Shows
History Loves CompanyA Legion of Foul Fiends: The Sea Peoples and the Late Bronze Age CollapseTypically, societal collapses occur gradually, with years of slow decline before the inevitable end takes place. But in the subject of today's episode, the first societal collapse in history, the opposite was true, in which the fall came rather swiftly. But what caused so many civilizations in and around the Mediterranean to meet such a rapid demise? A nefarious band of brigands and vagabonds known rather vaguely as the Sea Peoples may very well be the culprit. Tune in to the 'History Loves Company' podcast this week to learn all about it.
2022-11-0312 min
History Loves CompanyAs the Romans Do: The Carolingian RenaissanceWhen the Roman Empire fell in the late 5th Century, much ancient knowledge was lost. It would take three centuries for any semblance of the old order to return to Western Europe and it would come from a seemingly unlikely source: Charlemagne, the King of the Franks. What caused him to turn to the past? What reforms and changes did he bring about for his kingdom? And how did said changes shape the Western Europe we know today? Find out in this all new episode!
2022-10-2711 min
History Loves CompanyReading Between the "Lines": The Mystery of the Nazca LinesThe Nazca Lines are a series of large images (or geoglyphs) etched into the desert floor of the Nazca Desert in Southern Peru. Depicting plants, animals and geometric patterns, archaeologists and historians have long posited the purpose of these strange manmade formations. Join me as we attempt to decipher for ourselves the meaning of these truly awesome monuments, today on the 'History Loves Podcast.'
2022-10-2010 min
History Loves CompanyStart Off with a Bang: The Shot Heard 'Round the WorldIt was the event that almost single-handedly started a war, and not just any war, but one of the fiercest struggles for independence the world has ever seen. Famously dubbed "the Shot 'Heard Round the World" nearly a century later by the famed American poet, Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, it was the defining moment that would ultimately lead to the American Revolution. Join me as we pay the Massachusetts towns of Lexington and Concord a visit and see what took place on that fateful day, right here on the 'History Loves Company' podcast.
2022-10-1311 min
History Loves CompanyThe Big Chill: Amundsen's Expedition to the South PoleThere was a period, spanning the late 19th and early 20th Centuries, in which study, research and exploration of Antarctica became prevalent. Now known by the awesome(if somewhat romantic) moniker of the Heroic Age of Antarctic Exploration, it was a time of great scientific achievement and discovery. Of the many events that shaped this important period, however, perhaps none was as influential (to say nothing of epic) as the Norwegian explorer, Roald Amundsen's, attempt at locating the South Pole. Find out all about it in today's thrilling installment!
2022-09-2911 min
History Loves CompanyA Villainous Conspiracy: Gavrilo Princip and the Assassination of Franz FerdinandWhile there have been many political assassinations throughout history, few have led to full scale conflicts. Of these rare instances, perhaps none is as famous as the topic of today's episode, which lit the fuse of a Europe on the brink of war. Who was Gavrilo Princip and how did his name become synonymous with one of the biggest plots of the 20th Century? Tune in to find out.
2022-09-2217 min
History Loves CompanyPower to the People: The Magna Carta and Its LegacyThe concepts of rights and liberties are still relatively new. For the longest time, the common people and even nobles enjoyed limited or restricted freedoms while a king or monarch maintained absolute power. But a little over eight centuries ago, the first attempt at limiting the monarchy's power was made in England when one of the most important documents was drafted and signed. Tune in to the season three premiere of the 'History Loves Company' podcast to learn all about the Magna Carta!
2022-09-1512 min
History Loves Company"Hungary" For More: The Fascinating Origins of the MagyarabsEthnic enclaves are interesting, as they often are communities of specific groups of people living in a particular, if unlikely, place. Such is the case of the Magyarabs, a people who have called the stretch of the Nile River along the Egyptian-Sudanese border home for the last five centuries. How did these people get there and where did they come from initially? The answer might surprise you. Tune in to the 'History Loves Company' podcast this week to find out!
2022-09-0111 min
History Loves CompanyHolding Out for a Hero: Hayk Nahapet and the Founding of ArmeniaMost cultures throughout the world have legendary founding figures, great men and women who birthed mighty empires and societies. Of them all, however, perhaps none is as fascinating as the subject of today's episode. Join me as we take a look at the patriarch of Armenia, a man who led his people to freedom and founded a great nation, right here on the History Loves Company podcast!
2022-08-2508 min
History Loves Company"If I Could Turn Back Time": Two Quests for ImmortalityHumanity's struggle to reverse aging is one that has plagued us since the beginning. But some have gone even further than others, risking it all in an attempt to come up with a solution. That being said, upon first glance, a 16th Century Spanish explorer and a 3rd Century BC Chinese monarch may have little in common, but their quests for immortality are two of the most legendary in all of history. Tune in to the 'History Loves Company' podcast this week to learn all about it!
2022-08-1809 min
History Loves CompanyThe TX Files: Strange Happenings in Aurora, TexasOtherworldly incidents and encounters are nothing new. Christopher Columbus reported strange flashing lights in the sky off the coast of the Bahamas in 1492. Since then, however, the reporting of such incidents have become far more frequent the world over, though perhaps none was as strange or unusual as that which took place in the small town of Aurora, Texas in 1897. A cigar-shaped ship, an alien pilot and a proper Christian burial are just some of the bizarre details of this story, told in full in today's episode. Stick around to check it out!
2022-08-1110 min
History Loves CompanyParis is Burning: The Viking Siege of ParisToday, the French capital of Paris extends to both sides of the River Seine. It truly is a dazzling, mesmerizing place, so much so that it can be hard to imagine that it was once vulnerable and prone to attacks. But that's exactly what happened in the 9th Century, when the city and its inhabitants came face to face with some of the most fearsome warriors in European history. Don't miss this week's thrilling episode all about the Viking Siege of Paris, right here on the History Loves Company podcast!
