Tides of History

Dr. Bret Devereaux, a Teaching Assistant Professor of History at NC State University and expert on Roman military history, dives into Rome's rise amidst rivals like Carthage. He discusses the strategic advantages of manpower and the unique collaborative leadership model within the Roman military during the Punic Wars. Devereaux highlights the socioeconomic struggles faced by small farmer-soldiers and the evolution of Roman mail armor, revealing how these factors contributed to Rome's formidable military culture and eventual dominance.

Discover the life of an ancient Roman farmer preparing for military duty, highlighting the pride and challenges of the era. Explore Rome's struggles in 385 BC, marked by a devastating defeat that shaped its identity. Learn about the wealth and military successes that characterized the Middle Republic, revealing the intricate relationships between elites and common citizens. Delve into how military victories transformed societal dynamics, impacting citizenship and sparking urban development, ultimately shaping Rome's trajectory into one of history's grand powers.

The intense rivalry between Rome and Carthage ignites into the First Punic War, marking a pivotal moment in Mediterranean history. Dive into the strategic naval battles, including the fierce clash at Echnomis, where Rome faced significant challenges before ultimately emerging victorious. Discover the tactical maneuvers of Carthage and the unyielding resolve of Roman general Regulus, as both sides grapple with devastating losses. This captivating narrative reveals how this lengthy conflict reshaped the power dynamics of the ancient world.

There was no particularly pressing reason for Rome and Carthage to go to war in 264 BC over the small city of Messana, but one small incident nevertheless sparked a conflict that lasted for 23 years and caused untold devastation. Why did this happen? Was war between the two great powers actually inevitable?Patrick's book is now available! Get The Verge: Reformation, Renaissance, and Forty Years that Shook the World in hardcopy, ebook, or audiobook (read by Patrick) here: https://bit.ly/PWverge. And check out Patrick's new podcast The Pursuit of Dadliness! It’s all about “Dad Culture,” and Patrick will interview some fascinating guests about everything from tall wooden ships to smoked meats to comfortable sneakers to history, sports, culture, and politics. https://bit.ly/PWtPoDListen to new episodes 1 week early, to exclusive seasons 1 and 2, and to all episodes ad free with Wondery+. Join Wondery+ for exclusives, binges, early access, and ad free listening. Available in the Wondery App https://wondery.app.link/tidesofhistoryBe the first to know about Wondery’s newest podcasts, curated recommendations, and more! Sign up now at https://wondery.fm/wonderynewsletterSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Dive into the medieval world where peasants collectively confront oppressive taxation and social hierarchies. Discover the impact of the Black Death on peasant uprisings and the emergence of their agency. Explore dramatic revolts, like the Great Peasants' Rebellion of 1381 and the Ciampi Revolt in Florence, highlighting the relentless struggle for rights and representation. Uncover how these upheavals reshaped social dynamics and sowed the seeds for eventual change in governance, revealing the timeless fight for justice among the common people.

Dr. Charlotte van Regenmortel, a lecturer in ancient history at the University of Liverpool, dives into the profound economic shifts following Alexander the Great's death. She discusses how the rise of professional armies and wage labor transformed Hellenistic economies. The conversation highlights the transition from conscription to voluntary enlistment, the role of mercenaries, and the evolving economic dynamics shaped by increased warfare. Dr. van Regenmortel reveals fascinating connections between ancient military service and modern labor markets, shedding light on their lasting impacts.

Professor Lyndal Roper, a prominent historian from Oxford, delves into the largely overlooked German Peasants' War, a monumental revolt before the French Revolution. She discusses the intertwining of social inequality, economic strife, and early Reformation ideologies that fueled the uprising. Roper highlights the contrasting perspectives of peasants and lords, the intricate role of women, and Martin Luther's evolving stance on the conflict. Her insights revolutionize our understanding of this pivotal historical event and its lasting legacies.

Delve into the fierce clashes between Pyrrhus of Epirus and the resilient Roman army. Explore the emotional turmoil of a soldier preparing for battle and witness the defining sacrifices that shaped Rome's rise. Pyrrhus's ambitious campaigns in Sicily are detailed, showcasing both his successes and the challenges of coalition warfare. Discover his strategic miscalculations during key battles and the chaos that unfolded. Finally, witness the tragic end of a Hellenistic warrior king, a pivotal moment leading to Rome's dominance and the onset of the Punic Wars.

In this engaging discussion, Professor Stuart Carroll, a historian from the University of York and author of "Blood and Violence in Early Modern France," delves into the tumultuous nature of early modern Europe. He explores the societal norms surrounding dueling and violence, emphasizing how honor shaped conflicts among the nobility. Carroll also analyzes the evolution of conflict resolution methods and draws parallels between past and present political violence, shedding light on the emotional currents that drive societal divisions today.

Dive into the intense world of the Pyrrhic War, where a soldier's escape from an elephant-laden battle reveals the sheer terror of ancient warfare. Explore the political shifts in the Mediterranean that catapulted Rome's rise and the fierce rivalries surrounding King Pyrrhus of Epirus. Discover how Pyrrhus's alliances and strategic maneuvers unfolded against the backdrop of rising tensions with Carthage. Witness the pivotal moments leading to fierce battles, marking a turning point in the power dynamics of Southern Italy and beyond.