The Rest Is History 25. Empires
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Feb 22, 2021 Dive into the enduring debate on whether the age of empires has truly ended. Explore the moral complexities and historical definitions of empires, from ancient Egypt to the Ottoman and British realms. Discover how these legacies have shaped modern views on power and identity. The discussion also challenges conventional notions of governance and colonialism, pondering the future of political structures like the European Union. All this, sprinkled with humor and insightful reflections on how technology might redefine empires today.
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Early Civilization as Empires
- Early civilizations often existed as empires, not nation-states.
- Persia, for example, created infrastructure, currency, and a sense of order within its borders.
Assyrian Brutality
- Assyria, a brutal empire, used military oppression and terror to maintain control.
- They deported conquered peoples, sometimes calling them "booty."
Justification for Empire
- Empires often justify their rule by equating it with order and protection from anarchy.
- Persia, for instance, provided peace and allowed the rebuilding of the temple in Jerusalem.