2022-08-0412 min
History Loves CompanyPatron of the Arts: Süleyman as Poet and LawgiverSüleyman's reputation as a skilled military strategist and fearsome warrior tends (in the West, anyway) to overshadow his other achievements. Yet he was an outspoken and enthusiastic patron of the arts as well as a fair and just ruler in regards to the law and his people. In this, the conclusion of Süleyman the Magnificent's story, we'll explore these lesser known characteristics to reveal how truly "magnificent" he was.
2022-07-2809 min
History Loves CompanyKing and Conqueror: Süleyman the Magnificent's Military ExploitsSüleyman the Magnificent's reputation has been cemented by many characteristics and achievements. One of the more famous of these was his knack for conquest and domination. Throughout much of his reign, he successfully managed to subjugate one of Central Europe's great powers while simultaneously challenging the authority of the largest empire in Central Asia at the time. Join me today as we embark with the sultan's forces to various far-flung regions to see how he became the greatest military strategist in Ottoman history.
2022-07-2112 min
History Loves CompanyBorn to Rule: The Rise of Süleyman the MagnificentFew leaders in history were as impressive or beloved as Süleyman the Magnificent, who was perhaps the greatest sultan the Ottoman Empire ever knew. Join me as we trace both its and his origins in this, the first part in a limited series about this most "magnificent" of monarchs.
2022-07-0709 min
History Loves Company"Hear Me Roar": Women in Etruscan SocietyThe Egyptians, the Greeks and the Romans were each mighty and key power players in the Mediterranean world of Antiquity. But there was another civilization that was born on Italy's shores who rivalled them in greatness and were astonishingly more forward-thinking than any of those three combined. For some nine centuries, the Etruscans thrived and astonished their neighbors by granting women equal status to their male counterparts, but what roles did they play in Etruscan society? Find out in today's episode!
2022-06-3010 min
History Loves CompanyMusic to Your Ears: The Genesis of Three Traditional SongsWhat makes a song become part of a tradition? Is it because it's tried and true? Or maybe it has resonant themes that inspire joy in those who listen to or sing it. Whatever the case, today, we'll be looking at three songs that have become a part of traditional music in the English-speaking world and beyond. I do so hope you'll "tune" in for this one!
2022-06-2310 min
History Loves CompanyThe Rebel Alliance Strikes Back: The Battle of Teutoburg ForestFollowing Augustus Caesar's victory in the Battle of Actium, Rome, which had been a republic for the better part of five centuries was reorganized into an empire, one that would go on to become one of the largest in history. This, naturally, was followed by an initiative to expand its borders and territories. But when the Romans looked to the north in what's now Germany, they were met with heavy resistance. Tune in this week to find out what happened next, only on the 'History Loves Company' podcast!
2022-06-1614 min
History Loves CompanyHouse of the Rising Sun: The Construction and Purpose of StonehengeThe history of Britain begins with Stonehenge, the Neolithic monument that stands in an open field in Southern England. For centuries, this site has captivated the British public's imagination and curiosity, inspiring several myths and legends as to its construction. But what was its actual purpose? Who exactly built it? And just how long has it been standing? Tune in to this week's episode to learn all about Stonehenge!
2022-06-0215 min
History Loves CompanyGo For Broke: The Heroism of the 442ndFormed in the wake of the attack on Pearl Harbor, the 442nd Regimental Combat Team was an elite group of Japanese American soldiers willing to prove their loyalty to the United States, even in light of the adversity they faced at home. They would not only become the most decorated unit in the entirety of American warfare, but would also answer the question of what it means to be American. Tune in to this special Memorial Day episode to learn all about these heroes.
2022-05-2720 min
History Loves CompanyThe Big Kahuna: Kamehameha and the Unification of HawaiiToday, Hawaii, as America's fiftieth state, enjoys a reputation the world over for being an unspoiled island paradise. But its history as independent islands dates back to its origins some 1600 years ago. For centuries, the islands often warred with each other for land and power. It wasn't until the late 18th and early 19th Centuries that one man from the Big Island rose up to unite the Hawaiian people under a single banner. Join me as we explore this fascinating yet turbulent time in Hawaii's history, only on the History Loves Company podcast.
2022-05-2018 min
History Loves CompanyThe Ballad of Ned Kelly, Part Three: Hero or Villain?In this, the third and final segment of 'The Ballad of Ned Kelly,' we take a look at some of his more notorious crimes, including the infamous last stand at Glenrowan. Up to the present moment, Kelly remains a controversial figure in his native Australia, with some lauding him a hero while others denounce him as nothing more than a cold-blooded killer. But what exactly led to his life becoming such a divisive issue? Tune in to this final installment of the Ned Kelly saga to find out!
2022-05-0525 min
History Loves CompanyThe Ballad of Ned Kelly, Part Two: Birth of a LegendFrom a childhood in the harsh and violent backwoods of the South Australian bush, young Ned Kelly quickly rose to prominence as a hardened criminal, namely through the theft of horses and disorderly conduct with neighbors and locals alike. What were these formative years like for him? Who were the people with whom he surrounded himself? And how did these events in his life give rise to his legendary status? Join me for Part Two of the Ballad of Ned Kelly this week, only on the 'History Loves Company' podcast.
2022-04-2809 min
History Loves CompanyThe Ballad of Ned Kelly, Part One: Humble BeginningsThere have been several outlaws whose exploits have reached us through the ages, but perhaps none was as infamous or controversial as the bushranger, Ned Kelly, who rose to notoriety in 19th Century Australia and still divides the Australian public as to whether he was considered a hero or a villain. Tune in for part one of his epic story, from his childhood to teenage years, and discover the birth of a legend.
2022-04-2111 min
History Loves CompanyKeeping the Faith: The History of Korean ShamanismWhile much of South Korea's population identifies as non-religious, that's not to say that religion plays no part in the everyday lives of some of its citizens. Most are Christian, some are Buddhist and even less practice the ancient and indigenous faith known as Muism. What is this mysterious religion? What are some of its beliefs and rituals? And just how long has it been around? Find out in this all-new episode!
