Stephen Platt

In this engaging discussion, Stephen R. Platt, a professor and author, unpacks the complex motivations behind the Opium Wars. Britain’s pursuit of profit led to devastating conflicts rooted in addiction and imperial ambition. He examines Emperor Daoguang's struggle against opium and the moral dilemmas faced by British merchants. The podcast also explores the unequal treaties that followed, shaping China’s future and its perception of Western imperialism. Join Platt as he reveals the profound consequences of these historical events.

In this engaging discussion, Stephen R Platt, a Professor of history at the University of Massachusetts Amherst with expertise in Chinese history, sheds light on the Taiping Rebellion, the bloodiest civil war in history that devastated China from 1850 to 1864. He explains the rebellion's obscure status in global narratives despite its staggering 20 million death toll. Platt shares insights on the economic turmoil leading to the conflict, the rise of the charismatic leader Hong Xiuquan, and the complexities of British intervention, all while highlighting the rebellion's lasting impact on modern China.

Jonathan Benton, CEO of Intelligent Sanctuary and former UK law enforcement head, discusses AML challenges, transparency in financial dealings, disparities in financial crime investigation, and compliance reforms in the UK government-business relationship with Stephen Platt.