New Books in History
Marshall Poe
This podcast is a channel on the New Books Network. The New Books Network is an academic audio library dedicated to public education. In each episode you will hear scholars discuss their recently published research with another expert in their field.
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Discover our 150+ channels and browse our 28,000+ episodes on our website: newbooksnetwork.com
Subscribe to our free weekly Substack newsletter to get informative, engaging content straight to your inbox: https://newbooksnetwork.substack.com/
Follow us on Instagram and Bluesky to learn about more our latest interviews: @newbooksnetworkSupport our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/history
Episodes
Mentioned books
Dec 6, 2025 • 37min
Ayoush Lazikani, "The Medieval Moon: A History of Haunting and Blessing" (Yale UP, 2025)
Ayoush Lazikani, a Lecturer at Oxford and author of *The Medieval Moon*, dives into fascinating medieval perspectives on the moon. She discusses how the moon represented both beauty and pain across cultures, from Persian love poetry to tales of lunar quests. Lazikani explores the moon's connection to medieval medical theories, cosmic miracles, and social ethics, illustrating its role in shaping identity and emotions. She beautifully argues for a global understanding of the medieval world through our shared relationship with this celestial body.
Dec 5, 2025 • 54min
Ali Anooshahr, "Slavery in the Early Mughal World: The Life and Thoughts of Jawhar Aftabachi (1520s–1580s)" (Oxford UP, 2025)
Ali Anooshahr, a historian specializing in Mughal India, discusses the life of Jawhar Aftabachi, a slave who rose to prominence in the Mughal court. He explores how Jawhar's microhistory offers a fresh perspective on slavery in South Asia and the complexities of individual identity. Anooshahr delves into the transition from slavery to the concept of discipleship within the Mughal hierarchy, highlighting the literary achievements of enslaved individuals and the societal structures that shaped their lives. The conversation sheds light on the broader implications of state formation on personal identities and interconnected histories.
Dec 5, 2025 • 49min
Joseph Harley and Vicky Holmes eds., "Objects of Poverty: Material Culture in Britain from 1700" (Bloomsbury, 2025)
Historian Joseph Harley, co-editor of 'Objects of Poverty', unpacks the hidden narratives of materials owned by the impoverished in Britain since 1700. He highlights the surprising variety of objects, from dolls to reusable egg boxes, illustrating how possessions shape identities and social histories. The conversation delves into the precarious nature of poverty, the evolution of poor laws, and the emotional ties to companion animals. With insights from emerging scholars, the book invites readers to rethink material culture and its profound impact on lives.
Dec 4, 2025 • 1h 18min
Francis Gavin, "Thinking Historically: A Guide to Statecraft and Strategy" (Yale UP, 2025)
Francis Gavin, a historian and director at Johns Hopkins' Kissinger Center, discusses his book, 'Thinking Historically.' He emphasizes the crucial role of historical thinking in statecraft, highlighting how it aids decision-making in complex situations. Gavin critiques the decline of strategy history, contrasts historical methods with social sciences, and shares insights on how figures like Ben Bernanke utilized history in crisis management. He also presents a practical checklist for decision-makers, advocating for a renewed appreciation and application of history across various fields.
Dec 4, 2025 • 1h 4min
Sarah F. Derbew, "Untangling Blackness in Greek Antiquity" (Cambridge UP, 2022)
Sarah F. Derbew, an assistant professor of classics at Stanford, dives into her groundbreaking work on Blackness in Greek antiquity. She discusses her journey from studying Latin and Greek to blending critical race theory with ancient texts. The conversation reveals how Greek literature and material culture depicted Black identities and challenges misrepresentations in modern academia. Notably, Derbew critiques museum curation practices, analyzes Aeschylus' portrayal of Black Egyptian women, and emphasizes the complexity of Black identities in historical contexts.
8 snips
Dec 3, 2025 • 35min
Anne Irfan, "A Short History of the Gaza Strip" (Simon & Schuster, 2025)
Historian Anne Irfan, based at University College London, dives into her new book, exploring Gaza's tumultuous history from the 1948 Nakba to present crises. She highlights six pivotal events that shaped Gaza’s socio-political landscape, challenging narratives of ancient hatred and emphasizing the role of political decisions. Irfan discusses the continuous nature of displacement for Palestinians and critiques the historical illiteracy in Western policy proposals. Her insights connect historical context and personal testimonies, providing a nuanced view of Gaza's struggles.
Dec 3, 2025 • 37min
Taylor McCall, "The Art of Anatomy in Medieval Europe" (Reaktion Books, 2023)
Taylor McCall, a medieval art historian and managing editor of Speculum, dives into the fascinating world of anatomical imagery in medieval Europe. She challenges the notion that Renaissance figures like Leonardo da Vinci originated modern anatomy, instead highlighting the rich tradition from medieval surgeons and monks. McCall discusses early anatomical images, the role of dissection in medical training, and how cohesive connections were made between the body and the cosmos. She also explores innovative styles in manuscripts, revealing the diverse purposes these images served in historical contexts.
Dec 2, 2025 • 50min
Brooke Barbier, "King Hancock: The Radical Influence of a Moderate Founding Father" (Harvard UP, 2023)
Brooke Barbier, a historian with a PhD in American history, delves into the paradox of John Hancock, a wealthy yet relatable Founding Father. She reveals how Hancock’s moderate stance resonated with the ambivalent majority during the Revolution. His charisma and showmanship made him a beloved leader despite his initial reluctance to embrace radicalism. The conversation highlights Hancock's strategic diplomatic roles and his lasting legacy, including the fame of his iconic signature. Barbier also hints at her next project exploring alcohol's significance in the Revolution.
Dec 2, 2025 • 60min
James Lacey, "Rome: Strategy of Empire" (Oxford UP, 2022)
James Lacey, a military historian and the Horner Chair of War Studies at the Marine Corps War College, delves into the grand strategies of the Roman Empire. He critiques previous theories, arguing that strategic thinking was vital in Rome’s longevity. Lacey outlines the significance of geography, economics, and the evolving threats from tribes. He also relates lessons from Roman strategy to modern scenarios, including managing rising powers. Plus, he shares insights on his future projects that promise to engage history enthusiasts!
Dec 1, 2025 • 58min
The Library of Lost Maps: An Archive of a World in Progress
Professor James Cheshire, a renowned cartographer and director of the Social Data Institute at UCL, uncovers a hidden library of maps that transforms our understanding of history. He reveals how maps have shaped politics, sparked wars, and influenced climate science. Cheshire shares captivating stories, from the emotional power of physical maps to the controversial use of cartography in conflicts. He emphasizes the importance of revisiting forgotten maps, which hold profound cultural narratives and insights into humanity's past and future.