2022-04-1411 min
History Loves Company"Bogged" Down: The Discovery of Tollund ManBy the 1950s, so-named bog bodies (those discovered in peat bogs in Northern Europe and elsewhere) were nothing new. But on the morning of May 8th, 1950, one was discovered in Denmark that's the best preserved to date. In fact, when two workers happened upon it, they mistook it for a recent murder victim, not knowing that the human treasure they'd uncovered was, in fact, over two millennia old. Check out this week's episode of the 'History Loves Company' podcast to meet the incredible Tollund Man!
2022-04-0710 min
History Loves CompanySpace Oddity: The Sputnik Panic and the Space RaceThough allies during World War Two, the United States and Soviet Union quickly became bitter rivals following the conflict. As the two powers fought for scientific and technological dominance, it wasn't long before both nations began eyeing space with its myriad of possibilities. Thus began the infamous "Space Race" between America and Russia but who, ultimately, would get there first? And what were the consequences of said victory? Tune in this week to find out all about it!
2022-03-3111 min
History Loves Company"Spring" Forward: The Origins of Persian New YearPersian New Year, better known as Nowruz, coincides with the vernal (or spring) equinox and is a lively and colorful holiday celebrated by millions of people the world over. But the origins of this holiday, though shrouded in the darkness of the distant past, can be traced at least some three thousand years back to antiquity. Join me as we celebrate and explore the Persian New Year. Happy Nowruz!
2022-03-1712 min
History Loves CompanyAt the Gates of Troy: The Gallipoli Campaign in ActionLast week, we discussed what led up to the notorious Gallipoli Campaign on the Eastern Front of World War One. Now, experience it from the perspective of those embroiled in the conflict as we explore the battles themselves and what led to it being a costly mistake in human lives.
2022-03-1016 min
History Loves CompanyAnswering the Call: The Organization of the Gallipoli CampaignThe outbreak of the Great War (World War One) saw several nations plunged into the mounting conflict. When the Ottoman Empire (present-day Turkey) joined the fight, a vital lifeline was cut off from the Russians, whose supplies would eventually dwindle and run out. To secure this lifeline, a campaign was launched at Gallipoli on the southern end of the Turkish Straits to secure the waterway leading up to Istanbul and the Black Sea, thus allowing supplies to reach Russia and force the Turks out of the war. But the campaign would prove to be far trickier than the Allies could...
2022-03-0310 min
History Loves CompanyGoodbye to Berlin: The Jewish Refugees of ShanghaiWith the rise of Adolf Hitler and Nazism in the 1930s, the Jews of Germany and Austria found themselves searching for a way out. The answer came in the form of a Chinese consul in Vienna, who began issuing exit visas for all those who wished to escape Nazi persecution. The destination: Shanghai, a bustling port city in East China half a world away from anything these Jews knew. Tune in to this episode to find out about the surprising yet fascinating enclave of Jewish refugees in the Far East during World War Two.
2022-02-2416 min
History Loves CompanyMaking Mountains Out of Molehills: Visiting a Native American MetropolisLong before Philadelphia became the largest city in the fledgling United States in 1780, the distinction of the city with the largest population on American soil belonged to a sophisticated Native American settlement that had emerged on the banks of the Mississippi River a millennium prior. Known as Cahokia, its inhabitants, a culture known as the Mississippians, built it up over several generations, turning it from a sleepy backwater into a thriving religious and commercial center. But then, in the mid-14th Century, it was abandoned for reasons that are unclear. Join me as we explore this most fascinating city, the...
2022-02-1710 min
History Loves CompanyA River Runs Through It: The Story of Africa's Smallest CountryKnown as "the Smiling Coast of Africa" and renowned worldwide for its warm hospitality and friendly people, The Gambia is a tiny country nestled along the continent's western coast, yet its history is larger than life. Tune in to this brand new episode to discover this beautiful yet complex country!
2022-02-1008 min
History Loves Company"Sámi soga lávlla": Song of the Sámi PeopleThe Sámi people of Europe's Far North are one of the oldest indigenous cultures to call the continent home. Long before the arrival of the Indo-Europeans, the Sámi traditionally herded reindeer, worshipped nature and lived communally in the Arctic Circle. But then, after years of being pushed into the fringes of the modern countries in which they lived, their culture was virtually eradicated in a systematic attempt at assimilation and even destruction. But activism in recent years has brought them into the spotlight and brought about renewed interest in their ancient way of life. Tune in to this br...
2022-02-0310 min
History Loves CompanyOne for the Books: The Library of Alexandria"Having fun isn't hard when you've got a library card." If that's the case, then scholars in the Ancient World must have been having lots of fun when the Library of Alexandria opened in the Third Century BC. Planned as the greatest library that ever existed up to that point, it boasted a collection of some 400,000 texts and was the undisputed center of cultural light and knowledge at the time. But then, in the Third Century AD, it all came crashing down. What made the Library of Alexandria so great? What was it like in its heyday? And what caused...
2022-01-2013 min
History Loves Company"The Heritage of a Kingly Mind": Tamerlane and the Timurid RenaissanceFew empires in history were as sophisticated and impressive as the Timurid Empire, a Central Asian sovereignty that, at its height, was the undisputed cultural and intellectual center of both the Eastern and Islamic Worlds. Ushered in by Tamerlane, the first of the empire's many rulers, it would last for some two centuries. What were the circumstances that brought about this golden age? What were some of its achievements? And how did it all come crumbling down? Check out this week's episode to find out!
2022-01-1313 min
History Loves CompanyCalendar Boy: Pope Gregory's Greatest AchievementToday, we take the calendar for granted. Yet this important piece of timekeeping plays a critical role in our everyday lives, whether it's scheduling an appointment, planning a business trip, or simply meeting up with friends. But where does this most imperative of tools come from? Who were the people responsible for its creation? And how does it compare to earlier forms of timekeeping? Tune in to the final episode of 2021 to find out!
