Watch Britain's Bloodiest Dynasty

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 and on Acorn TV