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Uncommon Knowledge

“The End of Everything,” with Victor Davis Hanson | Uncommon Knowledge | Peter Robinson | Hoover Institution

May 15, 2024
Classicist Victor Davis Hanson discusses the annihilation of ancient societies like Thebes and Carthage, drawing parallels to modern vulnerabilities. Delving into the fall of Byzantine Constantinople and the importance of understanding adversaries throughout history. Emphasizing the challenges in modern warfare and the significance of deterrence in international relations.
01:05:46

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Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Societies facing annihilation often underestimate enemies and fail to adapt military strategies.
  • War results in significant societal changes and decisions, impacting structures like in Thebes and Carthage.

Deep dives

The Unimaginable Extinction of Civilizations

Throughout history, civilizations like Thebes, Carthage, Constantinople, and the Aztecs faced swift annihilation due to factors such as underestimating their enemies and a failure to adapt to changing military strategies. Examples include Alexander's destruction of Thebes and Cortez's thorough obliteration of Aztec culture and infrastructure.

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