2021-12-3009 min
History Loves CompanyThe Benin Kingdom: The Story Behind the Real WakandaIf you, like me, are a fan of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, then you're undoubtedly familiar with Wakanda, the advanced civilization hidden deep within the African continent and ruled by the mighty T'Challa, better known as the Black Panther. But did you know that Wakanda is based on a real place? For nearly nine centuries, the Benin Kingdom thrived in what's now Southern Nigeria. At its height, it was a highly sophisticated society, undertaking impressive engineering projects and producing some of the greatest works of art ever to come out of Africa. When did the civilization come about? What were...
2021-12-2309 min
History Loves CompanyBirth of a Nation: The Battle of Vimy Ridge and the Canadian National IdentityOver a three-day period in April of 1917, at the height of the Great War (World War One), the Battle of Vimy Ridge was fought between the Canadian Corps and the German Sixth Army. What made this particular skirmish so important and unique was not so much its outcome but what it represented. To this day, Canadians look to this battle as a turning point in their history, one in which the nation, which had long since stood in the shadow of the British Empire, proved that it could stand on its own two feet among the world's greatest countries. Tune...
2021-12-1613 min
History Loves CompanyWhen Moctezuma Met Cortés: A (Not So) Love StoryThe Age of Exploration is inextricably tied to colonialism, as each "new" territory was quickly absorbed into the several European powers of the time. Spain was among the first to take advantage of this and, in the early 16th Century, toppled the Aztec Empire to gain control of Mexico. But what led up to this conflict? Who were the Aztec? And how did they build such a mighty empire in just two centuries? Tune in to this week's episode to find out.
2021-12-0917 min
History Loves CompanyThe Might of the Maccabees: The Chanukah StoryThis week marks the Jewish observance of Chanukah, the so-named "Festival of Lights" in which candles are lit to commemorate an event that took place centuries ago. The hero of said event, Judah Maccabee, has become a legend in Jewish tradition and lore just as much as the enemy, Antiochus, has become a hated and despotic villain. But just who were these historical figures and what are the origins of the holiday Jewish people celebrate today? Tune in to this brand-new episode to find out!
2021-12-0211 min
History Loves CompanyAn Immovable Feast: The First ThanksgivingCelebrated on the last Thursday in November, Thanksgiving is a day in which Americans come together to honor and celebrate that for which they are thankful, marking the occasion with an elaborate feast that draws friends and family together. But what are the origins of this unique and beautiful holiday? What was the first Thanksgiving like? And who was in attendance? Join me this week, as we travel back four centuries, to discover the circumstances that led up to the celebration we know today.
2021-11-1811 min
History Loves Company"Remember, Remember, the Fifth of November": Guy Fawkes and the Gunpowder PlotFor people outside Britain, the Fifth of November is perhaps best known as the holiday alluded to in Alan Moore's landmark graphic novel (as well as its subsequent film adaptation), 'V for Vendetta.' But despite its place in popular culture, it is, in fact, a real holiday based on a real event. The early 17th Century saw England's Catholic population on the receiving end of persecution by the country's Protestant majority. By 1605, the climate had become so intolerable that a group of conspirators plotted to overthrow the government. What were the details behind this plot? Who was involved? And...
2021-11-0417 min
History Loves CompanyThe Amityville Horror: The Tale of a Real Haunted HouseHaunted houses have become a staple of the Halloween season. Inhabited by ghosts and other supernatural entities, they can be fun walk-through displays, especially at theme parks or in your neighborhood. But every now and then, stories of REAL haunted houses capture the public's imagination and terrify those who experience them for themselves. One such house was located in the sleepy town of Amityville in Long Island, New York and was the site not only of several murders but an infamous haunting that spawned several books and films on the subject. But were the frightening events that followed the murders...
2021-10-2812 min
History Loves CompanyHungry Like the Wolf: The Frightening Story of the Beast of GévaudanLions and tigers and bears, oh my! If only the people of the former Gévaudan Province had those to worry about...What they faced over a three-year period in the 18th Century was decidedly scarier and much more horrifying. A mysterious creature, described as "like a wolf, but also not," stalked the French countryside, claiming many victims and traumatizing even more survivors. Dubbed the Beast of Gévaudan, what exactly was this nightmare-inducing creature? Find out in this all-new episode.
2021-10-2113 min
History Loves CompanyRiot Radio: The 'War of the Worlds' BroadcastThe day before Halloween in 1938, a curious broadcast broke through as most Americans were huddled around their radios in typical Sunday night fashion. This broadcast, which told of an alien invasion force that had landed in New Jersey, set the entire Northeastern United States into a panic. But, for those who had been listening from the start, it was, in fact, a dramatization of H.G. Wells' classic science fiction novel, 'War of the Worlds.' What caused the mass hysteria that ensued during the program? And how did it become infamous as a result? Tune in to the second...
2021-10-1421 min
History Loves CompanyParadise Lost: The Mystery of Roanoke ColonyThe establishment of Jamestown Colony in what's now Virginia in 1607 is often seen as the genesis of Colonial America. But twenty years prior, the British had attempted to establish a colony further south on Roanoke Island in present-day North Carolina. Troubled from the start, it would exchange hands a couple of times before its inhabitants would ultimately and mysteriously vanish, seemingly without a trace. What fate befell the colonists at Roanoke? What clues did they leave behind? And how does this unsolved mystery continue to enthrall us? Tune in to this, the first in a series of "spooktacular" episodes I'll...
2021-10-0834 min
History Loves CompanyYou Go, Girl: Hatshepsut As PharaohAs we all know, the rulers of Ancient Egypt were known as pharaohs, great kings (and, therefore, men) who reigned over their empire with an iron fist. But did you know that, in its 3000-year history, a handful of women assumed the role of pharaoh? The most famous of these is none other than Hatshepsut who, following the death of her husband, went on to assume command of the throne and obtain the full powers of pharaoh. Who was this mysterious woman? What did her reign look like? And how has her legacy endured to the present day? Tune in...
