My favorite Hawkwood anecdote is his interaction with a passing monk who wished Hawkwood peace. Hawkwood’s reply was “may God take away your alms” when the monk asked why he would wish him destitute Hawkwood replied “do you not know that I am a man of war, and peace would ruin me”
Honestly, peace never stopped Hawkwood from carving out a living. I've read William Caferro's "John Hawkwood: An English Mercenary in Fourteenth-Century Italy", and will share one of my favorite stories. He took his company raiding into Tuscany because the Pope had stiffed him the fee they'd agreed upon. Hawkwood told emissaries from the terrirory that he'd only leave when they paid him. He extorted 130,000 Florins, with a value of approximately $60 million today. It boggles my mind that nobody has made a movie or tv series about Hawkwood...he's one of the most interesting men of the early Renaissance. Kevin didn't share this detail, but it was the King of England himself who requested Hawkwood's body be returned to England. The fresco that Kevin put up on screen at 15:32 marks his official tomb in The Duomo in Florence. He fact that he was honored with a tomb in the Duomo shouldn't be taken lightly - even Dante, Italy's greatest poet (and from Florence) wasn't given that honor.
History is written by the victor watch , Europa the last battle , listen to Barbara Learner Spectre, read Churchill's " Zionism vs bolshevism " and Henry Fords " The international Jew " the USS Liberty research IsraAid we have been lied to for a long time research everything.
A little addendum if I may. He was called Giovanni Acuto in Italy at the time. Now, as you correctly pointed out, Giovanni and John are the same name in these two languages. Acuto means "Sharp" in English, but it's also pronounced kinda like the surname Hawkwood. Probably he introduced himself as "John Hawkwood" and, because very few people at the time knew english, then he became widely known as Acuto by word of mouth. It's kinda fitting that, almost as in English, "Acuto" in Italian also means a cunning, smart person. Anyway, great video and great channel.
I'm glad you decided to do a video about one of the great characters of the Hundred Years War. He certainly shows the potential there was for social mobility in the 14th Century. I first heard of the White Company by reading Conan Doyle's book of the same name in the early 1960's. Sadly it is not about Hawkwood, but a mercenary company which goes to Spain with the Black Prince and fights at the Battle of Najera. Do you think that the choice of the pilgrim's shell as his device was an heraldic joke about his journey to Italy? Thanks Kevin.
@@thehistorysquad Hey, I really enjoy your videos. But as I been looking through them the same little problem persists. You have sound way way too low. When watch your video, and as always, use my head set - I will have to crank up the sound all the way to 90-100%. But you should be able to hear equally well the sound of a video, even thought the voice was set only 10-15% tops 20%. This tends to result to really painful experience instantly with the next video from somewhere else, because no-one but no-one listens to their computer at 100% using their head set. And extremely few people will actually not use a head set, because it disturbs rest of the household if you are doing something that keeps noise on your computer. I have two other family members who all use their computers at the same time in the same room - our flat is small. (We don't watch TV at all, there is nothing worth seeing on it.) So basically from anything that makes noise in entertainment from gaming and videos to movies and music - anything one wants to enjoy, it is only polite of us towards each other to use our head sets. That way everyone can do what ever they please without being disturbed and having their focus lost cause of some unnecessary other noise. For example, for me writing little stories for my own fun is exceptionally pleasing and fun pass time - but I could not write a single sentence hearing someone else talking at the same time from another persons computer. It is impossible to literally hear oneself thinking, when there is other background noise. And while that is a private matter per say, the fact that most people listen and watch videos ONLY using a head set - is not. And that is for what video there for should and must be adjusted for while editing it. I notice that your older videos are even more silent, so it is better in these new ones. But it seems like only different in being more clear sounding due a better mic likely - but not because the rendered volume of the video is set high enough. Like said, using a head set, the video should be heard as clearly at 15% as your videos are hard only at 90-100% volume settings. And that is editing matter. I am not a pro in sound so I don't remember how you fix this, but someone can mayhap help. Pls. try to figure it out. Your videos are really nice, but I could almost bet that some people would skip them simply because it does not sound loud enough in usual settings. I just happen to like medieval stuff a lot so I bother to crank it up - only then to forget that it's set high and when I watch or do something else that involves sound - at risk of repeating myself (lol) I will have a bit of a shock. This head set of mine literally vibrates for immersion in gaming, for certain sounds - so forgetting that you set your volume to full is really a bit uncomfortable experience after wards. Talk about special effects explosion right in your ears like standing next to a firing cannon. Kindly please, try to fix it, as I really like your videos.
