Jeremy Black

In this discussion, Prof. Jeremy Black, a distinguished historian and prolific author, tackles Britain's drastic decline from its powerhouse status. He compares it to historical downturns, emphasizing factors like state overreach and social cohesion. Black critiques current history education, advocating for traditional teaching methods to better represent diverse narratives. He also explores Britain's role during the Industrial Revolution, the importance of books and literacy, and calls for a nuanced understanding of its complex history, including contemporary issues like slavery.

In this engaging conversation, Jeremy Black, Emeritus Professor of History at the University of Exeter and author of “Military Strategy: A Global History,” explores the intricate relationship between strategic culture and military strategy. He discusses how political factors shape military decision-making and critiques the Eurocentric bias in existing literature. Black emphasizes the need to recognize the historical evolution of military strategy and the disconnect between theorists and practitioners. He also highlights the significance of ideology in shaping national interests and military responses.

Jeremy Black, an esteemed historian and expert on geopolitics, dives deep into the shifting sands of global power dynamics. He discusses the potential for a major geopolitical realignment, likening today's situation to historical turning points, especially the insights of Halford Mackinder. Black critiques the contemporary misuse of geopolitics, emphasizing the need for a broader analysis beyond mere geography. He also contrasts naval and land power theories and explores the influential ideas shaping U.S. foreign policy from WWII onward.

In this insightful discussion, Jeremy Black, Professor Emeritus at Edgerton University and a leading historian, breaks down modern geopolitics. He explores the lasting influence of Halford Mackinder's theories, drawing parallels between historical and current global tensions, especially regarding the Ukraine and Taiwan challenges. The conversation also highlights contrasting geopolitical theories from figures like Karl Haushofer, the significance of population dynamics in warfare, and the evolving U.S. foreign policy in response to emerging powers like China.

Jeremy Black, an esteemed author and historian specializing in military history, delves into the multifaceted narratives of warfare. He critiques traditional military theories for oversimplifying historical contexts, urging a more nuanced view. Black highlights the fine line between geopolitics and rhetoric in understanding past conflicts. He examines pivotal World War I and II strategies, discussing their relevance and misguidance for modern military leaders. His insights illuminate the need to rethink military history’s place in academia and its broader cultural implications.

Historian Jeremy Black discusses the global impact of railways from the 19th century to modern times. Topics include railways in wartime, economic development, and geopolitical significance. The podcast explores the evolution of rail travel, coal's role in industrialization, and the strategic importance of railways in shaping nations. Black's book delves into how railways have transformed societies and influenced political decisions.

Historian Jeremy Black discusses interpreting Britain in the late 1600s through writers like Defoe, highlighting British nationalism, Defoe's outsider status, and his role as a storyteller. The podcast explores Defoe's political relationships, the collapse of King James II's regime, treaties in British history, and the genre diversity in Defoe's writing.

In this insightful discussion, Jeremy Black, Emeritus Professor of History at Exeter University, explores the compelling interplay between geography and military strategy. He delves into the evolution of mapmaking and its historic influence on warfare, highlighting how technology has transformed military tactics. Black also analyzes the strategic mobility of Genghis Khan’s forces and the intricate dynamics between continental and maritime powers. Additionally, he connects historical mapping practices to contemporary conflicts, emphasizing the importance of geopolitics and environmental factors in military history.

Kehinde Andrews, a Professor of Black Studies and author of "The New Age of Empire," argues that systemic racism is deeply entrenched in Western capitalism, rooted in colonialism. In contrast, historian Jeremy Black challenges this view, insisting that the historical context of Western civilization is more complex. Their debate tackles the legacies of slavery, the racial wealth gap, and the intersection of race with class and gender. They explore how historical injustices shape modern inequalities, calling for a nuanced understanding of these pressing issues.

Historians Andrew Wheatcroft, Claire Norton, and Jeremy Black discuss the Ottoman siege of Vienna in 1683, exploring its impact on European boundaries and the decline of Turkish influence. They delve into the Ottoman invasion, decision to attack Vienna, and the clash of civilizations during the siege. The aftermath of the siege and the historical analysis of Eastern European-Ottoman interactions are also explored.