Rex Factor

S3.71 Prince Philip: Review Nov 15, 2024

It's the end of the series - with this episode, we finish our review of all the consorts from Ealhswith to Prince Philip. With the war, gaffes galore and a record-breaking stint as consort, there's plenty to discuss. The question is, will Prince Philip, consort to Elizabeth II, take the final place on the Rex Factor mountain?

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S3.70 Prince Philip: Biography Nov 01, 2024

We reach the end of the series, or nearly the end, as we embark on the first of two episodes for Prince Philip, the consort to Elizabeth II. No reviewing this time, but instead we take a look at his life and consortship, particularly a dramatic start to life which sees flight from revolution, family tragedy and the Second World War before things settle down and he becomes consort.

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S3.69 Elizabeth Bowes-Lyon: Review Oct 18, 2024

In Elizabeth Bowes-Lyon's second episode, we review the consort of King George VI by all the factors and decide whether or not she had the Rex Factor.

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S3.68 Elizabeth Bowes-Lyon: Biography Oct 04, 2024

In the first of two episodes, we look at the life and queenship of Elizabeth Bowes-Lyon (AKA the Queen Mother), consort to King George VI. From growing up in a Scottish castle to the First World War, becoming the Duchess of York, helping the monarchy through the Abdication Crisis and the Second World to a half-century as the Queen Mother, Elizabeth spanned the twentieth century. We tell the story of her long life in this episode, with the review to follow in the second of her episodes.

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S3.67 Wallis Simpson: Review Sep 13, 2024

This time we review Wallis Simpson, the wife-but-not-consort of Edward VIII. There's lots for us to get our teeth stuck into: an independent spirit but not able to become queen; myriad rumours of scandals across the world plus an unhealthy dose of Nazi associations. Famous, notorious and compelling - but does she have that certain something?

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S3.66 Wallis Simpson: Biography Aug 30, 2024

In the first two episodes, we tackle one of the most controversial women in English royal history, Wallis Simpson. Technically not a consort, but her role in the Abdication Crisis and marrying the (former) King Edward VIII makes hers a fascinating and pertinent part of the story. In this episode, we tell her full life story, from growing up in Baltimore to marrying the king and having tea with Hitler.

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S3.65 Mary of Teck Aug 02, 2024

Mary of Teck (or Queen Mary, as many would have known her) was the consort of George V, and the first proper Windsor consort. Together with George, she helped set a model for the modern monarchy, facing a remarkable succession of crises (including two world wars). It was quite the story to get there as well, with a disrupted childhood, a royal tragedy and much more besides. Mary of Teck was there for it all, but will that be enough for the Rex Factor?

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S3.64 Alexandra of Denmark Jul 19, 2024

We are into our final mini-series of the series, with Alexandra of Denmark (or Alix, as she was known), consort to King Edward VII. Alix enjoyed a surprisingly modest upbringing and was not initially favoured as a bride by Queen Victoria, but her kindly character and natural beauty saw her win the day. However, she would have to deal with excessive nagging from her mother-in-law and serial infidelity from her husband as well as the pressures of ill health and international diplomacy. It would be a long wait to become queen, but will Alexandra of Denmark be able to make her mark and be worthy of the Rex Factor?

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Messages and Previews 7 Jul 05, 2024

Before we get started on the Windsor consorts, we read through various listener correspondence as well as sharing previews of our bonus content, including our new special episode on Geoffrey Chaucer.

You can sign up to join the Privy Council and gain access to all our bonus content here: https://www.patreon.com/rexfactor

And you can purchase the Geoffrey Chaucer special episode (as well as all our other specials) here: https://payhip.com/RexFactorPodcast

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Gretchen Gerzina (Britain's Black Georgian History) Jun 21, 2024

We chat to the historian Professor Gretchen Gerzina about Black Britons in Georgian Britain. There is a widespread misconception that Britain's black history only begins with Windrush, but we discuss the sizeable black and mixed raced population in Georgian Britain, the differing experiences that these people faced and some of the fascinating characters of the time.

For more information on Gretchen, check out her website https://gretchengerzina.com/

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Gareth Russell (Hampton Court Palace) Jun 06, 2024

We speak to the historian Gareth Russell about his book The Palace, which covers the history of Hampton Court Palace, from the Tudors to the Windsors. It's a fascinating book (and podcast!) covering lots of fascinating characters - from Henry VIII and George III to chocolatiers and the Romanovs.

For more on Gareth, you can find him on Twitter (https://x.com/garethrussell1) and Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/_garethrussell)

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Penelope Corfield (The Georgians) May 24, 2024

We speak to the historian Professor Penelope Corfield about the Georgians in a wide-ranging discussion that takes us from epoch-shifting changes in technology and literacy to the beginnings of handshakes and the postal system.

For more information on Penelope and her essays, check out her website:

https://www.penelopejcorfield.com/

For additional resources on the Georgians:

https://www.thegeorgiansdeedsandmisdeeds.com/

Plus you can buy her excellent book on the subject, The Georgians: The Deeds and Misdeeds of 18th-Century Britain, online and all good bookstores.

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Right to Reply: Hanoverian Consorts May 10, 2024

Having finished our mini-series on the Hanoverian consorts, we go through some of your messages, points of debate and more Max Boneyman!

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S3.63 Prince Albert: Review Apr 26, 2024

After a full biography episode last week, this time we review Prince Albert, scoring him on the factors and deciding whether or not he has the Rex Factor.

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S3.62 Prince Albert: Biography Apr 19, 2024

In the first of two episodes, we do a full episode just looking at the life and consortship of Prince Albert, husband to Queen Victoria, with a full review episode to come next time. One of the most famous names in British royal history, Albert has perhaps been overshadowed by the extensive memorialisation undertaken by Victoria after his death, so we put the realm man centre stage: how did he come to marry Victoria, what was his role as consort and was it really such a great romance?

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Feed Swap: History Daily Apr 16, 2024

We are off for Easter for a couple of weeks before getting back to Prince Albert, so this week we're doing a feed swap with the History Daily Podcast, which releases c. 15 minute episodes every weekday covering an event in history. We are showcasing two of their episodes which should hopefully be of interest to Rex Factor Listeners: the jousting injury that changed the course of Henry VIII's life and reign, and the death of Elizabeth I and the end of the Tudor dynasty.

(Apologies, this episode should have come out on the 5th of April but some reason got stuck in drafts and didn't release!)

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Linda Porter: Mistresses of Charles II Mar 22, 2024

We speak to the historian Dr Linda Porter about some of the most notable mistresses of Charles II (Lucy Walter, Barbara Villiers, Frances Stuart, Nell Gwynn, Hortense Mancini), discussing why we know so much about them, what they tell us about Charles and how this affected his wife and queen, Catherine of Braganza.

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S3.61 Adelaide of Saxe-Meiningen Mar 08, 2024

Adelaide is probably one of the least famous of Britain's consorts, wife of William IV. A very different character to her predecessor, Queen Caroline, Adelaide was quiet and kind but faced the challenge of an eccentric and uncouth husband in William and a febrile political atmosphere with agitation for reform. Will slow and steady win the race?

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S3.60 Caroline of Brunswick Feb 23, 2024

If Ali still had his scandal bell, this episode might break it! It's Caroline of Brunswick this week, consort to George IV despite his spending their entire marriage trying to prevent that eventuality. A poorly matched couple, Caroline lived life according to her own rules, creating scandal in England and then in European exile before returning for a grand battle as George tried to deny her her position as Queen. It certainly made an impression, but will it deserve the Rex Factor?

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S3.59 Charlotte of Mecklenburg-Strelitz Feb 09, 2024

This week we review Queen Charlotte of Mecklenburg-Strelitz, the wife and consort of King George III. We look at how she came to be queen at all, what was her role as consort and how her life was turned up side down by the Regency Crisis of 1788-89 when George III suffered a total collapse in his mental health. We will see whether her reaction to this, alongside her output as consort over a significant period of time, will be enough for the coveted Rex Factor.

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S3.58 Caroline of Ansbach Jan 26, 2024

It's the first Hanoverian consort proper this week with Caroline of Ansbach, queen consort to George II. She's not so famous now, but Caroline was a highly influential consort, loved and respected by her husband and enjoying great influence through an alliance with Robert Walpole (the country's first Prime Minister). However, she also had to manage the usual Hanoverian family conflicts, with each generation hating each other, as well as her own husband's foibles and mistresses. So will Caroline emerge from the shadows and back into the Rexy spotlight?

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S3.57 Sophia Dorothea of Celle Jan 12, 2024

Sophia Dorothea of Celle was the wife of King George I but she was not, technically, a consort. We'll explain why this was the case, taking in dynastic politics, an unhappy marriage, a passionate romance, high drama and a new heroic character mostly invented by Ali.

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Royals at War: We Have Ways Fest 2022 (Live) Dec 29, 2023

A little bonus to finish 2023, we've dipped into the archives and pulled out this recording of a live show we did at the We Have Ways of Making You Talk Festival in July 2022. We Have Ways of Making You Talk is a Second World War podcast, so we were talking about the royals during the war, specifically focusing on the former king (Edward VIII) and the actual king (George VI), looking at their different experiences of the war and some of their relationship during it. The episode was not recorded through the sound desk, so the sound quality isn't up to our usual standards, but a big thanks to Mike Hammock who has helped to boost the audio quality.

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Messages and Previews 6 Dec 15, 2023

Before we get started on the Hanoverian consorts, we read through various listener correspondence as well as sharing previews of our bonus content, including our new special episode on Edgar the Ætheling.

You can sign up to join the Privy Council and gain access to all our bonus content here: https://www.patreon.com/rexfactor

And you can purchase the Edgar the Ætheling special episode (as well as all our other specials) here: https://payhip.com/RexFactorPodcast

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Male Consorts (Dr Ellie Woodacre) Dec 01, 2023

We speak to Dr Ellie Woodacre again, this time about male consorts. Our last mini series had two male consorts (Philip II and Prince George of Denmark) as well as covering the time period of Elizabeth I (with no consort) and William and Mary. We speak to Ellie about where England's experience fits in with other European countries - did England come to queens regnant late? What kind of roles, powers and titles did male consorts have in other countries?

You can follow Ellie on X/Twitter (@monarchyconf) or check out her podcast Royal Studies Podcast.

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Emma Southon: A History of the Roman Empire in 21 Women Nov 17, 2023

We speak to Dr Emma Southon for the second time on the podcast, this time discussing her new book A History of the Roman Empire in 21 Women (or A Rome of One's Own in the US), a fascinating look at women from Roman history that (mostly) people don't tend to have heard of, but who give us a fascinating alternative look at the history of Ancient Rome and the varying experience of women in that history.

For more on Emma, check out her website https://www.emmasouthon.com and her podcast History is Sexy.

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Leah Redmond Chang (Young Queens) Nov 03, 2023

We speak to the author and historian Lead Redmond about her book 'Three Renaissance Women and the Price of Power', which looks at the lives of Catherine de' Medici (Queen Consort and Mother of France), Elisabeth de Valois (Queen Consort of Spain) and Mary Queen of Scots (Queen Regnant of Scotland and Consort of France). For a time, they all lived under one roof, but even when their paths diverged, they continue to be closely connected and were key figures in the web of European diplomacy in the second half of the sixteenth century.

You can follow Leah on Instagram (@leahredmondchang) or find out more at her website: https://www.leahredmondchang.com

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Right to Reply: Stuart Consorts Oct 20, 2023

Having finished our mini-series on the Stuart consorts (plus a couple of others), we go through some of your messages, responding to corrections, points of debate and whatever else comes up.

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S3.56 Prince George of Denmark Oct 06, 2023

It's the last of the Stuart consorts this time with the consort of Queen Anne, Prince George of Denmark. Often maligned by contemporaries, George nevertheless had a significant role as the first male consort not to be king. Derided by many but loved by Anne, George was a player in the tumultuous events of the late seventeenth century and a bit of a trailblazer for unambitious chaps, but is that enough for the Rex Factor?

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S3.55 Mary of Modena Sep 22, 2023

Mary of Modena is not one of the more famous names for English consorts but subject to one of the most notorious incidents as mother to the so-called 'bedpan baby'. We look at the truth of this as well as Mary's life, second wife to the man who would become James II, at the eye of the storm for the Glorious Revolution of 1688 and then the life of the Jacobite Matriarch in French exile. Will the real Mary warrant her notoriety and does she have enough about her to claim the Rex Factor?

