Economica: The Hidden History of Women, Wealth, and Power

Who really built the global economy? Traditional history books tell a story dominated by men—inventors, industrialists, and financiers. But what if this narrative is missing half the picture?

In this eye-opening episode, host Nick is joined by Dr. Victoria Bateman of Gresham College to discuss her hugely ambitious new book, Economica: A Global History of Women, Wealth and Power. Dr. Bateman challenges the very foundations of economic history, arguing that our understanding of wealth creation is fundamentally flawed because it has systematically ignored the contributions of women.

This conversation travels from the Stone Age to the present day, shattering one of history's biggest myths: that women were simply housewives until the 20th century.

In this episode, you will discover:

• The Unseen Engine: How unpaid care work, performed overwhelmingly by women, underpins the entire global economy—equivalent in value to the US, Chinese, and EU economies combined.
• Beyond the Stereotypes: The surprising history of women in traditionally "masculine" jobs, from brewers in medieval London to pyramid builders in ancient Egypt.
• Boom and Bust: How labour shortages, such as those following the Black Death, created economic opportunities for women, while periods of high population often saw them pushed out of the workforce.
• Revolutionary Women: The forgotten female activists who were at the forefront of major historical events, including the 1917 Russian Revolution.
• The Power of Choice: Why a flourishing economy depends not just on women working, but on their freedom to choose their work and keep the rewards.

At a time of renewed debate about gender, work, and equality, this episode provides a crucial historical perspective, revealing that the story of the economy is a story that cannot be told without understanding the central role of women.

Explaining History helps you understand the 20th Century through critical conversations and expert interviews. We connect the past to the present. If you enjoy the show, please subscribe and share.

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