@@lyrigageforge3259 Hi there. I'm sorry to hear you've been experiencing difficulty with the sound. As you've noticed, we have made improvements to our studio which has helped with the reverb and makes for a clearer sound, and in addition we have increased the volume within our editing. Today we tested the sound on the Hawkwood video using two different sets of headphones (one wired and one bluetooth) and two different devices (laptop & mobile phone). In both cases the sound was fine, we didn't have to crank it up at all. As far as I'm aware, there are three possible volume settings that can be adjusted. 1. TH-cam volume on the video (ours is always set to maximum) 2. Volume on device (ours was set to 1 setting above the middle on both devices 3. Volume on headphones (ours was set to mid on both sets) We have the capacity to increase the volume in editing by a little more, and will consider this, but I don't think, if you really have to crank up the sound it will be much of an improvement for you. All the best, Kevin & Julie
I've definitely adopted a new adage from you Kevin. Take it on the toes. I've worked with several Brits, an Irishman, a Scot, Canadians, Jamacans, heck, folks from all over the British Isles and Commonwealth(I'm in Washington, D.C.) But I had never heard this one. Take it on the toes........ I love it!!!
7:13 fun fact: in italian hawkwood sounds a lot like acuto, the name that the italians gave him. Probably in the writing they tried to write it down in italian and this was the result
A fascinating period.There's an excellent series of four books tied in with Hawkwood,Chaucer,routiers,Italian mercenary armies and the combat techniques of Fiore dei Liberi written by the historical novelist Christian Cameron starting with 'The Ill-Made Knight',superb series and well worth reading.
I always loved learning about Condottieri such as Hawkwood, I owe my Masters to him and Italy as a whole. But It's unfortunate that I don't see many videos on the man himself, good luck TH-cam has you guys to save people like me! Great vid as always, stay classy!
I love how we still tell the stories of people like John Hawkwood and William Marshal. People whose stories are so amazing and fantastic that we still tell them with reverence nearly a thousand years after their death. It often makes me wonder whose stories will be told and remembered a thousand years from now. Often the deeds of our best and bravest soldiers are classified. Will their stories somehow break through the all that red tape and classification and trickle down through the centuries to be told by future historians?
There’s a road, Hawkwood Road, and a rather nice house, Hawkwood Manor, named after him in Sible Hedingham, Essex and, of course, the DeVere’s Hedingham Castle is just a short way away in Castle Hedingham. Worth a visit, Hedingham Castle is very beautiful.
Great narration, like always! The story of John Hawkwood reminds of a dialogue in "Game of Thrones" between Prince Oberyn Martell and Bronn. Martell: "And who are you? His hired killer?" Bronn: "Aye, i started that way. But now i´m a knight." Martell: "And how did that come to pass?" Bronn: "Killed the right people, i suppose." Could you do a video about the year 1066? The outcome of the 2 battles should make you as a bowman proud.
The Marine Co. I was in had a First Lieutenant that started out as a Private. He treated ALL the lower ranks with respect but had a firm hand for doing ones duty. He was one of the most respected lower ranking Officers I ever encountered.
My grandfather served as a private throughout WW1. Three older brothers were killed. He'd have refused promotion to avoid being targeted by snipers. After WW1, became a policeman, rose to Deputy Chief Constable. Re-enlisted in WW2 as Military Policeman Lieutenant Colonel. A few days after D-Day, into France to reestablish civil authority
Fantastic video once again Kevin! Absolutely LOVE it when u tell us tales of medieval Englishmen like the fascinating John Hawkwood as there are very few videos of this kind knocking about on YT. Brilliant stuff.
Good video, Kevin! Interestingly, there was a Renaissance festival near Fort Worth, where I live, back in the 90s called Hawkwood. Actually it was billed as a fantasy fair, but it had all of the same things as a typical Renaissance festival plus a little bit more. I preferred it to Scarborough Fair, the other nearby festival. Sadly, it only lasted about 4 years. I don't know if they had this Sir Hawkwood in mind when they named it, but it wouldn't surprise me.
Another great model, great detail too. They're great Please keep these historical stories coming. Kevin, you make history fun and interesting. Not at all boring like i remember it at school 🎉😂
Hi Kevin, This story really hit home for me. I turn 70 this year and the thought of having to carry all the weapons and equipment at my age fills me with dread and wonder. I'd like to think he rests in Essex. Well done as usual. A loyal follower, Lee
Great stuff Hawkwood has a understanding of combined arms tactics! It shows that he had all the qualities of the leader and officers could do better than read and use him as a model of leadership Well done Kevin (Hakwood was a "hero of mine since I read the White company many years ago)
A fascinating look at this man's career, from his humble beginnings as a bowman to his final amassing of rank and wealth. Very enjoyable, and, as always, very informative!
I remember reading in Barbara Tuchmann"s excellent book, A distant Mirror that Hawkwood was beheaded in Italy and had his personal physician mark axe's target.
Good story on a battle hardened warrior. Those dioramas are so realistic ,your whole presentation creates the atmosphere and magnificent efforts on your period costume selections.
Another wonderful video, and the grim story of the massacre at Cesena is a reminder of how brutal we can be to each other given the right (or wrong) circumstances.
Hmmm, I didn't get a push up/notification that's a new video is available.... Anyway, what a AMAZING & INCREDIBLE & HISTORICAL story. Listening to your voice is extremely relaxing, THX YOU Kevin!!!
