72. The Russian Empire and the Great Game

The podcast introduces its new series on the Russian Empire, aiming to explore the historical context behind contemporary Russian geopolitics. It highlights Russia's expansionist history, noting its growth of 20,000 square miles per year between the 17th and 20th centuries. The series will cover Russia's westward and eastward expansion, including the Great Game, a term used to describe the rivalry between the Russian and British Empires in Central Asia. Personal connections to the series are revealed, including childhood fears of nuclear war and experiences as a student journalist covering Gorbachev. The hosts also discuss the importance of incorporating Afghan and Central Asian perspectives in historical accounts of the region.