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S3.54 Catherine of Braganza Sep 08, 2023

Catherine of Braganza has often been overshadowed by Charles II's numerous mistresses, but she has an interesting story in her own right. She faced a difficult start in England, finding her own space in a court where the mistresses were publicly honoured, as well as being a Catholic queen for a decidedly not Catholic country. She would need to find a way to adapt to the more relaxed Restoration court, assert her own place in Charles's reign and leave a lasting legacy behind. Will she succeed? And will it be enough for the Rex Factor?

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S3.53 Elizabeth Cromwell Aug 25, 2023

Elizabeth Cromwell was the wife to one of the most (in)famous figures in British history, but Oliver Cromwell's wife is something of a forgotten figure. Though the evidence for her life is limited, we track her from Essex and East Anglia to the dizzy heights of Lady Protector, seeing the Civil War and Protectorate from a different perspective. Elizabeth had to transition from managing a large but modest Puritan household to the pseudo-queen of the country, but would she be able to make the transition?

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S3.52 Henrietta Maria Aug 11, 2023

Henrietta Maria of France was the highly controversial queen of Charles I. An avowed Catholic in an increasingly Puritanical country, her efforts to promote her religion were one of the factors that led to the Civil War. A forceful character, Henrietta played her part in the war (despite being a target for Parliamentarians), but would she be able to survive? And can such an unpopular queen be in the running for the Rex Factor?

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S3.51 Anne of Denmark Jul 28, 2023

We start the Stuarts proper with Anne of Denmark, consort to James I, though originally to James VI of Scotland. Anne had quite a difficult time getting to Scotland, then found herself caught up in various controversies when she did get there, clashing with the church, nobles and James himself. When she became Queen of England, there were controversies over her religion and more person disputes, but also significant cultural patronage. But how will it all balance out? Will Anne enjoy renown for her legacy or push things too far?

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Susan Doran: Elizabeth I's Suitors Jul 14, 2023

Elizabeth I famously never married, but there were various suitors for her hand who came close to becoming Elizabeth's consort. We spoke to Professor Susan Doran about Elizabeth I and the marriage question, with a particular question on her relationship with Robert Dudley, the Hapsburgs and the French candidates and consider why she never married, if she ever wanted to and how close she came.

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S3.50 Philip II of Spain Jun 30, 2023

It's our first chap of the consort series in the form of Philip II of Spain. A powerful king in his own right, and notorious in England as the man who launched the Spanish Armada against Elizabeth I, it's often forgotten that he was actually King of England through his marriage to Mary I. We learn about Philip's upbringing, how he came to marry Mary, what sort of powers he did or didn't have as King (consort) of England, and the impact he had on English history before the Armada.

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The Six Wives of Henry VIII (Live at Ludlow) Jun 23, 2023

As a lovely finale to our mini-series on the Six Wives of Henry VIII, we share our live podcast recorded at the Ludlow Assembly Rooms on Saturday 17 June 2023 in which we review all six of Henry VIII's wives in one go, compare them factor by factor and then get the audience to vote for who they think was the greatest of them all.

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Messages and Previews 5: June 2023 Jun 09, 2023

Before we get started on the Stuart consorts, we read through various listener correspondence as well as sharing previews of our bonus content, including our new special episode (also out today) on Catherine De' Medici.

You can sign up to join the Privy Council and gain access to all our bonus content here: https://www.patreon.com/rexfactor

And you can purchase the Catherine De' Medici special episode (as well as all our other specials) here: https://payhip.com/RexFactorPodcast

If you want to watch us live, we are performing at the Ludlow Fringe on Saturday 17 June 2023 at 19:00 reviewing the Six Wives of Henry VIII in one show: https://ludlowassemblyrooms.co.uk/event/rex-factor-which-was-henry-viiis-best-wife

Not Just the Tudors podcast: https://access.historyhit.com/not-just-the-tudors

The Partial Historians podcast: https://partialhistorians.com

Tudoriferous podcast: https://tudoriferous.podbean.com

The Alexander Standard podcast: https://alexanderstandardpod.podbean.com

For the album featuring compositions by Rex Factor listener Andrew Schneider: https://www.navonarecords.com/catalog/nv6508/

The Dig Hartlebury GoFundMe page: https://gofund.me/ba4def0b

Talking Tudors podcast: https://talkingtudors.podbean.com

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The Seven Kings of Rome (Partial Historians) May 26, 2023

This week, we chat with Dr Fiona Radford and Dr Peta Greenfield (AKA Dr Rad and Dr G, the Partial Historians) about their new book Rex: The Seven Kings of Rome. Much to Ali's surprise, before the Emperors and before the Republic, ancient Rome was ruled by kings. From Romulus and the founding of Rome to Tarquinius Superbus and the fall of the kings, we learn about the kings and the early history of Rome, then decide how well the kings would fare under the Rex Factor criteria.

Find out more about the Partial Historians and their podcast at their website: https://partialhistorians.com order their book https://highlands-press.com/product/rex or follow them on social media:

Twitter - @p_historians

Instagram - @partialhistorians

PG Warning - as this is the Romans, there's some adult content (sex, murder, etc.)

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Live Show in Ludlow News May 17, 2023

Just a quick message to say that we are going to be doing a live show at the Ludlow Fringe on Saturday 17 June at 19:00 (BST), where we will be looking at all of the Six Wives of Henry VIII and asking the audience to vote for who they think was the best. We'd love to see some Rex fans in the audience, so if you're able to make it then you can book tickets at the address below:

https://ludlowassemblyrooms.co.uk/event/rex-factor-which-was-henry-viiis-best-wife/

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Suzannah Lipscomb May 12, 2023

Following our mini-series on the Six Wives of Henry VIII, we chat to Professor Suzannah Lipscomb about all things Henry VIII - what was he about? How did he change and why? Plus we get Suzannah's thoughts on the Six Wives, about whom she is currently researching a new book.

You can follow Suzannah on Twitter @sixteenthCgirl and listen to her podcast Not Just the Tudors.

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The History of the Coronation May 01, 2023

In a feature-length special episode, we chart the history of the coronation of the English monarchy from Alfred the Great to Elizabeth II. We learn about how and why the coronation ceremony started, why it is the way that it is, how it's changed over the last thousand years, and all the funny things that have gone wrong. From a random big stone to oily headlice and reversing horses, there's plenty of fun to be had at the coronation! Plus we learn how Dunstan has ruined Ali's bank holiday.

This podcast has been recorded before the coronation of King Charles III and Queen Camilla.

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Dean Irwin: The Anglo-Jews in Medieval England Apr 14, 2023

We chat to Dr Dean Irwin, long-time listener to the podcast and co-curator of the episode 'History According to Ali', about the history of the Jews in medieval England. We discuss the origins of a Jewish community in England along with their legal status and close relationship to the crown. We look in particular detail at the thirteenth century, considering the attitudes of Henry III and Simon de Montfort as well as some exception individuals like Licoricia of Winchester. Finally, we look at the end of the Jewish population under Edward I with the Edict of Expulsion and why this happened.

If you'd like to hear more about Licoricia of Winchester, you can sign up to the Special Episode or Star Chamber tier of our Privy Council where she was featured in an episode of our special Local Legends podcast series.

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Right to Reply: Six Wives of Henry VIII Mar 31, 2023

Having finished our mini-series on the Six Wives of Henry VIII, we go through some of your messages and answer questions about the podcasts, the queens, Henry, and whatever else comes up.

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S3.49 Katherine Parr Mar 17, 2023

We come to the end of the Six Wives of Henry VIII odyssey with Katherine Parr. Often neglected but a fascinating character: previous marriages, the Pilgrimage of Grace, and the navigating the treacherous, divided court of Henry VIII's final years. Katherine was closely involved with Henry's children and a key player in the religious divide that was raging in the final years of Henry's reign, but would she be able to emerge unscathed?

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S3.48 Katherine Howard Feb 24, 2023

Katherine Howard was the fifth of the Six Wives of Henry VIII. Young and pretty, she quickly caught Henry's eye while he was extricating himself from his marriage to Anne of Cleves, but Henry's infatuation turned to devastation when revelations about Katherine's past and present dalliances were revealed. Often dismissed as a foolish irrelevance, we consider alternative views of Katherine and whether she has that certain something.

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S3.47 Anne of Cleves Feb 10, 2023

The fourth of the six wives of Henry VIII, Anne of Cleves is often recalled as the 'Flanders Mare' but we dig deeper into the true story of where things went wrong between Anne and Henry, why this nickname is unfair and what Anne does after Henry.

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S3.46 Jane Seymour Jan 27, 2023

We move on to the third of Henry VIII's six wives - one of the least famous and yet Henry's favourite, so where does Jane really deserve to rank in the annals of history? She experience life under Katherine of Aragon and Anne Boleyn, whom she ultimately supplanted as queen, and depending on how you view her either brought some much-needed stability or was just a bit dull! So, an overlooked classic or deservedly in the shadow of her more celebrated predecessors?

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S3.45 The Fall of Anne Boleyn Jan 13, 2023

Although we've reviewed Anne Boleyn, we felt that we needed one final episode to look in more detail about the fall of Anne Boleyn, and to answer the question of why it happens (and why she dies). Was she actually guilty of the crimes she was accused of? Was she brought down by Cromwell? Did Henry tire of her? Was it all just a big misunderstanding?

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S3.44 Anne Boleyn: Review Dec 23, 2022

After an in-depth biography episode last time, this week we review Anne Boleyn. There's a lot to discuss: her impressive rise to power and the personal battles she had to fight to get there; the wealth of scandal laid at her door (some deserved, some not) and a major role in English history with the Reformation. And will one of Englands most famous and notorious queens be worthy of her prominent place in history and deserving of Rex Factor?

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S3.43 Anne Boleyn: Biography Dec 09, 2022

Our Odyssey through the Six Wives of Henry VIII now turns to Anne Boleyn, the most controversial of Henry's consorts. Anne has been cast as the definitive 'other woman', turning Henry's head away from Katherine of Aragon and helping to bring about the Reformation, in which Henry broke a near millennia association with Rome to declare himself Supreme Governor of the Church of England. In the first of three episodes, today we cover Anne's biography, seeing how her international schooling made her stand out at Henry's court. How does Anne capture Henry's heart? How does she secure her place as England's queen? And why does it all go so terribly wrong? Tune in to find out!

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S3.42 Katherine of Aragon: Review Nov 11, 2022

After a separate biography episode, this time we review Katherine of Aragon by the factors: a regency defeating the Scots; resisting Henry in the divorce; was she being truthful about her first marriage? Lots to talk about, but the key question, as always, is will she get the Rex Factor?

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S3.41: Katherine of Aragon: Biography Oct 28, 2022

We kick-off the Six Wives of Henry VIII with Katherine of Aragon, whose story is so dramatic that we had to split it into two. In this episode, we look at her biography, charting her life from her upbringing in Spain, to her time in England, with years of uncertainty, a near-golden age with Henry VIII before the lack of a male heir saw Katherine resisting Henry's attempts to annul their marriage, resulting in increasingly extreme behaviour from Henry but continued courage from Katherine. Next time, we'll review her and decide whether she has the Rex Factor.

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Intelligent Speech Conference 2022: Rexy Panel Oct 21, 2022

In June 2022, we were a keynote speaker at the online Intelligent Speech Conference, and also took part in a Rexy Panel, discussing podcasting with the Rex Factor format alongside Rob and Jamie from Totalus Rankium and Bry from Pontifacts. For today's episode, we're bringing you the Rexy Panel discussion, where the three podcasts have an informal chat about podcasting.

You can find out more about the Intelligent Speech conference at their website (https://www.intelligentspeechconference.com) and if you'd be interested in attending next year and want to help make that possible, the Intelligent Speech Conference team are running a Kickstarter until 27 November 2022 in order to fund their work to make it the best possible user-experience:

https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/intelligentspeech/intelligent-speech-endowment

We'll be back from a research break next week to start our review of the Six Wives of Henry VIII, beginning with a biography episode for Katherine of Aragon.

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Messages and Previews - September 2022 Oct 07, 2022

As Graham gets started on the research for the Six Wives of Henry VIII, we have a one-off episode going through lots of listener correspondence and sharing some previews of our bonus content.