2021-09-3015 min
History Loves CompanyApocalypse Now: The Plight of the UyghursThough the Han Chinese are in the majority, the People's Republic of China is actually quite diverse with hundreds of languages spoken within its borders and up to fifty-five officially recognized ethnic groups. One of the largest and most well-known of these are the Uyghurs, a Turkic people who have called the Northwest province of Xinjiang home for centuries. Despite their rich and lengthy history in China, however, they have endured continued persecution up to the present day and are now even being systematically wiped out because of who they are. Join me as we take a look at the...
2021-09-2316 min
History Loves CompanyBoth Alike in Dignity: Chivalry and BushidoDespite what we're led to believe, humanity is more similar than it is different. At the end of the day, we all more or less strive for the same things. Perhaps this explains how countless cultures throughout history shared similar cultural practices and beliefs without making contact with one another prior to our global age. This can best be exemplified in two codes of conduct from Medieval Europe and Feudal Japan respectively. Known as chivalry and bushido, they're more similar than they are different. Join me as we explore the two in this week's all new episode!
2021-09-0911 min
History Loves Company"We Shall Never Surrender": The Dunkirk EvacuationFollowing Hitler's invasion of Poland on September 6th, 1939, the official start of World War Two, an eerie eight-month period of little to no fighting ensued. But whispers of the Nazi invasion of other countries was too critical to ignore. As such, Allied British, French and Belgian troops rushed to defend Western Europe from the Nazi menace and became stranded on the beaches of Northwest France as a result. The ensuing rescue operation, which took place over nine days in the late spring of 1940, was later dubbed "a miracle of deliverance" by none other than Prime Minister Winston Churchill. Tune in...
2021-09-0215 min
History Loves CompanyYou Say You Want a Revolution: The Bar-Kokhba RevoltThroughout much of its history, the Jewish homeland (known in antiquity as Judea) was occupied and incorporated into other empires. But the longest period of its occupation occurred, not surprisingly, under Roman rule. First annexed in 63 BC following the Siege of Jerusalem, by the start of the 2nd Century AD, tensions between the Jews and their Roman oppressors had reached a boiling point. Then, in AD 132, one man rose from among the Jewish people to lead them in their fight to oust the Romans for good. His name was Shimon Bar-Kokhba and he and the rebellion he led are the...
2021-08-2615 min
History Loves CompanyThe Last Emperor: The Life and Reign of Haile SelassieHaile Selassie has become a renowned and beloved figure the world over. The last reigning monarch of Ethiopia, he's venerated as a prophet in the Rastafarian religion and is seen as a symbol of African liberation. But, despite this reputation, there are those who speak ill of him, calling him a tyrant and no better than any other monarch in history. Regardless of one's opinion of him, there's no denying the legacy he left behind on the annals of history. Join me as we explore this most elusive and fascinating figure.
2021-08-1924 min
History Loves Company"Power, Unity and Style": A Tour of Angkor WatLocated right on the cusp between big city and dense jungle, Angkor Wat is considered the largest religious site in the world. Built in the 12th Century by King Suryavarman II of the Khmer Empire of Cambodia, it was originally meant to be the state temple as well as serve as the downtown section of the-then capital. While the capital eventually moved following his death and the originally Hindu temple was converted into a Buddhist one, the complex at Angkor Wat became, in the centuries following its completion, the undisputed symbol of Cambodian national identity. Join me as we take...
2021-08-1217 min
History Loves CompanyThe Art of War: The Military Genius of Hannibal BarcaToday, most people know the name Hannibal from the book and film 'Silence of the Lambs' but, long before the deliciously wicked Doctor Hannibal Lecter leapt off the page and onto the screen, the name was both feared and revered as being one of the greatest military strategists and tacticians of all time. Tune in to the 'History Loves Company' podcast this week as we explore the wondrous life and exploits of the Carthaginian general, Hannibal Barca.
2021-08-0523 min
History Loves CompanyThe Fix is In: The 1919 World Series ScandalThe world of sports has seen its fair share of scandals and controversies, but perhaps none has left as lasting an impression as that of the 1919 World Series between the Chicago White Sox and the Cincinnati Reds. Driven by greed and spite, eight White Sox players vowed to rig the Series in order to line their pockets with even more money. But, as to be expected, it blew up disastrously in their faces and ruined their reputations for the rest of their lives. What caused these eight players to fix the World Series? Who were the people involved? And what...
2021-07-2912 min
History Loves CompanyThe "Real" Robin Hood: William of Cassingham and the First Barons' WarMost of us are familiar with the legends of Robin Hood. Much like 'The Odyssey' or Grimm's Fairy Tales, they've become cornerstones of Western literature and have entered the popular imagination. But was there ever such a real person? It appears there very well could have been. William of Cassingham was a skilled 13th Century archer who was deemed an outlaw by his fellow Englishmen following his heroic deeds fending off the French during the Second Barons' War. Could he have inspired the tales? Tune in to this week's episode to find out!
2021-07-1514 min
History Loves CompanyViva Libertà!: The Italian Civil War, Part TwoBy 1943, the tide of the conflict was changing. With Italy's resources nearly spent and her armies both physically and spiritually spent, the nation was on the verge of collapse. Public opinion had greatly shifted on Mussolini's leadership and the people had had enough. With a major rift in the country following Il Duce's deposition, Italy was plunged into the throes of chaos and civil war, with Fascist sympathizers and their Nazi allies clashing with Resistance fighters. Join me for the exciting conclusion of this two-part episode on the Italian Civil War, only on the "History Loves Company" podcast.
2021-07-0812 min
History Loves CompanyThe Italian Civil War, Part One: Rise of the New RomeIn 1943, at the height of World War Two and fighting on multiple fronts, Italy was rocked by a civil war. Waged between fascist sympathizers and a rising Italian Resistance, it rocked the country to its very core, near well splitting it in two. But what led up to this violent skirmish? What was the political climate that created it? Tune in to part one of this two-part episode on the Italian Civil War to discover the foundations rooted in this lesser-known battle on the Italian home front.
