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
19 snips
Jan 17, 2023 • 54min
29. The Tudors and the Turks
Discover the intriguing connections between Britain and the Ottoman Empire, from slave raids in Cornwall to espionage for the Venetians. Delve into the Battle of Lepanto's impact on Mediterranean power dynamics. Enjoy humorous tales of culinary misadventures in Algiers and learn about the rise of the Levant Company. Explore the complex lives of English expatriates in Aleppo and the double life of Sir Henry Hyde during political turmoil. Uncover how trade shaped cultural exchanges in this riveting historical journey.
34 snips
Jan 12, 2023 • 50min
28. The Battle of Lepanto
Barnaby Rogerson, an expert on naval history and the Battle of Lepanto, joins the discussion to dive into one of the most critical battles in Ottoman history. He reveals how this clash between Christian and Islamic forces marked a significant turning point and the role of leadership among both fleets. The episode also highlights Cervantes' unique perspective as a captive and England's strategic shift in armaments trade following the battle. The insights into the complex social dynamics make this a captivating exploration of history.
13 snips
Jan 10, 2023 • 42min
27. The Siege of Cyprus
Barnaby Rogerson, a historian and author of "The Last Crusaders," dives deep into the dramatic siege of Cyprus led by Selim II against the Venetians. He explores the significant historical context of the Ottoman Empire's military ambitions and the precarious alliances at play. Their discussion touches on the infamous Battle of Lepanto, revealing its pivotal cultural impact and challenging Western perceptions of the Ottomans. Rogerson also unveils the turbulent reign of Selim II, highlighting court intrigues and the brutal consequences of warfare on both sides.
24 snips
Jan 3, 2023 • 39min
26. Suspicion and Sorrow in Suleiman's Court
Join expert Marc Baer, who dives into the dramatic world of Suleiman the Magnificent, known for his blend of brilliance and brutality. The discussion reveals the intense political machinations at court, highlighted by betrayal and the tragic fall of Ibrahim. Baer also addresses the Ottoman Empire's duality, showcasing its tolerance amid darker historical elements, and illuminates its significant role in global trade and the birth of coffee culture. Personal losses and the complexities of leadership paint a poignant picture of Suleiman's reign.
30 snips
Dec 27, 2022 • 44min
25. Suleiman the Magnificent
Historian Marc Baer, an expert on the Ottoman Empire and author of "Magnificent Suleiman," dives into the complexities of Suleiman the Magnificent's reign. He unveils the dramatic power dynamics and rivalries, including the influential role of Roxolana, a slave turned concubine. The discussion also highlights Suleiman's ambitious military campaigns and the lavish celebrations in Constantinople, showcasing the opulence of the time. With intriguing anecdotes and a candid analysis, Baer brings to life the rich tapestry of 16th-century Ottoman history.
23 snips
Dec 20, 2022 • 1h 3min
24. The Fall of Constantinople
Dive into the dramatic tale of 1453, the year Constantinople fell. Discover the power of the largest gun ever created and the ingenious underwater chain used to defend the city. Learn about inspirational leaders and the unfathomable odds they faced. Unpack the legacy of Sir Stephen Runciman and his influences on historical perceptions. Laugh along as the hosts share anecdotes about a renowned figure’s life, blending historical insights with humor in a riveting discussion on an unforgettable moment in history.
30 snips
Dec 13, 2022 • 39min
23. The First of the Ottomans
Peter Frankopan, a Professor of Global History at Oxford University, dives deep into the early days of the Ottoman Empire. He explores how Osman I, the empire's founder, seized power in the Balkans, revolutionizing regional dynamics. The conversation highlights the pivotal role of the Fourth Crusade in shaping the empire's rise, along with the strategic acumen of the Ottomans and their military tactics. Frankopan also humorously links Vlad the Impaler’s resistance against Ottoman expansion to this complex historical narrative, revealing fascinating interconnections of power.
45 snips
Dec 13, 2022 • 46min
22. Byzantium and the Rise of the Turks
In this engaging discussion, historian Peter Frankopan, renowned for his insights on the Silk Road and Byzantine Empire, dives into the rich tapestry of Byzantium and the rise of the Turks. He explores how the Byzantine Empire preserved classical civilization, revealing misconceptions about its legacy. The dialogue also highlights the migratory patterns post-Battle of Hastings and challenges traditional narratives of sophistication versus nomadic lifestyles. Frankopan’s insights shed light on the interplay of cultures that shaped medieval Europe and its lasting impact.
7 snips
Dec 13, 2022 • 7min
21. The Ottoman Empire
Discover the vast reach and enduring influence of the Ottoman Empire on today's world. The hosts highlight its vital role in shaping modern geopolitical tensions, particularly in the Middle East and the Balkans. They explore how historical conflicts, including the Israeli-Palestinian and Armenian issues, have roots in Ottoman decisions. The discussion emphasizes the gaps in Western education about this pivotal empire, aiming to enrich listener perspectives on current political dynamics.
27 snips
Dec 1, 2022 • 39min
20. Nationhood, the Indian constitution, and the railways
William and Anita dive into how Jallianwala Bagh shaped Indian nationhood and the British influence on the Indian constitution. They discuss the role of railways as a symbol of identity and a target for nationalism during colonial times. The conversation also touches on Kipling's complex literary portrayals and the lingering effects of colonial laws on modern India, especially in relation to LGBTQ+ rights. Finally, the hosts tease their upcoming adventure in Jaipur and future explorations of Ottoman history.
