AGE OF VICTORIA PODCAST

By Chris Fernandez-Packham (Victorian History Lover/Queen Victoria Fan)

The Victorians were the first truly world wide, high speed, high tech civilisation, but they are often misunderstood. Your host, Chris Fernandez-Packham, will bust popular myths, cover events around t... more

· History

4.8

265265 ratings

Download on the App Store

Download on the App Store

Get it on Google Play

FAQs about AGE OF VICTORIA PODCAST:

How many episodes does AGE OF VICTORIA PODCAST have?

The podcast currently has 118 episodes available.

AGE OF VICTORIA PODCAST episodes:

February 01, 2025EP061 DON’T CARRY ON UP THE KHYBER
INDIA SERIES 08
Happy 2025, and welcome back! In this episode, we conclude our deep dive into the 1st Anglo-Afghan War with one of the most infamous military disasters of the Victorian era—the catastrophic retreat from Kabul in 1842. As British forces, led by the indecisive General Elphinstone, attempted to escape through the freezing Khyber Pass, they faced relentless Afghan attacks, starvation, and total collapse.
Episode Highlights:
The disastrous leadership of General Elphinstone and Sir William MacNaughten.
The brutal winter retreat and the suffering of British troops and civilians.
The last stand at Gandamak—courage, chaos, and ultimate defeat.
The survival of Dr. William Brydon and the myths surrounding the retreat.
How this catastrophe shaped Victorian imperial policies and perceptions of Afghanistan.
Key Takeaways:
Leadership failure can turn a bad situation into a total catastrophe.
The realities of empire-building were far bloodier and more chaotic than the myths suggest.
The First Anglo-Afghan War left a lasting legacy, shaping British military thinking for years to come.
Next Episode Teaser:
Stay tuned as we explore the British response to this defeat—because when an empire stumbles, it rarely stays down for long.
Host’s Note:
Thank you for your ongoing support! If you’re enjoying the series, please leave a review and consider joining our Patreon community.
The post EP061 DON’T CARRY ON UP THE KHYBER appeared first on AGE OF VICTORIA PODCAST.
...more
51min
December 23, 2024CHRISTMAS SPECIAL 2024 SANTA CLAUS IS COMING
Get ready for a holly-jolly dive into Christmas history! In this special episode, I unwrap how the Victorians shaped the modern holiday, turning it into a celebration of family, charity, and festive cheer. From Prince Albert’s Christmas trees to the rise of Santa Claus, discover the origins of the traditions we know and love today. Plus, enjoy a classic Victorian ghost story to complete the holiday magic!
Episode Highlights:
How the industrial revolution made Christmas possible.
The Victorian invention of “ancient traditions” (like Christmas cards).
The birth of Santa Claus and his merger with Father Christmas.
Victorian holiday pastimes: poems, ghost stories, and more.
A chilling Victorian ghost story to end the episode.
Key Takeaways:
Christmas, as we know it, is a product of Victorian modernization and commercialization.
Cultural evolution transformed Christmas into a global phenomenon of joy, family, and charity.
Traditions like Santa Claus, the Christmas tree, and holiday cards have complex and fascinating histories.
Stay tuned for more historical deep dives in the new year. Thank you for a wonderful season of learning and laughter!
Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to all our listeners! Thank you for your support through a challenging year. We’re excited to bring you even more content in 2025. Cheers to the journey ahead!
