Western Civ
Adam Walsh
A fast-moving history of the western world from the ancient world to the present day. Examine how the emergence of the western world as a global dominant power was not something that should ever have been taken for granted. This podcast traces the development of western civilization starting in the ancient Near East, through Greece and Rome, past the collapse of the Western Roman Empire into the Dark Ages, and then follows European and, ultimately, American history as the western world moved into a dominant world position.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Aug 30, 2024 • 22min
Episode 315: England Triumphant
England emerges from the defeat of the Spanish Armada, its stock never higher. Yet all around Elizabeth the signs of the end of the Tudor age continue to emerge.Western Civ 2.0 Free TrialWebsite
Aug 23, 2024 • 46min
Episode 314: The End of the Valois
We enter this episode with an heir and a spare. We end with neither and the end of France's ruling house since the High Middle Ages. Western Civ 2.0 Free TrialWebsite
Aug 16, 2024 • 23min
Episode 313: The Armada
The "Protestant Wind" fells Philip's Armada, leaving Elizabeth "Eliza Triumphant". Western Civ 2.0 Free TrialWebsite
Aug 9, 2024 • 46min
Episode 312: The Tragical Execution
Mary Stuart, Queen of Scots, finally meets her end. Western Civ 2.0 Free TrialWebsite
Aug 2, 2024 • 25min
Episode 311: Henri III
Catherine D'Medic's favorite son takes over the throne of France. Henri III is going to be notable for many reasons in French history and today we begin his story in earnest. WebsitePatreon Support
Jul 26, 2024 • 29min
Episode 310: The Death of Charles IX
Charles IX, fairly or unfairly, will forever be remembered for the St. Bartholomew's Day Massacre. His death ushers in a new era of uncertainty for both France and England.WebsitePatreon Support
Jul 19, 2024 • 25min
Episode 309: English Intrigues
In this episode, we return to England under Queen Elizabeth I. Around Elizabeth, her key advisors grow increasingly uneasy about her seeming unwillingness to do anything about Mary Stuart's repeated efforts to steal her throne. When the Duke of Norfolk becomes implicated, even Parliament can no longer contain its frustration. WebsiteWestern Civ 2.0 Free Trial
Jul 12, 2024 • 32min
Episode 308: The Sedentary Sultan
After the death of Selim II, the Ottoman Empire goes into a period of decline. Successive Sultans seem far more interested in doling out favors to their friends and family than expanding the borders of the empire. The Janissaries, never easy to deal with under the best of circumstances, become an increasing drain on the treasury and a problem for the government. It is not over yet for the Ottomans. Not by a long shot. But the days of endless expansion are seemingly over.WebsiteAd Free Shows
Jul 5, 2024 • 22min
Episode 307: Selim II and the Battle of Lepanto
Today we are back in the Ottoman Empire. Selim II takes over for the deceased Suleyman the Magnificent. He continues his father's policies but suffers a major setback at the Battle of Lepanto. Western Civ 2.0 Free TrialWebsite
Jun 28, 2024 • 1h
Episode 306: The St. Bartholomew's Day Massacre
The swelling tide in France finally explodes in August 1572. Just as it seems like the marriage of the Protestant Henri of Navarre prepares to wed the Catholic Princess Margot and solve the religious crisis once and for all, the kingdom explodes into an orgy of violence. WebsitePatreon Free Trial