Thanks again! I'm sorry you didn't get the notification, I understand from other subscribers this is sometimes a problem with TH-cam. You'll usually find a new video every Friday. Thanks for watching 👍🏻
Love your content. After learning Henry lll is my 25th Great Grandfather, I've been super interested in this era. Loved this period in History since I was a kid and now I know why lol Cheers!!!
Not really as the free companies were all professional soldiers, whereas I understand the Wagner group is made up with civilians or prisoners who are then trained up.
ahhh!!!! what a cliff hanger.... I wonder if he attacks or leaves? I hope you finish the tale before the end of the video.... ahhh well...regardless great story telling as always good sir!
Thank you Sir. I enjoyed your video lecture and presentation immensely. Hawkwood was more than a humble Bowman but a great Captain General of a free company that were a true band of brothers. His exploits are a true testament to both his courage and cunning. What a tale! It brings joy to an elderly gentleman heart. Kudos Sir. I await your future video on bated breath.👊👍
Very interesting - thank you for the video. The name of Sir John Hawkwood is a dim memory in my mind, but my family left England in 1956, when I was 7. My next encounter with the name was when I started reading the science-fiction books by the Canadian writer Gordon R. Dickson. The books are known collectively as "the Dorsai Series" or as the "Childe Cycle." Hawkwood is a recurring military character in the series. I am happy to now know something about the real person who may have been the model for Dickson's character.
Greetings once again from nova Scotia, thank you for another great video, top shelf as always. I gather this was an exceptional soldier, with such a long line of great bowman, standing out whould have been quite something,what a soldier.........Thanks again, be safe and as always best regards, Arthur
What a great video, I'm glad I stumbled onto your channel. Hawkwood is a character who's done so much you could make several full documentaries about him. One favorite story of mine is what I read in Frances Stonor Saunders book "The Devil's Broker" Not only did he hobnob with Popes, but was good friends with the future saint Cathrine Of Siena.
Great stuff, so am I, thanks Jen. Oh boy, lucky you heading off to Florence. Be sure to check out the Stibbert Museum (stunning collections) and the Medici chapel where you'll see the famous relief of Hawkwood. Have a great trip 👍🏻
Great job on this one. But may I make a suggestion? I’ve looked around for content on Sir John, that is more holistic in nature. I find myself interested in wanting to learn every bit of detail about his story, and the events in which he took part. If you’re up for it, a long format video by you regarding the life of Sir John, is sure to be fantastic. For one, it would be unique, as a long form piece about the man, as I cannot find anything TH-cam wise like that. And for two I’d venture a guess that there’s many armchair history nerds like me out here, who’d eat it up. Thanks again for your videos. They are fantastic.
Cheers James, I know where you're coming from and do love the idea, but I'm not sure I have the time to commit to a long form video on Hawkwood, fascinating though he is. I will add it to my list though 👍🏻
Love visiting Hedingham Castle (held by the Earls of Oxford) and noticed that Hawkwood Manor is in the village of Castle Hedingham the last time we were there. Hawkwood is a major character in Christian Cameron's William Gold books (Chivalry series)
Hi Kevin, Thank You again for that Story from the hundred years war. I read a Book Series from David Gilman. In German „Legenden des Krieges“ with a Hero - Bowman Thomas Blackstone , became Knight because of saving the so called „Black Prince“ Later on he fought in Italy and Spain. A hard Man in a harsh Time. Hawkwoods Live sounds quite similar to me.
Outstanding, Kevin! Yet another top-notch film which educates and entertains beautifully. Kudos, exhortations and greetings from Essex County, Ontario.
Awesome film kev! I've always been quite interesting about him but never found much detail about his life. As you said this is just a primer really, but I for one appreciate it
I’ve read a little bit on the campaigns of Hawkwood and this was another great dive. I always appreciate how you look at history and people from history, some of Hawkwood’s stories are inspiring, others are contemptuous but there’s no light with dark and vise versa. Incidentally I’m also reminded of another gang that roaming around about the same time; think you’ll do a film on the infamous Folvilles?
A highly informative talk as always Kevin - many thanks.👍 One learns a great deal from your presentations, chiefly because of the way you so expressively tell the tales. It brings the events vividly to live, ably assisted by your splendid models - well done sir! I love your Hawkwood coat of arms tabard - your attention to detail is excellent. I have to say that I had little knowledge of John Hawkwood before viewing the video. My word, what a clever and resourceful man - as you say, as cunning as a fox! 🦊
How you keep finding all these amazing tales from our countrys history and all these fascinating characters you really being them back to life flawless work as always Kev diolch (thanks)🏴🇬🇧
Speaking of interesting characters of the 100 Years War period, I would like to suggest a video on Pero Niño, who was a Castillian knight and corsair from the 14th-15th century which exploits included conducting raids and piracy on North Africa, and more relevantly, raids on english territory and piracy on the English Channel, which gives us some pretty interesting accounts on how those things happened and and of the english defending themselves from his raids.