The post CHRISTMAS SPECIAL 2024 SANTA CLAUS IS COMING appeared first on AGE OF VICTORIA PODCAST.
...more
1h 3min
December 11, 2024EP060 Agent Down! Catastrophe in Kabul
INDIA SERIES 07
Episode Summary:
In this dramatic episode, we unpack the chain of events that led to the catastrophic unraveling of British occupation in Kabul during the First Anglo-Afghan War. From strategic blunders to leadership failures, General Elphinstone’s indecision turns a precarious situation into full-scale disaster. Listen to the cautionary tale of how poor planning, arrogance, and hubris can unravel even the mightiest empires.
Highlights:
Flawed Occupation Strategy: Mismanagement of finances and diplomacy stoked rebellion.
The Fall of “Agent 00Burnes”: The assassination of Alexander Burnes ignited unrest among Kabul’s population.
Indecision in Command: General Elphinstone’s hesitations worsened an already dire situation.
Military Blunders: Failed offensives, logistical failures, and poor morale among British troops.
Historical Parallels: Comparing the First Anglo-Afghan War to modern conflicts in the region.
Key Takeaways:
Effective leadership is critical in crisis management.
Misunderstanding local dynamics and culture can have disastrous consequences.
Historical lessons from imperial conflicts remain relevant today.
Next Episode Teaser:
In our next installment, we follow MacNaughten’s ill-fated attempts to negotiate a resolution and the devastating aftermath of his decisions.
Host’s Note:
Thank you for your patience as I navigate some personal and health challenges. Regular episodes will resume next year with exciting content and bonus shows. Your support means the world—cheers to the journey ahead!
The post EP060 Agent Down! Catastrophe in Kabul appeared first on AGE OF VICTORIA PODCAST.
...more
34min
September 01, 2024EP059 INDIA SERIES 06 THE QUAGMIRE OF OCCUPATION
INDIA SERIES 06
This episode continues the exploration of the Anglo-Afghan War, focusing on the British occupation and the deteriorating situation in Afghanistan. Key topics covered include:
Death of Sir Henry Durand: The episode begins by discussing the tragic death of Lt. Henry Durand, a prominent British officer, who was crushed by an elephant while passing through a low gateway.
The British Army: The episode provides a brief overview of the ranks of the British Army during the Victorian era.
The attempted return of Dost Mohammed: Dost Mohammed, the former Afghan king, returns to Afghanistan and begins to gather forces to challenge British rule.
British Mistakes: The episode highlights several critical mistakes made by the British, including the establishment of a vulnerable cantonment and the appointment of an incompetent commander.
Ruling by Fear and Western Views on Oriental Despotism: The episode discusses the British belief in the need to rule through fear and intimidation in Asian countries, reflecting Western views on “Oriental despotism.” This approach proved to be counterproductive and further alienated the Afghan population.
General Elphinstone: The episode highlights the incompetence and poor leadership of General Elphinstone, who was appointed to command the British forces in Afghanistan despite his lack of experience and health problems.
Growing Hostility: The Afghan population becomes increasingly hostile towards the British, fuelled by cultural clashes, economic hardship, and the perception of British arrogance.

