Tides of History
Wondery / Patrick Wyman
Everywhere around us are echoes of the past. Those echoes define the boundaries of states and countries, how we pray and how we fight. They determine what money we spend and how we earn it at work, what language we speak and how we raise our children. From Wondery, host Patrick Wyman, PhD (“Fall Of Rome”) helps us understand our world and how it got to be the way it is.Listen to Tides of History on the Wondery App or wherever you get your podcasts. You can listen to bonus episodes available exclusively and ad-free on Wondery+. Join Wondery+ in the Wondery App, Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Start your free trial by visiting wondery.com/links/tides-of-history/ now.
Episodes
Mentioned books
9 snips
Jun 20, 2024 • 44min
Rome's Patrician Republic
The podcast explores the evolution of the Roman Republic, including power struggles, challenges, and conquests. It delves into the dynamics of Rome's Patrician Republic, the wealth of Etruria, and the conflicts Rome faced in the fifth century BC. The episodes highlight the ambition and competition among aristocrats, as well as the conquest of Veii that solidified Rome's dominance in Italy.
21 snips
Jun 13, 2024 • 41min
The Birth of the Roman Republic
Explore the birth of the Roman Republic in 509 BC after the expulsion of the last king. Dive into the evolution and transformation of the Roman political system over five centuries, from a republic to an imperial power under one-man rule. Learn about the conflict between patricians and plebeians, the establishment of plebeian political structures, and the evolution of Roman society.
6 snips
Jun 6, 2024 • 48min
The Greatest Dynasty of Medieval France: Interview with Professor Justine Firnhaber-Baker
Professor Justine Firnhaber-Baker, expert on medieval France, discusses Capetian dynasty, personal power of kings, challenges of absolutism, and powerful women in politics. The podcast explores medieval vs modern local politics and the importance of historical narrative and character analysis.
37 snips
May 30, 2024 • 45min
Sicily, Defeat, and the End of the Athenian Empire
Explore the devastating aftermath of the Peloponnesian War, the fragile peace between Athens and Sparta, the ruthless ancient politics, and the tragic Athenian expedition to Sicily. Witness the ill-fated siege of Syracuse, the downfall of Athenian forces, and the long-term repercussions of the war on Greece.
33 snips
May 23, 2024 • 57min
Understanding the Alien World of Ancient Greece: Interview with Professor Greg Anderson
Professor Greg Anderson discusses understanding ancient Greece, challenging modern assumptions, divine mandate in ancient monarchies, leadership in Carthage and Athens, democracy's societal role, distinct worlds in ancient civilizations, communal vs modern individualistic worldviews, and preserving indigenous cultures.
22 snips
May 15, 2024 • 45min
The Peloponnesian War, Part 1: Plague, Attrition, and a Decade of Bloodshed
Exploring the brutal realities of the Peloponnesian War, the podcast delves into internal strife in Greek cities, tensions between Athens and Corinth, the devastating Plague of Athens, Pericles' leadership amidst turmoil, and innovative tactics and peace negotiations.
22 snips
May 9, 2024 • 40min
The Athenian Empire and the Coming of the Peloponnesian War
Explore the roots of the epic Peloponnesian War, from Athens' empire-building after the Persian Wars to the tensions between Athens and Sparta. Delve into the rise of Athenian dominance, the impact of the war on Greek politics and culture, and the strategic implications that led to the historic conflict.
15 snips
May 2, 2024 • 50min
What Made Classical Greece Special? Interview with Professor Josiah Ober
Professor Josiah Ober, author of The Rise and Fall of Classical Greece, discusses the unique political ecology of Greek city-states, demographic growth, and the role of institutions in making Classical Greece distinct from the rest of the ancient world. They explore factors contributing to demographic success, risk management, and the decentralized structure of Greek society.
8 snips
Apr 25, 2024 • 1h 1min
Warlords, War, and Society in Early Rome: Interview with Professor Jeremy Armstrong
Professor Jeremy Armstrong, an expert on early Rome and warfare in pre-Roman Italy, discusses warlords, generals, and the nature of warfare in early Rome. Topics include cattle raiding in power dynamics, elite networks, logistical challenges in the Roman army, societal dynamics of early Rome, and the evolution of early Roman warfare studies.
29 snips
Apr 18, 2024 • 39min
Classical Greece
Discover the brilliance and impact of Classical Greece on literature, art, and philosophy. Dive into the political dynamics of city-states like Athens and Sparta. Explore the interconnectedness of citizenship, military duty, and societal roles in ancient Athens. Uncover the prosperous economic conditions and decentralized cooperation that fueled significant growth and cultural production in Classical Greece.
