Tides of History

Dr. Joanne Paul, an Honorary Associate Professor in Intellectual History and author of 'Thomas More: A Life', explores the enigmatic figure of Thomas More. She discusses how More's tumultuous childhood in Tudor England shaped his views on authority and morality. The conversation dives into the complexities of his roles as a statesman, martyr, and persecutor. Paul also examines the subjective nature of historical narratives and the interplay between humanism and community in transforming identities during the Reformation.

A 16-year-old faces a harrowing reality after becoming pregnant in an evangelical home. Hidden away in a maternity facility, she encounters pressure to give her baby up for adoption. The narrative unveils the emotional turmoil of coerced decisions and highlights stories of young women fighting back against a system that threatens their autonomy. As societal norms shift post-Roe, the discussion reveals the ongoing struggles for mothers reclaiming their choices and battling for their rights.

Explore the intriguing shift as Rome engages with the Hellenistic world after the Second Punic War. Discover how political turmoil and the rise of powerful Greek monarchies influenced Rome's expansion strategies. The podcast delves into the complex relationships that emerged, with Greek states seeking Roman alliances to combat internal crises. Key power struggles, marked by strategic maneuvers from figures like Antiochus III and Philip V, reshape the Mediterranean landscape. This historical turning point dramatically alters the future of both Rome and the Greek East.

Explore the tumultuous Hellenistic world, shaped by Alexander the Great's conquests and steeped in conflict. Discover the cultural exchanges as Greek settlers mingled with indigenous societies, creating a rich tapestry of identities. Delve into the relentless warfare that dominated this era, marking military service as a societal norm. Witness the fierce battles between the Ptolemaic and Seleucid kingdoms and the strategic significance of ancient battlegrounds. Learn how the fall of Carthage set the stage for Rome's rise in this vibrant, yet violent, historical landscape.

Walter Scheidel, Dickinson Professor of the Humanities at Stanford University, sheds light on the relevance of ancient history to modern society. He argues for its importance in understanding our shared human heritage. The conversation challenges traditional Mediterranean-centric views, advocating for a global perspective on ancient civilizations. Scheidel emphasizes the intricate connections between ancient societies and modern cultures, proposing a more inclusive approach to historical study. Tune in for a thought-provoking discussion about the legacies that shape our contemporary world.

Explore harrowing tales of survival that put the human spirit to the test. Discover how to endure life at sea with tips on finding fresh water and edible sources. Learn to confront bear encounters with strategies tailored to each species. Experience the heart-pounding story of surviving an earthquake's aftermath, focusing on mental resilience and physical endurance. These gripping narratives are interwoven with expert advice that could prepare you for unimaginable challenges.

Dive into the strategic genius of Hannibal Barca and the dramatic turns of the Second Punic War. Discover how Scipio Africanus rose to prominence, shifting the war's tides with his victories in Iberia. Explore Hannibal's ambitious Italian campaign and his struggles to maintain momentum against a resurgent Rome. Uncover the tragic fate of key figures like Hasdrubal while also marveling at moments of military brilliance and the larger implications of these battles on history. It's a tale of ambition, loss, and the relentless pursuit of victory.

Dr. Bret Devereaux, a teaching assistant professor at North Carolina State University and author of 'Of Arms and Men', returns to discuss why Carthage was a formidable rival to Rome. He highlights the similarities between the two powers and debunks biases that have tarnished Carthage's legacy. The conversation also touches on the importance of understanding ancient texts in their original languages and the challenges posed by limited sources. Additionally, Devereaux explores Hannibal's military strategies, emphasizing the complexity and resilience of Carthaginian tactics.

Discover the extraordinary rise of Scipio Africanus, a standout Roman general during the Second Punic War. Explore the gripping tales of his leadership in the face of Carthaginian threats and the pivotal campaigns in Iberia. The discussions reveal the strategic complexities of the conflict, including the power dynamics and innovations that shifted the tide of war. With a mix of historical insight and unexpected twists, the narrative illustrates how Scipio's experiences shaped Rome's military tactics and future.

The podcast explores Hannibal's stunning victory at Cannae and why it didn't secure ultimate success. It discusses the complexities of wartime alliances and Rome's resilient political system. Despite significant losses, Rome maintained strong local alliances, complicating Hannibal's efforts. The strategic delay in his advance towards Rome is analyzed, shedding light on the tactical challenges he faced. Ultimately, Hannibal's battlefield conquests clashed with the loyalty and organization of Roman allies, shaping the war's outcome.