If you want to get in touch, I’d love to hear from you. You can email me at [email protected], follow me on twitter @ageofvictoria, visit the website at www.ageofvictoriapodcast.com. The show also has a facebook page and group. Just search for Age of Victoria. Don’t forget to leave a review on Apple Podcasts, it takes less time than making a coffee. You can also subscribe for free on most major podcast apps. To support the show on Patreon, either CLICK HERE or you can go to Patreon and search for Age of Victoria podcast or my name. Take care and bye for now.

The post EP059 INDIA SERIES 06 THE QUAGMIRE OF OCCUPATION appeared first on AGE OF VICTORIA PODCAST.
...more
40min
August 01, 2024EP058 ONCE MORE UNTO THE BREACH DEAR FRIENDS
INDIA SERIES 05
This episode focuses on the continuation of the British invasion of Afghanistan in 1839. Here are the key things I cover:
British capture Kandahar: The poorly prepared British army, led by Generals Keane and Cotton, struggles through deserts and mountains but manages to capture Kandahar with little resistance. Shah Shuja is reinstated as king, but the locals are not enthusiastic.
Difficulties and discontent: The British underestimate the logistical challenges and the hostility of the Afghan people. Food shortages, inflation, and a lack of military intelligence create problems for the British.
Siege of Ghazni: The heavily fortified city of Ghazni stands in the way of the British advance. Despite lacking siege equipment, the British launch a desperate night attack led by Lieutenant Durand and his engineers. After a fierce battle, the British capture the city following a bloody urban warfare.
British brutality: The capture of Ghazni is marred by a brutal rampage by British and Sepoy troops who loot the city and commit rape and murder.
Fall of Dost Mohammed: The fall of Ghazni and illness of his son force Afghan king Dost Mohammed to flee Kabul and negotiate with the British. He proposes a power-sharing deal that is rejected by the British.
Arrival of Shah Shuja: Shah Shuja returns to Kabul as king, but has no real support from the Afghan people. The British establish a military presence in the city.
British incompetence: The episode concludes by highlighting the poor leadership and outdated tactics of the British army.
Next episode: The upcoming episode will delve into the disastrous failures of the British occupation and their eventual retreat from Afghanistan.
The post EP058 ONCE MORE UNTO THE BREACH DEAR FRIENDS appeared first on AGE OF VICTORIA PODCAST.
...more
37min
July 01, 2024EP057 FORWARD MARCH TO THE PASS
Welcome to the podcast! I’m recording this episode while dealing with selling my house and going through a divorce. The podcast is a great escape for me during these difficult times.
Quick housekeeping:
I’m pleased to welcome new patron Matt Anderson as a Loveable Chimney Sweep. Update on transcripts: I’ve been working on fully footnoted transcripts back to episode 32. Apple Podcasts now automatically produces transcripts for all episodes, which is great for accessibility. Today we’re continuing our series on the invasion of Afghanistan. If you haven’t listened to episodes 054-056 yet, start there first.
Prelude to the invasion:
The First Anglo-Afghan War is remembered as a great military disaster and a masterclass in bad political decision-making. I discuss how this war doesn’t fit neatly into typical frameworks like colonialism or imperialism. The British goal was to install a friendly king as a buffer, not to rule directly.
Different world views
I explore the concept of Orientalism and how it applied to British views of Afghanistan at the time. We look at quotes from British envoys and compare them to Roman descriptions of Germanic tribes, noting similarities in how “frontier” peoples were viewed. I discuss the Afghan perspective and capabilities, including their use of the jezail rifle.
The key British players introduced:
Lord Auckland (Governor General)
Sir William Macnaughten (Secretary to Governor General)
Alexander Burnes (British agent)
Sir John Keane and Sir Willaby Cotton (Generals leading the invasion force)
Professionals talk logistics
I detail the enormous logistical challenges of planning the invasion, including assembling troops, supplies, and animals. The invasion force had to take a longer desert route instead of the Khyber Pass, covering over 1,200km on foot.
Hunger and missed opportunities
The army starts to starve, and has to force the grim Bolan pass
Next episode:
We’ll follow the army as it pushes deeper into Afghanistan and attempts to put Shah Shuja on the throne.

If you want to get in touch, I’d love to hear from you.
You can email me at [email protected],
follow me on twitter @ageofvictoria,
visit the website at www.ageofvictoriapodcast.com.
The show also has a facebook page and group. Just search for Age of Victoria. Don’t forget to leave a review on Apple Podcasts, it takes less time than making a coffee. You can also subscribe for free on most major podcast apps. To support the show on Patreon, either CLICK HERE or you can go to Patreon and search for Age of Victoria podcast or my name. Take care and bye for now.

The post EP057 FORWARD MARCH TO THE PASS appeared first on AGE OF VICTORIA PODCAST.
...more
51min
May 31, 20247TH ANNIVERSARY SPECIAL “SURELY HOLMES?”
Introduction:
Welcome, everyone, to The Age of Victoria Podcast!
Today marks a special milestone – our 7th anniversary!
I’m incredibly grateful for your continued support and enthusiasm over the years.
In this celebratory episode, we’re diving into a fascinating topic: the reality of Sherlock Holmes, despite his fictional origins.
We’ll also explore the core of Holmes’ character and finish off with my top 5 Sherlock Holmes movies and TV series.
Segment 1: Is Sherlock Holmes Real?
Discussing the intriguing philosophical question: Can a fictional character be considered real?
Exploring the concept of “literary realism” and how Sherlock Holmes has transcended fiction to become a cultural icon.
Segment 2: The Core of Sherlock Holmes’ Character
Analyzing the essential traits that make Sherlock Holmes an enduring character:
His unparalleled intellect and powers of observation.
The importance of his friendship with Dr. John Watson.
Holmes’ unique personality quirks and eccentricities.
The moral and ethical dimensions of his detective work.
Discussing how Sir Arthur Conan Doyle developed Holmes’ character through the stories.
The evolution of Holmes over time and his adaptability to different eras and media.
Segment 3: My Top 5 Sherlock Holmes Movies and TV Series
Sharing my personal favorites and why they stand out:
Jeremy Brett (The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes, 1984-1994 Granada TV Series) – Featuring the iconic and definitive portrayal of Holmes.
Peter Cushing (Various adaptations, including Hammer Films and BBC series) – Known for his intense and meticulous interpretation of the character.
Robert Downey Jr. (Sherlock Holmes, 2009 Film) – Directed by Guy Ritchie, showcasing a dynamic and action-packed Holmes.
Ian Richardson (The Sign of Four, 1983 & The Hound of the Baskervilles, 1983 TV Films) – Bringing a classic and sophisticated portrayal to the small screen.
Tom Baker (The Hound of the Baskervilles, 1982 BBC TV Film) – Offering a unique and memorable take on Holmes, distinct from his Doctor Who fame.
Discussing the strengths and unique interpretations of each adaptation.
Encouraging listeners to share their favorite Holmes adaptations and why they love them.
Closing:
Wrapping up with a heartfelt thank you to all the listeners who have supported the podcast over the past seven years.
Inviting feedback and suggestions for future episodes.
Reminding everyone to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast.
Outro:
Thank you for joining me on this special 7th anniversary episode of The Age of Victoria Podcast.
Remember to stay curious and keep exploring the fascinating world of the Victorian era.
Until next time, take care and keep the spirit of adventure alive!
If you want to get in touch, I’d love to hear from you. You can email me at [email protected], follow me on twitter @ageofvictoria, visit the website at www.ageofvictoriapodcast.com. The show also has a facebook page and group. Just search for Age of Victoria. Don’t forget to leave a review on Apple Podcasts, it takes less time than making a coffee. You can also subscribe for free on most major podcast apps. To support the show on Patreon, either CLICK HERE or you can go to Patreon and search for Age of Victoria podcast or my name. Take care and bye for now.
The post 7TH ANNIVERSARY SPECIAL “SURELY HOLMES?” appeared first on AGE OF VICTORIA PODCAST.
...more
40min
March 30, 2024EP056 INDIA SERIES 03 THE AFGHAN FRONTIER
SHOWNOTES:
EP056 INDIA SERIES 03 THE AFGHAN FRONTIER
Introduction
I discuss enjoying Easter treats like nut-free eggs and binge-watching Shogun.
Shout out to Two Broads Cider on the west coast of the U.S.
Note about using some AI voice clips in the previous episode
Welcome to new Patreon supporter Sean Spada
Main Topic: The Borders of Victorian India and Afghanistan
Victorian Views on Borders/Imperialism
Importance of defined borders to nation-states vs. historical blended territories
Empires tended to use geographic features like rivers/mountains as borders
Motivations for expanding empire borders: security, resources, preventing rival expansion
Debate around British motivations – security concern vs. aggression
Geography of Afghanistan
Overview of Afghanistan’s mountainous terrain and extreme climate variations
Significance of the Hindu Kush mountain range and Khyber Pass
Historical importance as a crossroads along Silk Road trade routes
Challenges the terrain posed for military movement/supply lines
Main topic: Afghan culture
Predominantly Muslim, but rich cultural diversity beyond Taliban stereotypes
Alignment between conservative Victorian and Muslim values in some areas
Debate around female dress codes and varying interpretations
Primacy of tribal/kinship affiliations over national identity
Ethnic groups like Pushtuns and history of conflicts with groups like Sikhs
Afghan Border Security Concerns for Britain
Main topic: Preventing Russian expansion from Central Asia into India
Recent history of Afghan rulers invading India (Mughals)
Unease over Russian/French intrigues to court Afghan allies against Britain
Main topic: The Adventures of Sir Alexander Burnes
Early life and join the East India Company’s military
Daring diplomatic missions mapping rivers and intelligence gathering
Writing bestseller “Travels into Bokhara” about his experiences
Main topic: Burnes’ Afghan Mission (1836-1838)
Dispatched to Kabul to monitor Russian influence
Built relationships with Afghan leaders like Dost Mohammad Khan
Recommended installing Shah Shuja as British-friendly ruler
Laid groundwork for the disastrous First Anglo-Afghan War
Views dismissed by Sir William Macnaghten in favor of war hawks
Main topic: British Decision to Invade Afghanistan
Fears over Dost Mohammad allying with Russia/Persia against Britain
Failure to reach terms protecting British interests
Plan to depose Dost and reinstate former ruler Shah Shuja
Overconfident manifesto expecting quick regime change
Inability to concede to Dost’s demands over Peshawar and Sikh rivalry
Declaration of War!
If you want to get in touch, I’d love to hear from you. You can email me at [email protected], follow me on twitter @ageofvictoria, visit the website at www.ageofvictoriapodcast.com. The show also has a facebook page and group. Just search for Age of Victoria. Don’t forget to leave a review on Apple Podcasts, it takes less time than making a coffee. You can also subscribe for free on most major podcast apps. To support the show on Patreon, either CLICK HERE or you can go to Patreon and search for Age of Victoria podcast or my name. Take care and bye for now.

