Empire

Maya Jasanoff, a Harvard history professor and author, joins the discussion to unravel the truths behind 'The Last of the Mohicans'. They explore the profound impacts of the French and Indian War on Canada's landscape and relationships with Indigenous peoples. The conversation dives into the complexities of colonial alliances and critiques the representation of Indigenous characters in media. Jasanoff highlights how the Seven Years' War shaped the dynamics of the British Empire, setting the stage for future conflicts in North America.

Discover how beaver fur and codfish transformed a failing French colonization into a thriving New France. Explore the historical background that shaped Quebec as a French-speaking region. Uncover the intricate alliances between Indigenous leaders and French settlers, revealing a complex interplay of trade and tribal dynamics. Delve into Samuel de Champlain’s role in establishing Quebec and the unique contributions of early adventurers like Étienne Brûlée. Learn about the founding of the Hudson Bay Company and how it sparked territorial competition.

Dive into the tumultuous early history of Canadian colonization, where European explorers grappled with their dreams of riches. Discover how John Cabot was watched by Columbus and why Jacques Cartier resorted to kidnapping Indigenous peoples. The tales are rich with the hardships of scurvy and folly, alongside cultural myths like the significance of Turtle Island. Unravel the complexities of identity shaped by foreign pressures while exploring forgotten histories and the lasting impact of Norse migrations.

In this lively discussion, Daniel Immerwahr, author of 'How to Hide an Empire,' unpacks the intriguing history of America's fascination with Greenland. He reveals the U.S. attempts to buy the territory as early as 1867 and its strategic significance during WWII and the Cold War. Immerwahr delves into 'Project Iceworm,' uncovering the environmental costs of nuclear endeavors. He also critiques President Trump’s imperial ambitions, illustrating how historical perspectives shape contemporary politics and America's global footprint.

Delve into the dark history of Danish colonialism in Greenland, where capitalism and religion intertwined to erase Inuit culture. Discover the struggles Greenlanders faced in their fight for self-determination amidst royal monopolies. Explore secret negotiations that caught the attention of the U.S. and the complexities of governance during World War II. Hear poignant tales of Inuit communities grappling with the legacy of forced assimilation and cultural disconnection, while addressing contemporary challenges like climate change.

Eleanor Barraclough, an authority on Viking history and author of 'Embers of the Hand', joins to unravel the enigmatic fate of Viking settlers in Greenland. The discussion highlights their intriguing interactions with Inuit cultures and the eventual decline attributed to climate change. Barraclough also explores the clash of civilizations, from initial trade to conflicts, shedding light on the social upheaval that mirrored modern crises. The episode blends fascinating anecdotes and Viking mythology, enriching our understanding of this lost era.

Thant Myint-U, a historian and author, sheds light on his grandfather U Thant's crucial diplomatic role as the first Asian UN Secretary General during the turbulent 1960s. He discusses U Thant's impact in averting global crises like the Cuban Missile Crisis through skilled diplomacy. The conversation reveals the mystery behind his predecessor’s death and the Congo crisis, as well as the rise of non-aligned nations at the Bandung Conference, highlighting how these events shaped the UN's future in a post-colonial world.

Eleanor Barraclough, a Viking expert and author of "Embers of The Hands," discusses the fascinating Norse settlers in Greenland. She reveals how they adapted their diets beyond fish, relying on seal blubber for survival. Trade with Norway through walrus ivory emerges as a key theme, showcasing their economic ingenuity. Also, the podcast delves into the quirky side of Viking folklore, featuring 'horny zombies' and other eerie tales, blending humor with history in a captivating exploration of Viking life and culture.

Giles Milton, an author specializing in narrative history, joins the discussion. He sheds light on the Berlin Blockade and the Western Allies' airlift efforts, emphasizing the logistical hurdles they faced. The dire conditions in Berlin, including food shortages and the desperate measures residents took, paint a vivid picture of survival. Milton also highlights Ernst Reuter's pivotal role as a symbol of resistance. Lastly, the conversation touches on NATO's evolution, addressing its current relevance amid geopolitical tensions.

Join historian and author Giles Milton, known for his book on the Cold War, as he delves into life in post-WWII Berlin. Discover the chaotic aftermath of the Soviet advance and the hardships faced by civilians amidst rampant looting. Giles uncovers the moral complexities of survival in a devastated city and contrasts the lifestyles of Berlin residents with those of Allied soldiers. He also reveals the eccentric leaders navigating this turbulent time, and discusses the challenging process of denazification and the tensions of the Potsdam Conference.