2021-07-0112 min
History Loves CompanyThe Land That Time Forgot: Sanxingdui and the Shu KingdomFor years, it was believed that Chinese civilization was born solely on and around the Yellow River in Northeastern China in the 3rd and 2nd Millennia BC. But with the discovery of the Sanxingdui (lit. "three star mound") site in Southwest China in 1927 as well as subsequent excavations up to the present day, this notion is being challenged and rewritten. The treasures unearthed reveal a complex and sophisticated society that's as old as those that popped up along the Yellow River at the exact same time. Who were the mysterious people who left such stunning bronze and jade artifacts behind...
2021-06-2410 min
History Loves CompanyBallroom Blitz: The 'Rite of Spring' RiotWhile music often unites us, it can just as easily divide us, sometimes rather violently. Several punk shows in the 1970s ended in such a manner and a famous incident at a Rolling Stones concert in 1969 resulted in the stabbing death of an attendee. But perhaps the most famous riot in modern music history took place on the night of May 29th, 1913. The subject of such violence? A ballet. Join me as we take a comprehensive look at one of the most important (albeit controversial) pieces of music of the 20th Century and how it polarized the public.
2021-06-1015 min
History Loves CompanyBetween a Rock and a Hard Place: The Ancestral Puebloans of Mesa VerdeThe Four Corners region of the United States, located where the states of Utah, Colorado, Arizona and New Mexico meet, is a place of dramatic landscapes and natural beauty. It epitomizes the Wild West but was also once home to one of the most fascinating indigenous cultures in North America. The Ancestral Puebloans left behind some of the most sophisticated and impressive settlements on Earth with whole communities and settlements tucked away in the cliffs of canyon walls. But these feats of engineering didn't happen overnight. Join me as we travel to Mesa Verde in Southwestern Colorado and explore these...
2021-06-0314 min
History Loves CompanyFounding Father: The Life and Innovations of Benjamin FranklinMost people today recognize Benjamin Franklin as the face on the American one hundred dollar bill, but there was much more to him than a portrait on currency. Born in Boston in 1706, he rose from humble beginnings to become one of the preeminent politicians, revolutionary figures as well as minds of his day. What did he do before his foray into early American politics? What contributions did he make to the various arts and sciences? And how did the things he championed and created continue to affect us? Tune in to this week's episode to learn more!
2021-05-2013 min
History Loves Company"In the Beginning...": Mesopotamia and the World's First CivilizationsEgypt, Greece, Rome. Each of the names of these ancient civilizations conjures up images of grandeur and rightfully so. The massive monuments they left behind are testaments of their greatness and have cemented their reputation in the annals of history. But it's important to note that they were by no means the first of their kind. In a fertile region between two rivers in what's now Iraq, the first cities and complex societies arose centuries before the Pyramids, the Acropolis and the Colosseum were even concepts. Known as Mesopotamia (from a Greek word meaning "between the rivers"), they spawned several...
2021-05-1318 min
History Loves CompanyHang Ten: The History of SurfingBands like the Beach Boys and films like "Endless Summer" have immortalized surfing in popular culture and the collective consciousness. Who can say that they aren't at least somewhat familiar with the sport as a result? But its origins go back much farther than the 1960s. Join me as we explore the history of this most popular and exciting watersport.
2021-05-0610 min
History Loves CompanyComing Out "A Head": Easter Island's Mysterious Stone HeadsLocated some distance off the coast of Chile, Easter Island is a remote island paradise of rolling green hills, dramatic coastline and some nine hundred mysterious stone heads. Known as moai, they have kept a close watch on the island and its inhabitants for centuries. Yet, to this day, little is actually known about them, though speculation and debate abound. Who built these megalithic monuments? What purpose did they serve? And what do they reveal about the culture behind their construction? Join me as I seek to answer these questions in today's all-new episode!
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2021-04-2909 min
History Loves CompanyOn Their Behalf: Giving Voice to the Armenian GenocideWhen Armenia fell to Ottoman rule in the 15th Century, the tiny country in the Caucasus was absorbed into the Turks' mighty empire. Over the next five hundred years, the Armenians would make a name for themselves as Ottoman subjects but, in that time, suspicions on behalf of the ruling class began to emerge. A Christian minority in a Muslim majority country, Armenians were seen as outsiders and infidels and, therefore, not to be trusted. These suspicions and hatred reached a fever pitch by the early 20th Century when, during World War One, the Ottoman government carried out a mass...
2021-04-2211 min
History Loves CompanyThe Cost of Hubris: The Tragedy of the 'Titanic'She was the largest ship of her day and, when she was christened, her name reflected this. Born out of a bitter rivalry between the two largest shipping firms in Britain, the 'Titanic' was meant to be a bigger and better class of ocean liner that was meant to exemplify human achievement and ingenuity. But then, tragedy struck when, on her maiden voyage, she struck an iceberg and sank beneath the icy waters of the North Atlantic. Just what went wrong to cause such a heartbreaking event to occur? Was it nature or was human error more to blame? Tune...
2021-04-1515 min
History Loves CompanyGolden Age Thinking: How One King Built the Greatest Mayan City of AllThe ancient city of Palenque, located in the state of Chiapas in Southern Mexico, is considered the greatest and best-preserved Mayan city ever found. Once an independent city-state on the fringes of the Mayan world, it rose from obscurity to its height in the 7th Century when its then-ruler, K'inich Janaab Pakal (also known as Pacal the Great) ascended to the throne and set about building it up into a commercial and cultural hub. Though successive generations would continue his legacy of greatness, by the late 8th Century, it had all gone the way of the dinosaurs and the site...
2021-04-0813 min
History Loves CompanyIt's No Joke: The Origins of April Fools' DayApril 1st each year is an occasion in which practical jokes and mischievous mayhem of every kind are played out against unsuspecting "victims." Known as April Fools' Day, its specific origins are unknown but stem from a myriad of sources that span the course of human history. Tune in to this fun episode to find out all about it!