The post EP056 INDIA SERIES 03 THE AFGHAN FRONTIER appeared first on AGE OF VICTORIA PODCAST.
...more
1h
February 26, 2024EP055 INDIA SERIES 02 THE ORIGINAL CORPORATE RAIDERS
INDIA SERIES 02
In today’s episode, I’m taking you on a journey back in time to explore the Honourable East India Company (EIC), focusing on its monumental role during the Victorian era. We’ll dive deep into its interactions with the Mughal Empire, its profound influence on art, the Maratha Wars, and the governance under Governor Hastings. Join me as we uncover the legacy of what was once the world’s most powerful corporation and its foundational impact on the British Empire in India.
Introduction
I start with a brief overview of the EIC’s origins and its meteoric rise to power, setting the stage for a saga of commerce, conquest, and culture.
I reflect on the company’s unique status as a corporate behemoth wielding the might of a sovereign nation.
The Victorian Era and the EIC
I delve into how the EIC evolved during the Victorian era, influencing and being influenced by British colonial policies in India.
I share thoughts on Victorian society’s fascination with India, from tea to textiles, and how this shaped British culture and perceptions.
Art and the East India Company
Art holds a mirror to history, and in this segment, I explore the EIC’s impact on art in Britain and India.
I discuss the patronage of Indian artisans by the company and the introduction of Indian aesthetics to the British isles.
Highlighting notable artists and works, I reveal stories of cultural fusion that still resonate today.
The EIC and the Mughal Empire
The declining Mughal Empire presented both an opportunity and a challenge for the EIC. I recount how the company navigated this complex relationship to expand its territories.
Key battles and treaties illustrate the delicate dance of diplomacy and warfare.
The Maratha Wars
The Maratha Wars were a turning point for the EIC. I share insights into the military engagements that reshaped the Indian subcontinent’s power dynamics.
The outcomes and strategies of these conflicts offer lessons in resilience and strategy.
Governor Hastings
Warren Hastings, the first Governor-General of India, is a figure of controversy and reform. I take a closer look at his tenure, exploring his reforms, the controversies he was embroiled in, and his contributions to the EIC’s dominion in India.
Reflecting on Hastings’ legacy, I ponder the complexities of governance and morality in the context of empire.
Conclusion
I wrap up by considering the enduring impact of the EIC on both India and Britain, contemplating the historical lessons we can draw from this extraordinary chapter in global history.
If you want to get in touch, I’d love to hear from you. You can email me at [email protected], follow me on twitter @ageofvictoria, visit the website at www.ageofvictoriapodcast.com. The show also has a facebook page and group. Just search for Age of Victoria. Don’t forget to leave a review on Apple Podcasts, it takes less time than making a coffee. You can also subscribe for free on most major podcast apps. To support the show on Patreon, either CLICK HERE or you can go to Patreon and search for Age of Victoria podcast or my name. Take care and bye for now.
The post EP055 INDIA SERIES 02 THE ORIGINAL CORPORATE RAIDERS appeared first on AGE OF VICTORIA PODCAST.
...more
1h 14min
December 23, 2023 CHRISTMAS SPECIAL 2023 “The phantom rickshaw”
In this year’s festive episode, dive into the enchanting world of Victorian curiosities and captivating storytelling.
First, join me for a mesmerising 10-minute journey through intriguing Victorian trivia, unraveling captivating tales from an era of innovation and eccentricity. From lesser-known facts to enthralling historical anecdotes, this brief exploration sheds light on the unique essence of the Victorian age. Discover the astonishing details behind events like the Sonning cutting railway disaster, providing a glimpse into the quirks and tragedies of the time.
Following this insightful introduction, the episode unfolds into a spellbinding narrative as I take listeners on a literary adventure. Prepare to be transported to the ethereal realm of Rudyard Kipling’s “The Phantom Rickshaw.” Through my evocative reading, experience the haunting and gripping tale set against the backdrop of colonial India, where love, tragedy, and the supernatural intertwine in a captivating narrative.
I invite you to immerse yourself in the essence of the Victorian era, uncovering its mysteries and indulging in the timeless allure of storytelling.
Join me for a delightful holiday treat as to celebrate the spirit of Christmas in the grandeur of Victorian storytelling, painting vivid landscapes and evoking emotions that transcend time.
If you want to get in touch, I’d love to hear from you. You can email me at [email protected], follow me on twitter @ageofvictoria, visit the website at www.ageofvictoriapodcast.com. The show also has a facebook page and group. Just search for Age of Victoria. Don’t forget to leave a review on Apple Podcasts, it takes less time than making a coffee. You can also subscribe for free on most major podcast apps. To support the show on Patreon, either CLICK HERE or you can go to Patreon and search for Age of Victoria podcast or my name. Take care and bye for now.
The post CHRISTMAS SPECIAL 2023 “The phantom rickshaw” appeared first on AGE OF VICTORIA PODCAST.
...more
1h 11min

