Empire
Goalhanger
The rise and fall of empires, rulers, and the events that shaped world history.William Dalrymple and Anita Anand explore the intricate stories of revolutions, imperial wars, and the people who built and lost empires.From the British Empire to the Ottomans to Ancient India, history is shaped by power struggles and territorial conquests. How does it continue to affect the world today?Empire Club: Become a member of the Empire Club to receive early access to miniseries, ad-free listening, early access to live show tickets, bonus episodes, book discounts, our exclusive newsletter, and access to our members’ chatroom on Discord! Head to empirepoduk.com to sign up.For more Goalhanger Podcasts, head to www.goalhanger.com.
Episodes
Mentioned books
29 snips
Oct 13, 2025 • 50min
298. Gaza: The British Occupation of Palestine (Part 8)
Caroline Elkins, a Pulitzer Prize-winning historian and author of *Legacy of Violence*, delves into the complexities of the British Mandate in Palestine. She reveals the overlapping promises made by Britain, including the Balfour Declaration. Elkins discusses the violent tactics employed by the Black and Tans and their infamous reputation from Ireland. The conversation covers rising tensions, such as the 1929 Jerusalem riots, illustrating how state-directed violence and colonial policies fueled conflict and deepened divisions between Jewish and Arab communities.
86 snips
Oct 8, 2025 • 44min
297. Gaza in WW1: A Rematch For Gallipoli (Part 7)
Eugene Rogan, a historian and author specializing in the modern Middle East, offers fascinating insights into the failed British assault on Gaza in 1917. He discusses General Murray's tactical missteps and how General Allenby’s innovative strategies transformed the battlefield. The conversation explores the intricate connections between Gaza and the Gallipoli campaign, wartime diplomacy, and the implications of the Balfour Declaration. Rogan also highlights the experiences of Ottoman troops and the critical logistics that defined military outcomes in the region.
114 snips
Oct 5, 2025 • 57min
296. Ottoman Gaza: Gunpowder Conquests & Rising Nationalism (Part 6)
Eugene Rogan, a Professor of Modern Middle Eastern History at Oxford and author of The Fall of the Ottomans, dives into the Ottoman era in Gaza. He details the strategic significance of Gaza during Ottoman conquests and the harsh punishments for rebellion. The fascinating growth of the citrus and cotton industries is explored, along with the rise of nationalism in the 19th century. Rogan also discusses the evolution of local identities and the impacts of early Zionism on Palestinian society. Historical tensions and emerging identities paint a vivid picture of this complex region.
79 snips
Oct 1, 2025 • 49min
295. Crusader Gaza: Saladin & Richard The Lionheart (Part 5)
Jonathan Phillips, a Professor of Crusading History at Royal Holloway, dives deep into the Crusades and the remarkable Saladin. He explores the motivations behind Crusader expansions into Gaza and the Levant, and how Saladin effectively united forces to challenge the Franks. The discussion reveals the Mamluks' noteworthy rise, emphasizing their defeat of the Mongols at Ain Jalut and subsequent prosperity in Gaza. Through intriguing anecdotes and historical insights, Phillips brings to life a forgotten yet impactful legacy.
104 snips
Sep 29, 2025 • 41min
294. Gaza & The Islamic Conquest (Part 4)
Peter Sarris, a Professor at the University of Cambridge specializing in Late Antique and Byzantine Studies, explores the Arab conquest of Gaza in the seventh century. He delves into the pivotal role of Amr ibn al-As and the unexpected ambush of the Byzantines at Gaza. Sarris reveals the concept of an 'invisible conquest,' where local structures and languages persisted despite the upheaval. The discussion also touches on early Islamic perceptions among locals, limited mass conversions, and how the region's economy thrived under early Islamic rule despite shifting political landscapes.
112 snips
Sep 24, 2025 • 42min
293. The Gaza Erotic Literature Festival: Byzantine Gaza (Part 3)
Peter Sarris, a Professor at the University of Cambridge specializing in Late Antique and Byzantine Studies, shares fascinating insights about Byzantine Gaza. He discusses how Gaza became a vibrant center of learning and festivals during the rise of Christianity. Sarris recounts the life of St. Porphyrius, who famously closed pagan temples, and highlights Gaza's diverse community and its intellectual achievements. He also touches on the city’s renowned wine industry and the impact of trade routes, making Gaza a significant hub of cultural and economic activity.
156 snips
Sep 22, 2025 • 43min
292. Ancient Gaza: From The Assyrians to The Romans (Part 2)
Josephine Quinn, a Professor of Ancient History at the University of Cambridge and author, brings her expertise on Gaza and ancient Near Eastern empires. She discusses why the Assyrians spared Gaza while conquering the Levant, the Babylonians' devastation and subsequent Persian administration that granted local autonomy, and Alexander the Great's brutal siege of the city. Quinn highlights Gaza's resilience under Roman rule, transforming into a prosperous trade hub despite repeated sackings.
220 snips
Sep 17, 2025 • 49min
291. Ancient Gaza: The Philistines (Part 1)
Josephine Quinn, a Professor of Ancient History at the University of Cambridge, dives into the rich history of Gaza and the Philistines. She unpacks the significance of Gaza's monopoly on sweet wine during the reign of Pharaoh Thutmose III and discusses the Bronze Age Collapse that led to the rise of the Philistines. Additionally, Quinn explores biblical narratives of the Philistines, including stories of Samson and David, revealing how these tales reflect local tensions and cultural identities. Join this intriguing journey into ancient urban life!
97 snips
Sep 15, 2025 • 38min
290. Medieval India’s Alexander The Great: The Cholas (Part 2)
Anirudh Kanisetti, author of Lords of Earth and Sea and expert on the Chola dynasty, delves into the intriguing life of Queen Sembian and her role in shaping the Chola Empire's identity through temple branding. He explores the military strategies and cultural impacts of the Chola conquests in Southeast Asia, while addressing the complex realities faced by enslaved women in the court. The discussion also touches on the factors leading to the rise and eventual decline of the empire, showcasing its significant historical legacies.
77 snips
Sep 10, 2025 • 43min
289. Medieval India’s Game of Thrones: The Cholas (Part 1)
Anirudh Kanisetti, author of Lords of Earth and Sea, delves into the captivating world of the Chola Empire, likening its power struggles to a 'Game of Thrones' saga. He unveils the legacy of a remarkable queen whose imagery influenced a famous hymn. The discussion traverses the Chola dynasty's military prowess and cultural impact, revealing their intricate governance and the role of merchant guilds. Kanisetti highlights the dynasty's architectural wonders and how ancient narratives resonate with modern themes, bringing medieval India to vibrant life.
