The Lion and the Cross: Richard the Lion-Hearted at Acre & Arsuf, 1191 A.D.
Dust on the tongue, cumin in the wind, banners snapping like drumbeats—Inkwell lands at Acre in 1191 A.D. and meets Richard the Lion-Hearted, son of Eleanor of Aquitaine. From siege towers to supply wagons, our raven follows the Third Crusade down the coast to Arsuf, where lances lower, arrows hiss, and Richard faces Saladin. Between a turnip-dragon banner and a pot of heroic onions, families hear the ground-level sounds of war: clinking mail, shouted orders, Italian sails on the horizon, and prayers stitched into every step toward Jerusalem.Inkwell also reveals the roots of Richard’s legend: Eleanor of Aquitaine—duchess in her own right, queen twice, and master strategist who helped shape the Angevin realm. Richard’s vow to “take the cross” began before his crown, and he sold offices and rights to fund ships, soldiers, and steel. Along the way we glimpse William the Conqueror’s old feudal ladder at work—knights owed for service, scutage hiring mercenaries, Hospitallers and Templars holding the line, Italian fleets rented for a price, and the new “Saladin Tithe” filling barrels and bread ovens.At Jerusalem’s doorstep, wisdom wins over pride. Instead of a doomed assault, Richard and Saladin agree to a truce: the city remains under Muslim rule, but Christian pilgrims receive safe-conduct. Not the trumpet-blast triumph some wanted, but a door held open. With vivid detail and gentle humor, Inkwell guides families through courage, mercy, and the weight of choices in a world where crowns are heavy and peace is fragile.This immersive educational history storytelling podcast blends rich, cinematic narration with historical fiction for kids and families. In each episode, Inkwell witnesses real events through his keen raven eyes, bringing the past to life with vivid detail, humor, and heart. Perfect for young learners, homeschoolers, and history lovers of all ages who want to experience the moments that shaped our world—one story at a time.Note: This podcast is an amateur, independent, and AI-assisted production. It is created with care for families and young learners, but it is not produced by a professional historian. While reasonable effort is made toward accuracy, these stories are best enjoyed as vivid, narrative introductions to history.
USA