Empire

Join historian Lloyd Llewellyn-Jones, author of "Persians: The Age of the Great Kings," as he unpacks the life of Cyrus the Great, the architect of the first superpower. Discover how Cyrus unified diverse territories, employing strategies of cultural tolerance and effective infrastructure. The conversation explores the significance of Cyrus’s legacy, his early life amidst nomadic tribes, and the complex interplay of terms like "Iran" and "Persia." Delve into his military conquests and their impact on ancient Babylon, illustrating how his ideals resonate even today.

Discover the vast legacy of Persia, the first great superpower that shaped history from India to the Mediterranean. Dive into the stories of legendary rulers like Cyrus and Darius, their cultural impacts, and their epic battles. Explore the rise of political Islam through the Iranian Revolution, and understand how the past continues to influence modern Middle Eastern politics. Learn about the Sassanians’ clashes with Rome and the emergence of Shi'ism during the Saffavid era, and gain fresh insights into today's geopolitical landscape.

Anne Applebaum, a Pulitzer Prize-winning historian renowned for her expertise on Eastern Europe, delves into Ukraine's tumultuous history. She discusses the impact of WWII on Ukraine and the complex dynamics of post-Stalin political evolution. Applebaum highlights the significance of the Maidan Revolution in igniting resistance against Russian influence and examines Volodymyr Zelensky's leadership during the ongoing invasion. The conversation also addresses broader geopolitical ramifications and the challenges of securing peace amid continuing hostilities.

Listeners are introduced to an exciting membership club that offers exclusive benefits like bonus content and reading lists. The discussion delves into the captivating journey of Dulip Singh, an anti-hero torn between his royal past and a quest for redemption. The hosts uncover the intricate dynamics between Ireland and Imperial Britain, featuring notable figures entwined in love and conflict. Ada Wetherill's resilience shines as she faces challenges in Moscow, painting a vivid picture of ambition and adversity during tumultuous times.

Anne Applebaum, a Pulitzer Prize-winning historian known for her work on Russian and Soviet history, joins the discussion on the tragic interconnection between Russia and Ukraine. She delves into the bloody Civil War era and the devastating impact of Stalin's policies, particularly during the Great Famine, which led to millions of deaths. Applebaum highlights the resilience of Ukrainian villagers resisting oppression, the role of journalism in exposing the famine, and the lasting scars on Ukrainian identity shaped by these harrowing events.

In this engaging discussion, historian Simon Sebag Montefiore sheds light on the tragic end of the Romanov dynasty. He reveals the pressures facing Tsar Nicholas II and his family during their confinement in Ekaterinburg, as chaos from the Russian Revolution threatened their safety. Montefiore explores the chilling events leading to their execution, and the dark decisions made by Bolshevik leaders. The emotional journey continues as they talk about the eventual discovery and identification of the Romanov remains, reflecting on the enduring legacy of this royal tragedy.

Simon Sebag Montefiore, a renowned historian and writer focusing on the Romanovs, dives into the compelling saga of Rasputin. He explores Rasputin's rise to power in Imperial Russia and his profound connection with Tsarina Alexandra. The discussion touches on the complexities of Nicholas II’s leadership, his emotional struggles, and the intense love story between him and Alexandra. Montefiore also recounts the dramatic details of Rasputin's assassination, showcasing the intertwining of history, legend, and the fate of the Russian monarchy.

Antony Beevor, a renowned historian specializing in military history and the Russian Revolution, delves into the revolutionary chaos in early 20th-century Russia. Discussing Lenin’s strategic return from exile, he reveals how this pivotal moment fueled the Bolsheviks' rise amidst a tumultuous power vacuum. Beevor highlights the struggle for mass support faced by the Bolshevik movement and their brutal efforts to withdraw from World War I, setting the stage for the civil war and shaping modern Russian governance.

Join historian Antony Beevor, renowned for his insights on military history, as he unpacks the turbulent events leading to the Russian Revolution. The discussion covers Nicholas II's detachment amid societal chaos, the impact of the Russo-Japanese War, and Lenin's rise to power. Beevor highlights the stark contrasts within Russian society, from the elite's lavish lifestyles to the suffering of soldiers. The exchange paints a vivid picture of the 1917 upheaval, revealing how strikes and widespread discontent ultimately forced the Tsar's abdication.

The podcast dives into the high-stakes rivalry of the Great Game, focusing on Francis Younghusband's daring ambitions in Tibet. It uncovers the rivalry between British and Russian officers, culminating in a chaotic military expedition that escalates violence. Listeners get a glimpse into Younghusband's personal life, including a humorously awkward marriage set against the backdrop of imperial tensions. The reflection on Patrick French’s contributions adds a heartfelt layer, while tales of espionage illuminate the intense colonial dynamics at play.