex Factor?

Remember to check out our who’s who for the episode in case any of the names and allegiances get confusing:

http://rexfactor.podbean.com/whos-who-edward-iv/

Who’s Who - Henry VI

rexfactor — Tue, 21 Jun 2011 21:48:25 +0000

Things get complicated this week as we cover the Wars of the Roses. Major figures are killed/captured/exiled/restored from month to month and if that is not enough some people even have the cheek to swap sides! In case you start to lose track of who is who, check out our handy guide!

http://rexfactor.podbean.com/test-page/whos-who-henry-vi/

31. Henry VI (Wars of the Roses)

rexfactor — Tue, 21 Jun 2011 21:44:50 +0000

Henry V’s untimely death in 1422 leaves a baby on the throne in the form of Henry VI and marks a total reversal in English fortunes. Disasters in France at the hands of Joan of Arc are eclipsed by the Wars of the Roses, with the Yorkist forces of Richard Duke of York and Warwick the Kingmaker facing off against the Lancastrians led by Margaret of Anjou and the Beaufort family. This is a dramatic period of numerous battles and the deaths of the most high profile figures in the land and amidst this chaos is a man clearly not well suited to the role of king and who proves to be one of the least capable monarchs in English history.

Who’s Who - Henry V

rexfactor — Thu, 09 Jun 2011 13:16:47 +0000

Can’t quite remember which person is doing what to whom as the episode progresses? Not sure which side everybody is on for the Wars of the Roses? Check out our handy Who’s Who guide to the reign of Henry V for a brief summary of the key players:

http://rexfactor.podbean.com/test-page/whos-who-henry-v/

30. Henry V

rexfactor — Wed, 08 Jun 2011 07:13:04 +0000

In 1413 we welcome one of England’s most legendary kings to the throne, Henry V. After the trials and tribulations of his father, Henry V makes this ‘kinging’ business look rather easy, unifying his country before popping off to France and winning unprecedented victories against the French, most notably at the Battle of Agincourt. Military triumph, national unity and pious streak suggests the makings of the perfect medieval king, but some historians have criticised him for his brutality and lack of fun. Does Henry V deserve his legendary status? Is he worthy of the Rex Factor crown? Only one way to find out!

Who’s Who - Henry IV

rexfactor — Fri, 20 May 2011 07:15:20 +0000

Confused by all the different names and character’s in this week’s episode? Check out our handy guide to the main players in Henry IV’s reign, as well as an explanation of where all the rival royal families are currently placed ahead of the Wars of the Roses.

http://rexfactor.podbean.com/test-page/whos-who-henry-iv/

29. Henry IV

rexfactor — Fri, 20 May 2011 05:54:06 +0000

When Henry Bolingbroke deposes Richard II in 1399, he is acclaimed as the nation’s saviour and the first Lancastrian king, Henry IV. However, being king proves a lot harder than becoming king, and Henry has to face numerous difficulties throughout his reign. Constant rebellions throughout the country (especially in Wales and the legendary Owain Glyndwr) take up most of Henry’s time and most of his money. It’s a busy and momentous reign and yet Henry remains a largely unknown figure. Could this be his moment for redemption?

Who’s Who - Richard II

rexfactor — Thu, 05 May 2011 23:18:58 +0000

Confused by all the different names and character’s in this week’s episode? Check out our handy guide to the main players in Richard II’s reign, as well as a brief explanation of how we’re seeing the beginnings of the Wars of the Roses.

http://rexfactor.podbean.com/test-page/whos-who-richard-ii/

28. Richard II

rexfactor — Thu, 05 May 2011 22:32:04 +0000

After the fading glories of Edward III, England has another child king in 1377 with the accession of Richard II. Richard takes after his great-grandfather Edward II with his tendency for promoting lowly favourites and being considered of dubious heterosexuality and he frequently is at odds with the great nobles of the realm. However, he is also a surprisingly cultured monarch and shows impressive courage during the Peasants Revolt. Richard’s fortunes fluctuate rather wildly, but troubles with his uncles and cousins (in particular Henry Bolingbroke) spell trouble for Richard and the Wars of the Roses are starting to loom large.

Who’s Who - Edward III

rexfactor — Thu, 28 Apr 2011 10:07:04 +0000

Listening to the podcast and losing track of who everybody is, which side they’re on and how they all fit into the big picture? For your convenience, we now have a concise list of the main players in this week’s episode (without spoilers!) Just click the link below:

http://rexfactor.podbean.com/test-page/whos-who-edward-iii/

27. Edward III

rexfactor — Thu, 28 Apr 2011 09:34:35 +0000

With his father deposed in 1327 and Roger Mortimer all-powerful, things did not look too promising for the young Edward III, but this turned out to be one of the most remarkable reigns of the medieval period. Encompassing the start of the Hundred Years War and the Black Death, this was a pivotal period in English history. For Edward, there are triumphs with the Battles of Crecy and Poitiers and the Order of the Garter, but also personal tragedies which beset his later years. When it’s all put together, will he make for a great king?

