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Dan Snow's History Hit
The Bronze Age Collapse
Aug 8, 2024
Eric Cline, an expert on ancient civilizations and author of '1177 B.C.: The Year Civilization Collapsed', discusses the mysterious Bronze Age collapse. He explores the catastrophic events like famine, drought, and invasions that resulted in chaos in the eastern Mediterranean. Cline sheds light on interconnections among civilizations like the Minoans and Egyptians, and examines the role of the Sea Peoples, who may have been climate refugees. The conversation also reflects on the link between past droughts and today's climate challenges.
41:24
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Quick takeaways
- The collapse of interconnected late Bronze Age civilizations was driven by environmental crises, invasions, and economic decline due to prolonged droughts.
- In the aftermath, cultures like the Phoenicians thrived by expanding trade, while others, such as the Mycenaeans, failed to adapt and disappeared.
Deep dives
The Interconnected World of the Late Bronze Age
The late Bronze Age was characterized by a highly sophisticated and interconnected network of civilizations, spanning from the Eastern Mediterranean to northeast Africa. Major powers such as the Minoans, Mycenaeans, Egyptians, Assyrians, and Babylonians engaged in extensive trade and diplomatic relations, much like today’s globalized world. The exchange included not only luxury goods but also cultural and scientific advancements, highlighting a rich tapestry of interaction among these societies. This interconnectedness contributed to a shared cultural and economic landscape, setting the stage for both collaboration and eventual conflict.
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Discover
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Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode