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Edward Watts

Pulitzer Prize-winning historian at UC San Diego specializing in the Roman Empire. Author of Mortal Republic: How Rome Fell Into Tyranny.

Top 5 podcasts with Edward Watts

Ranked by the Snipd community
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67 snips
Oct 28, 2024 • 50min

Is America collapsing like Ancient Rome?

Join historian Edward Watts, an expert on ancient Rome and author of 'Mortal Republic,' as he delves into what the fall of the Roman Republic can teach us about modern America. Listen in as he uncovers unsettling parallels between the two, including corruption, economic inequality, and political instability. Watts emphasizes the importance of a strong middle class for democracy and warns against political violence. His insights reveal how history's lessons might illuminate our path forward, making for a thought-provoking discussion.
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47 snips
Dec 26, 2024 • 50min

The Gray Area: Is America collapsing like ancient Rome?

Edward Watts, a historian at UC San Diego and author of "Mortal Republic," delves into striking parallels between contemporary America and the decline of ancient Rome. He discusses the erosion of public trust, political polarization, and social inequality. Watts highlights the lessons from Rome's fall, emphasizing the importance of a strong middle class and inclusive governance. He also reflects on individual leadership's impact on political dynamics and warns against the normalization of violence in politics, urging a reevaluation of democratic resilience.
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Jun 20, 2024 • 1h 15min

#956 Edward Watts - Hypatia: The Life and Legend of an Ancient Philosopher

Edward Watts, an ancient philosopher historian, delves into Hypatia's life in ancient Alexandria. The discussion covers her commitment to paganism, social dynamics, intellectual life, challenges as a female leader, tragic death, and enduring legacy. The episode sheds light on historical figures' reconstruction and the importance of preserving their true essence.
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Jun 13, 2025 • 34min

Is everything you know about the Romans wrong?

Edward J. Watts, a distinguished history professor at UC San Diego and author of 'The Eternal Decline and Fall of Rome', joins the discussion to debunk common myths about the Roman Empire. They challenge the idea that Rome fell completely in 476 AD, revealing the complexities of political shifts and continuing legacies. The conversation humorously explores misconceptions, like Nero's actions during the great fire and the realities of gladiatorial life. Watts also highlights the enduring influence of Roman contributions, including infrastructure and cultural narratives.
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Jul 24, 2024 • 1h 10min

Edward Watts on the Age of Justinian and the Closing of the Athenian Academy

Historian Edward Watts discusses the Age of Justinian, his transformative reign, closure of Athenian Academy, and Christianity crises. Topics include Justinian's ambitions, controversial actions, Council of Chalcedon, religious disputes, and the impact of his rule on Western Esotericism.

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