

Marco Polo (Radio Edit)
23 snips Jul 11, 2025
Join Professor Sharon Kinoshita, a distinguished expert on intercultural relations, as she takes us on a journey through 13th-century Venice and the fascinating life of Marco Polo. Discover how a teenage Polo ventured to the court of the Mongol emperor Qubilai Khan and the extraordinary things he encountered, like the Mongol postal service and diamond-hunting eagles. The discussion hilariously intertwines Polo’s narratives with modern-day insights into cultural exchange, showcasing his lasting impact on travel and trade.
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Marco Polo's Venetian Origins
- Marco Polo was born in 1254 into a merchant family in Venice. - Venice was a major maritime republic, thriving on trade and seafaring commerce in the 13th century.
Mongol Empire Context
- The Polos first traveled to the Mongol court before Marco Polo joined them. - They journeyed through the Mongol Empire, not specifically to "China" as we now call it.
Long Stay and Book Focus
- Marco Polo stayed 24 years in Mongol-controlled China. - His book covers extensive regions, though only a few chapters deal with his travels directly.