2021-04-0108 min
History Loves CompanyHellas Forever: The Greek War for Independence (Special Bicentennial Commemorative)It was exactly two hundred years ago today that Greece declared itself independent from the Ottoman Empire (based in present-day Turkey), but the road to freedom was a long and arduous one for the Greek people. Having been absorbed into Turkish sovereignty way back in 1453, it would take nearly four hundred years for them to make any headway, thanks in large part to major regrouping efforts as well as help from other European powers. What's the history behind Ottoman rule of Greece? When did revolutionary fervor really take hold? And how long did the conflict last? Find out in this...
2021-03-2514 min
History Loves CompanySláinte to the Saint: The History Behind Saint Patrick's DaySaint Patrick's Day is celebrated annually on March 17th which, tradition dictates, was the day of its namesake's passing way back in 461. Despite its religious origins, it has become a secular holiday as well in which its revelers celebrate all things Irish. But who was the man whose name graces the holiday itself? What's his story? And how did he become the most beloved national figure in Irish culture and history? Tune in to this week's episode to find out!
2021-03-1808 min
History Loves Company"I Feel the Earth Move": The Tо̄hoku Earthquake (10th Anniversary Special)Japan is no stranger to earthquakes. Being on the cusp of two major tectonic plates, they are a frequent, albeit inconvenient and frightening, part of life there. But the one that took place exactly ten years ago today quite literally shook the island nation to its core, as it was proof positive of just how devastating and fatal these natural disasters can be. What is the science behind the Tо̄hoku Earthquake? What made it particularly lethal? And how were the government and people affected by it? Find out in this special edition of the "History Loves Company" podcast.
2021-03-1110 min
History Loves CompanyThis Seat's Taken: Separate But Equal, Rosa Parks and the Act That Started the Civil Rights MovementBy the 1950s, the law known as separate but equal had become second-nature to Southern Blacks. Having originated in the aftermath of the American Civil War, it was proposed by Southern Democrats to maintain continued oppression over the newly-emancipated African Americans. Though there was some opposition in the near-century that followed, it wasn't until 1955 that the fight against it finally gained some traction when a Montgomery, Alabama-based seamstress named Rosa Parks refused to give up her seat to a White rider on a city bus. But who was Rosa Parks? What is the history surrounding the notorious separate but equal...
2021-02-2510 min
History Loves Company"Look, Up in the Sky!": The Heroism of the Tuskegee AirmenAfrican Americans have fought in all of America's major conflicts since the inception. By the outbreak of World War Two, they'd more than proven themselves as skilled fighters, though they faced a new challenge. The racist misconception that Blacks were incapable of flying or learning how to operate aircraft led them to enlist in President Franklin Roosevelt's civilian flight program, which he expanded in the years leading up to America's entry into the conflict. Deployed to North Africa and then to Italy, these African American figther pilots proved themselves as they took down hundreds of enemy aircraft within the span...
2021-02-1809 min
History Loves CompanyThe Power of Words: Phillis Wheatley, the First Black Literary SensationAfrican American literature as we know it came about just prior to, during and after the American Civil War, but did you know that, a century before, a Black woman became the first international literary sensation? Phillis Wheatley was a slave who was given the rare opportunity of receiving an education from her owners. She soon displayed amazing prowess as a wordsmith and became a household name not just in Colonial America, but in Britain as well. Who was Phillis Wheatley and how did she pave the way for African American writers who followed? Tune in to this week's episode...
2021-02-1112 min
History Loves CompanyGoing to the Promised Land: The Story of the Underground RailroadThe practice of slavery in the United States was as old as the country itself. The first African slaves arrived in the Jamestown Colony of Virginia in 1619. Even then, there were stories of runaway or escaped slaves, but it wasn't until the late 18th Century that a concerted effort arose to lead them to safety. For about seventy years, the Underground Railroad served to help fugitive slaves seek freedom in the Northern free states, Canada and even Mexico, but what are the origins of this gateway to freedom? Tune in to find out.
2021-02-0411 min
History Loves CompanyAlas, Babylon: The Rise and Fall of the Weimar Republic (Part 2)Despite its unstable beginnings, the Weimar Republic eventually took hold, ushering in a period of prosperity unlike any other in Europe at the time. The German capital of Berlin became the center of this thriving burst of creativity, rivaling Paris as the place to be for art and culture. Conditions improved immensely and it seemed that nothing could stop the growth the country was experiencing. But forces beyond its control were at play and the republic would once again find itself in trouble. Tune in to the conclusion of this special two-part episode to find out how it all happened.
2021-01-2813 min
History Loves CompanyAlas, Babylon: The Rise and Fall of the Weimar Republic (Part 1)Germany in the aftermath of World War One was a rough-and-tumble place. Having lost the war and in financial dire straits, it could barely keep itself afloat. In these difficult times, political factions vied for power over the fractured state and the common people suffered a great many hardships and struggles. And yet, from the ashes of such conditions rose the Weimar Republic, the first republic and democracy in German history. Tune in to the first part of this special two-part episode to learn more about this fascinating (albeit tumultuous) period.
2021-01-2210 min
History Loves Company"Basque-ing" in the Glory: The Complicated History of the BasquesConsidered the indigenous Europeans, the Basques have called Northeastern Spain and Southwestern France home since the dawn of civilization. And yet, until recently, their origins have remained unknown. Who are these pastoral people who live along the Spanish/French border? Where did they come from? And what is their standing in Modern European society? Find out in this week's episode!
2021-01-1409 min
History Loves CompanyJuvenile Delinquency!: The Mods and the RockersBritain in the 1960s was an exciting place, especially if you were a young person. From this explosion of culture, two distinct yet unique youth subcultures were born, the Mods and the Rockers. Expressing themselves in bold news ways, they were often in conflict with one another, the violence of which reached a crescendo in the spring of 1964. But were the scuffles between the two groups as bad as they were reported to be or was it a gross exaggeration by the media to incite a moral panic? Find out in this all-new episode!
