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Empire

Latest episodes

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30 snips
Feb 27, 2025 • 42min

233. Blood and Betrayal: Oliver Cromwell's Irish Invasion (Ep 1)

In this gripping discussion, Professor Jane Ohlmeyer, an expert on early modern Irish history and author of 'Making Empire,' delves into Oliver Cromwell's brutal invasion of Ireland. She unpacks his complex legacy, revealing how he’s hailed in Britain yet vilified in Ireland for his ruthless tactics. The conversation highlights the horrific massacres at Drogheda and Wexford, explores the widespread suffering of ordinary Irish people, and draws parallels between historical dispossession and contemporary struggles in Gaza.
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4 snips
Feb 26, 2025 • 8min

Legacy: Genghis Khan

Dive into the thrilling conquests of Genghis Khan, who launched a daring assault against the Khwarezmians after triumphing in China. Witness the Mongol invasion of Hungary through the eyes of Master Roger, feeling the tension and desperation as he tries to warn his city. Explore the shockwaves the Mongol forces sent through Europe, altering their confidence and culture forever. Discover the remarkable military strategies that built the largest empire the world has ever seen.
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28 snips
Feb 25, 2025 • 41min

232. Colonising Ireland: The First Plantations (Ep 2)

Professor Jane Ohlmeyer, a leading expert on early modern Ireland and English imperialism, joins the discussion to unravel pivotal moments in Ireland's colonial past. She explores the fallout from Hugh O’Neill's rebellion and the rise of discriminatory narratives in Tudor England. The conversation also contrasts the Ulster plantations with those in the Caribbean, highlighting the socio-economic changes and identity conflicts that arose. Derry's colonial legacy is examined, including the lasting tensions between Protestant and Catholic communities.
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51 snips
Feb 20, 2025 • 40min

231. Colonising Ireland: Henry VIII, Elizabeth I, & The Tudor Conquest (Ep 1)

This discussion features Professor Jane Ohlmeyer, an expert in Irish history and author of "Making Empire." She delves into the impact of the Tudor Conquest on Gaelic society, detailing how Henry VIII's declaration of Irish subjects and Elizabeth I's plantations fundamentally reshaped Ireland. The conversation touches on the socio-political dynamics of colonization, the role of Irish women in cultural resistance, and significant figures like Hugh O'Neill who challenged English rule, illustrating the complex legacy of Tudor imperialism.
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31 snips
Feb 18, 2025 • 41min

230. Britain’s Last Colony: Trump, Brexit, and Russia-Ukraine (Ep 2)

Join Philippe Sands, an expert in international law and human rights, as he delves into the plight of the Chagossian people. He discusses the struggles for sovereignty over the Chagos Islands and the effect of global shifts, particularly post-Brexit. The emotional narratives highlight the fight of Olivier Bancoult and the community's quest to return to their homeland. With recent legal victories overshadowed by political uncertainty under Trump, the future of the islands remains precarious, raising urgent questions about justice and identity.
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45 snips
Feb 13, 2025 • 35min

229. Britain’s Last Colony: The Second World War, Forced Deportations, and 9/11 (Ep 1)

Philippe Sands, an international human rights lawyer known for his advocacy for the Chagossian people, joins the discussion to unravel the complex history of the Chagos Islands. He sheds light on the forced deportations and the lingering impacts of imperialism. The strategic significance of Diego Garcia as a military base, especially during World War II, is examined. Sands emphasizes the emotional toll on the Chagossians and the ongoing legal battles for their repatriation, making a powerful case for recognizing their plight in a global context.
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16 snips
Feb 11, 2025 • 45min

228. The Man Who Lived A Thousand Lives: Prisoner of War (Ep 2)

Delve into the fascinating life of Gustav Hermann Krumbiegel, a German landscape architect who shaped India's gardens while battling personal hardships. His contributions included greening Bangalore and creating the Raj Ghat memorial after Gandhi's assassination. The discussion highlights a historical tapestry of wartime struggles, cultural exchanges, and the resilience of a foreigner deeply connected to India's identity. Explore the complex dynamics of princely states and the impact of innovative agricultural practices in Karnataka.
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10 snips
Feb 6, 2025 • 37min

227. The Man Who Lived A Thousand Lives: Taming Nature (Ep 1)

Discover the incredible journey of Gustav Hermann Krumbiegel, the man who transformed India’s landscapes from humble beginnings in Germany. His visionary designs, like the Brindavan Gardens, helped make Bangalore the ‘Garden City.’ Delve into his innovative agricultural practices that boosted local economies and his groundbreaking approaches to urban planning. The blend of traditional and European gardening techniques showcases his respect for local cultures, revealing how one man can redefine a nation's botanical heritage.
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10 snips
Feb 4, 2025 • 40min

226. The Rise and Fall of East India Company Painting (Ep 2)

Discover the vibrant chaos of late 18th century Calcutta, a melting pot of opportunity and artistry. Dive into the intriguing collaborations between European patrons and Indian artists, as they crafted stunning zoological and botanical paintings. Learn about Lady Impey’s unlikely role as a patron and the talented artists she supported, like Sheikh Zayn al-Din, who captured the essence of wildlife with remarkable precision. Unravel how these artistic legacies reflected the broader narrative of colonialism and cultural exchange in this fascinating historical journey.
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16 snips
Jan 30, 2025 • 44min

225. Painting the Empire: Art of the East India Company (Ep 1)

Dive into the vibrant world of Company School painting, where Indian artists blended Mughal and European styles under the British East India Company. Discover the artistic haven of Lucknow, where individual painters first gained recognition. Hear intriguing stories about colonial patrons like Claude Martin and the unique contributions of local artists. Uncover the intersection of art and imperialism, where botanical illustrations served as tools of science and symbols of cultural exchange.

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