Duncan Weldon

In this discussion, Duncan Weldon, an economics writer and author of 'Blood and Treasure', dives into the vital link between economics and warfare. He explains how resource allocation has historically determined military outcomes, from the Vikings to contemporary Ukraine. Weldon also explores how war catalyzes economic evolution, tracing institutions like the Bank of England. He critiques modern defense spending trends, emphasizing the economic supremacy of Europe against Russia. This talk reveals how economic strategies shape the future of conflict.

Duncan Weldon, an economic historian and author of 'Blood and Treasure,' dives into the remarkable legacy of Genghis Khan. He unpacks how the Mongol leader united tribes and built the largest contiguous empire, altering global trade through the Silk Road. Their discussion highlights Genghis Khan's innovative military strategies, including psychological warfare and meritocracy in leadership. Weldon emphasizes the empire's dual nature of terror and beneficial systems, and how these developments laid the groundwork for early globalization and the eventual industrial revolution.

Economist and historian Duncan Weldon delves into the fascinating links between economy and warfare. He discusses how Viking pillaging ultimately boosted medieval economies and how Spain’s influx of silver made it poorer. Weldon provides insights on Genghis Khan as a globalization pioneer and critiques the Luftwaffe's glamorization of fighter pilots. Through his book, Blood and Treasure, he articulates how war shapes economies, typically with unexpected outcomes, and reveals the complex financial histories behind conflicts from the past to the present.