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Nicola Tallis (Margaret Beaufort) Sep 23, 2022

We speak to the historian Dr Nicola Tallis about Margaret Beaufort, mother of Henry VII who lived a dramatic life, enduring the trials and tribulations of the Wars of the Roses to ultimately see her son, against all odds, become king, founding the Tudor dynasty.

You can follow Nicola on Twitter where she is @NicolaTallis or find out more information about her on her website https://nicolatallis.com/

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Remembering Elizabeth II Sep 13, 2022

Following the sad death of Queen Elizabeth II, we wanted to record our thoughts on her life and reign and some of the feelings that her death has evoked. We do a recap of her life and reign as originally covered in our 2013 episodes, plus an update for the near-decade of her reign since then, as well as some impressive statistics and looking ahead to the week leading up to the Queen's funeral.

This episode was recorded on Monday 12 September.

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Nathen Amin (House of Beaufort) Aug 26, 2022

We speak to historian Nathen Amin about the House of Beaufort, the initially illegitimate line of John of Gaunt who enjoyed great power and influence under the Lancastrian kings and were major players in the Wars of the Roses. We learn about some of the key figures, why the Wars of the Roses may have started earlier than you think, and how they ultimately found one of their own on the throne with Henry VII.

To hear more from Nathen, you can follow him on Twitter where he is @NathenAmin

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Matt Lewis Aug 12, 2022

We start a new round of interview podcasts, kicking off with Matt Lewis, Chair of the Richard III Society. Matt spoke to us, appropriately enough, about Richard III, suggesting alternative ways of interpreting Richard's character and motivation, what he was up to in 1483 and the fate of the Princes in the Tower.

You can follow Matt on Twitter where he is @MattLewisAuthor or check out his website for more information http://mattlewisauthor.com

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Right to Reply: Yorkist Consorts Jul 29, 2022

In our second Right to Reply episode, we look back at the Yorkist consorts Elizabeth Woodville, Anne Neville and Elizabeth of York, comparing their scores and lives before then going through listener correspondence on the queens.

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S3.40 Elizabeth of York Jul 15, 2022

The last of our Yorkist consorts (though technically first of the Tudors), Elizabeth of York was the daughter of Elizabeth Woodville and Edward IV, experiencing all the drama and tribulations of the Wars and the Roses and Richard III before helping to kickstart the Tudor dynasty by marrying Henry VII. Elizabeth would have a key role in reconciling Yorkists to Henry VII's rule and proved a popular figure, but would that be enough for the Rex Factor?

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S3.39 Anne Neville Jul 01, 2022

One of the more obscure English queens, despite being married to one of the most famous kings in Richard III, Anne Neville certainly had a dramatic life: daughter of Warwick the Kingmaker, married into the Lancastrian and Yorkist royal families, facing triumph and disaster throughout her life. We see whether we can shine more of a light on Anne and whether she has that certain something, we call...

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S3.38 Elizabeth Woodville Jun 17, 2022

We move onto the Yorkist consorts with Elizabeth Woodville, Queen Consort to Edward IV. Originally a Lancastrian, she was an unlikely and controversial consort, who had to endure great hardship and loss through the Wars of the Roses, facing off against Margaret of Anjou, Warwick the Kingmaker and Richard III. Find out whether she can survive the Wars of the Roses and whether she is worthy of the Rex Factor.

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Messages and Previews - April 2022 Apr 29, 2022

As Graham gets started on the research for the Yorkist queens, we have a one-off episode going through lots of listener correspondence and sharing some previews of our bonus content.

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Tom Holland Apr 08, 2022

We speak to the historian and broadcaster Tom Holland about his podcast The Rest Is History and their Twitter World Cup of Monarchs poll, discussing who were the greatest kings and queens of England and comparing our respective results. In particular, we spoke to Tom about Athelstan and Æthelflæd Lady of the Mercians (both of whom Tom has written about) and why they are so important in English history. We also find out where Tom stands on the great question of Edgar the Peaceable, plus manage to sneak in a bit of Dunstan!

You can follow Tom on Twitter where he is @holland_tom or his podcast @theresthistory

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Bloody Mary Live (Olivia Miller) Apr 01, 2022

In this episode, we (though mainly Graham due to Ali's connection issues!) speak to Olivia Miller, an actor and playwright who has written and stars in a show called "Bloody Mary: Live!" where she plays a modern, 'queenager' version of Queen Mary I of England. We talk to Olivia about the show, her characterisation of Mary and what has inspired that, plus she has a go at rating Mary by our factors.

You can follow Olivia for the latest news on 'Bloody Mary: Live!' on her website and on social media:

Website: https://www.olivia-miller.net

Instagram: @thatoliviamiller

TikTok: @thatoliviamiller

Twitter: @thatlivmiller

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Right to Reply: Lancastrian Queens Mar 25, 2022

In our first ever Right to Reply episode, we take a look back at our recent mini-series on the Lancastrian queen consorts reminding ourselves/Ali about Joan of Navarre, Catherine of Valois and Margaret of Anjou, then reading through listener's messages and questions about them.

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The Scandal at Mayerling Mar 18, 2022

In today's episode, we teamed up with Scottish Ballet to talk about their forthcoming production 'The Scandal at Mayerling' about Crown Prince Rudolf, the heir to the Austrian throne who took his own life and his lover, Mary Vetsera, at a hunting lodge. We speak to Evan Loudon, principal dancer who plays Rudolf, about the ballet (a re-imagining of Sir Kenneth Macmillan's 'Mayerling') and historian Lucy Coatman, who is an expert on Mary, Rudolf, and the events of Mayerling.

Head to Scottish Ballet's website for more information about the ballet itself, including behind the scenes photos and for booking tickets via the link below, or you can follow them on Twitter where they are @scottishballet or on Instagram (also @scottishballet). You can also follow Lucy on Twitter (@lucy_coatman) or visit her website (https://www.lucycoatman.com)

https://www.scottishballet.co.uk/event/the-scandal-at-mayerling

The Scandal at Mayerling opens in Glasgow on 13 April 2022 before moving on to Inverness, Aberdeen and Edinburgh, where the tour finishes on 28 May 2022.

Content warning: please note the discussion and the ballet includes themes of mental illness, sexual violence, addiction and suicide.

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S3.37 Margaret of Anjou: Review Mar 11, 2022

After doing a full-length Biography episode, this time it's all a review for Margaret of Anjou, queen consort to Henry VI. Plenty for us to get our teeth into - Margaret leading the Lancastrians in the wars of the Roses, rumours of affairs and transgressive behaviour, having to do the job of kinging. And, of course, the most important question - will she get the Rex Factor?

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S3.36 Margaret of Anjou: Biography Feb 25, 2022

As Shakespeare's 'She-Wolf of France', Margaret of Anjou is one of England's most notorious queens, with one of the most dramatic stories. A young queen who was supposed to bring peace with France, the mental illness of her husband, Henry VI, saw Margaret effectively rule in opposition to the growing power and ambition of the Duke of York, resulting in the Wars of the Roses. In her bid to protect her husband and son, Margaret would raise armies, strike alliances and face exile, but who would come out on top? As for the Rex Factor, we'll review her in a separate episode.

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Local Legends - Judge Tindal Feb 11, 2022

Welcome to Local Legends! This is a new bonus podcast series focusing not on kings and queens but on people or places that are more local to listeners. Maybe a statue or building (or, indeed, a local legend) you've wanted to know more about or would fancy hearing us talk about. In this first episode, we have Graham's choice of Judge Nicholas Conyngham Tindal.

Local Legends will be a reward for Special Episode tier patrons to list to and Star Chamber members to nominate and vote on but for this first episode, we're making it available to everyone. We'll be back with the consorts and Margaret of Anjou in a couple of weeks.

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Dr Ellie Woodacre (Joan of Navarre) Jan 28, 2022

We talk to Dr Ellie Woodacre about one of our recently reviewed consorts, Joan of Navarre. Joan is one of England's less well-known queens but Ellie is publishing the first biography of her, so we went into more detail about Joan, how she fitted in to the complex web of European diplomacy, her status in Brittany, why she married Henry IV and even what her actual name was!

You can follow Ellie on Twitter where she is @monarchyconf and @royalstudies

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S3.35 Catherine of Valois Jan 14, 2022

Catherine of Valois was the Queen Consort of Henry V, whose early life was shaped by her father's madness and the Hundred Years War, but the latter part was very much her own story, with scandalous romances and life on her own terms. Did she tick the boxes for the Rex Factor, or was she happy to play her own game?

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S3.34 Joan of Navarre Dec 17, 2021

Joan of Navarre is one of Medieval England's less famous queens but she had quite the life: a Spanish princess who became Duchess of Brittany and then Queen of England. Curiously, her husband Henry IV already had son and heirs from a previous marriage, so Joan would go on to be an honorary rather than actual Queen Mother - initially a position of honour but one that would later reveal great vulnerability Would Joan emerge on top? And will she get the Rex Factor?

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Messages and Previews - December 2021: Part 2 Dec 10, 2021

In the second part of our December Messages & Previews podcasts, we go through some more listener messages and share some more clips of our bonus content, while we continue to prepare for the next round of consort podcasts.

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Messages and Previews - December 2021: Part 1 Dec 03, 2021

As we prepare for the next round of Consort episodes, we spend some time going through listener messages as well as sharing various clips from our bonus content.

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The White Ship (Charles Spencer) Nov 19, 2021

We were delighted to be joined by the historian Charles Spencer for this interview podcast to talk about his book, The White Ship: Conquest, Anarchy and the Wrecking of Henry I’s Dream. Charles talked to us about why Henry I was such an impressive king, what happened in the White Ship disaster (which claimed the life of his son and heir), and why this was such an important moment in English history.

For more information on Charles and his books, check out his website https://charles-spencer.com

You can follow Charles on Twitter @cspencer1508 and on Instagram @charles.earl.spencer and get news on his books via @cspencerbooks_ (Twitter) and @charlesspencerbooks (Instagram)

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S3.33 Isabella of Valois Nov 05, 2021

Isabella of Valois was a French princess, but only a young girl when she married Richard II, a marriage designed to bring about peace between England and France. More helpful would have been peace between Richard and his nobles, and Isabella's life would be constantly spent in the midst of crises and internal divisions, both in England and in France. Dramatic times, but could Isabella play a big enough role to get the Rex Factor?

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S3.32 Anne of Bohemia Oct 22, 2021

Anne of Bohemia is not one of the more famous queens in English history but she was the daughter of a powerful Holy Roman Emperor, was an inspiration to Chaucer and had a very close relationship with her husband, Richard II. With a reputation for kindliness, can Anne of Bohemia emerge from the shadows of history to claim the Rex Factor?

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S3.31 Philippa of Hainault Oct 08, 2021

Philippa of Hainault was the consort of Edward III during something of a golden age for England with incredible military victories against Scotland and France. Philippa was a key part of Edward's project to restore loyalty to the crown and a very popular queen renowned for her merciful intercessions, but did she have that certain something to get the Rex Factor?

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S3.30 Isabella of France (Review) Sep 24, 2021

Having covered her Biography episode separately, we now review Isabella of France, queen consort of Edward II. There was plenty of juicy stuff, but just how highly will she score and will she get the Rex Factor?

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S3.29 Isabella of France (Biography) Sep 17, 2021

One of the most dramatic stories in English royal history, Isabella of France gets the double episode treatment. In this biography episode, we chart her life and consortship looking at her marriage to Edward II and the various antagonists in her life until eventually she faces off against her own husband. Next time we'll review her factor by factor and decide whether she has the Rex Factor.

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Messages and Previews - August 2021 Aug 27, 2021

As we prepare for the next round of consort episodes, we go through lots of excellent listener correspondence and share some previews of our most recent bonus content.

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Simon de Montfort (Dr Sophie Thérèse Ambler) Jul 23, 2021

In this week's podcast we talk all things Simon de Montfort with Dr Sophie Thérèse Ambler. Simon de Montfort led a remarkable and dramatic life, most notably with the Second Barons War in the reign of Henry III, where Simon was effectively ruling England and making major advances in the cause of parliamentary democracy. He's often featured as a side character in Rex Factor, so today we go in depth in finding out who Simon was, what motivated him, why he rebelled against Henry and much more.

