Nile Green

Nile Green, a historian from UCLA specializing in Iran and Islamic South Asia, dives into the complex identity of Asia. He discusses how the term 'Asia' has evolved from ancient Greece to today, highlighting its varied interpretations across cultures. The conversation examines the role of place names like 'Bharat' in shaping identity and geopolitics, and critiques the historical constructs of Asia, encouraging a broader understanding beyond typical Euro-American views. The episode invites listeners to rethink Asia's narratives through a hypothetical Martian lens.

Nile Green, a historian specializing in Islam and the Indian Ocean world, discusses his new work that compiles diverse Muslim voices from Sri Lanka's rich history. He explores the complexities of translating multilingual texts and the editorial challenges he faced to make these stories accessible. Green highlights the significance of unraveling the experiences of Muslim communities, particularly the Moors and Malays, while advocating for deeper research into Islamic Tamil sources. He also shares intriguing anecdotes from historical narratives and offers insights into his writing process.

Nile Green, a historian at UCLA and expert on Islam and the Indian Ocean, dives into his fascinating work on Sri Lanka's diverse Islamic history. He discusses the multilingual sources that illustrate the island's role as a crossroads for pilgrims and merchants over centuries. Green highlights the complex identity of the Moors, the intricate balance of translation styles, and how trade intertwines with cultural exchange. He emphasizes the book's contemporary importance in supporting minority claims and plans for a more accessible South Asian edition.