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
37 snips
Nov 7, 2023 • 54min
95. The History of Putin's War
Anne Applebaum, a Pulitzer Prize-winning historian renowned for her expertise on Eastern Europe, delves into Ukraine's tumultuous history. She discusses the impact of WWII on Ukraine and the complex dynamics of post-Stalin political evolution. Applebaum highlights the significance of the Maidan Revolution in igniting resistance against Russian influence and examines Volodymyr Zelensky's leadership during the ongoing invasion. The conversation also addresses broader geopolitical ramifications and the challenges of securing peace amid continuing hostilities.
Nov 6, 2023 • 12min
Welcome to the Empire Club
Listeners are introduced to an exciting membership club that offers exclusive benefits like bonus content and reading lists. The discussion delves into the captivating journey of Dulip Singh, an anti-hero torn between his royal past and a quest for redemption. The hosts uncover the intricate dynamics between Ireland and Imperial Britain, featuring notable figures entwined in love and conflict. Ada Wetherill's resilience shines as she faces challenges in Moscow, painting a vivid picture of ambition and adversity during tumultuous times.
38 snips
Nov 2, 2023 • 52min
94. The Bloody History of Russia & Ukraine
Anne Applebaum, a Pulitzer Prize-winning historian known for her work on Russian and Soviet history, joins the discussion on the tragic interconnection between Russia and Ukraine. She delves into the bloody Civil War era and the devastating impact of Stalin's policies, particularly during the Great Famine, which led to millions of deaths. Applebaum highlights the resilience of Ukrainian villagers resisting oppression, the role of journalism in exposing the famine, and the lasting scars on Ukrainian identity shaped by these harrowing events.
38 snips
Oct 31, 2023 • 47min
93. Murdering the Romanovs: The End of a Dynasty
In this engaging discussion, historian Simon Sebag Montefiore sheds light on the tragic end of the Romanov dynasty. He reveals the pressures facing Tsar Nicholas II and his family during their confinement in Ekaterinburg, as chaos from the Russian Revolution threatened their safety. Montefiore explores the chilling events leading to their execution, and the dark decisions made by Bolshevik leaders. The emotional journey continues as they talk about the eventual discovery and identification of the Romanov remains, reflecting on the enduring legacy of this royal tragedy.
Oct 26, 2023 • 48min
92. Killing Rasputin
Simon Sebag Montefiore, a renowned historian and writer focusing on the Romanovs, dives into the compelling saga of Rasputin. He explores Rasputin's rise to power in Imperial Russia and his profound connection with Tsarina Alexandra. The discussion touches on the complexities of Nicholas II’s leadership, his emotional struggles, and the intense love story between him and Alexandra. Montefiore also recounts the dramatic details of Rasputin's assassination, showcasing the intertwining of history, legend, and the fate of the Russian monarchy.
11 snips
Oct 24, 2023 • 1h
91. Lenin and The Rise of the Bolsheviks
Antony Beevor, a renowned historian specializing in military history and the Russian Revolution, delves into the revolutionary chaos in early 20th-century Russia. Discussing Lenin’s strategic return from exile, he reveals how this pivotal moment fueled the Bolsheviks' rise amidst a tumultuous power vacuum. Beevor highlights the struggle for mass support faced by the Bolshevik movement and their brutal efforts to withdraw from World War I, setting the stage for the civil war and shaping modern Russian governance.
9 snips
Oct 19, 2023 • 56min
90. The Russian Revolution: Overthrowing the Tsar
Join historian Antony Beevor, renowned for his insights on military history, as he unpacks the turbulent events leading to the Russian Revolution. The discussion covers Nicholas II's detachment amid societal chaos, the impact of the Russo-Japanese War, and Lenin's rise to power. Beevor highlights the stark contrasts within Russian society, from the elite's lavish lifestyles to the suffering of soldiers. The exchange paints a vivid picture of the 1917 upheaval, revealing how strikes and widespread discontent ultimately forced the Tsar's abdication.
8 snips
Oct 17, 2023 • 58min
89. The Final Act of the Great Game
The podcast dives into the high-stakes rivalry of the Great Game, focusing on Francis Younghusband's daring ambitions in Tibet. It uncovers the rivalry between British and Russian officers, culminating in a chaotic military expedition that escalates violence. Listeners get a glimpse into Younghusband's personal life, including a humorously awkward marriage set against the backdrop of imperial tensions. The reflection on Patrick French’s contributions adds a heartfelt layer, while tales of espionage illuminate the intense colonial dynamics at play.
20 snips
Oct 12, 2023 • 50min
88. The Russo-Japanese War: Asia Strikes Back
Pankaj Mishra, an insightful author specializing in empire and Asian history, dives deep into the ramifications of the Russo-Japanese War of 1905. He reveals how Japan's stunning victory over Russia ignited a wave of nationalism and self-determination across Asia, influencing leaders like Gandhi and Sun Yat-sen. The discussion also highlights technological advancements in naval warfare that turned the tide for Japan and redefined perceptions of sovereignty among colonized nations. Such pivotal moments reshaped the political landscape of the 20th century.
6 snips
Oct 10, 2023 • 54min
87. Tolstoy: War and the Russian Empire
Rosamund Bartlett, a distinguished biographer of Tolstoy and translator of 'Anna Karenina,' delves into the life of one of literature's greatest figures. She discusses Tolstoy's transformation from a soldier in various imperial wars to a critic of the Russian Empire. The conversation highlights his empathy towards the Chechens and his evolving views on the futility of war. Additionally, Bartlett explores Tolstoy's personal struggles, including tensions in his marriage and his journey toward pacifism, revealing the profound impact of his philosophy on future generations.
