In this engaging discussion, Sathnam Sanghera, author of Empireland and Empireworld, delves into the fascinating ties between Kew Gardens and British imperialism. He explores how Kew served as both a symbol and a catalyst for revolutionary industries, like rubber cultivation. The dark consequences of these pursuits on indigenous populations are also highlighted. Sanghera examines the historical roots of botanic gardens and their intertwined relationship with colonial ambitions, bringing a critical lens to a seemingly tranquil topic.
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The Canadian Prime Minister Mix-up
William Dalrymple jokingly congratulated Anita Anand on becoming Prime Minister of Canada.
This caused confusion on social media, with people believing Anand was running for office.
insights INSIGHT
Botanic Gardens' Origins
Botanic gardens initially stemmed from royal gardens and physic gardens, showcasing exotic plants and architecture.
Early plant collectors aimed to recreate the Garden of Eden, driving the influx of new species into Europe.
insights INSIGHT
Linnaeus's Impact on Botany
Linnaeus's system for classifying plants, based on their reproductive organs, revolutionized botany.
This system facilitated the organization and study of plants from all over the world.
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In 'Empireland', Sathnam Sanghera offers a fresh critique of the British Empire and its lasting impact on British society. The book is a personal journey of discovery, where Sanghera explores how the Empire has influenced his own life and the broader British culture. He delves into the complex legacies of the Empire, discussing its formation, its moral complexities, and its ongoing effects on demographics, attitudes, and cultural norms. Sanghera argues against a simplistic 'balance sheet view of history', instead presenting a nuanced and balanced account that highlights both the beneficial and harmful aspects of the Empire. The book also addresses issues such as slavery, racism, and the exploitation of colonial resources, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive understanding of the Empire's history and its continued influence on modern Britain.
Palace of Palms
Tropical Dreams and the Making of Kew
Kate Teltscher
In 'Palace of Palms,' Kate Teltscher examines the human history behind the creation of the Palm House at Kew Gardens. The book delves into the story of intrigue and high politics involved in the development of Kew Gardens, highlighting the roles of key figures such as Sir William Hooker, John Smith, and Richard Turner. It also explores the Victorian era's fascination with exotic plants and the imperial ambitions that drove the construction of the Palm House, a feat of Victorian engineering that still looks surprisingly modern today.
Just the Tonic
A Natural History of Tonic Water
Kimberley Walker
Kim Walker
Mark Nesbitt
This book provides a comprehensive history of tonic water, covering its discovery, the role of quinine in medicine, and its evolution into a popular mixer. It includes historical narratives, botanical details, and the impact of tonic water on colonial and modern drinking cultures. The book is richly illustrated with historical artwork, posters, and photographs, and also includes recipes for both alcoholic and non-alcoholic tonic-based cocktails.
Endeavour
The Ship and the Attitude that Changed the World
Peter MOORE
This book by Peter Moore provides a detailed and comprehensive history of the Endeavour, from its construction in Whitby as the Earl of Pembroke to its various roles, including carrying James Cook on his first voyage to the Pacific, participating in the American Revolution, and eventually being scuttled. Moore explores the ship's significance in the context of the Age of Enlightenment, highlighting its impact on scientific discovery, exploration, and the broader historical landscape. The book also delves into the ship's later incarnations, such as the Lord Sandwich, and its final days as a prison ship. Moore's narrative is enriched with quotes from historical figures and detailed accounts of the ship's voyages and the people involved[1][3][4].
Kew Gardens near London is one of the most famous botanical gardens in the world, welcoming countless visitors every year. But what many visitors may not know is that the history of Kew and that of the British Empire are intimately intertwined…
At the height of the empire, Queen Victoria visited the iconic glass Palm House six times in the first few weeks it opened, and palm houseplants became a proud symbol because of her patronage. The botanical gardens also served as a laboratory that allowed imperial industries to boom. For example, seeds collected by Kew gardeners developed rubber plants that were shipped around the empire. The rubber plantations in British Malaya became so valuable that Britain fought a bloody war in 1948 to keep them.
Listen as Anita and William are joined by Sathnam Sanghera, author of Empireworld, to discuss how Kew was instrumental to the empire.
Empire 