FAQs about AGE OF VICTORIA PODCAST:

How many episodes does AGE OF VICTORIA PODCAST have?

The podcast currently has 118 episodes available.

More shows like AGE OF VICTORIA PODCAST

In Our Time by BBC Radio 4

In Our Time

5,530 Listeners

HistoryExtra podcast by Immediate

HistoryExtra podcast

3,215 Listeners

The British History Podcast by Jamie Jeffers

The British History Podcast

5,385 Listeners

The History of England by David Crowther

The History of England

4,399 Listeners

The Ancient World by Scott C.

The Ancient World

1,873 Listeners

Dan Snow's History Hit by History Hit

Dan Snow's History Hit

4,764 Listeners

The English Heritage Podcast by English Heritage

The English Heritage Podcast

223 Listeners

The Age of Napoleon Podcast by Everett Rummage

The Age of Napoleon Podcast

2,076 Listeners

Tudors Dynasty & Beyond by RedTop Media / Rebecca Larson

Tudors Dynasty & Beyond

752 Listeners

Talking Tudors by Natalie Grueninger

Talking Tudors

743 Listeners

The Ancients by History Hit

The Ancients

3,381 Listeners

Gone Medieval by History Hit

Gone Medieval

1,898 Listeners

Not Just the Tudors by History Hit

Not Just the Tudors

2,039 Listeners

Betwixt The Sheets: The History of Sex, Scandal & Society by History Hit

Betwixt The Sheets: The History of Sex, Scandal & Society

1,397 Listeners

After Dark: Myths, Misdeeds & the Paranormal by History Hit

After Dark: Myths, Misdeeds & the Paranormal

1,134 Listeners