Who’s Who – Edward II

rexfactor — Wed, 20 Apr 2011 00:15:29 +0000

http://rexfactor.podbean.com/test-page/whos-who-edward-ii/

26. Edward II

rexfactor — Wed, 20 Apr 2011 00:13:46 +0000

The reign of Edward I was always going to be hard to follow, but even so Edward II makes rather a meal of it. His devotion to his favourites Piers Gaveston (a foppish arrogant knight) and Hugh Despenser (a brutal baron) cause resentment and rebellion among the rest of the nobility, particularly Thomas Lancaster and Roger Mortimer. Even Edward’s wife, the beautiful Isabella of France, has her patience tried once too often. This dark period of English history stands in stark contrast to the legendary Scottish king Robert the Bruce, who inflicts one of the most infamous defeats on the English army in the Battle of Bannockburn. Is there anything good to say about Edward?

25. Edward I

rexfactor — Tue, 12 Apr 2011 23:20:24 +0000

England enters its medieval Edwardian period in 1272 with the accession of Edward I and after two difficult reigns we have another powerful king. Edward was every bit the medieval warrior king, going on Crusade, conquering Wales and building some of the most magnificent castles in Britain. Learning the lessons of his father’s troubled reign, he also strives to make his kingdom more just and well ordered. Every bit the great king, but he bites off more than he can chew when he takes on Scotland and has some rather unpleasant personality traits which make him somewhat less sympathetic to modern sensibilities. One half of the team has been waiting the whole series to bask in Edward’s triumphs, but will he do enough to please us both and win the coveted Rex Factor?

24. Henry III

rexfactor — Mon, 04 Apr 2011 22:41:09 +0000

John dies in 1216 with the country in civil war and in danger of being conquered by France. Worse still, the new king, Henry III, is only 9 years old and in his minority. Thankfully, he has a medieval hero in William Marshal to fight his battles, but when he comes to rule by himself he finds ruling the country a tricky business, not least because his nobles are still insisting on having more of a say in the sharing of power. The conflict with Simon de Montfort sees the birth of Parliament and threatens to make England a republic. Can Henry hold on to power and will this be enough for him to win the Rex Factor?

23. John

rexfactor — Fri, 18 Mar 2011 19:08:58 +0000

After one of England’s great heroes in the person of Richard the Lionheart, this time we cover one of its most famous villains - Bad King John. He’s often reputed to be England’s worst king - cowardly, incompetent and evil! - but is this bad reputation deserved? He certainly loses lots of territory and is morally questionable on more than one occasion, but he came to the throne in difficult circumstances in 1199 and also has some successes. With his place in history assured by signing the Magna Carta (however reluctantly), could he produce a shock result or will he remain a failure in the eyes of history?

22. Richard the Lionheart

rexfactor — Wed, 09 Mar 2011 20:48:12 +0000

In 1189, one of England’s legendary kings takes the throne. Richard I (nicknamed the Lionheart for his courage in battle) has become an English folk hero, most famously in the story of Robin Hood, but he spent surprisingly little time in England. For Richard, the supreme priority was taking back Jerusalem from the great Muslim leader Saladin in the Third Crusade. As if this was not challenging enough, Phillip II of France starts to encroach on his continental Angevin territories and his younger brother John seeks to move against him. Richard is fortunate to have the unfailing support of his mother, Eleanor of Aquitaine, but when we pass our judgement will his performance stand up to the legend?

21. Henry II

rexfactor — Wed, 02 Mar 2011 21:47:55 +0000

Stephen’s death in 1154 puts an end to the civil war, and with the accession of Henry II England enjoys something of a change in fortune. Henry is one of the great characters of the medieval period and the first of the Angevins (or the Plantagenets) and oversees a large empire as well as making significant improvements to the English legal system. However, his reign is not without its challenges. His conflict with his Archbishop of Canterbury, Thomas Becket, scandalises the age while his rebellious sons prove to be a constant thorn in his side. As if this were not enough, his sons are encouraged by Henry’s estranged wife, Eleanor of Aquitaine, one of the most remarkable figures of the period and a stand-out personality in English history. Will Henry II be up to the task?

