Joshua Hammer

Joshua Hammer, a freelance journalist and author of 'The Mesopotamian Riddle', shares captivating tales of the 19th-century race to decipher cuneiform, the first written language. He introduces an adventurous trio—a dashing archaeologist, a diplomatic officer, and a reclusive clergyman—who unveiled Mesopotamia's secrets. The podcast also explores the fierce competition between Victorian scholars, reveals Enheduanna's pioneering role as a female writer, and emphasizes the significance of Assyrian mythology in understanding ancient narratives.

In this fascinating discussion, Joshua Hammer, an author who delves into the intersection of wildlife and human impact, explores Pablo Escobar's notorious legacy through the lens of his hippos. The conversation highlights how these non-native animals have proliferated in Colombia, disrupting local ecosystems. Hammer shares gripping stories about conservation efforts, including the challenges of surgical intervention. The ethical questions surrounding their management and the socio-economic effects on communities add layers to this wild tale of coexistence.