Britain's Bloodiest Dynasty

Watch Britain's Bloodiest Dynasty

  • 2015
  • 1 Season
  • 7.9  (421)

Britain's Bloodiest Dynasty is a gripping historical documentary series that premiered in 2014. It is available on Acorn TV and is hosted by Dan Jones, a renowned historian and author of numerous best-selling books on medieval England. The series tells the story of the Plantagenet dynasty, one of the most powerful and influential royal families in British history. The Plantagenets ruled England for more than three centuries, from the late 12th century until the mid-15th century, and their reigns were marked by some of the bloodiest and most tumultuous events in British history.

The series begins with an overview of the family's origins, tracing their roots back to the Norman invasion of England in 1066. We learn about the family's early successes and the various members who rose to power throughout the 12th and 13th centuries, including Henry II, his wife Eleanor of Aquitaine, and their son Richard the Lionheart.

However, the series primarily focuses on the later Plantagenet monarchs, including Edward II, Richard II, Henry IV, Henry V, and Richard III. These kings were some of the most controversial figures in English history, and their reigns were characterized by political instability, war, and intrigue.

Throughout the series, we learn about the various wars, rebellions, and political crises that marked the Plantagenet dynasty's rule. We see how the family's internal conflicts and rivalries often led to bloody battles and the deaths of numerous nobles and commoners alike. We also learn about the dynastic struggles that threatened to tear the family apart and the many royal marriages that were used as political tools to consolidate power and secure alliances.

One of the most interesting aspects of the series is its focus on the lesser-known members of the Plantagenet dynasty, including several illegitimate children and lesser-known nobles who played significant roles in the family's history. The series introduces viewers to figures like John of Gaunt, the third son of Edward III, who played a significant role in shaping the family's fortunes, and the infamous Roger Mortimer, who led a rebellion against Edward II and became one of the most feared men in England.

Throughout the series, Dan Jones is joined by two expert guides, Dragos Onisei and Cezar Grumazescu, who take viewers on a fascinating journey through the family's history. Onisei and Grumazescu are both scholars of medieval history and experts on the Plantagenet dynasty, and they provide valuable insights and analysis throughout the series.

Overall, Britain's Bloodiest Dynasty is a well-produced and engaging historical series that offers a fascinating glimpse into one of the most turbulent and violent periods in English history. The series is rich in detail and provides a nuanced and complex portrait of the Plantagenet dynasty, warts and all. For viewers interested in medieval history or British royal history, it is a must-watch.

Britain's Bloodiest Dynasty is a series that ran for 1 seasons (4 episodes) between June 15, 2015 and on Acorn TV

Britain's Bloodiest Dynasty
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Seasons
Tyranny
4. Tyranny
June 15, 2015
The story of the Plantagenets reaches its catastrophic climax under the most vicious of them all, the boy-king Richard II. A hero after he crushes the Peasants' Revolt, the 14-year-old ruler launches a reign of terror that threatens to bring down the whole dynasty.
Revenge
3. Revenge
June 15, 2015
Edward II's shortsighted obsessions lead to a life filled will political violence, bloodlust, and revenge-and, according to legend, to an infamously horrific death.
Rivalry
2. Rivalry
June 15, 2015
To Henry III, Simon de Montfort once seemed to be the savior of his kingdom, but enmity between the two men now spirals the country towards civil war.
Betrayal
1. Betrayal
June 15, 2015
Warrior, empire-builder, and founder of the dynasty, Henry II transforms England from a war zone into a superpower. But murder and betrayal by his own family puts in jeopardy everything he has achieved.
Description
Where to Watch Britain's Bloodiest Dynasty
Britain's Bloodiest Dynasty is available for streaming on the Acorn TV website, both individual episodes and full seasons. You can also watch Britain's Bloodiest Dynasty on demand at Amazon Prime, Amazon and Google Play.
  • Premiere Date
    June 15, 2015
  • IMDB Rating
    7.9  (421)