The Ancients

Join Tristan Hughes and Professor Ronald Hutton, a respected expert on ancient history and Druidic studies, as they unravel the mysterious world of Druids in Britain and France. They discuss Caesar's encounters with these formidable foes and Cicero's intriguing meetings with a Druid leader. The conversation delves into the complexities of Druidic rituals, including the controversial debate on human sacrifice, and tackles the Druids' role in resisting Roman forces. Explore how perceptions of these enigmatic figures have evolved through the ages.

In this enlightening discussion, Alan Ereira, a TV producer, author, and history professor, unravels the profound impact of gold on civilization. He takes listeners on a journey from the Varna Culture's early use of gold to the revolutionary minting of coins by King Croesus. Ereira examines the intertwined evolution of trade and currency while detailing the first-ever financial crash in history. The conversation highlights how gold transitioned from a status symbol to a backbone of economic systems and its lasting legacy in today's financial landscape.

Dr. Zosia Archibald, a Senior Lecturer at the University of Liverpool specializing in Thracian archaeology, takes listeners on a journey through the world of the ancient Thracians. They were skilled cavalry experts and riches creators, influencing Greek mythology and the Iliad. Discover the stunning Panagyurishte Treasure and the enigmatic head of Seuthes III. Archibald highlights their complex relationships with Greek culture and their resilience amid external pressures, shedding light on an often-overlooked chapter in Eastern European history.

Reverend Professor Lloyd Llewellyn Jones, an expert in ancient history and the Bible, dives into the captivating tales of the Three Wise Men. He reveals their multifaceted identities, exploring their symbolism, cultural impacts, and role as early recognizers of Christ. The conversation also highlights the significance of the Star of Bethlehem and its connections to prophecy. Artistic representations from antiquity to the Renaissance are examined, showcasing how these narratives have evolved throughout history, while emphasizing their enduring legacy in modern perspectives.

Join Dr. Jodi Magness, a Professor at the University of North Carolina and an expert on ancient Jewish history, as she unpacks the fascinating origins of Hanukkah. Delve into the gripping story of the Maccabean Revolt against the oppressive Seleucid Empire over 2,000 years ago. Discover how the revolt shaped Jewish identity amid Hellenistic pressures and the pivotal actions of figures like Mattathias and Judah Maccabee. This rich narrative explores themes of defiance, cultural survival, and the historical significance of Jerusalem's temple rededication.

Dr. Richard Bulliet, a Professor Emeritus at Columbia University renowned for his work in archaeology, and Dr. Kai James, a computational engineer who employs modeling to validate historical theories, delve into the origins of the wheel. They propose a fascinating idea that prehistoric miners in the Carpathian Mountains engineered the wheel around 6,000 years ago. The discussion covers the wheel's impact on mining and transport, the cultural shifts during the Copper to Bronze Age, and the intricate relationship between early technology and environmental factors.

In a captivating discussion, Dr. Tom Dillehay, an esteemed archaeologist from Vanderbilt University, shares his groundbreaking research on early human migration to South America. He highlights stunning discoveries at Monte Verde, including ancient tools and mastodon remains, which challenge the Clovis-first theory, suggesting humans thrived in diverse habitats over 14,500 years ago. The conversation delves into the intricate survival strategies and environmental adaptations of these early communities, revealing their sophisticated relationship with nature and shedding light on our shared human history.

Lucy Shipley, an author and expert on Etruscan culture, dives into the fascinating history of the Etruscans, the dominant civilization before Rome's rise. She discusses their decline influenced by social dynamics and interactions with neighboring cultures. The tragic tale of Lucretia is explored, highlighting the cultural clashes between Rome and Etruria. Shipley also examines archaeological findings that reveal Etruscan daily life and artistic expression, illustrating their enduring legacy despite eventual subjugation by Rome.

Prof. Lloyd Llewellyn-Jones, an expert in ancient Mesopotamian history, dives deep into the origins of the Tower of Babel story, exploring its connections to linguistic diversity and divine intervention. He reveals how ancient ziggurats inspired this iconic tale and discusses the cultural implications of the myth. The conversation also highlights the historical context of the Jewish exile in Babylon, shedding light on how this journey influenced their adaptation to a new culture while yearning for their homeland.

Dr. David Meltzer, a Professor of Prehistory at Southern Methodist University, shares his expertise on Ice Age North America. He vividly describes how early hunter-gatherers navigated a world inhabited by woolly mammoths and saber-toothed tigers. The discussion highlights the significant role of ancient DNA in understanding human migration and extinction events. Meltzer also dives into the survival strategies of these early humans, their adaptation to diverse landscapes, and the controversial links between hunting practices and megafauna extinction.