@@thehistorysquad I dont remember if he ever engaged in slavery, but I think that he at least got to capture some people for ransoming. He has a biography called El Victorial writen by his standard bearer which is where the accounts from his campaign comes from. I would guess that most of the more academic books on his accounts are writen in spanish, but there is at least one translation of his biography in english called The Unconquered Knight: A Chronicle of the Deeds of Don Pero Niño that I belive to be publicly avaliable online by YorkU, which is how I got to read it after hearing about his raids in one endless debates of armor vs arrows and doing some googling.
Delightful as usual, though I understand this guy I never heard of before gave us French a hard time (another one !)... Indeed Kevin, you are an outstanding storyteller, you could even captivate us only by reading the instruction manual of a fridge ! I also love, I already said it, but I'll say it once more, your so typical accent, it really adds a lot. There is so much globish here on TH-cam that I'm glad to hear somebody speaking a real english, the language I learned and heard in Old Blighty when I was younger, and not the awful thing some people still dare to call english... By the way Kevin, speaking of great warriors of the Hundred Years war, how about Bertrand du Guesclin or even Joan of Arc ? I know, be defeated by a 18 years virgin is something humiliating, but her story is quite fabulous, believe me !
Cheers Laurent! Joan of Arc is definitely on my list and I might do something on Bertrand one day too. Said to be the ugliest man in France at the time apparently 😜
@@thehistorysquad True. It was said he was really ugly, and as if it wasn't enough, dark-skinned and short (less than 1,5 metre), though his recumbent effigy in the Saint Denis basilica, the necropolis of the French monarchy, gave him a little bit more pleasant face. Anyway it doesn't matter as, like you said before, what a soldier !
![Battle of Homildon Hill | Hundred Years War [Episode 11]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/deKBT4b2KUI/mqdefault.jpg)
![Battle of Homildon Hill | Hundred Years War [Episode 11]](/img/tr.png)
My favorite Hawkwood anecdote is his interaction with a passing monk who wished Hawkwood peace. Hawkwood’s reply was “may God take away your alms” when the monk asked why he would wish him destitute Hawkwood replied “do you not know that I am a man of war, and peace would ruin me”
😂 yes, I know that one and it is brilliant.
Fucking giga Chad
Honestly, peace never stopped Hawkwood from carving out a living. I've read William Caferro's "John Hawkwood: An English Mercenary in Fourteenth-Century Italy", and will share one of my favorite stories.
He took his company raiding into Tuscany because the Pope had stiffed him the fee they'd agreed upon. Hawkwood told emissaries from the terrirory that he'd only leave when they paid him. He extorted 130,000 Florins, with a value of approximately $60 million today.
It boggles my mind that nobody has made a movie or tv series about Hawkwood...he's one of the most interesting men of the early Renaissance. Kevin didn't share this detail, but it was the King of England himself who requested Hawkwood's body be returned to England. The fresco that Kevin put up on screen at 15:32 marks his official tomb in The Duomo in Florence. He fact that he was honored with a tomb in the Duomo shouldn't be taken lightly - even Dante, Italy's greatest poet (and from Florence) wasn't given that honor.
History is written by the victor watch , Europa the last battle , listen to Barbara Learner Spectre, read Churchill's " Zionism vs bolshevism " and Henry Fords " The international Jew " the USS Liberty research IsraAid we have been lied to for a long time research everything.
Fifty years a soldier wow! The medieval times are so interesting. Like the models you use to show the battle tactics. Thank you.🏴
I ask you guys to follow Dr Zakir Nike❤
A little addendum if I may. He was called Giovanni Acuto in Italy at the time. Now, as you correctly pointed out, Giovanni and John are the same name in these two languages. Acuto means "Sharp" in English, but it's also pronounced kinda like the surname Hawkwood. Probably he introduced himself as "John Hawkwood" and, because very few people at the time knew english, then he became widely known as Acuto by word of mouth.
It's kinda fitting that, almost as in English, "Acuto" in Italian also means a cunning, smart person.
Anyway, great video and great channel.
Hawkwood has long been one of my favorite medieval characters. What a career! What a soldier!
Kevin is the type of teacher we all wished for while in school.
Thanks for another excellent episode.
May GOD bless
I'm glad you decided to do a video about one of the great characters of the Hundred Years War. He certainly shows the potential there was for social mobility in the 14th Century. I first heard of the White Company by reading Conan Doyle's book of the same name in the early 1960's. Sadly it is not about Hawkwood, but a mercenary company which goes to Spain with the Black Prince and fights at the Battle of Najera. Do you think that the choice of the pilgrim's shell as his device was an heraldic joke about his journey to Italy? Thanks Kevin.
Yes, quite possibly could have been a joke 👍🏻
I ask you guys to follow Dr Zakir Nike❤
@@thehistorysquad Hey, I really enjoy your videos. But as I been looking through them the same little problem persists. You have sound way way too low. When watch your video, and as always, use my head set - I will have to crank up the sound all the way to 90-100%. But you should be able to hear equally well the sound of a video, even thought the voice was set only 10-15% tops 20%. This tends to result to really painful experience instantly with the next video from somewhere else, because no-one but no-one listens to their computer at 100% using their head set. And extremely few people will actually not use a head set, because it disturbs rest of the household if you are doing something that keeps noise on your computer.