20. Stephen

rexfactor — Fri, 18 Feb 2011 01:36:39 +0000

The death of Henry I in 1135 should have seen the accession of England’s first queen, his daughter Matilda, but instead the throne is snatched by his favourite nephew Stephen. At first things go well for Stephen, but a few mistakes later and he finds himself caught in a civil war with Matilda in a period often known as the Anarchy. Who will triumph in this period of protracted siege warfare, and will anyone be worthy of the Rex Factor?

19. Henry I

rexfactor — Thu, 03 Feb 2011 20:20:03 +0000

The death of Rufus in 1100 sees the accession of a rather more sober character in his younger brother, Henry I. Although Henry’s more than capable of holding his own in battle he proves the benefit of brain over brawn and rules over the Anglo-Norman realm with great success, bringing a touch of intellectualism to the court. In case that all sounds a bit dull, Henry’s long reign also has time for scandal and tragedy so there’s plenty to get your teeth into!

18. William Rufus

rexfactor — Tue, 25 Jan 2011 23:33:00 +0000

By the Holy Face of Lucca, it’s William II! Better known as William Rufus, the favourite son of William the Conqueror who inherits the English throne while his older brother, Robert, takes on the Duchy of Normandy. Thanks to the writings of disapproving monks (not least the saintly Anselm), Rufus has often been condemned as a bad king. However, can a man wearing pointy shoes, cracking jokes and winning fame even from the monks for being a great chivalrous knight be all bad? There’s a lot more to Rufus than an unfortunate hunting accident in the New Forest!

17. William the Conqueror

rexfactor — Thu, 20 Jan 2011 00:39:29 +0000

After the Battle of Hastings in 1066, William the Conqueror has defeated Harold II and the Saxons and the Normans are now ruling England. However, he still has to quell a persistent English Resistance featuring characters such as Edgar the Aetheling (the last Saxon prince) and Hereward the Wake. Will they be able to restore the Saxons to power? Do they know how angry William gets when people oppose him? And most importantly of all, can William cement his place in history by earning the coveted Rex Factor?

16. Harold II (1066)

rexfactor — Sat, 25 Dec 2010 10:20:14 +0000

After 15 episodes we finally come to the most famous year in English history. Harold Godwinson has taken the throne to become Harold II, but he is facing invasion from two powerful rivals. In Normandy, Duke William is massing an invasion force to take the crown promised to him by Edward the Confessor. Meanwhile, the fearsome Viking Harald Hardrada, backed by Tostig Godwinson, is planning to press his own tenuous claim. Three men, three battles - one year, one victor. It’s 1066!

15. Edward the Confessor

rexfactor — Thu, 23 Dec 2010 14:37:12 +0000

After the Viking dynasty peters out, the Saxons are back on the throne when Edward the Confessor becomes king in 1042. He’s something of a late starter at 38, but he is clearly a man with staying power, as Godwin and his mother Emma are set to find out. However, as the fateful year of 1066 approaches, will Edward be able to ensure a peaceful succession and secure his kingdom for the next generation?

14. Harthacnut

rexfactor — Sat, 18 Dec 2010 10:41:40 +0000

After faffing about in Denmark, Cnut’s legitimate son by Emma finally takes his place as king of the English in 1040. Unfortunately when he does arrive he turns out to be a bit of a moody chap and treats his new realm with minimal affection. Heavy taxes, brutal law enforcement and a naked woman riding through the streets of Coventry ensue - will the Viking rule of England survive?

12. Cnut (Echo Removed)

rexfactor — Sun, 12 Dec 2010 19:03:51 +0000

In 1016 the country passes into new ownership with the Vikings now in control of England in the person of Cnut. Unlike William the Conqueror 50 years later, Cnut is perfectly happy to ‘go native’ and embrace Saxon culture, ably supported by the ever-present Emma. In fact, things go so well he is even able to cast his eye towards dominion over his Scandinavian homeland. For a thousand years Cnut has mainly been remembered for thinking he could control the tide, but now his sights are set on our coveted Rex Factor!

(This episode has been re-released - the content is the same but the original had an echo sound effect that made it an odd listen. This has been removed - sorry about that! To clarify, the running order of the podcasts is Aethelred the Unready > Cnut > Harold I)

13. Harold I

rexfactor — Sun, 12 Dec 2010 13:00:48 +0000

When Cnut dies in 1035 England has enjoyed a period of stability, but the legacy of his bigamy is that his two widows are battling it out for dominance at court. Emma, the queen, had the legitimate son in Harthacnut, but he is out of the country meaning that Aelgifu’s son, Harold Harefoot, gets the chance to rule. Will Aelgifu be able to cling on to power? Will Emma find a way to defeat her rival? Will King Harold I even get a look-in?

