

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

106 snips
Sep 29, 2022 • 42min
9. The Curse of the Koh-i-Noor
Dive into the mysterious world of the Koh-i-Noor diamond, filled with tales of paranoia, betrayal, and treasure. Discover its tumultuous journey through empires, from the Mughals to British hands, and examine the violence surrounding its legacy. Uncover how gemstones symbolized power among rulers and the impact of the infamous Curse of the Koh-i-Noor. Experience the gripping stories of fierce battles, political upheaval, and legendary figures like Ranjit Singh as history and myth intertwine over this precious gem.

104 snips
Sep 27, 2022 • 52min
8. The Koh-i-Noor Diamond
Delve into the captivating saga of a legendary diamond that has changed hands through turbulent history. Unearth the myths and realities surrounding the Koh-i-Noor, from its colonial roots to calls for repatriation. Explore its cultural significance and emotional ties, notably among Indian visitors at the Tower of London. Discover intriguing tales tied to the diamond's legacy, including its role in the Mughal Empire and the tumultuous events leading to its current resting place atop royal crowns.

122 snips
Sep 20, 2022 • 1h 3min
7. Mahatma Gandhi
Ram Guha, a leading biographer of Mahatma Gandhi and expert on post-independence India, discusses the intricate legacy of Gandhi. They explore how Gandhi's early experiences shaped his commitment to non-violence and justice, including pivotal moments in London and South Africa. Guha addresses contemporary perceptions of Gandhi amidst changing political dynamics in India, highlighting the tension between his ideals and modern admiration for more aggressive leaders. The conversation reveals Gandhi's lasting impact on activism and environmentalism.

92 snips
Sep 13, 2022 • 39min
6. Queen Elizabeth II & Empire
In this conversation, David Olusoga, a renowned British historian known for his insights into the British Empire, shines a light on Queen Elizabeth II's complex legacy. He discusses the varied perceptions of the monarchy, particularly in former colonies like India and Kenya. The dialogue navigates the reluctance of Britain to confront its colonial past and critiques the royal family's evolving awareness of these issues. Olusoga highlights generational shifts in attitudes towards the monarchy and the Commonwealth's relevance in today's world.

126 snips
Sep 6, 2022 • 47min
5. The Jallianwala Bagh Massacre
Kim Wagner, a Professor specializing in global and imperial history, dives deep into the Jallianwala Bagh massacre. He discusses the brutal realities of military conduct during colonial times and highlights the importance of confronting darker historical moments. Wagner contrasts how different nations address their atrocities, noting lessons from Germany. The conversation also navigates the complexities surrounding figures like Gandhi, offering insights into individual and collective trauma tied to this pivotal event.

181 snips
Aug 30, 2022 • 42min
4. Between Two Massacres: 1857-1919
Delve into the aftermath of the 1857 Rebellion and the establishment of British Raj. Explore the birth of Gandhi and the shifting colonial dynamics that sparked disillusionment in India. Discover the brutal realities faced by Indian soldiers in World War I and their struggles in foreign lands. Uncover the complexities of loyalty, ethnicity, and repressive British tactics. As tensions rise in Punjab, Gandhi's call for unity emerges amidst the tumult, highlighting the deep desire for independence.

248 snips
Aug 23, 2022 • 52min
3. Mutiny, Uprising, and Rebellion
In 1857, a brutal uprising in India shook the foundations of British rule, known as the First War of Independence. The podcast dives into the East India Company's decline and the cultural exchanges that marked its presence. It highlights the literary brilliance of Ghalib and the societal tensions catalyzed by early missionary efforts. The chaos of the uprising is vividly portrayed, showcasing the struggles of rebels and civilians alike. Ultimately, it reveals the harrowing aftermath of a significant mutiny that signaled the end of an era.

463 snips
Aug 16, 2022 • 51min
2. Company Rule in India
Delve into the captivating rise of the East India Company following key battles and its profound impact on India. The discussion uncovers unconventional military strategies, the grim realities faced by local artisans, and the opium cultivation shift that devastated agriculture. Witness the heart-wrenching tale of famine in Bengal, where millions suffered under exploitative policies. Explore the flawed legacies of historical figures Clive and Hastings, providing a mix of drama and humor as they navigate the turbulent colonial landscape.

606 snips
Aug 16, 2022 • 1h 3min
1. The East India Company
The podcast dives into the fascinating rise of the East India Company, revealing how a small Tudor corporation came to dominate India. It discusses the dramatic shift from local industries to British economic control and the intense competition with other European powers. Listeners will learn about the company's transition from spice trading to the highly profitable textile industry. The complex relationship between the Mughals and the British is also explored, highlighting key events like the Battle of Plassey that reshaped the colonial landscape.

Aug 12, 2022 • 50sec
Trailer
Dive into the intricate history of empires, focusing on the British impact in India. Discover the powerful rise of the East India Company and the pivotal role of figures like Gandhi. Explore the dramatic journey toward independence and the heartbreaking realities of partition. The discussion unravels the legacies that continue to shape our world today, sparking thought about how the past influences the present.