I have two other family members who all use their computers at the same time in the same room - our flat is small. (We don't watch TV at all, there is nothing worth seeing on it.) So basically from anything that makes noise in entertainment from gaming and videos to movies and music - anything one wants to enjoy, it is only polite of us towards each other to use our head sets. That way everyone can do what ever they please without being disturbed and having their focus lost cause of some unnecessary other noise. For example, for me writing little stories for my own fun is exceptionally pleasing and fun pass time - but I could not write a single sentence hearing someone else talking at the same time from another persons computer. It is impossible to literally hear oneself thinking, when there is other background noise. And while that is a private matter per say, the fact that most people listen and watch videos ONLY using a head set - is not. And that is for what video there for should and must be adjusted for while editing it.
I notice that your older videos are even more silent, so it is better in these new ones. But it seems like only different in being more clear sounding due a better mic likely - but not because the rendered volume of the video is set high enough. Like said, using a head set, the video should be heard as clearly at 15% as your videos are hard only at 90-100% volume settings. And that is editing matter. I am not a pro in sound so I don't remember how you fix this, but someone can mayhap help. Pls. try to figure it out. Your videos are really nice, but I could almost bet that some people would skip them simply because it does not sound loud enough in usual settings. I just happen to like medieval stuff a lot so I bother to crank it up - only then to forget that it's set high and when I watch or do something else that involves sound - at risk of repeating myself (lol) I will have a bit of a shock. This head set of mine literally vibrates for immersion in gaming, for certain sounds - so forgetting that you set your volume to full is really a bit uncomfortable experience after wards. Talk about special effects explosion right in your ears like standing next to a firing cannon. Kindly please, try to fix it, as I really like your videos.
@@lyrigageforge3259 Hi there. I'm sorry to hear you've been experiencing difficulty with the sound.
As you've noticed, we have made improvements to our studio which has helped with the reverb and makes for a clearer sound, and in addition we have increased the volume within our editing.
Today we tested the sound on the Hawkwood video using two different sets of headphones (one wired and one bluetooth) and two different devices (laptop & mobile phone). In both cases the sound was fine, we didn't have to crank it up at all.
As far as I'm aware, there are three possible volume settings that can be adjusted.
1. TH-cam volume on the video (ours is always set to maximum)
2. Volume on device (ours was set to 1 setting above the middle on both devices
3. Volume on headphones (ours was set to mid on both sets)
We have the capacity to increase the volume in editing by a little more, and will consider this, but I don't think, if you really have to crank up the sound it will be much of an improvement for you.
All the best,
Kevin & Julie
I've definitely adopted a new adage from you Kevin. Take it on the toes. I've worked with several Brits, an Irishman, a Scot, Canadians, Jamacans, heck, folks from all over the British Isles and Commonwealth(I'm in Washington, D.C.) But I had never heard this one. Take it on the toes........ I love it!!!
7:13 fun fact: in italian hawkwood sounds a lot like acuto, the name that the italians gave him. Probably in the writing they tried to write it down in italian and this was the result
I’m a Minnesotan, and really enjoyed your story about the Mall of America.
Thanks Renee 👍🏻
A fascinating period.There's an excellent series of four books tied in with
Hawkwood,Chaucer,routiers,Italian mercenary armies and the combat techniques of Fiore dei Liberi written by the historical novelist Christian Cameron starting with 'The Ill-Made Knight',superb series and well worth reading.
I would love to hear more stories about John Hawkwood. I'm sure with 50 years of service, the stories could go on for hours.
Also very nice touch with the three shells of Hawkwood
I always loved learning about Condottieri such as Hawkwood, I owe my Masters to him and Italy as a whole. But It's unfortunate that I don't see many videos on the man himself, good luck TH-cam has you guys to save people like me!
Great vid as always, stay classy!
Cheers Luis, I'll try!
@@thehistorysquad And You're doing a great job at it!
I love how we still tell the stories of people like John Hawkwood and William Marshal. People whose stories are so amazing and fantastic that we still tell them with reverence nearly a thousand years after their death. It often makes me wonder whose stories will be told and remembered a thousand years from now. Often the deeds of our best and bravest soldiers are classified. Will their stories somehow break through the all that red tape and classification and trickle down through the centuries to be told by future historians?
Well done sir. All the noble blood in the world cant make a man a fighter like being there & surviving over & over.
Wow. 16 minutes seldom go by so fast. Great one as always!
There’s a road, Hawkwood Road, and a rather nice house, Hawkwood Manor, named after him in Sible Hedingham, Essex and, of course, the DeVere’s Hedingham Castle is just a short way away in Castle Hedingham. Worth a visit, Hedingham Castle is very beautiful.
Great narration, like always! The story of John Hawkwood reminds of a dialogue in "Game of Thrones" between Prince Oberyn Martell and Bronn.