If you want to find out more, be sure to buy Sophie's excellent book, The Song of Simon de Montfort: England's First Revolutionary. You can also find her on Twitter: https://twitter.com/RG1253

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S3.28 Margaret of France Jul 09, 2021

Margaret of France was the second wife of Edward I and tends to be overshadowed by the first, Eleanor of Castile, in popular memory. It was certainly a tough act to follow for the young French princess, marrying an old and grumpy Edward, but she proved rather adept than one might have expected. However, with England at odds with France and Scotland and Edward's reign approaching its end, would Margaret be able to do enough to make a difference and win the Rex Factor?

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S3.27 Eleanor of Castile Jun 28, 2021

Eleanor of Castile was the beloved first consort of Edward I, most famous for the Eleanor Crosses he constructed in her memory. We uncover the real Eleanor behind the crosses, from the splendour of Castile and the Crusades to a surprisingly enterprising role in England. She may have won Edward's heart, but will that be enough for the Rex Factor?

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S3.26 Eleanor of Provence Jun 11, 2021

Eleanor of Provence became Queen of England at a young age, marrying King Henry III, but she became a highly influential consort thanks to her Savoyard uncles and her own influence. However, she and Henry would have to face the challenge of Simon de Montfort and the Second Barons War, with Eleanor playing a crucial role both in the build-up and the execution of the war. Will she triumph against the barons? And more importantly, will she do enough to win the Rex Factor?

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News, Messages and Previews (June 2021) Jun 01, 2021

Apologies for the absence, but we are finally back! Normal service with the consorts will resume shortly but we've got some news: the podcast is moving to Acast (you don't have to do anything, though there will be ads) and the patron program is moving to Patreon - go to www.patreon.com/rexfactor to sign up! Also, we read out lots of your messages and play some clips from bonus content.

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The Angevin Queens Feb 19, 2021

In this interview special we talk to Dr Gabby Storey about the Angevin queens - the Empress Matilda, Eleanor of Aquitaine, Berengaria of Navarre and Isabella of Angouleme. We reflect on their relationships with their husbands, their sons and each other as well as what they tell us about queenship.

Gabby is on Twitter as herself as @GabbyStorey and you can follow her queenship account @TeamQueensHist for daily features and links to all things queens.

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S3.25 Isabella of Angoulême Jan 16, 2021

Isabella of Angoulême had the misfortune to be married to King John and is not one of England's more famous queens, and yet she had a remarkable life, with controversial marriages, shifting alliances, rebellions and plenty of scandal. Plenty of personality, but not always in a good way - will she be able to win us over for the Rex Factor?

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S3.24 Berengaria of Navarre Jan 01, 2021

Berengaria of Navarre is not one of the more famous consorts, overshadowed by her predecessor, Eleanor of Aquitaine, and indeed her husband, Richard the Lionheart. However, Berengaria has her own story that is worth telling: accompanying Richard on the Third Crusade; fighting the English crown for her dower rights and then ruling a French city. A story worth telling, but will it be enough to earn Berengaria the Rex Factor?

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PC48: Eleanor of Aquitaine Nov 27, 2020

Despite having done two main podcast episodes on Eleanor, we still had lots more stuff to talk about for the Privy Chamber that was either just skirted over or not even mentioned at all previously. There's so much to talk about that we didn't have time for all our usual features, so that will all come in the next Privy Chamber episode.

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S3.23 Eleanor of Aquitaine (Review) Nov 21, 2020

After a separate full-length biography episode, we now review Eleanor of Aquitaine. And there's lots to talk about in every factor: the Crusades; the Great Revolt; threats to both of her sons as Queen Mother. A long and dramatic life that has plenty to talk about, both good and bad, but when it's all done, where will she stand?

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S3.22 Eleanor of Aquitaine (Biography) Nov 13, 2020

Eleanor of Aquitaine is one of the most famous names in English history and her life is so long and eventful that we're splitting her episode in two. In this episode, we cover her biography, charting her extraordinary life from her upbringing in Aquitaine to her various queenships, encompassing Crusades, rebellions, imprisonments and high stakes diplomacy. Next time we'll review her factor by factor and decide whether she has the Rex Factor.

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10th Anniversary: Part 2 Sep 25, 2020

In the second and final episode celebrating our tenth anniversary we read through all of your lovely messages with good wishes, how you found the podcast, exotic places you've listened and favourite memories from the podcast. We also go through all the results of our English Monarchs Twitter Poll to crown England's Greatest Monarch for 2020.

We've also been using our time productively so further episodes will be following in the coming weeks with a special episode on Sulla, a Privy Chamber episode for Privy Councillors and (in the not too distant future) Eleanor of Aquitaine.

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10th Anniversary: Part 1 Aug 23, 2020

Rex Factor is ten years old! To celebrate, we are releasing two podcasts. In this first part, we reminisce about ten years of Rex Factor, looking at each season and some of the major things we've worked on. We also reveal the details of a Twitter tournament we will be running in the following month where we pit all the English monarchs against each other and see whether this will have the same outcome as our original play-offs. PLUS we would like to hear from you - please let us know your favourite memories, episodes, quotes, etc. from Rex Factor as well as any questions you might have about the podcast.

Not discussed in the podcast, but the special episode on Sulla is coming soon and then we will be moving on to Eleanor of Aquitaine - apologies for the delay!

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Æthelred the Ready Jul 25, 2020

It's nearly 10 years since we reviewed Æthelred the Unready and gave him a score of 0 for Battleyness - not surprising for the king who suffered decades of Viking raids and was kicked off the throne (nearly twice) but have we been too harsh? We speak to Brandon Bender who has written a book about Æthelred's military campaign which suggests he was a far more proactive and capable leader than his reputation suggests. Will we be convinced or will Æthelred remain at the bottom of the pile for Battleyness?

Brandon's book is called 'England's Unlikely Commander: The Military Career of Æthelred the Unready'

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Rexflix: The King Jun 26, 2020

We're starting a new, intermittent film review podcast for Privy Councillors where we watch and review films relating to kings and queens. In each episode, we'll go through the film plot (largely for Ali's benefit), then review it for historical accuracy and entertainment. Our first film is The King, starring Timothée Chalamet as King Henry V in a sort-of-adaptation of William Shakespeare. As this is the first one and we've not been able to do our normal podcasting recently, we're making this episode available to all Rex Factor listeners. If you've seen the film then send in your reviews and let us know what you think.

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S3.21 Matilda of Boulogne May 15, 2020

The last of the Normans and the last of the Matilda's, Matilda of Boulogne was Queen Consort to King Stephen through the Anarchy. Stephen's reign was not particularly successful but it would have been far worse had he not had the support of his wife, who played a strong and vital leadership role in his cause. Overshadowed by her namesake and rival, the Empress Matilda, could this be the time for Matilda of Boulogne to shine?

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S3.20 Adeliza of Louvain Apr 24, 2020

Adeliza was the second consort of Henry I of England with the primary task being to produce a new heir for Henry after the death of his only (legitimate) son in the White Ship Disaster. After two very powerful Norman consorts, Adeliza had a lot to live up to as the years without an heir mount up, Henry would look to his daughter, Matilda, instead and Adeliza would be dragged into the drama of the Anarchy. Cometh the hour, cometh the woman? Or would Adeliza be lost amidst the chaos?

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S3.19 Matilda of Scotland Apr 11, 2020

Matilda of Scotland (confusingly originally called Edith) was the daughter of the King of Scots and inheritor of the Anglo-Saxon royal line, which made her an alluring prospect of consort for the Norman king Henry I. Matilda was a highly confident and capable queen who proved very popular with her subjects as well as providing ample opportunity for Rex Facts. But will this be enough to get the Rex Factor?

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Podcasting From Home Mar 27, 2020

A global lockdown is not enough to stop Rex Factor! For the first time, we do a full episode via Skype, meaning Ali is in charge of his own recording equipment! After a slightly chaotic first ten minutes, we have an extended Correspondents Corner with lots of messages from listeners and then previews of some of our bonus content with a clip from our most recent Privy Chamber episode (on Matilda of Flanders) and our most recent special episode (Chateau Gaillard). Normal service will resume next time when we review Matilda of Scotland.

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S3.18 Matilda of Flanders Mar 13, 2020

We leave the Saxons behind and enter the Norman era. Matilda of Flanders was the first of the Norman consorts, bringing some prestigious French royal genes to the illegitimate William the Conqueror. Matilda was a trusted partner of William in Normandy and enjoyed great status as Queen of England after 1066. Revered for her piety, Matilda also had an independent streak and would clash with William when their eldest son, Robert, rebelled. Who will come out on top? And will Matilda start the new era off with the Rex Factor?

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S3.17 Ealdgyth of Mercia Feb 07, 2020

Ealdgyth of Mercia is not a famous name, but her episode is full of Rex Factors. As consort to Harold Godwinson, she was the last Anglo-Saxon consort and her story has plenty to fascinate: Lady Godiva, Gruffydd ap Llywelyn and a Welsh/Mercian alliance, and of course the dramatic events of 1066. So will the Saxons go out on a high or is Ealdgyth another queen who will remain lost to history?

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S3.16 Edith of Wessex Jan 24, 2020

With Edith of Wessex we come to the dramatic events of 1066 and the fall of the Anglo-Saxons. Edith was the daughter of the powerful earldoman, Godwin, sister to Harold Godwinson and queen consort to Edward the Confessor. Things got off to a shaky start with Edward, but Edith was able to establish herself as a powerful figure at court and tried to position herself for the succession. But when 1066 throws everything into chaos, will Edith be able to ride out the storm?

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S3.15 Ælfgifu of Northampton Jan 10, 2020

When is a consort not a consort? When she's Ælfgifu of Northampton! Ælfgifu was married to Cnut while he was king but it was his other wife, Emma of Normandy, who was considered the consort. We decide to take a look at events from Ælfgifu's perspective, revealing a remarkable woman who was for a long time Emma's chief rival, with her dramatic life taking her from a powerful midlands dynasty all across Cnut's North Sea Empire and back again in a battle for dominance. But does she count as a consort and does she deserve the Rex Factor?

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S3.14 Emma of Normandy Dec 14, 2019

Emma takes us from the dark days of Vikings invasions under Æthelred the Unready to the threshold of 1066. Her remarkable and dramatic life saw her twice be Queen Consort, Queen Stepmother and Queen Mother! Emma was often forced to fight to retain her power as England veered between Saxon and Danish rule, but would she do enough to come out on top and gain the Rex Factor?

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S3.13 Ealdgyth Nov 29, 2019

We're back with the Saxons this week, reviewing Ealdgyth, consort to Edmund Ironside. Ealdgyth was from a prominent midlands family who fell out with King Æthelred the Unready in the difficult period of Viking invasions. We find out how these family links drove her into both danger and power amidst Saxon division and Viking invaders and decide what role she might have played in the. chaotic years of 1013-16.

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S3.12 Sigrid the Haughty Nov 15, 2019

We take a brief diversion from the Saxons to investigate the Viking consort of Sweyn Forkbeard, Sigrid the Haughty. Or is it? There is much debate about the true identity of Sweyn's wife (or wives) and whether Sigrid even existed at all as much of what we know of her comes from the Icelandic sagas. To help us unpack all of this and learn more about the sagas, we are joined by John and Andy from the Saga Thing podcast. Was Sigrid really Sweyn's wife? Did she really exist? And, most important of all, does she have the Rex Factor?

Saga Thing is a podcast reviewing all the sagas of the Icelanders which you can find here https://sagathingpodcast.wordpress.com

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Animated Show and Other News Sep 06, 2019

We've back from a summer break! In this catch-up episode we explain why we've been busy (real life), read out some of your correspondence AND have an announcement about Rex Factor: The Animated Show.

Without wanting to spoil the episode, we're asking you to help choose which queen (regnant) we should do next. The poll is open now and you just have one week (until Friday 13 September) to make your pick! Vote using the link below:

https://forms.gle/M7rLsPAokKW6hs3S9

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S3.11 Ælfgifu of York Jul 05, 2019

It's fair to say that we don't know quite as much about Æthelred the Unready's first consort, Ælfgifu of York, as we do about his mother (Ælfthryth) nor indeed his second consort (Emma of Normandy). We pick through what we can find about her and consider why there isn't more to go on.

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S3.10 Ælfthryth Jun 21, 2019

Ælfthryth was Edgar the Peaceable's third consort but England's first crowned and anointed queen. By building alliances in the church, she was able to raise the office of queenship higher than anything enjoyed by her predecessors and was one of the most influential figures at court. However, she would still face a battle to get her son on the throne, not least from everyone's favourite (and seemingly indestructible) archbishop, Dunstan. Could she fend off the patron saint of fun sponges and win the Rex Factor?