11. Edmund Ironside

rexfactor — Mon, 29 Nov 2010 22:08:02 +0000

In 1016, fifty years before Hastings, England is under threat of conquest from the young Viking leader, Cnut. Aethelred the Unready had proved unable to defend his kingdom, but his son Edmund proves a far more powerful and courageous warrior. Has the damage already been done, or will Edmund reprise the glories of his ancestors and victory for England and, for himself, the Rex Factor?

10. Aethelred the Unready

rexfactor — Mon, 22 Nov 2010 23:54:12 +0000

The last of the boy kings and one of the most infamous of the Saxons, poor Aethelred has a rather torrid time. As if coming to the throne after his brother was murdered was not enough, he is faced with the most powerful Viking force in a century and struggles to keep the Scandinavian hordes at bay. Listen in to find out why this reign sets us on the path to 1066, why we really shouldn’t call him “unready” and how he makes a mockery of our scoring system.

Do you think we did a good job with Aethelred? Email rexfactorpodcast@hotmail.com or follow us on twitter @rexfactorpod and tell us what you think!

9. Edward the Martyr

rexfactor — Sat, 06 Nov 2010 10:05:44 +0000

Following the triumphal reign of Edgar the Peaceable, everything was looking rosy for the Saxons, but life is far from easy for our fifth boy king and the nation’s fortunes enter into something of a rapid decline. Why does everything fall apart so quickly? Why is Edward rather ominously known as ‘the martyr’? Find out in Rex Factor!

8. Edgar the Peaceable

rexfactor — Sun, 24 Oct 2010 13:13:29 +0000

After several difficult reigns, Edgar oversees something of a golden age for the Anglo-Saxons and despite his nickname is also a rather colourful character to boot. In our longest podcast thus far we encounter our toughest decision yet when it comes to assessing whether or not Edgar the not-so-peaceable is worthy of the Rex Factor.

7. Eadwig

rexfactor — Mon, 18 Oct 2010 23:46:00 +0000

Eadwig’s accession to the throne in 955 sees a new generation wearing the crown in Anglo-Saxon England, but the ministers of state remain the same and from the very start Eadwig finds himself at odds with Dunstan, Odo and Eadgifu. Will the third boy king, with a penchant for scandal, be able to win the struggle for control of his kingdom?

6. Eadred

rexfactor — Thu, 14 Oct 2010 20:14:16 +0000

At 23 years old, Eadred is perhaps a little old to be the second “boy king”, which is just as well because facing him is the most notorious Viking to grace these shores: Eric Bloodaxe! Will this grandson of Alfred the Great have the stomach for the fight? Will he even have the stomach for his dinner?

5. Edmund I

rexfactor — Thu, 30 Sep 2010 20:32:15 +0000

Our story thus far has been one of constant triumph for the Anglo-Saxon kings, and in 939AD the young Edmund I inherits a fully fledged English kingdom. But can the first “boy king” live up to the glories of his forebears and earn himself the ultimate accolade…the Rex Factor!

4. Athelstan

rexfactor — Tue, 21 Sep 2010 06:41:39 +0000

We’re back from our summer break and to kick us off we have King Athelstan, the first true king of all England (if not Britain). He was a powerful warrior, a prolific law-maker and he even managed to find the time to dally in foreign affairs and create some genuine scandal (though not by having foreign affairs). Is he a shoe-in for the Rex Factor or will this be the toughest challenge yet for the Saxon king?

3. Edward the Elder

rexfactor — Tue, 24 Aug 2010 23:08:29 +0000

Our monarchic journey hurtles headlong into the tenth century as we move on to Edward the Elder, a Saxon warrior king who sets a trend for not being Edward I. However, following Alfred the Great is no mean feat - not only did he earn our Rex Factor accolade last week, but he was even the original subject for Rule Britannia! Did Edward slay his enemies, scandalise the world and rule his kingdom with aplomb? Only one way to find out…

2. Alfred the Great

rexfactor — Thu, 12 Aug 2010 23:15:55 +0000

In our second podcast we do our first review of a king, namely Alfred the Great (871-99). He impresses us with his record on defensive tactics and cultural endeavours, but we are forced to get creative to try and find some evidence of scandal from the great man. But does he have the Rex Factor?

1. Backgroundy Stuff

rexfactor — Thu, 12 Aug 2010 22:56:59 +0000

In our first ever podcast we take a brisk stroll through history with sweeping generalisations taking us from Stonehenge to the ninth century. Reviewing proper will start with Alfred the Great next time.