Empire: World History

Jung Chang On Life Under Mao & Being Banned From China

347. The Six Day War (Part 2)

346. From Suez To The Palestinian Liberation Organisation (Part 1)

The podcast launches a new series on the Arab-Israeli Wars, aiming to understand the roots of 21st-century Middle Eastern conflicts by examining the 15-year period from the Six-Day War of 1967 to the Israeli invasion of Lebanon in 1982. Historian Eugene Rogan provides context, starting with the Arab world after the Sue...

345. Chairman Mao: The Cultural Revolution (Ep 6)

344. Chairman Mao: The Great Leap Forward (Ep 5)

Christiane Amanpour On Iran & Trump’s Miscalculations

343. Lebanon: Hezbollah, Israel, & Fifty Years As A Battleground

342. Iran: The Three Ayatollahs – From Revolution to Dynasty

341. Chairman Mao: The Clash With Stalin (Ep 4)

340. Chairman Mao: World War II, Japanese Invasion, & Massacre in Nanjing (Ep 3)

339. Chairman Mao: China's Communist Uprising (Ep 2)

338.Chairman Mao: Birth of A Dictator (Ep 1)

337. Bronze Age Apocalypse: Philistines, Israelites, & Rebuilding The Ruins (Ep 6)

The podcast explores the recovery and transformation of societies following the Late Bronze Age collapse, particularly focusing on the Eastern Mediterranean region. It highlights the emergence of new players like the Philistines and Israelites, examining archaeological evidence that challenges biblical narratives. The ...

336. Bronze Age Apocalypse: How To Survive The End of The World (Ep 5)

The podcast explores the potential lessons of the Late Bronze Age collapse for contemporary society, focusing on the interconnectedness of civilizations and the vulnerabilities that arise from it. It highlights the collapse of the Hittite Empire as a case study, examining the internal problems and external pressures th...

335. Bronze Age Apocalypse: Solving The Mystery of The Collapse (Ep 4)

The podcast explores the factors contributing to the Late Bronze Age collapse around 1177 BC, challenging single-cause explanations in favor of a "perfect storm" of interconnected catastrophes. Professor Eric Cline, author of "1177 BC: The Year Civilization Collapsed," discusses evidence for widespread drought, earthqu...

334. Bronze Age Apocalypse: Did Homer Write History? (Ep 3)

The podcast explores the historicity and cultural impact of Homer's epics, questioning whether they serve as accurate chronicles of the Bronze Age or primarily as works of fiction that embody historical elements. Simon Goldhill, a professor of Greek literature, joins the hosts to discuss the complexities of interpretin...

333. Bronze Age Apocalypse: The Fall of Troy with Stephen Fry (Ep 2)

The podcast explores the historical basis and enduring appeal of Homer's Iliad and Odyssey, particularly in the context of the Bronze Age Collapse. It examines how Homer's works, though written centuries later, accurately reflect details of Bronze Age weaponry and social structures, suggesting a strong oral tradition. ...

332. Bronze Age Apocalypse: Before The Collapse (Ep 1)

The podcast explores the Bronze Age Collapse, a period of dramatic imperial collapse around 2000 BC, focusing on the interconnectedness of ancient Mediterranean societies. Professor Josephine Quinn highlights the extensive trade networks, diplomatic relations, and cultural exchanges between major powers like Egypt, the...

331. The Iranian Revolution: Will The Shah Return To Iran? (Ep 2)

The podcast explores parallels between the 1979 Iranian Revolution and current unrest, examining the desire for the return of the Shah's family. It highlights the Shah's detachment from the Iranian people, the intelligence failures of the United States, and the role of women as catalysts for change in both eras. The di...

330. The Iranian Revolution: 1979 vs. 2026 (Ep 1)

The podcast examines the ongoing turmoil in Iran, drawing parallels with the 1979 revolution and exploring potential future scenarios. It addresses the surprising resurgence of support for the Shah's son, Reza, with speakers debating whether this represents genuine popular sentiment or a strategic move by activist lead...