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S3.09 Wulfthryth of Wilton Jun 07, 2019

It's two episodes in one this time as we review the first two of Edgar the Peaceable's consorts. Very little is known about his first consort, Æthelflæd Candida/Eneda, so most of the episode is about Wulfthryth of Wilton, a source of much controversy because she was potentially a nun (or at least intended to become one!) As such, we take an in-depth look at the real history behind 'sex with nuns'.

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S3.08 Ælfgifu May 31, 2019

Ælfgifu was part of one of the most (in)famous moments of Rex Factor scandal from our first series, but does she deserve her scandalous reputation or has Dunstan been besmirching her reputation? We find out who she was, what she was doing with King Eadwig and why Dunstan didn't like her.

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S3.07 Æthelflæd of Damerham May 24, 2019

Æthelflæd of Damerham was (briefly) the second consort of Edmund I and a wealthy heiress in her own right. We have a deeper look into some of the rights and laws for Anglo-Saxon women and get to hear Æthelflæd's voice in the form of her own will.

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S3.06 Ælfgifu of Shaftesbury May 17, 2019

Ælfgifu of Shaftesbury was the first wife of Edmund I and found an unusual career path in becoming a saint! We review her life and time as consort/saint then have a deeper look at the role of women in early Anglo-Saxon Christianity and how this led to Ælfgifu's lofty status.

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Game of Thrones May 10, 2019

We take a brief break from our normal series to tackle the epic fantasy TV series and books, Game of Thrones. In this feature-length episode, we go through the story of the show and draw out comparisons between the characters and events in the show vs. the real life history that inspired George RR Martin.

This episode was recorded after Season 8 Episode 3 (The Long Knight) but before Episode 4 (in case you are worried about spoilers!)

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S3.05 Eadgifu of Kent May 03, 2019

Eadgifu of Kent was the second consort to Edward the Elder, but it was as the mother of kings that her influence would truly be felt, demonstrating the potential opportunities that existed for consorts whose sons succeeded to the throne. Eadgifu achieved great prominence and was an early patron of monastic reform, helping bring to court a certain someone that Ali will be very pleased to see again...

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S3.04 Ælfflæd Apr 15, 2019

Ælfflæd was the second consort of Wessex/England and like her predecessor, Ealhswith, struggling against an opposition to consorts being granted power. However, succession struggles for both her husband and sons provides an opportunity for her to assert greater queenly power - will she be successful, or be relegated to operating between the lines of history?

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S3.03 Æthelflæd, Lady of the Mercians Apr 05, 2019

Æthelflæd is one of the most remarkable and unfairly forgotten figures in English history. The eldest child of Alfred the Great and Ealhswith, she became consort to the Lord of the Mercians but really came to prominence after his death when she took over as a ruler and helped her brother, Edward the Elder, take back lands conquered by the Vikings.

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S3.02 Ealhswith Mar 29, 2019

We get the third series properly underway with out first consort: Ealhswith, who married King Alfred the Great. Biographical information is not extensive for Ealhswith, but we piece it all together and then find out from Alfred himself exactly why Ealhswith seems to have been neglected in the histories by taking a deeper look at Anglo-Saxon queenship.

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S3.01 Consort Introduction and Agrippina Mar 16, 2019

Welcome to Series 3 of Rex Factor! This time we will be reviewing all the Queen and Prince Consorts of England from Ealhswith to Prince Philip. In this introductory episode, we explain how we will be reviewing consorts (as opposed to monarchs) in each of the factors and then have an interview with Privy Councillor Dr Emma Southon, who has written a brilliant book on a Roman Consort, Agrippina.

You can follow Emma on Twitter (@NuclearTeeth) and her website https://www.emmasouthon.com Her podcast is History is Sexy (@SexyHistoryPod) and her book on Agrippina is "Agrippina: Empress, Exile, Hustler, Whore".

You can find the Worst Foot Forward podcast on Twitter (@WorstFoot) and https://www.worstfootforwardpodcast.com

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Battle of the Queens (Live) Mar 01, 2019

In our final live show of November 2018 we were in Glasgow for the Battle of the Queens where Mary Queen of Scots took on Elizabeth I, Queen of England. They were rivals in life but who would be the victor in history?

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Battle of the Saxons (Live) Feb 22, 2019

In our penultimate live show we came to Manchester for the Battle of the Saxons where Alfred the Great took on his grandson, Athelstan, to see which of these two Saxon kings truly deserves the epithet 'great'.

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Battle of the So-Called Baddies (Live) Feb 15, 2019

It was the turn of the baddies for our live show in Leeds with John taking on Richard III in a bid to be crowned England's best baddy of the monarchs. But do either of these much-maligned kings really deserve their reputations or are they good guys in disguise?

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Battle of the Raucous Royals (Live) Feb 08, 2019

Ali's scandal bell was getting a good workout in our live show in Oxford as Charles II competed against George IV in the Battle of the Raucous Royals. Both kings got up to plenty of high jinks but who was the most scandalicious of all?

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Battle of the Favourites (Live) Feb 01, 2019

In the second of our live shows in 2018, we had the Battle of the Favourites - Ali's favourite (Edward I) vs. Graham's favourite (Henry VIII). All pretence of neutrality went out of the window but who would the good people of Bristol vote as the winner? This podcast features the whole of the main recording as well as the audience Q&As, albeit the audience are not audible so Graham has had to approximate what the questions were!

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Battle of the Champions (Live) Jan 25, 2019

In November 2018, Rex Factor went on its first ever live tour, starting with this recording in London where we did the Battle of the Champions - Henry II (champion of the English monarchs) vs. Robert the Bruce (champion of the Scots). We present the full live show (barring the first 30 seconds that didn't record) including a Q&A afterwards with the audience (apologies for quiet bits when people couldn't reach the mic on stage!)

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A Royal Christmas Special Dec 21, 2018

Originally planned for 2016, we have finally made a Christmas Special! From Alfred the Great to Elizabeth II, we take a stroll through history and see what some of our favourite monarchs were getting up to at Christmas - be it writing carols, ice skating or murdering the Archbishop of Canterbury. We'll be back in January with the recordings of the Live Tour and then the third series, reviewing all the Queen and Prince Consorts of England. For now, thanks for listening, Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

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The Making of the Animated Show Aug 31, 2018

Excitingly, the pilot episode of Rex Factor: The Animated Show (crowdfunded by our wonderful listeners) is soon to be released! Ahead of the show's release on 12 September, we spoke to Tom Sanders and Mike Foster of Tinmouse Animation about how this all came about and the process of making the animation. We also reveal the details for the episode's official premiere, which will take place on 29 September 2018 at the King Richard III Visitor Centre in Leicester. There are free tickets available for anyone to attend, so if you want to be in the audience then sign-up at the address below:

https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/rex-factor-the-animated-show-premiere-tickets-49424181056

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Live Tour Announcement 2018 Aug 24, 2018

Hugely exciting news - Rex Factor is going on tour! This November (2018) we will be doing 6 dates in the UK where we bring the podcast into the live arena! We explain the details in this short news update but tickets are available now from this website - please come along, we'd love to see you there!

http://myticket.co.uk/artists/rex-factor

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Animated Show Update and Special Episode Previews Aug 20, 2018

With the second series of the podcast complete, it's time for some news about Rex Factor: The Animated Show! There will be a new sizzle trailer coming out on 22 August with the finished show to follow in September, along with news of the premiere! Also, we provide some clips from our most recent special episodes on The Death of Amy Robsart, Georgiana Duchess of Devonshire and Bess of Hardwick, plus a clip from one of our Privy Chamber bonus episodes.

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Warwick Castle and Guy of Warwick Jul 20, 2018

Rex Factor were lucky enough to be invited to spend a weekend at Warwick Castle - unfortunately, Ali was unlucky enough to fall ill, so in this special episode Graham tells an envious Ali everything he missed. Plus, we have our first ever interviews on the main podcast: Kate Davidson, who scripted the jousting extravaganza "Wars of the Roses Live", and Melissa Paniccia, the head of history at Warwick Castle who tells us about her role and the summer spectacular for August 2018, bringing to life the forgotten legend of Guy of Warwick.

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S2.52 Scottish Grand Final Results Jul 13, 2018

It's the final episode of the second series of Rex Factor as we reveal who will be crowned the Scottish Rex Factor Champion - Constantine II, Robert the Bruce, James IV or Mary Queen of Scots. We also reveal the winner of the best death in the series and the topic for the third series.

We revealed the results in a livestream which you can watch back here - we answered various questions from viewers in the livestream (which are not in the podcast) plus we read out some of the voter comments on why they voted for who they voted for (which is not in the livestream) so check out both to not miss out!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hDrA8kPqufY&lc=z23hyl3b0uifex0mjacdp435wufatp2n1qk5hnabouhw03c010c

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S2.51 Scottish Play-Offs: Grand Final Jun 03, 2018

Our second series is nearly over - it's the Scottish Rex Factor Grand Final and we need to decide who will be crowned the champion. However, Ali and Graham don't get to vote this time, so it's entirely down to you to pick the winner! Your candidates are Constantine II (effective first King of Scots), Robert the Bruce (winner of the Battle of Bannockburn), James IV (Renaissance Golden Age) and Mary Queen of Scots (an amazing and often tragic life story). In this episode, we compare the four monarchs category by category but it will be for you to pick your winner - follow the link below and vote for who you want to win Scottish Rex Factor (deadline is 30 June 2018).

https://www.eSurveysPro.com/Survey.aspx?id=4520f9fc-22b0-40a8-8f9f-aa9c123b0e31

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S2.50 Scottish Playoffs: First Round Results May 14, 2018

We reveal the results of the first round of the Scottish Play-Offs - find out who will join top seed Robert the Bruce in the Grand Final from Group A (Constantine II, Malcolm III, Alexander III, James II), Group B (Kenneth II, Malcolm II, David I, James IV) and Group C (Kenneth MacAlpin, Alexander II, Mary Queen of Scots, James VI). We also read out some of your excellent comments on why you voted for the various monarchs.

We actually live-streamed the results on our YouTube channel, so you can watch it in full (plus us answering questions from the viewers - not included in the podcast) here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dvc5fxz28sY

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S2.49 Scottish Playoffs: Group C Apr 13, 2018

It's the last of the play-off groups and one of the tastiest yet! We have our very first monarch, Kenneth MacAlpin (843-58) against our very last, James VI (1567-1625), as well as James VI facing off against his own mother, Mary Queen of Scots (1542-67). Kenneth was the first, Mary and James are perhaps the most famous, but it is Alexander II (1214-49) who got the highest score of these four in the original podcasts. We compare them factor by factor but you will play a crucial role in deciding who goes through. Listen to the podcast and then pick your favourite for who you want to go through to the Grand Final using the link below:

Survey Link

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S2.48 Scottish Playoffs: Group B Mar 30, 2018

It's another heavyweight contest in the second of our play-off bouts: Kenneth II (971-95), Malcolm II (1005-35), David I (1124-53) and James IV (1488-1513). There's the enticing prospect of a father/son battle with Kenneth II (killed by an elaborate statue) and Malcolm II (the dynastic serial killer). David I oversaw a revolution in governance and gained huge territory during the (English) Anarchy while James IV presided over Scotland's Renaissance. We compare them all, factor-by-factor, but once you've listened it will be your chance to decide who goes through to the Grand Final.

Survey Link

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S2.47 Scottish Play-Offs: Group A Mar 23, 2018

The Scottish Rex Factor play-offs kick off in style with Constantine II (900-43), Malcolm III (1058-93), Alexander III (1249-86) and James II (1437-60) do battle for a place in the Grand Final. Listen to the episode to hear the four monarchs compared and then it's down to you to help decide who goes through to the final. Will it be Constantine II with his battles against the Vikings and Athelstan? Malcolm III for slaying Macbeth and seeing Scotland through the upheavals of 1066? Maybe Alexander III with his conquest of the Western Isles and a golden age (plus the nuns!) or James II, murderer of the Earl Douglas and blown up by his own cannon. The choice is yours (and also ours, it's a joint effort).

Group A Survey Link

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S2.46 Scottish Play-Off Draw Mar 16, 2018

We have reviewed all the Kings and Queens of Scots from Kenneth MacAlpin to James VI and found 13 Rex Factor winners, but who was the greatest of them all? In this episode, we explain our play-off system and make the draw to see which monarchs will be facing off against each other.

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S2.45 James VI (I of England) Feb 16, 2018

For the first time ever, we review a monarch for the second time! James VI is the last monarch in our Scottish series, coming to the throne in the midst of his civil war with his mother, Mary Queen of Scots, trying to reclaim her throne. Scotland is a violent and divided nation for James growing up, but if he can survive and prosper where his predecessors fail, the glittering prize of the English throne awaits. Will James VI finish the series on a high and succeed where he failed in the English series and take the Rex Factor?

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S2.44 Mary Queen of Scots: Review Nov 27, 2017

Mary Queen of Scots had one of the most dramatic lives and reigns (and, unusually, post-reigns) in Scottish history, taking in a French upbringing, the Reformation, three husbands, civil war and English imprisonment. But when this is all put together, how well will she score and will one of the most famous names in history be worthy of the Rex Factor?

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S2.43 Mary Queen of Scots: Biography (Part 2/2) Nov 17, 2017

In our first episode, Mary had escaped Henry VIII, briefly been Queen Consort of France and ruled pretty successfully as Queen of Scots. By 1565, she had married the dashing Lord Darnley (who, like Mary, had a claim to the English throne) and seen off a rebellion by her Protestant half-brother, the Earl of Moray. However, the second half of her life would be even more dramatic than the first. Mary would have to face a vain and jealous husband, scheming Scottish nobles and Elizabeth I's chief advisor, William Cecil, determined to stop her ever becoming Queen of England.

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S2.42 Mary Queen of Scots: Biography (Part 1/2) Nov 10, 2017

Mary Queen of Scots is one of (if not the) most famous names in Scottish and British history, and with good reason. A dramatic reign that began when she was only six days old which saw her and Scotland dragged into international conflicts between England, Spain and France as well as the religious conflict with the Protestant Reformation. We are giving ourselves three episodes to cover Mary and this first biography episode takes us from her birth through the 'Rough Wooing' and her minority up to the peak of her personal rule in Scotland in 1565.

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S2.41 James V Sep 29, 2017

Scotland's imagination in naming royal babies had really run out by 1513 when the fifth successive became king. At just 17 months old, and following the disaster of Flodden, once again it would be tricky for the new king to make his mark. Would James V break through the chaotic power play of his minority, see off the most difficult of difficult of neighbours in Henry VIII and live up to the glorious reputation of his father? Would he break the pattern of the previous James's and actually live into middle age? Most importantly of all, does he have the Rex Factor?

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Kickstarter News and Special Previews Sep 05, 2017

We reveal the (amazing) results of our Kickstarter campaign and share some clips from our recent special episodes on Brunel, Boudica and Tea.

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S2.40 James IV Aug 14, 2017

For the fourth time in a row, Scotland has a minority under a king named James. However, James IV is older than his predecessors and shows a lot of promise as a charming and gifted Renaissance king who proves a highly effective ruler in Scotland and a force to be reckoned with in Europe. However, how will he fare when Europe starts sliding into war and he is forced to deal with a belligerent young Henry VIII in England?

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Rex Factor Kickstarter Appeal Aug 10, 2017

Rex Factor needs your help! All through August 2017 we are doing a Kickstarter to fund the production of the pilot episode of Rex Factor the Animated Show, an animated version of the podcast produced by the brilliant Tinmouse Animation Studios. We need your help to spread the word and raise the money to fund this project so please check out our Kickstarter page, look at some of the amazing rewards on offer and encourage everyone you know to make a pledge to help get this made!

https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/1958705267/rex-factor-the-animated-show

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S2.39 James III Jul 14, 2017

In 1460, for the third time in a row, the new Scottish king was a boy called James. Unlike his predecessors, however, there were no overmighty nobles or domineering family members to contend with and England was in the throes of the Wars of the Roses. Could James III take advantage and break the pattern of short-lived Jameses?

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S2.38 James II (of Scots) May 31, 2017

Like his father, James II came to the throne as a child and faced an uncertain minority with rival factions at war with each other. Also like his father, James was a ruthless and vigorous ruler, determined to establish the Stewart dynasty as supreme over its rivals and independent from England. Could James defeat the powerful Douglas family and take advantage of an England divided by the Wars of the Roses, or would the internal divisions of Scotland prove too much for yet another Stewart king?

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S2.37 James I (of Scots) May 12, 2017

After a century of weak rulers and a divided family, the omens looked bad for James I: his uncle, Albany, was in charge of Scotland while he was just a child in an English prison. However, James would prove a more forceful character than his recent predecessors and was determined to assert himself over his rivals in Scotland. With England struggling in the Hundred Years War and the Wars of the Roses approaching, could James restore glory to Scotland and win the Rex Factor?

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Project Zeus Apr 17, 2017

If you've been following us on our social media recently, you'll know we've been teasing you about a new project codenamed #projectzeus - well, finally we can reveal what it's all about!

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S2.36 Robert III Mar 24, 2017

For the last century, the problem for Scotland's monarchs was a lack of male heirs. In 1386, there were too many! Robert III was in his fifties and in poor health meaning his first brother, the Earl of Fife, was effectively running the country while his second brother, Alexander "the Wolf" of Badenoch, was causing chaos in the north. Throw into the mix Robert's eldest son, David, with an increasingly independent streak and a spot of bother with the English and it all makes for a tricky time of it! Will Robert III be able to come out on top or will this be another weak reign for the Scots?

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S2.35 Robert II Mar 10, 2017

The accession of Robert II in 1371 marks the start of the royal Stewart dynasty in Scotland. In some ways, Robert had much more going for him than David - plenty of sons, Edward III in his old age (then Richard II in his minority) meant he was able to shore up his position both within Scotland and with England. However, Robert was already in his mid-50s when he became king and his adult sons proved to be ruthlessly ambitious and determined to gain power. Would the first Stewart king win the Rex Factor for starting a new dynasty, or would that same dynasty be the thing to hold him back?

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S2.34 David II Feb 03, 2017

After the glories of Robert the Bruce, there was a lot to live up to for David II - which would not be easy, given that he was only a few years old, facing an adult dynastic rival in the form of Edward Balliol and a resurgent England under the mighty Edward III determined to get revenge for past defeats. Throw into the mix a new generation of nobles with little respect for royal authority and a nation ravaged by war and it all amounted to a rather tricky prospect. Could David II follow in his father's footsteps or would it be back to the bad old days for Scotland?

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S2.33 Robert the Bruce Jan 20, 2017

Things have been torrid for Scotland under the rule of England's Edward I, but finally there is hope in the form of Robert the Bruce (and, frankly, in Edward II). Will this legend of Scottish history - the king of Bannockburn and the Declaration of Arbroath - defeat the English and win independence for Scotland? More importantly, will he be worthy of the Rex Factor?

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News and Previews Jan 07, 2017

We're back! Apologies for the absence but as you'll find out we have a very good reason. Our next episode on Robert the Bruce will be a biggie so we thought it would be better to get a quick episode out to update you on our news, including the launch of our long-awaited merchandise, plus some of your comments and a preview of our most recent special episode on Thomas Becket and as well as one of our new Privy Chamber bonus episodes that are available exclusive to Privy Councillors.

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S2.32 William Wallace Nov 18, 2016

Scotland was a conquered country in 1296, but if Edward I thought the Scots would go quietly then he had another thing coming! Almost from nowhere, William Wallace stepped onto the scene and led the resistance against English rule, becoming Guardian of Scotland. But could this unknown figure defeat Edward and liberate Scotland? Can the real William Wallace live up to the heroic legend of Scottish history? And is any of Braveheart actually true?

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Aragorn (Lord of the Rings) Nov 04, 2016

In a one-off bumper edition special episode we review Aragorn (AKA Strider, Elessar, etc.), one of the main characters in Tolkien's Lord of the Rings. As a special birthday request, we decided to give Aragorn the usual Rex Factor treatment meted out to kings and queens, going over his life and reign before reviewing him by various factors before deciding whether he had the Rex Factor. One of us is a LOTR fan and the other is not, so will Aragorn be able to win both of us over?

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S2.31 John Balliol Oct 19, 2016

After being chosen to be King of Scots in 1292, John Balliol had a tough job on his hands. He had not been raised for kingship, the nobility were divided and, most worryingly of all, Edward I of England had established himself as feudal lord of Scotland and was determined to make this clear to all concerned. Could Balliol restore Scotland's prosperity and remain independent from England or would the task be too big for him to face?

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S2.30 Margaret the Maid of Norway (The Great Cause) Sep 26, 2016

A largely forgotten figure in Scottish history, Margaret the Maid of Norway's "reign" would be a pivotal turning point in Scottish history. After Alexander III died in accident in 1286 without an heir, his only descendent was Margaret, his three year-old granddaughter who had never set foot in Scotland. A special group known as the Guardians of Scotland sought to preserve the peace of the kingdom for Margaret, but at the cost of involving King Edward I of England, who would prove to be something of an ogre in Scottish history, starting by presiding over "The Great Cause' to determine the future of the Scottish succession. Would Edward take this chance to snatch the kingdom? Would the Guardians preserve the peace? Would Margaret make it to Scotland?

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S2.29 Alexander III Aug 18, 2016

Alexander III was only just approaching 8 years when his father died in 1249, resulting in a divisive minority and the king of England, Henry III, playing an increasingly strong role in Scottish affairs. As king, Alexander would need to restore order among his barons, finish his father's work in subduing the Western Isles and assert his independence against Henry III and (far more ominously) the looming black cloud on the horizon of Scottish history that is Edward I. A tough job, but was Alexander III up to the task and worthy of the Rex Factor? (Parental Guidance - there may be some juicy scandal!)

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S2.28 Alexander II Jul 22, 2016

Alexander II seems to have been something of a man on mission, determined to remove all the grey areas in Scotland by imposing his authority across the whole country. Previously rebellious or non-Scottish areas like Moray, Caithness and Galloway were firmly on the royal radar while Norway would now have to worry about their control over the Western Isles. Throw in an invasion of England after King John repudiated Magna Carta and you have a very busy reign, but has Alexander II bit off more than he can chew?

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S2.27 William the Lion Jun 16, 2016

William the Lion's life and reign was defined when as a teenager in 1157 he had the earldom of Northumbria taken away by Henry II. From then on, it was his life's ambition to get it back but he had the mighty Plantagenets standing in his way. With trouble brewing in Galloway, Moray and Caithness, it would not be an easy task, but with a name like William the Lion, could it be possible?

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S2.26 Malcolm IV May 09, 2016

After the successful reign of David ended in 1153 with Scotland in possession of most of northern England, Scotland was at the peak of its medieval powers. Unfortunately, the new king was a 12 year-old boy faced with numerous regional threats and an England reunited under the rule of Henry II, a king even more powerful than his Norman predecessors. Could Malcolm see off the challenges of Gaelic warlords, a Plantagenet powerhouse and a distinctly unimpressive epithet?

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S2.25 David I Apr 25, 2016

David came to the throne in 1124 as the last of Malcolm III and Saint Margaret's six sons following a period of internal fighting and short reigns. However, unlike his brothers, David had luck on his side. He won favour and wealth in England as a protege of Henry I and then took advantage of the Anarchy in England to pursue Scottish interests in Cumbria and Northumbria, whilst also introducing far-ranging reforms. But how successful would he be in his efforts, would he be too Norman for Scottish tastes and will he get the Rex Factor?

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S2.24 Alexander I Mar 18, 2016

Alexander's peaceful succession in 1107 marked a move away from the chaos of the preceding decade of internal conflict but that's not to say that Alexander himself would have an easy time of it. Pressured by his younger brother, David, and the powerful King of England, Henry I, Alexander struggled to find his own niche but looked to make big reforms to the Scottish church that would wrest some independence back from the interference of England. Would Alexander be a fresh start for Scotland or just another nearly man?

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S2.23 Edgar Feb 19, 2016

The death of Malcolm III in 1093 led to something of a succession crisis in Scotland and by 1097, Malcolm's brother (Donalbain) and one of his sons (Duncan II) had not done a very good job of ruling the country. Next up was Edgar, backed by the English king, William Rufus, and his namesake uncle, Edgar the Aetheling, Edgar sought to re-establish stability in Scotland, but would he be the king to get things back on track?

