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
61 snips
May 4, 2023 • 57min
49. The Dawn of Everything
David Wengrow, an esteemed archaeologist and anthropologist, delves into the complexities of ancient societies and the roots of slavery in conversation with the hosts. He challenges conventional beliefs about hierarchy, suggesting prior egalitarian cultures existed even before agriculture. Wengrow unveils fascinating findings from archaeological sites, like the comfort of pyramid builders, and sheds light on the intricate labor dynamics of ancient Egypt. His insights weave a rich tapestry, questioning what we think we know about history and social structures.
9 snips
May 2, 2023 • 16min
48. The History of Slavery
Dive into the haunting history of slavery and its enduring consequences. Discover the unsettling ties between slavery and British colonialism, and the current debates on reparations. Explore the striking experiences at the National Museum of African American History and Culture, where the impact of slavery is felt deeply. The conversation also questions whether empires inherently foster systems of oppression, and reflects on how the legacy of slavery continues to shape our modern world.
34 snips
Apr 27, 2023 • 42min
47. Rebels Against the Raj
In this insightful discussion, Ram Guha, the author of "Rebels Against the Raj," sheds light on the Westerners who bravely joined India's fight for freedom. He introduces remarkable figures like Annie Besant and B.G. Horniman, highlighting their diverse motivations and complex legacies. The conversation delves into the personal journeys of these activists, showcasing their remarkable contributions against colonialism. Guha also emphasizes the significance of international support during India's independence struggle, making for a compelling narrative on unity in resistance.
30 snips
Apr 25, 2023 • 51min
46. The Mau Mau, the court case, and the hidden documents
Caroline Elkins, a Pulitzer Prize-winning writer and Harvard professor, dives deep into the harrowing history of the Mau Mau Uprising and the British colonial abuses in Kenya. She recounts her journey from facing skepticism over her documentary evidence to uncovering 300 hidden boxes of crucial records that validate her findings. The conversation delves into the brutal tactics used by colonial powers, the ongoing struggle for justice among Kikuyu survivors, and the implications of these revelations on contemporary views of colonial history.
Apr 20, 2023 • 39min
45. Successors to the Romans, progressive harems, and living Ottomans
The hosts dive into whether the Ottomans regarded themselves as successors to the Roman Empire. They compare the progressive roles of women in the Ottoman harem with those in the Mughal Empire, revealing intriguing cultural contrasts. Listeners are treated to stories about the descendants of the Ottomans, including the daughter of the last caliph. The conversation also explores land negotiations under Sultan Abdul Hamid II and the artistic exchanges between the Ottomans and Venice, highlighting a rich tapestry of history and legacy.
4 snips
Apr 18, 2023 • 46min
44. The Legacy of the Ottomans, Queen of the Desert, and giant turbans
Discover the complex legacy of the Ottoman Empire and how Ataturk viewed its modern implications. Delve into the fascinating life of Gertrude Bell, a trailblazer in archaeology and policy during a turbulent time. Explore the historical narratives surrounding the Armenian genocide and the intricacies of Turkic migrations. Learn how Ottoman culture is experiencing a revival in contemporary Turkey and why giant turbans once became a fashion statement. This lively discussion weaves personal stories with deep historical insights.
Apr 11, 2023 • 60min
43. The Birth of Saudi Arabia
Steve Coll, a Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist and expert on Saudi Arabia, dives into the rich historical tapestry of the country’s formation. He discusses Ibn Saud’s strategic alliances and the interplay of British interests during World War I. Coll highlights the transformative impact of oil discovery on Saudi society and the role of figures like Harry Philby in shaping the oil industry. The complexities of Wahhabism, Riyadh's rapid development, and the intricate dynamics of leadership succession provide captivating insights into the nation’s emergence.
22 snips
Apr 6, 2023 • 49min
42. The Fiery End of the Ottoman Empire
Giles Milton, a historian specializing in the Ottoman Empire, dives into the chaotic final days of Smyrna during the 1922 catastrophe. He reveals the panic of fleeing communities and the indifference of elites as the Greek retreat unfolds. The discussion sheds light on the grim realities of violence, including ethnic cleansing and sexual violence as warfare tactics. Milton also highlights the tragic global inaction during the humanitarian crisis, showcasing the heroic efforts of Asa Jennings to save victims amidst the devastation.
11 snips
Apr 4, 2023 • 52min
41. The Rise of Ataturk
Giles Milton, bestselling author of 'Paradise Lost: Smyrna 1922', joins to explore the tumultuous history of Smyrna and the rise of Mustafa Kemal, later known as Ataturk. The discussion covers the vibrant cultural tapestry of Smyrna before the Greek invasion, revealing the tensions that ignited violence at the end of World War I. Milton sheds light on Ataturk's strategic navigation through complex political landscapes, leading to his emergence as a national leader in a time of chaos and transformation.
125 snips
Mar 28, 2023 • 50min
40. Origins of the Israel-Palestine Conflict
Tom Segev, an accomplished historian and author of "One Palestine Complete," delves into the turbulent origins of the Israel-Palestine conflict. He sheds light on the Balfour Declaration of 1917, discussing its far-reaching implications for both Jewish and Palestinian communities. The conversation also touches on the complexities of identity, historical persecution faced by Jewish populations, and the socio-political landscape during the transition from Ottoman rule to British mandate. Segev's insights clarify how past events continue to shape today's tensions.
