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
28 snips
Nov 29, 2022 • 47min
19. Federal India, indentured labour, and naked yogis
Join the hosts as they dive into captivating historical narratives, from the unconventional warriors of 18th-century India—naked yogis aiding the East India Company—to the intricate stories of indentured laborers and the socio-economic hardships they faced. They explore Queen Victoria's complex relationships with her non-white goddaughters and analyze the contentious dynamics of India's partition. With a focus on overlooked histories, the discussion is rich with insights into colonial influences and the need for a broader understanding of identity and migration.
37 snips
Nov 22, 2022 • 53min
18. The Empire Implodes
Sathnam Sanghera, author of "Empireland," joins the conversation to dissect the lasting impacts of British imperialism on contemporary Britain. They delve into the complexities of teaching imperial history within schools and the urgent need for reform. The discussion highlights the diverse voices navigating these narratives and the personal stories behind immigration policies from the post-war era. Sanghera also reflects on the socioeconomic disparities within British Asian communities and calls for a nuanced understanding of this rich yet complicated history.
46 snips
Nov 15, 2022 • 54min
17. Rishi Sunak's Ancestry: Indians in East Africa
Mahmood Mamdani, a renowned professor and author with expertise in the East African Indian diaspora, delves into the complex history of Indians in East Africa. He discusses their migration journeys, especially during Idi Amin's regime, and how these experiences shaped identity and community in the UK today. The conversation highlights the socio-economic struggles faced by immigrants and the significant impact of historical events on contemporary political figures like Rishi Sunak. Personal anecdotes and colonial narratives enrich the viewers’ understanding of this multicultural legacy.
29 snips
Nov 8, 2022 • 53min
16. Partition
Kavita Puri, a broadcaster and author of "Partition Voices: Untold British Stories," joins the conversation to unpack the far-reaching impact of the Partition of India. She reveals personal narratives that highlight the emotional scars left by this historic event. The discussion touches on the arbitrary borders that disrupted communities and the haunting testimonies of violence experienced by individuals. Puri also speaks about a young man's journey to reconnect with his roots, illustrating how these stories continue to shape identities today.
49 snips
Nov 1, 2022 • 54min
15. The Last Viceroy of India
In this engaging conversation, historian Alex von Tunzelmann shares insights on Lord Louis Mountbatten, the last Viceroy of India. She unveils the complexities of his glamorous marriage to Edwina Ashley and his intertwined relationships with key figures like Nehru and Jinnah. Topics include the fraught political landscape leading to India's independence, the personal motivations affecting historical events, and the tensions surrounding the partition. Von Tunzelmann's expertise sheds light on how personal dynamics shaped a nation during turbulent times.
155 snips
Oct 25, 2022 • 1h 6min
14. Muhammad Ali Jinnah
Ayesha Jalal, a leading historian on South Asian history, dives into Muhammad Ali Jinnah's life, exploring his pivotal role in Pakistan's creation. She highlights his complex identity and the rivalry with Gandhi, illustrating their tumultuous interactions during India's independence movement. Jalal addresses the divisions in Indian politics and the violence surrounding partition, reflecting on Jinnah's paradoxical legacy as a proponent of moderate democracy versus the current realities. The discussion reveals deep insights into Jinnah's vision for a nation shaped by inclusivity.
86 snips
Oct 18, 2022 • 54min
13. The Patient Assassin
Explore the remarkable life of Udham Singh, a revolutionary who battled British colonial rule from humble beginnings. Discover his legendary feats, including the daring assassination of Sir Michael O'Dwyer and his journey through the Ghadar Party. Delve into the interplay of personal history and national identity, and the mythos surrounding Singh's legacy. The podcast also highlights the evolving sentiments towards imperialism in the aftermath of the Jallianwala Bagh massacre, weaving together themes of heroism, sacrifice, and the complexities of dissent.
120 snips
Oct 11, 2022 • 1h 5min
12. Sophia: Princess, Suffragette, Revolutionary
Explore the incredible life of Princess Sophia, a royal with a revolutionary spirit. She mingled with historical icons, fought for women's suffrage, and transformed through the turmoil of the First World War. Hear her battle against racial prejudice and societal expectations while nurturing her dual heritage. Delve into her poignant journey from privilege to activism, and discover her compassionate legacy in caring for soldiers and children during crises. It's a tale of resilience, identity, and unwavering commitment to justice.
55 snips
Oct 6, 2022 • 42min
11. Queens and the Koh-i-Noor
Discover the fascinating journey of the Koh-i-Noor diamond and its cultural significance. Learn about the dramatic voyage it took amidst cholera and storms, revealing the resilience of its crew. Hear how its arrival in Britain sparked intrigue and controversy tied to colonialism and ethics. Delve into the tumultuous relationship between the Duke of Wellington and India, and the connection between Dulip Singh and Queen Victoria. Reflect on ongoing debates about the diamond's rightful ownership amid changing royal narratives.
91 snips
Oct 4, 2022 • 58min
10. Killing for the Koh-i-Noor
Delve into the rip-roaring saga of the Koh-i-Noor diamond, a gem that sparked conflict and intrigue across empires. Explore the tumultuous legacy linked to Ranjit Singh and the power struggles igniting after his death. Witness the betrayals and royal tragedies within Lahore as young Maharaja Dalip Singh emerges amid chaos. Uncover the East India Company's manipulative tactics and the intense battles that shaped 19th-century India. Finally, embark on a secret voyage with the diamond that highlights its perilous journey.