Martell: "And who are you? His hired killer?"
Bronn: "Aye, i started that way. But now i´m a knight."
Martell: "And how did that come to pass?"
Bronn: "Killed the right people, i suppose."
Could you do a video about the year 1066? The outcome of the 2 battles should make you as a bowman proud.
🤣
Loved Bronn
Love the dialogue.
Yes, for sure 1066 is on the list 👍🏻
The Marine Co. I was in had a First Lieutenant that started out as a Private. He treated ALL the lower ranks with respect but had a firm hand for doing ones duty. He was one of the most respected lower ranking Officers I ever encountered.
I ask you guys to follow Dr Zakir Nike❤
My grandfather served as a private throughout WW1. Three older brothers were killed. He'd have refused promotion to avoid being targeted by snipers. After WW1, became a policeman, rose to Deputy Chief Constable. Re-enlisted in WW2 as Military Policeman Lieutenant Colonel. A few days after D-Day, into France to reestablish civil authority
Fantastic video once again Kevin! Absolutely LOVE it when u tell us tales of medieval Englishmen like the fascinating John Hawkwood as there are very few videos of this kind knocking about on YT. Brilliant stuff.
Glad you enjoyed it, cheers.
This was a good one Kevin. Can't believe that I haven't stumbled upon this one! Love your stories.
Hi William, thank you, and thanks for the SUPER too. John Hawkwood was quite a character wasn't he, glad you enjoyed it. 👍🏻
Good video, Kevin! Interestingly, there was a Renaissance festival near Fort Worth, where I live, back in the 90s called Hawkwood. Actually it was billed as a fantasy fair, but it had all of the same things as a typical Renaissance festival plus a little bit more. I preferred it to Scarborough Fair, the other nearby festival. Sadly, it only lasted about 4 years. I don't know if they had this Sir Hawkwood in mind when they named it, but it wouldn't surprise me.
I could watch your miniature videos all day long. Another great video for the vault!
Glad you like them! 👍🏻
There was also a lot of background politics involved, French vs English, pope vs emperor, local Italian states
Another great model, great detail too. They're great Please keep these historical stories coming. Kevin, you make history fun and interesting. Not at all boring like i remember it at school 🎉😂
That's the plan! Thanks 👍🏻
“He was as cunning as a fox, some called him The Wolf”.
Yeah, who knows why eh?
To live to 70 in that line of work that's a feat in itself, a life we speak of even after hundreds of years
Wow, what a story, what a man. I need to find me a book about him. Thanks for always reminding me of what I do not know yet and have to learn 😉
Hawkwood: a diabolical Englishman by Frances Stonor Saunders is a great read.
Hi Kevin, This story really hit home for me. I turn 70 this year and the thought of having to carry all the weapons and equipment at my age fills me with dread and wonder. I'd like to think he rests in Essex. Well done as usual. A loyal follower, Lee
Cheers Lee 👍🏻
Great stuff Hawkwood has a understanding of combined arms tactics! It shows that he had all the qualities of the leader and officers could do better than read and use him as a model of leadership Well done Kevin (Hakwood was a "hero of mine since I read the White company many years ago)
Thanks again Kevin excellent.🏴🇬🇧
Commentary with a tinge of the macabre gives it that soupcon of the real. The best kind of storytelling
A fascinating look at this man's career, from his humble beginnings as a bowman to his final amassing of rank and wealth. Very enjoyable, and, as always, very informative!
I remember reading in Barbara Tuchmann"s excellent book, A distant Mirror that Hawkwood was beheaded in Italy and had his personal physician mark axe's target.
Great story, I never knew of this character. Thanks Kevin.
Good story on a battle hardened warrior. Those dioramas are so realistic ,your whole presentation creates the atmosphere and magnificent efforts on your period costume selections.
Thanks very much 👍🏻
Sir, I LOVE your videos…your passion is contagious!
Thank you!
Another brilliantly articulated tale of valor from the master storyteller himself. Thanks, Kevin
Thanks for listening 👍🏻
Another wonderful video, and the grim story of the massacre at Cesena is a reminder of how brutal we can be to each other given the right (or wrong) circumstances.
Ah yes! One of my favorite historians, Mr Hicks here, referencing one of my favorite authors
humbling to know of such events. thank yew kevin.
Wow! Life really authors the best stories . Thanks for telling the tale!
Hmmm, I didn't get a push up/notification that's a new video is available....
Anyway, what a AMAZING & INCREDIBLE & HISTORICAL story. Listening to your voice is extremely relaxing, THX YOU Kevin!!!
Thanks again!
I'm sorry you didn't get the notification, I understand from other subscribers this is sometimes a problem with TH-cam. You'll usually find a new video every Friday. Thanks for watching 👍🏻
Cheers Kev, great, video, what a Bloke JOHN HAWKWOOD..
Wow, this was a great video. You can tell as many Hawkwood stories as you like and I shall watch them all quite happily.
Fantastic story...fantastic story teller. Superb!
