The Weekly Show with Jon Stewart History Meets Galaxy with Tony Gilroy and Mike Duncan
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Jul 10, 2025 
Tony Gilroy, an Oscar-nominated writer and the mind behind "Andor," teams up with Mike Duncan, bestselling author and podcaster renowned for his historical insights. They dive into the complex psychology of historical leaders, questioning the motivations behind their actions. The conversation meanders through the unpredictable nature of revolutions, drawing parallels to current societal tensions and even the politics of Star Wars. Tune in for an engaging exploration of how stories shape our understanding of history and contemporary struggles.
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Revolutions Often Rhyme Historically
- Revolutions have recurring structures and character types across history.
- History doesn't repeat but it often rhymes, showing patterns in chaos.
History as Behavioral Catalog
- Tony Gilroy uses history as a behavioral catalog, focusing on character motivations.
- He prioritizes authentic, consistent behavior over absolute historical truth in storytelling.
Balance Between Chaos and Leadership
- Revolutions require both spontaneous popular uprisings and orchestrated leadership.
- Early revolutions are chaotic without clear leaders, while later ones show professional revolutionary guidance.