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S2. 22 Duncan II Feb 05, 2016

The death of Malcolm III and his queen, Margaret of Wessex, sent Scotland back into the chaos of dynastic conflict. Malcolm's brother, Donaldbain, stole the throne in 1093 but there were many sons of Malcolm ready to challenge him and first up was Duncan II. In Duncan's favour, he was a well-trained knight, brought up at the Norman court and backed by the King of England, William Rufus. On the downside, he was a well-trained Norman knight, brought up at the Norman court and backed by the King of England. Would the Scots accept this Anglo-Norman figure, or would Duncan be sent packing?

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S2.21 Donald III (Donaldbain) Jan 22, 2016

The death of Malcolm III in 1093 (as well as his son and queen) left a power vacuum in Scotland. Despite having 5 sons, it was Malcolm's brother, Donald III (Donaldbain in Shakespeare's Macbeth), who decided to take advantage and steal the throne. After thirty years of stability under Malcolm, Donald III took Scotland back to the chaotic years of dynastic wars of succession. With the English king, William Rufus, keen to have his own man on the throne, Donald would have to use all his craftiness to hold on to his crown - but could he outlast his rivals?

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S2.20 Malcolm III Dec 18, 2015

With the reign of Malcolm III, Scotland emerges from the dark ages and into the chaos of 1066 and the Norman Conquest of England. With his marriage to the Saxon princess (and future saint) Margaret, Malcolm is set on a collision course with the Normans and the battle for dominance in Cumbria and Northumbria. Margaret is one of the extraordinary figures of the age and together Malcolm and Margaret oversee reforms in church and at court that have a lasting impact on Scottish history. But for how long can Malcolm try his luck with the Normans and will it be enough to earn him the Rex Factor? (Please note that we are using new microphones - haven't quite figured out the settings yet so the audio is a bit quieter than usual and we also need to get pop filters!)

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S2.19 Lulach Nov 23, 2015

Macbeth's death at the hands of the future Malcolm III did not mark the end of the Moray dynasty, for into the breach stepped Lulach. Sandwiched between two of the more notable of Scotland's medieval monarchs and equipped with a less than flattering nickname, expectations for Lulach are probably not high but could there be a little more to him than there first appears?

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S2.18 Macbeth Nov 08, 2015

Yes, Macbeth was a real king! But, was he the murderous, tyrannical villain as depicted by Shakespeare or has the bard done the real-life Macbeth a disservice? In this episode, we look at Shakespeare's version of Macbeth before considering the real life biography of 'The Scottish King' and then decide whether he has the Rex Factor. We also consider why it was that Shakespeare chose to write about Macbeth at all and why he characterised him as he did. (Please note that the episode image and the audio excerpt at the start of the episode are the property of Studio Canal for the 2015 film, Macbeth)

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S2.17 Duncan I Oct 09, 2015

William Shakespeare portrayed Duncan as a good, kind and elderly king murdered by the scheming Macbeth in his bed. But was this the true story? After Malcolm II wiped out most of his family tree to ensure that Duncan would succeed him as King of Scots, great things were certainly expected of Duncan in 1040, but with rivals to the south (Northumbria) and the north (Moray) would he be up to the job?

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S2.16 Malcolm II Sep 28, 2015

A decade after the assassination of his father, Kenneth II, Malcolm II finally came to the throne in 1005. Faced with enemies from within his own family, the territory of Moray and the presence in England of the most powerful man in Europe, Cnut, things weren't going to be easy for Malcolm. However, having waited so long to become king, he wasn't about to give it up without a fight.

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S2.15 Kenneth III Sep 18, 2015

The dynastic conflict continues in Scotland when Kenneth III comes to the throne in 997. Team Red is no more but Kenneth (Team Purple) still has to face the challenge of Malcolm (Team Blue) to hold on to the throne. Find out who comes out on top in the final showdown!

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S2. 14 Constantine III Sep 11, 2015

After the stability of Kenneth II, in 995 Constantine III usurped the throne and restarted the dynastic conflict of the Alpin dynasty. Scotland now had three men vying for the throne: Constantine III (Team Red), Malcolm (Team Blue) and Kenneth (Team Purple), but who would come out on top?

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S2.13 Kenneth II Aug 30, 2015

The dynastic conflict at the heart of the Scottish monarchy continues with Kenneth II's accession in 971. Kenneth (Team Blue) is taking on Olaf (Team Red) in a bid to win dominance, but will Kenneth be able to succeed where the previous monarchs have failed and draw a line under the succession problems once and for all? Plus we bid a sad farewell to the Chronicle of the Kings of Alba while welcoming back an old friend of the podcast...

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S2.12 Cuilean Aug 10, 2015

The dynastic warfare continues in Scotland, with Cuilean usurping the throne in 967. The rival branches of the Scottish royal family continue to dispute the throne and the violence continues. Will Cuilean be able to deliver a good reign for team red or is the merry-go-round set to continue?

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S2.11 Dubh Jul 31, 2015

Dubh (or Duff) comes to the throne in 962 and marks the beginning of a period of dynastic conflict in Scotland. The system of an alternating succession has made family ties rather distant and rival claimants rather numerous, and Dubh must taken on his distant cousin, Cuilean, to be king. But who will come out triumphant?

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S2.10 Indulf Jul 17, 2015

Indulf became the King of Scots in 962 and while there is not a lot written about him, there's quite a bit for us to get our teeth into. Edinburgh, Vikings and an unintentionally amusing account of Indulf's demise all await...

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S2.9 Malcolm I Jul 03, 2015

Malcolm has to wait a long time to become king and when Constantine II finally abdicates in 943, there's a lot going on. The death of the Saxon king Athelstan has left a power vacuum in Northumbria and Malcolm is very much at the centre of events, making new alliances and facing off against the legendary Viking Erik the Bloodaxe. Will Malcolm come out on top or will the Vikings once again prove the undoing of a Scottish king? If you find yourself losing track of who is who and where is where, have a look at our handy glossary for the episode: https://rexfactor.wordpress.com/2015/07/03/malcolm-i-podcast-glossary/

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S2.8 Constantine II Jun 08, 2015

After a succession of short and unsuccessful reigns, Constantine II's reign would be crucial in the formation of the Scottish nation. Coming to the throne in 900, his intray included a country still divided by internal strife, facing invasion from the Viking grandsons of Ivar the Boneless while to the south the new country of England was growing under Edward the Elder and then, most ominously, Athelstan. Could Constantine succeed where others had failed?

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S2.7 Donald II May 07, 2015

After the Alpin dynasty was sent packing by Giric and/or Eochaid, it came roaring back in 889 with Donald II, winning back the throne after a decade in Irish exile. However, it's one thing to defeat Giric but there are still the tricky issue of Vikings on the horizon - could Donald finally see off the Scandinavian party poopers or would yet another Scottish king be laid low before his time?

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S2.6 Giric and/or Eochaid Apr 09, 2015

After the memorably unmemorable reign of Aed (#RememberAed) came to an end in 878, things get rather uncertain in Scotland. So, this week we review Giric...or Eochaid...or is it Giric AND Eochaid? Who is really wearing the crown and will they deserve the Rex Factor?

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S2.5 Aed Mar 15, 2015

The year 877 was not an easy time for Aed to come to the throne. After a decade of Viking raids, Aed's brother, Constantine I, had been killed and the kingdom was in a precarious position. It would take a strong and skillful ruler to overcome such difficulties, but is Aed that man? #RememberAed

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S2.4 Constantine I Feb 28, 2015

It's Vikings o'clock in this episode, with saga legends like Olaf the White, Ivar the Boneless and the Sons of Ragnar swarming across Britain. The Great Heathen Army of the 860s-70s has its mind on conquest and the action is ceaseless across Ireland, England and Scotland. Battles are fought, kings are slain, kingdoms fall and everything is in flux. Constantine has his own particular strategy but will it pay off?

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S2.3 Donald I Feb 12, 2015

After Kenneth MacAlpin started a new, Scottish dynasty in wake of a Pictish defeat to the Vikings, it was left to his brother, Donald I, to carry on where he left off. Donald seems largely to have done this but sadly the annals of history have not found an awful lot to say about him but nevertheless a few key questions do arise. Who was his mother? What's going on in Dalriata? And, perhaps most pressingly, what's happened to his trousers?

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S2.2 Kenneth MacAlpin Jan 25, 2015

The new series starts properly in this episode as review our first monarch, Kenneth MacAlpin. After the leading Picts were wiped out by the Vikings in 839, Kenneth emerged from the murky past to take the throne of both the Picts and the Scots. But Kenneth is a man of mystery: where did he come from? How did he take the throne? What happened to the Picts? And why does he smell of fish? But most importantly, does he have the Rex Factor?

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S2.1 Scottish Backgroundy Stuff Jan 12, 2015

Rex Factor is back! After reviewing all the monarchs of England, now we turn our attention to Scotland. Before we get onto the kings and queens, however, we provide some background to the history of Scotland: stone houses, Hadrian's Wall, Vikings, Saint Columba and the Loch Ness Monster - and much more besides!

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Questions and Answers (Part 2/2) Oct 03, 2014

In the second part of our question and answers podcast, we continue to answer the questions sent in to us by the audience. Next time, we'll be back with a new series on the kings and queens of Scotland from Kenneth MacAlpin to James VI.

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Questions and Answers (Part 1/2) Sep 21, 2014

While we get ourselves prepared for the new series of Rex Factor (the Kings and Queens of Scotland), we invited you to send in any questions you have about us, the podcast, or history in general. We wanted to get through as many questions as possible and had great fun answering them, so rather than editing the episode down we decided to split it in half, so this is the first part of the Q&A podcast. Enjoy!

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Ask Us Anything Aug 27, 2014

Rex Factor will soon be returning for a new series reviewing all the Kings and Queens of Scotland but before we start the new series, we're going to have a Question and Answers podcast to bridge the gap. This is your chance to ask us any questions you might have had while listening to the podcast: specific questions about a king or queen, other characters or events you have enjoyed, questions about Ali and Graham and the 'behind the scenes' of Rex Factor - whatever you like, this is your chance to ask! You can send us your questions on Facebook, Twitter (@rexfactorpod), on our blog (rexfactor.wordpress.com) or email us (rexfactorpodcast@hotmail.com). If you do want to ask us any questions then please send your questions to us by Thursday 18 September as we will be recording our responses the next day.

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S1.78 The Grand Final Results Aug 02, 2014

So, after four years we have finally reached the conclusion. The votes have all been counted, the results are in.We have reviewed all the kings and queens of England from Alfred the Great to Elizabeth II and you have voted for who you want to win. In today's episode, we reveal your favourite dynasty, our plans for the future and, of course, the Rex Factor Champion.

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S1.77 The Grand Final Jul 01, 2014

After four years reviewing all the kings and queens of England from Alfred the Great to Elizabeth II we have reached the end - the Grand Final. The three contenders for the Rex Factor crown are Alfred the Great (the founding father), Henry II (the Plantagenet top seed) and Elizabeth I (the iconic Tudor queen). In this episode, we compare them across all the factors but the winner will be determined by you - click the link below to vote on which monarch you want to be crowned Rex Factor champion. http://www.eSurveysPro.com/Survey.aspx?id=56d91477-ef36-4c2b-9862-aae59f75cfd0

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S1.76 The Semi-Final Results Jun 14, 2014

We're almost at the end - the Semi-Finals feature 9 of the 18 Rex Factor winning monarchs but after this just three will make it through to the Grand Final. Listen now to find out who is still standing, with sword held aloft, on the Rex Factor mountain...

