Empire: World History
Goalhanger
The rise and fall of empires and the events that shaped world history.
William Dalrymple and Anita Anand explore the intricate stories of revolutions, imperial wars, and the people who built and lost empires.
From the British Empire to the Ottomans to Ancient India, history is shaped by power struggles and territorial conquests. How does it continue to affect the world today?
Empire Club: Become a member of the Empire Club to receive early access to miniseries, ad-free listening, early access to live show tickets, bonus episodes, book discounts, our exclusive newsletter, and access to our members’ chatroom on Discord! Head to empirepoduk.com to sign up.
For more Goalhanger Podcasts, head to www.goalhanger.com.
William Dalrymple and Anita Anand explore the intricate stories of revolutions, imperial wars, and the people who built and lost empires.
From the British Empire to the Ottomans to Ancient India, history is shaped by power struggles and territorial conquests. How does it continue to affect the world today?
Empire Club: Become a member of the Empire Club to receive early access to miniseries, ad-free listening, early access to live show tickets, bonus episodes, book discounts, our exclusive newsletter, and access to our members’ chatroom on Discord! Head to empirepoduk.com to sign up.
For more Goalhanger Podcasts, head to www.goalhanger.com.
Episodes
Mentioned books
40 snips
May 30, 2024 • 39min
155. The Founding Fathers: Benjamin Franklin (Ep 5)
Dive into the fascinating life of Benjamin Franklin, the ultimate Renaissance man! Discover his pivotal role in drafting the Declaration of Independence and his groundbreaking experiments with electricity. Explore his innovative contributions to the postal system and community initiatives like the Leather Apron Club. From his swimming theories to his complex family dynamics, Franklin's unique blend of intellect and charm shaped American identity. Uncover how his political awakenings inspired unity during a transformative era in history!
29 snips
May 29, 2024 • 31min
154. The Founding Fathers: John Adams (Ep 4)
Discover the often-overlooked legacy of John Adams, the second US President and a committed abolitionist. Delve into his early life in Braintree, Massachusetts, and the profound bond he shared with Abigail Adams. The podcast highlights his moral struggle during the Boston Massacre, where he defended British soldiers, showcasing his commitment to justice despite public outcry. Humor meets history as they navigate the satirical landscape of early America and the escalating tensions leading up to the revolutionary era.
27 snips
May 28, 2024 • 23min
153. The Founding Fathers: Alexander Hamilton (Ep 3)
Explore the tumultuous early life of Alexander Hamilton, an orphan turned rebel with a remarkable journey from the Caribbean to American politics. Discover how his hardships forged his resilience and ambition. The podcast also examines the evolution of Hamilton's image through popular culture, particularly a hit musical, and his formative experiences that shaped his revolutionary spirit. Delve into the key trade connections and personal tragedies that influenced his rise among the founding fathers.
41 snips
May 27, 2024 • 40min
152. The Founding Fathers: Thomas Jefferson (Ep 2)
Delve into the complex legacy of Thomas Jefferson as the podcast uncovers the contradictions of a man who championed equality while owning enslaved people. Explore the influences that shaped the Founding Fathers, highlighting Jefferson's early life and intellectual roots. Discover the intricate dynamics within his household, including his relationship with Sally Hemings. The dialogue also addresses the tensions leading to rebellion and the moral dilemmas of advocating for freedom while partaking in the institution of slavery.
61 snips
May 22, 2024 • 57min
151. The Founding Fathers: George Washington (Ep 1)
Explore the fascinating early life of George Washington, from his ordinary beginnings to his motivations as a soldier. Discover the man behind the myth, including his complex relationships and the moral contradictions of his slave-holding past. Delve into Washington's early ambitions as a land surveyor and his romantic pursuits amidst the backdrop of colonial Virginia. Uncover his pivotal role in the chaotic lead-up to the Seven Years' War and the intertwined destinies of colonists and Native Americans as he navigated ambition and authority.
45 snips
May 20, 2024 • 40min
150. Worlds Colliding: Seizing Settlers in New England
Explore the harrowing Deerfield raid of 1704, where Puritan settlers faced chaos and despair. Delve into the captivating story of Eunice Williams, who chose to embrace her captors, revealing the complexities of identity and cultural transformation during captivity. Discover the fragility of early British settlements and the nuanced struggles of settlers and Indigenous peoples. Uncover the governance of the Iroquois Confederacy and how it shaped community resilience amidst colonial conflicts. This narrative paints a vivid picture of survival and transformation in tumultuous times.
56 snips
May 15, 2024 • 49min
149. Pocahontas: Kidnapped in Virginia
Camilla Townsend, an expert on Pocahontas and Powhatan, joins the discussion to unravel the complexities of one of America's most famous figures. She debunks romanticized myths about Pocahontas and John Smith, revealing their complicated interactions. The conversation dives into strategic alliances through gift-giving and Pocahontas’ role as a mediator in early Virginia, amid shifting dynamics with European settlers. Townsend also explores Pocahontas’ transformation throughout her captivity and marriage, shedding light on her nuanced legacy.
69 snips
May 13, 2024 • 45min
148. America: The Empire of Liberty
Camilla Townsend, an expert on indigenous American history, brings her insight into the complex narrative of America's imperial identity. She delves into the original colonial interactions between British settlers and the Powhatan Native Americans. Townsend reveals the true story of Pocahontas, contrasting it with the Disney mythology. She also discusses the significance of female figures in indigenous tribes, highlighting their roles and societal contributions, providing a rich tapestry of early American history that often goes untold.
42 snips
May 8, 2024 • 48min
147. Queen Victoria: Empress of India (Ep 4)
In the late 19th century, Queen Victoria adopts the title Empress of India amid a complex legacy of colonial exploitation. Her close relationship with Abdul Karim, the Munshi, defies court disapproval and reveals her loyalty amidst political tensions. The podcast dives into her personal struggles after losing loved ones, and the emotional connections with figures like her Scottish helper, John Brown. It also examines her reflective Golden Jubilee, highlighting the contrasts between public celebration and private turmoil as she grapples with the implications of her reign.
46 snips
May 6, 2024 • 49min
146. Queen Victoria: The Empire on Which the Sun Never Sets (Ep 3)
Explore the grandeur of the Great Exhibition of 1851, where over six million flocked to London to witness the marvels of the Industrial Revolution. Delve into Queen Victoria's use of chloroform in childbirth and how it played into her efforts to regain royal favor. The podcast examines the violent Indian uprising of 1857, revealing contrasting views on it as either rebellion or imperial resistance. Queen Victoria's heartfelt proclamation for compassion shines amid brutality, while her profound grief over Albert's death adds a personal touch to her complex reign.
