

Wiser World
Alli Roper
Did you forget your world history, and now feel lost when world topics come up in current events? Designed for busy people who forgot (or never learned it in the first place) and need a quick refresh, Wiser World takes foundational world history and makes it approachable and concise. As a former teacher, Alli Roper wants to remind us of the world's foundational, basic history so we can have the context we need think historically about current events, travel, and global topics. Episodes are published once or twice a month, and consist of 101 episodes (100-ish year deep dives into various countries), Know Before You Go episodes (brief histories for highly-traveled spots), and pretty much any other world-related topic that you wish you'd been taught in history class.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Oct 31, 2023 • 36min
33. The Middle East Today: Must-Know History & Country Relations
This podcast covers the collapse of the Ottoman Empire, European influence in the region, major historical conflicts from WWII to 2023, and how Middle Eastern countries currently relate to each other. It explores the controversy surrounding the name 'Middle East' and discusses the historical implications of European powers in the region. The podcast also delves into the alliances, rivalries, and petroleum policies in the Middle East, highlighting changing relations among Gulf countries.

Sep 20, 2023 • 49min
32. Palestinian-Israeli Conflict 101 - Part 3
This podcast provides a historical overview of the Palestinian-Israeli conflict from 1967 to 2023, covering topics such as the Six-Day War, the impact of Jewish settlements, the intifadas and the separation wall, the Yom Kippur War, Arafat's UN address, the Camp David Accords, the 1980s crackdowns and the emergence of the intifada, the construction of the Separation Wall, the current state of the conflict including the withdrawal of Israeli military from Gaza and the split in Palestinian governance, and an overall understanding of the complexity of the conflict.

9 snips
Aug 31, 2023 • 51min
31. Palestinian-Israeli Conflict 101 - Part 2
This podcast explores the historical events leading up to the Palestinian-Israeli conflict, including World War I, the Balfour Declaration, and the establishment of Israel. It discusses the tensions between Arab Palestinians and Jewish immigrants, the challenges faced by refugees, and the division of territories. The episode also reflects on the subjectivity of history and encourages listeners to explore different perspectives.

8 snips
Aug 16, 2023 • 41min
30. Palestinian-Israeli Conflict 101 - Part 1
This podcast provides a historical introduction to the Palestinian-Israeli conflict, covering topics such as the origins of the conflict, the historical background of Jerusalem, and the diverse population of Palestine under Ottoman rule.

Jun 21, 2023 • 45min
29. A Brief History of MEXICO - Know Before You Go
A brief historical and cultural recap of Mexico, for travelers and non-travelers who want to learn more about this incredible place. For additional resources, head to our Patreon.This podcast is part of the Airwave Media podcast network. Visit airwavemedia.com to learn about other fantastic history and education-centric shows that are created for curious, thoughtful people. Please contact advertising@airwavemedia.com if you would like to advertise on our podcast.Sources used in making this episode. Special thanks for Rachel Cox for her assistance in research for this episode.Transcript for this episode.For more information on Wiser World: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wiserworldpodcast/Website (sign up for email newsletter): https://wiserworldpodcast.com/To join the email list, click on the website link, and it will take you there.Song credit: "Heart of Indonesia" by mjmusics Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jun 7, 2023 • 45min
28. A Brief History of HAWAI'I - Know Before You Go
A brief historical and cultural recap of Hawaii, for travelers and non-travelers who want to learn more about this incredible place. For additional resources, head to our Patreon.*Corrections: Despite best efforts, I mispronounced some words in this episode and want to correct them here—most I did not pronounce the glottal stop that comes with the apostrophe: Kaho’olawe = Kah-ho-oh-la-vay; Moloka’i = Mo-lo-ka-ee; Lana’i = La-na-ee; ukulele = oo-koo-lay-lay; song=Mele; chant=oli pronounced oh-lee; Kalākaua = ka-lā-cow-ah (emphasis on lā); Liliʻuokalani=Lee-Lee-ooh-oh-ka-la-nee. My apologies. This podcast is part of the Airwave Media podcast network. Visit airwavemedia.com to learn about other fantastic history and education-centric shows that are created for curious, thoughtful people. Please contact advertising@airwavemedia.com if you would like to advertise on our podcast.Sources used in making this episode. Special thanks for Rachel Cox for her assistance in research for this episode, the McQuiveys for insights, and Kailea for help with pronunciation. Transcript for this episode. For more information on Wiser World: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wiserworldpodcast/Website (sign up for email newsletter): https://wiserworldpodcast.com/To join the email list, click on the website link, and it will take you there.Song credit: "Heart of Indonesia" by mjmusics Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

May 24, 2023 • 38min
27. A Brief History of SPAIN - Know Before You Go
Discover the vibrant history and culture of Spain, from its Roman roots to the intricate tapestry of its diverse regions. Explore lively traditions like flamenco and festivals such as La Tomatina. Delve into Spain's transformation during the Islamic Golden Age and its rise as a European power through exploration. Uncover the shadows of Franco's dictatorship and the country's path to democracy, highlighting ongoing regional tensions in Catalonia and the Basque Country. A fascinating journey for travelers and history buffs alike!

17 snips
May 3, 2023 • 19min
26. What are Democracy, Autocracy, & Oligarchy? Government Systems 101
This discussion takes a deep dive into various forms of government like democracy, autocracy, and oligarchy. It unpacks what these systems truly mean and how power dynamics shift within each. You'll learn about direct democracy versus constitutional republics, and the impact of monarchy on modern governance. The conversation also addresses the complexities of totalitarian regimes and theocratic rule, illustrating the stark differences between these systems in today’s world.

16 snips
Apr 19, 2023 • 23min
25. What are Communism, Socialism, & Capitalism? Economic Ideologies 101
Dive into the fascinating world of economic ideologies! Learn what it truly means to identify as a communist, socialist, or capitalist. Explore historical contexts that shaped these systems and discover how they influence income inequality. Unpack Marx’s vision of a classless society and the critiques surrounding central planning in communism. Find out how mixed economies blend these ideologies and why a foundational understanding is essential for informed discussions. This enlightening journey makes complex economics accessible!

Apr 5, 2023 • 23min
24. Global Easter Traditions: Europe // Michal Novovesky
This episode covers a few unique religious and nonreligious Easter traditions throughout Europe. Grateful to my friend, Michal Novovesky, for sharing a tradition from his home country of Slovakia. If you learn something from this episode, please consider sharing it, and reviewing the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Transcript for this episode. Links for Visuals: Slovakian Tradition of Water and Whips (Video)Pysanky - Ukrainian Painted Eggs (Article) Semana Santa (Holy Week) in Seville, Spain (Video) Easter Egg Traditions in Europe (Video)Holy Fire - (Live Video) Special thanks to friends Dallin and Whitlie for help with pronunciation and extra tips on Ukrainian Easter, and Emily for help with German pronunciation.This podcast is part of the Airwave Media podcast network. Visit airwavemedia.com to learn about other fantastic history and education-centric shows that are created for curious, thoughtful people. Please contact advertising@airwavemedia.com if you would like to advertise on our podcast. You can also support the podcast through Patreon.For more information on Wiser World: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wiserworldpodcast/Website (sign up for email newsletter): https://wiserworldpodcast.com/To join the email list, click on the website link, and it will take you there.Song credit: "Heart of Indonesia" by mjmusics Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices