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
18 snips
Feb 22, 2024 • 57min
125. The Origin of the Houthis
Iona Craig, an award-winning investigative journalist and Yemen specialist, dives deep into the origins and rise of the Houthi movement. She recounts her harrowing experiences covering Yemen's conflict and her encounters with the Houthis. The discussion highlights the group's transformation from a Shia religious movement to de facto rulers, the geopolitical significance of their recent attacks on international shipping, and the broader humanitarian crisis following their coup in 2014. Her insights illuminate the complex interplay of local and global politics in this war-torn region.
26 snips
Feb 20, 2024 • 51min
124. Saddam Hussein vs The Ayatollah
Dive into the harrowing depths of the Iran-Iraq War, where brutal trench warfare and devastating chemical attacks unfolded over eight long years. Discover how Saddam Hussein twisted ancient Babylonian heritage to legitimize his regime. Personal stories reveal the psychological scars on Iranian society, while the resilience of Iranian forces contrasts with Iraq's oppressive politics. Explore the geopolitical chessboard that shaped this conflict, and uncover the dark legacy of warfare that still resonates today.
30 snips
Feb 15, 2024 • 48min
123. Hezbollah: The Party of God
Kim Ghattas, an expert on Middle Eastern politics and author of "The Black Wave," delves into Hezbollah's transformation from a militia to a dominant political party in Lebanon. She discusses the origins of the group, fueled by Iranian support during the early 1980s, and its controversial tactics like suicide bombings and kidnappings. Ghattas also explores the complex social and cultural shifts within Lebanon's Shia community, the group's resilience amidst ongoing conflicts, and its significant impact on regional and global relations.
71 snips
Feb 13, 2024 • 51min
122. Iran & Saudi Arabia: The Rivalry that Split the Islamic World
Kim Ghattas, author of "Black Wave" and a Middle East expert, delves into the complex rivalry between Iran and Saudi Arabia that reshaped the Islamic world post-1979. She discusses her experiences growing up in Beirut during the civil war, illustrating the personal impact of these geopolitical tensions. The conversation highlights the birth of anti-American sentiment in Iran, the power shifts from the Iranian Revolution, and the ideological clash between Shi'ism and wahhabism, particularly in the context of Pakistan.
35 snips
Feb 8, 2024 • 51min
121. The Fall of the Shah of Shahs
In this engaging discussion, Ali Ansari, a Professor of Iranian Studies at the University of St Andrews, shares insights on the Iranian Revolution and the Shah's downfall. He highlights the Shah's authoritarian measures and the impact of Khomeini's rise in popularity. Ansari reveals the complex socio-economic dynamics that fueled public protests and the challenges Khomeini faced in establishing power. The conversation also touches on the lasting implications of the revolution, including the formation of the Islamic Republic and its effects on both regional geopolitics and the Iranian diaspora.
53 snips
Feb 6, 2024 • 41min
120. The Iranian Revolution: The Rise of Ayatollah Khomeini
In this insightful discussion, Ali Ansari, a Professor of Iranian Studies at the University of St. Andrews, unpacks the tumultuous era leading to the Iranian Revolution. He highlights the stark economic disparities exacerbated by the Shah's modernization efforts and rampant inflation. The rise of Ayatollah Khomeini as a voice for the discontented masses is examined, revealing how his vision clashed with the entrenched elite. Attention is also drawn to the opulent 2,500-year celebration of the Persian Empire, which starkly illustrated the disconnect fueling revolutionary fervor.
42 snips
Feb 1, 2024 • 52min
119. The Last Shah
Ali Ansari, a Professor of Iranian Studies at the University of St. Andrews and a modern Iranian history expert, unveils the tumultuous history of Iran under the Pahlavi dynasty. He discusses Reza Shah's modernization efforts and the influence of the Anglo-Iranian Oil Company, highlighting foreign interference during World War II. The conversation shifts to the challenges faced by his son, Mohammad Reza Shah, including the 1953 CIA-backed coup against Mossadegh, illustrating the complexities of nationalism and foreign power dynamics in Iran.
55 snips
Jan 30, 2024 • 57min
118. Iran's First Revolution
Ali Ansari, a Professor of Modern History at St Andrews and an expert on Iranian history, dives into Iran's turbulent past. He discusses the 1906 Constitutional Revolution's liberal aspirations and the subsequent rise of Reza Shah amidst chaos. The conversation reveals how foreign powers exploited Iran, igniting public dissent and awakening political consciousness. Ansari also highlights the Pahlavi dynasty's role in shaping modern Iran, illustrating the complex interplay between modernization, authority, and ongoing foreign influence.
32 snips
Jan 25, 2024 • 55min
117. Nader Shah: The Sword of Persia
Discover the incredible journey of Nader Shah, a shepherd who evolved into a formidable leader, likened to Napoleon. His military genius transformed Persian warfare, incorporating innovative tactics like camel-mounted artillery. Explore the chaos of the Safavid Empire and Nader's rise amidst political intrigue and external threats. His notorious conquest of Delhi and the plunder of treasures like the Peacock Throne underscore his complex legacy, blending brutal conquest with moments of madness. A fascinating portrait of power, ambition, and the human spirit.
55 snips
Jan 23, 2024 • 52min
116. Isfahan: The City of Dreams
Sussan Babaie, a professor of Iranian and Islamic art, joins the discussion to illuminate the enchanting city of Isfahan. She reveals how Shah Abbas transformed it into a cultural gem with stunning architectural marvels and a vibrant social scene. The conversation delves into Isfahan's rich culinary traditions and the crucial roles women played in shaping its cultural landscape. Babaie also examines the complexities of intimacy and social dynamics in Safavid society, adding depth to this fascinating historical narrative.