Cheers Dave!
Love your content.
After learning Henry lll is my 25th Great Grandfather, I've been super interested in this era.
Loved this period in History since I was a kid and now I know why lol
Cheers!!!
You really have the knack of picking out the nuggets for your narratives. Well done.👏🏻
Are their similarities here with the ‘Wagner group’?
Not really as the free companies were all professional soldiers, whereas I understand the Wagner group is made up with civilians or prisoners who are then trained up.
Once again. Another great video. Thank you.
Great story.... Well done indeed. 👍
Wonderful history and it’ll make me read additional stories. 🙋♂️🐈🐈
Excellent. Having spent 50 years as a soldier, there's plenty of those 👍🏻
Awesome pages of history! Thank you for a truly incredible story from the past that legends come from. Please keep these videos coming!!
Interesting story about a spectacular man and also good models!
Kevin: Another informative and enjoyable video, thanks. Recovering from knee replacement, good vids help, as I have to spend time inside.
Oh bless, I sympathize. I hope you make a quick recovery.
@@thehistorysquad Thank you. The other will be done in June.
Another excellent video Kevin! Been looking forward to another story from you, hope all is well
Yes, all's good, thanks!!
@@thehistorysquad excellent to hear!
ahhh!!!! what a cliff hanger.... I wonder if he attacks or leaves? I hope you finish the tale before the end of the video.... ahhh well...regardless great story telling as always good sir!
Fascinating, thank you!😁👍
Thank you Sir. I enjoyed your video lecture and presentation immensely. Hawkwood was more than a humble Bowman but a great Captain General of a free company that were a true band of brothers. His exploits are a true testament to both his courage and cunning. What a tale! It brings joy to an elderly gentleman heart. Kudos Sir. I await your future video on bated breath.👊👍
Thank you kindly Fred.
Excellent work!
Great story thank you for sharing
Very interesting - thank you for the video. The name of Sir John Hawkwood is a dim memory in my mind, but my family left England in 1956, when I was 7.
My next encounter with the name was when I started reading the science-fiction books by the Canadian writer Gordon R. Dickson. The books are known collectively as "the Dorsai Series" or as the "Childe Cycle." Hawkwood is a recurring military character in the series.
I am happy to now know something about the real person who may have been the model for Dickson's character.
Another excellent video Kevin! Love your work.
Love this.. he must have been a monster!.. what a bloke!
Greetings once again from nova Scotia, thank you for another great video, top shelf as always. I gather this was an exceptional soldier, with such a long line of great bowman, standing out whould have been quite something,what a soldier.........Thanks again, be safe and as always best regards, Arthur
Cheers Arthur 👍🏻
Another short but informative video. Great job.
Cheers Kim 👍🏻
What a great video, I'm glad I stumbled onto your channel. Hawkwood is a character who's done so much you could make several full documentaries about him. One favorite story of mine is what I read in Frances Stonor Saunders book "The Devil's Broker" Not only did he hobnob with Popes, but was good friends with the future saint Cathrine Of Siena.
He certainly was a fascinating character 👍🏻
Another wonderful presentation. Thank you sir
Brilliant video. Learnt something new about the Hundred Years War. Many of my ancestors fought in the Hundred Years War.
So glad I found your channel. love your story telling. Going to Florence in May. I'll check it out. Ty
Great stuff, so am I, thanks Jen.
Oh boy, lucky you heading off to Florence. Be sure to check out the Stibbert Museum (stunning collections) and the Medici chapel where you'll see the famous relief of Hawkwood. Have a great trip 👍🏻
Great job on this one.
But may I make a suggestion?
I’ve looked around for content on Sir John, that is more holistic in nature. I find myself interested in wanting to learn every bit of detail about his story, and the events in which he took part.
If you’re up for it, a long format video by you regarding the life of Sir John, is sure to be fantastic. For one, it would be unique, as a long form piece about the man, as I cannot find anything TH-cam wise like that. And for two I’d venture a guess that there’s many armchair history nerds like me out here, who’d eat it up.
Thanks again for your videos. They are fantastic.
Cheers James, I know where you're coming from and do love the idea, but I'm not sure I have the time to commit to a long form video on Hawkwood, fascinating though he is. I will add it to my list though 👍🏻
Love visiting Hedingham Castle (held by the Earls of Oxford) and noticed that Hawkwood Manor is in the village of Castle Hedingham the last time we were there.
Hawkwood is a major character in Christian Cameron's William Gold books (Chivalry series)
Good show as always
Watching now, must have been one heck of a fellow, thanks Kevin!
The History Squad + Time Team.... Tellin ya, my friend! You can help bring it all alive!!!! Top shelf storytelling, Kev!
Thanks buddy 👍🏻
As ever so very interesting Kevin. Merci from France
I always learn a lot from you thanks
I had no idea about this man this was amazing! Bravo mr Hicks bravo
Glad you enjoyed it!
