Empire: World History 9. The Curse of the Koh-i-Noor
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Sep 29, 2022 Dive into the mysterious world of the Koh-i-Noor diamond, filled with tales of paranoia, betrayal, and treasure. Discover its tumultuous journey through empires, from the Mughals to British hands, and examine the violence surrounding its legacy. Uncover how gemstones symbolized power among rulers and the impact of the infamous Curse of the Koh-i-Noor. Experience the gripping stories of fierce battles, political upheaval, and legendary figures like Ranjit Singh as history and myth intertwine over this precious gem.
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Gems as Symbols of Power
- Nader Shah wore the Koh-i-Noor and Timur Ruby as symbols of his conquests.
- These large gems were seen as symbols of sovereignty and masculinity, primarily worn by kings.
Nader Shah's Descent into Madness
- Nader Shah's reign of terror included building pyramids of skulls.
- His paranoia led him to blind his own son, after which he was assassinated by his family.
Durrani Acquires the Koh-i-Noor
- After Nader Shah's assassination, his bodyguard, Ahmad Khan Durrani, protected his wife.
- In return, she gave him the Koh-i-Noor, which helped him establish Afghanistan.