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S1.75 Play-Offs: Semi-Final C May 27, 2014

In the third and final semi-final, our very first monarch, Alfred the Great, is up against the two Edwards - grandfather and grandson, Edward I and Edward III. But who deserves a place in the final? Will it be Alfred for saving Anglo-Saxon England from the Vikings? Edward I for conquering Wales with his magnificent castles and his reforms to the law and Parliament? Or Edward III for the Arthurian glories of Crecy and the Hundred Years War? Only one can go through to the final, so use the link below to vote for your favourite - the deadline for voting is Thursday 12 June: Survey Link

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S1.74 Play-Offs: Semi-Final B May 12, 2014

Semi-Final B sees a fascinating mix of characters: the pious, all-conquering Saxon and first king of all England, Athelstan; the relentless, zealous, French-conquering hero of Agincourt, Henry V, and the vibrant splendour of a Tudor golden age in Elizabeth I. Only one can go through to the Grand Final, so make sure you vote for your favourite in the link below: Survey Link

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S1.73 Play-Offs: Semi-Final A Apr 25, 2014

Things are hotting up now in the play-offs as we move on to the semi-finals. Semi-Final A is a real humdinger, with the top scoring monarch in Henry II up against two of the most iconic figures in Henry VIII and Queen Victoria. This time only one will progress into the Grand Final, so make sure you vote for your favourite monarch in the link below! Survey Link

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S1.72 The First Round Results Apr 11, 2014

Things get real in the play-offs as 9 of the 18 Rex Factor winners are eliminated from the competition. The results are revealed for Groups A, B and C in the first round - the scores from Ali, Graham and the combined votes of the public at large will be put together and the top three in each group will go through to the semi-finals. For more about the play-offs, check out our blog: http://rexfactor.wordpress.com/

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S1.71 Play-Offs: Group C Mar 17, 2014

In the last of the first round ties, Group C is a fascinating battle between medieval (William the Conqueror, Edward III & Henry V) vs. the modern (William IV, Victoria & George V). William conquered England after the Battle of Hastings, while Edward III & Henry V enjoyed military glories against France in the Hundred Years war. William IV saw the beginnings of a constitutional monarchy, helping to usher in the Great Reform Act, while Victoria was at the centre of Britain at her imperial height. George V established the Windsor dynasty amidst the turbulence of the First World War and interwar years. As ever, YOU can help decide who goes through - click on the link below and vote for your THREE favourites: Group C Survey The survey will close on 31 March 2014 so make sure you vote before it's too late!

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S1.70 Play-Offs: Group B Mar 08, 2014

Group B is a heavyweight affair of empires and conquerors. Cnut, a Viking, is one of a very small number of leaders to have conquered England, as well as presiding over a North Sea Empire, Henry II established the Angevin Empire (England and the 'left' of France), while Richard the Lionheart set his sights on Jerusalem and Edward I on Wales. Elizabeth I did not conquer but she presided over a golden age and saw off the Spanish Armada while William III set in motion the Glorious Revolution. Once again, YOU can help decide who goes through - click on the link below and vote for your THREE favourites: Group B Survey Link The survey will close on 31 March 2014 so make sure you vote before it's too late!

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S1.69 Play-Offs: Group A Mar 01, 2014

So the play-offs finally begin. There are three rounds and in the opening round we have three groups of six, which for Group A consists of Alfred the Great, Athelstan, Henry I, Edward IV, Henry VIII & Charles II. In this episode, we look at all the monarchs together, factor by factor, and debate who should come out on top. But who goes through will be determined by voting, so once you've listened to the episode, click on the link below and vote for your THREE favourites: Group A Survey Link The survey will close on 31 March 2014 so make sure you vote before then to have your say. If you have any problems with the survey, email rexfactorpodcast@hotmail.com

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S1.68 The Play-Off Draw Feb 11, 2014

After 67 episodes, three and a half years and numerous broken bones (all belonging to Ali) we have reviewed all the Kings and Queens of England from Alfred the Great to Elizabeth II. We were left with 18 monarchs standing tall and proud atop the Rex Factor mountain but no mountain is big enough for England's greatest monarchs so we are going to decide who is the greatest of them all. In this episode, we explain how the play-offs will work, how the monarchs will be drawn and how YOU will help us decide! While the play-offs are underway, check out our new blog https://rexfactor.wordpress.com for more information.

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S1.67 Elizabeth II: The Review (Part 3/3) Dec 22, 2013

After three years we finally complete the journey "From Alfred the Great to Elizabeth the Second" as in this episode we review the reign of Elizabeth II. Given that the Queen is still reigning, these are effectively provisional scores as we don't yet have sufficient perspective on how certain events will be viewed in 30 years time, nor the full knowledge of what the Queen's role has been in the affairs of the nation and the world behind the scenes. We will also not be considering whether or not she has the Rex Factor (it's just too soon!) but there's plenty to enjoy in our final episode of this series before we return for the play-offs in 2014!

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S1.66 Elizabeth II: 1953-2013 (Part 2/3) Dec 05, 2013

The Queen was just 27 years old when she was crowned in 1953 and in this episode we look at her life and reign from 1953 to the present day - history becomes the present! This episode takes us from the glitz and glamour of the 1950s and her tour of the Commonwealth, through the scandals and disasters of the royal family in the 1980s and 1990s to the hugely successful Diamond Jubilee of 2012.

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S1.65 Elizabeth II: 1926-53 (Part 1/3) Nov 19, 2013

From Alfred the Great to Elizabeth II - as Rex Factor's journey through the monarchs of England reaches its close, we finally come to THE Queen! In the first of three episodes, we examine the biography of Princess Elizabeth up to and including her coronation in 1953.

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History According to Ali Oct 04, 2013

While Ali continues to recuperate from his bicycle injury, some Rex Factor fans have provided something to fill the audio void: History According to Ali. Trawling through every episode of Rex Factor, they have picked out some of Ali's best moments and put them all together with summaries for every monarch from Alfred the Great to George VI. Ali is coming on well and looking forward to Queen Elizabeth II, but for now, enjoy this retrospective! (P.S. Listeners new to Rex Factor may find this slightly confusing, so start with one of our earlier monarch review episodes!)

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On Hold Aug 28, 2013

Unfortunately a nasty bike accident for Ali means that there's a bit of a delay in reviewing Queen Elizabeth II. I'm sure you'll all want to wish Ali well and if you want to send him a message then you can contact us in the following ways: email - rexfactorpodcast@hotmail.com twitter - @rexfactorpod facebook - the Rex Factor Podcast facebook page - https://www.facebook.com/rexfactorpodcast The plan is to gather all your 'get well soon' messages together and give Ali one big glorious Rex Factor card, which I'm sure will cheer him up no end. Long or short, funny or tear-jerking, it would be really good if you could drop us a line and show your support.

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S1.64 Sweyn Forkbeard Jul 08, 2013

This week on Rex Factor we put right what once went wrong and step back 1,000 years in history to review England's first Viking ruler, Sweyn Forkbeard. Sweyn was the father of the legendary Cnut and the first Viking to be acknowledged as full king of England when he forced Aethelred the Unready from the throne in 1013, adding to his crown in Denmark and overlordship of Norway and Sweden. So why did he get missed out the first time round? Will his patience be rewarded with the Rex Factor? For one episode only, slip back into the Vikings and prepare for big battles, cool names and the best Rex Fact to date!

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S1.63 George VI: Review (2/2) Jun 15, 2013

Having covered his life and reign, this week on Rex Factor we review George VI. Hear of his exploits serving in the battle of Jutland, doing his bit in the Second World War and stoically keeping calm and carrying on through speech impediment, ill health and nationalisation. Does his record in two world wars grant him battleyness beyond compare? Does his dedication and oversight of the National Health Service win him subjectivity points to be dreamed of? Did he even bother chasing after scandal? And most importantly, does the last king of England have the Rex Factor?

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S1.62 George VI: Biography (Part 1/2) Jun 02, 2013

After the shock of the Abdication Crisis in 1936, George VI came to the throne in less than ideal circumstances. And with a history of ill health, a stammer and an aversion to the limelight, George was perhaps less than the ideal future monarch. However, in his favour was a strong sense of duty, personal stoicism and a charismatic wife in the form of Elizabeth Bowes-Lyon - just as well, as after the Abdication Crisis came the Second World War. In this episode, we examine George VI's life, the Second World War and one of the most famous figures in British history, Sir Winston Churchill. In the next episode, we'll just go straight in to reviewing him and deciding whether or not he has the Rex Factor.

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S1.61 Edward VIII (Abdication Crisis) Apr 17, 2013

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?

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S1.60 George V Mar 17, 2013

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?

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S1.59 Edward VII Jan 13, 2013

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?

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S1.58 Victoria: The Review (Part 5/5) Dec 13, 2012

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?

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S1.57 Victoria: The Prime Ministers (Part 4/5) Nov 29, 2012

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.

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S1.56 Victoria: The Prime Ministers (Part 3/5) Nov 17, 2012

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.

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S1.55 Victoria's Biography (Part 2/5: 1861-1901) Oct 12, 2012

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...

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S1.54 Victoria's Biography (Part 1/5: 1817-61) Sep 28, 2012

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...

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S1.53 William IV Aug 11, 2012

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!)

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S1.52 George IV (the Prince Regent) Jul 16, 2012

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?

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S1.51 George III (Review) Jun 22, 2012

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...

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S1.50 George III (the biography) May 30, 2012

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!

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S1.49 George II May 05, 2012

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?

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S1.48 George I Apr 12, 2012

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!

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S1.47 Anne Mar 25, 2012

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?

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S1.46 William & Mary (Glorious Revolution) Mar 03, 2012

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?

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S1.45 James II Feb 10, 2012

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?

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S1.44 Charles II (Restoration) Jan 28, 2012

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?

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S1.43 Oliver Cromwell Jan 10, 2012

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? https://rexfactor.wordpress.com/english-monarchs/whos-who/stuarts/whos-who-oliver-cromwell/

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S1.42 Charles I (Civil War) Dec 20, 2011

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? https://rexfactor.wordpress.com/english-monarchs/whos-who/stuarts/whos-who-charles-i/

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S1.41 James I (VI of Scotland) Dec 02, 2011

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?https://rexfactor.wordpress.com/english-monarchs/whos-who/stuarts/whos-who-james-i/

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S1.40 Elizabeth I Nov 14, 2011

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: https://rexfactor.wordpress.com/english-monarchs/whos-who/tudors/whos-who-elizabeth-i/

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S1.39 Mary I Oct 15, 2011

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: https://rexfactor.wordpress.com/english-monarchs/whos-who/tudors/whos-who-mary-i/

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S1.38 Edward VI Sep 26, 2011

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: https://rexfactor.wordpress.com/english-monarchs/whos-who/tudors/whos-who-edward-vi/

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S1.37 What Happened to Henry VIII? Sep 18, 2011

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.

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S1.36 Henry VIII Sep 08, 2011

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: https://rexfactor.wordpress.com/english-monarchs/whos-who/tudors/whos-who-henry-viii/

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S1.35 Henry VII Aug 10, 2011

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: https://rexfactor.wordpress.com/english-monarchs/whos-who/tudors/whos-who-henry-vii/

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S1.34 Richard III Jul 26, 2011

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: https://rexfactor.wordpress.com/english-monarchs/whos-who/yorkists/whos-who-richard-iii/

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S1.33 Edward V (Princes in the Tower) Jul 17, 2011

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/

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S1.32 Edward IV Jul 06, 2011

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/

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S1.31 Henry VI (Wars of the Roses) Jun 21, 2011

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.

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S1.30 Henry V Jun 08, 2011

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!

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S1.29 Henry IV May 20, 2011

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?

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S1.28 Richard II May 05, 2011

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.

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S1.27 Edward III Apr 28, 2011

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?

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S1.26 Edward II Apr 20, 2011

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?

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S1.25 Edward I Apr 12, 2011

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?

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S1.24 Henry III Apr 04, 2011

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?

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S1.23 John Mar 18, 2011

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?

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S1.22 Richard the Lionheart Mar 09, 2011

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?

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S1.21 Henry II Mar 02, 2011

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?

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S1.20 Stephen Feb 18, 2011

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?

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S1.19 Henry I Feb 03, 2011

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!

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S1.18 William Rufus Jan 25, 2011

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!

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S1.17 William the Conqueror Jan 20, 2011

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?

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S1.16 Harold II (1066) Dec 25, 2010

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!

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S1.15 Edward the Confessor Dec 23, 2010

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?

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S1.14 Harthacnut Dec 18, 2010

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?

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S1.13 Harold I Dec 12, 2010

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?

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S1.12 Cnut Dec 05, 2010

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!

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S1.11 Edmund Ironside Nov 29, 2010

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?

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S1.10 Aethelred the Unready Nov 22, 2010

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!

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S1.09 Edward the Martyr Nov 06, 2010

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!

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S1.08 Edgar the Peaceable Oct 24, 2010

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.

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S1.07 Eadwig Oct 18, 2010

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?

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S1.06 Eadred Oct 14, 2010

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?

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S1.05 Edmund I Sep 30, 2010

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!

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S1.04 Athelstan Sep 21, 2010

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?

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S1.03 Edward the Elder Aug 24, 2010

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...

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S1.02 Alfred the Great Aug 12, 2010

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?

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S1.01 Backgroundy Stuff Aug 12, 2010

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.

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