Love John Hawkwood, thanks Kevin, great channel
Hi Kevin,
Thank You again for that Story from the hundred years war. I read a Book Series from David Gilman. In German „Legenden des Krieges“ with a Hero - Bowman Thomas Blackstone , became Knight because of saving the so called „Black Prince“ Later on he fought in Italy and Spain. A hard Man in a harsh Time.
Hawkwoods Live sounds quite similar to me.
Fascinating...your accounts Kevin are fantastic 👏
Well done Kevin! Great story about a great Bowman! Perhaps you can do more on his life and adventures.
Outstanding, Kevin! Yet another top-notch film which educates and entertains beautifully. Kudos, exhortations and greetings from Essex County, Ontario.
Haha, an Essex lad! Cheers 👍🏻
As always very informative and entertaining thank you sir very much
Awesome film kev! I've always been quite interesting about him but never found much detail about his life. As you said this is just a primer really, but I for one appreciate it
Thanks a ton!
Fantastic story. Extra points for mentioning Sharpe.
Indeed 😜
I’ve read a little bit on the campaigns of Hawkwood and this was another great dive. I always appreciate how you look at history and people from history, some of Hawkwood’s stories are inspiring, others are contemptuous but there’s no light with dark and vise versa. Incidentally I’m also reminded of another gang that roaming around about the same time; think you’ll do a film on the infamous Folvilles?
Hi Jodie, thanks. The Folvilles, I just had to look them up, but an interesting topic for sure. I'll add it to the list 👍🏻
@@thehistorysquad got plenty of book titles to send your way if you like :)
@@jodieg6318 Yes, that'd be helpful, thanks very much 👍🏻
Iv seen other videos of yours but I liked this one so much I Subscribed : )
Thanks!
ALMOST sounds like the inspiration for the Robin Hood legend, with exceptions. Fascinating video as always. I loved it.
Cheers!
thanks again!
Love what you do keep em coming 🦁
A highly informative talk as always Kevin - many thanks.👍 One learns a great deal from your presentations, chiefly because of the way you so expressively tell the tales. It brings the events vividly to live, ably assisted by your splendid models - well done sir! I love your Hawkwood coat of arms tabard - your attention to detail is excellent. I have to say that I had little knowledge of John Hawkwood before viewing the video. My word, what a clever and resourceful man - as you say, as cunning as a fox! 🦊
Cheer Pete 👍🏻
How you keep finding all these amazing tales from our countrys history and all these fascinating characters you really being them back to life flawless work as always Kev diolch (thanks)🏴🇬🇧
Cheers butty, I haven't even started on Welsh history yet 👍🏻
Speaking of interesting characters of the 100 Years War period, I would like to suggest a video on Pero Niño, who was a Castillian knight and corsair from the 14th-15th century which exploits included conducting raids and piracy on North Africa, and more relevantly, raids on english territory and piracy on the English Channel, which gives us some pretty interesting accounts on how those things happened and and of the english defending themselves from his raids.
Sounds fascinating. Out of interest, was Pero Nino a slaver? Also do can you recommend a reference book I might take a look at?
@@thehistorysquad I dont remember if he ever engaged in slavery, but I think that he at least got to capture some people for ransoming. He has a biography called El Victorial writen by his standard bearer which is where the accounts from his campaign comes from. I would guess that most of the more academic books on his accounts are writen in spanish, but there is at least one translation of his biography in english called The Unconquered Knight: A Chronicle of the Deeds of Don Pero Niño that I belive to be publicly avaliable online by YorkU, which is how I got to read it after hearing about his raids in one endless debates of armor vs arrows and doing some googling.
Excllent as always
Thanks again!
Nice work, mate
Thanks!
Very interesting bit of history, thanks. Mike.
Cheers Mike!
Delightful as usual, though I understand this guy I never heard of before gave us French a hard time (another one !)... Indeed Kevin, you are an outstanding storyteller, you could even captivate us only by reading the instruction manual of a fridge ! I also love, I already said it, but I'll say it once more, your so typical accent, it really adds a lot. There is so much globish here on TH-cam that I'm glad to hear somebody speaking a real english, the language I learned and heard in Old Blighty when I was younger, and not the awful thing some people still dare to call english...
By the way Kevin, speaking of great warriors of the Hundred Years war, how about Bertrand du Guesclin or even Joan of Arc ? I know, be defeated by a 18 years virgin is something humiliating, but her story is quite fabulous, believe me !
Cheers Laurent! Joan of Arc is definitely on my list and I might do something on Bertrand one day too. Said to be the ugliest man in France at the time apparently 😜
@@thehistorysquad True. It was said he was really ugly, and as if it wasn't enough, dark-skinned and short (less than 1,5 metre), though his recumbent effigy in the Saint Denis basilica, the necropolis of the French monarchy, gave him a little bit more pleasant face. Anyway it doesn't matter as, like you said before, what a soldier !
Not that the french were that timid in giving others a hard time
love your channel!
Thank you so much!!
That was very enjoyable thank you.☘️👍
Always look forward to new history quad uploads. Keep up the awesome content Kevin!
History squad*^
Thanks! Will do!