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2021-01-0809 min
History Loves CompanyAl-Andalus: The Making of Muslim SpainFor nearly eight hundred years, much of the Iberian Peninsula (that is, Spain and Portugal) was ruled over by the Muslims. In that time, they built magnificent cities and beautiful structures that were meant to stand the tests of time. Then, by the late 15th Century, it was nothing more than a memory. Who were the Arabs who came to rule Spain? What did they accomplish in that country? And what remains of their legacy? Find out in this, the final episode of 2020!
2020-12-3113 min
History Loves Company"Peace on Earth and Mercy Mild": The Christmas Truce of 1914Just five months into World War One in December 1914, fighting along the Western Front came to a stalemate when both Allied and German forces made it to the shores of the North Sea in Belgium. Then, just before Christmas, the unthinkable happened. Troops from both sides made an unofficial ceasefire in order to celebrate the holiday together. What triggered the so-named Christmas Truce of 1914 and what effect did it have on the broader conflict? Find out in a special holiday edition of the History Loves Company podcast!
2020-12-1709 min
History Loves CompanyCultural Crossroads: The History of the Kaifeng JewsThe Jewish Diaspora has seen the Jewish people scattered throughout the globe, sometimes in the remotest of places, namely as a result of continued persecution. Of all the places they've settled, however, perhaps none is as unique as the city of Kaifeng in Eastern China, which is the home of a rich and vibrant Jewish community dating back over a thousand years. Who are the Jews of Kaifeng? How did they end up in China? And is their heritage in danger of disappearing? Find out in today's enlightening episode.
2020-12-1110 min
History Loves CompanyA Date with Destiny: The Battle of Thermopylae and Its AftermathThe Battle of Thermopylae is considered to be a defining moment not just in Greek history, but in the entirety of Western Civilization. In 480 BC, the Greeks, led by King Leonidas of Sparta, fought valiantly to stop the threat of invasion by one of the largest and most powerful empires in the Ancient World: Persia. What led up to this decisive battle? What was the outcome? And how might Western society look if it had been different? Tune in to this exciting episode to learn more!
2020-12-0315 min
History Loves CompanyDon't Mess with Texas: The Brief Life of the Texas RepublicIn the 244 years since the United States was founded, it has come to control fifty states and sixteen overseas territories. Of the fifty states, however, how many can claim the distinction of having been formerly independent nations? Perhaps the most impressive of these was Texas which, between 1836 and 1845, was its own sovereign state before ultimately being annexed by the United States. What was Texas the country like and why did it ultimately agree to become a U.S. state? Tune in to today's all-new episode to find out!
2020-11-1913 min
History Loves Company"Kerma" Chameleon: An Introduction to the NubiansFor centuries, what was known of Nubia and the Nubians came down to us from Ancient Egyptian records and sources, leading some (including seasoned archaeologists in the early 20th Century) to assume that they had been founded and influenced by that great civilization. This, however, could not be farther from the truth. Just who were the Nubians and what was their distinct culture and society like? Find out in today's all-new episode!
2020-11-1207 min
History Loves CompanyLand...Ho?: How the Vikings Accidentally Discovered CanadaIt's generally accepted among Canadians that the 16th Century French explorer, Jacques Cartier, was the first European to set foot on Canadian soil. However, nearly five hundred years before, another European, the Viking explorer, Leif Erikson, had, in fact, arrived first and even set up a community on the northernmost tip of what's now the island of Newfoundland. But was Erikson's discovery an accident? Find out in today's all-new episode!
2020-10-2909 min
History Loves CompanyYukar Upopo: The Indigenous Ainu People of JapanIt's long been believed that Japan is a racially homogenous country. However, what if I told you that it's home to an indigenous population that predates the arrival of the Japanese people? Since the last Ice Age, the Ainu people have called the East Asian archipelago home, only to be displaced when the ancestors of the modern Japanese came. The greatest mystery surrounding the Ainu, however, are their origins. Physically distinguishable from the Japanese and other East Asian populations, it begs the question: Where did they come from? Find out in today's all-new episode.
2020-10-2214 min
History Loves CompanyPirate of the Caribbean: The Life and Times of BlackbeardSince at least the 19th Century, pirates have been both romanticized and immortalized in various forms of entertainment. However, the real, larger-than-life figures from the so-named Golden Age of Piracy were decidedly more frightening and vicious than popular culture leads on. The most fearsome of these was Edward Teach, better known by his given name, Blackbeard, who became the scourge of both the Caribbean and colonial America in the early 18th Century. Who was this man? Where did he come from? And how did he ascend to the ranks of being one of the most notorious figures in history? Tune...
2020-10-1516 min
History Loves Company"Get Out of Dodge": The True Story of Dodge CityDodge City has garnered the reputation of being the most violent and vicious town in the Wild West. From its humble beginnings as just another stop along the Santa Fe Trail, it quickly rose to prominence based on trade, an industry in buffalo pelts and notoriety. But was its penchant for violence even true or based on gross exaggeration? Find out in today's all-new episode!
2020-10-0809 min
History Loves CompanyPros and Khans: The Rise and Fall of the Mongol EmpireThe Mongol Empire holds the title of the largest contiguous land empire in history. At its height, it stretched from the Pacific Ocean in the east to the Carpathian Mountains in the west, as far north as the Russian steppes and as far south as the arid plains of India. Perhaps most amazing, however, is that it conquered so much land in less than a hundred years. Then, within 150 years of its foundation, it was all gone. What factors led to the rise and exponential growth of the Mongol Empire and what led to its quick demise? Tune in to...
2020-10-0110 min
History Loves Company"Teardrop on the Cheek of Time": The Love Story Behind the Taj MahalWith anywhere between seven and eight million visitors annually, the Taj Mahal is one of the most recognizable and beloved landmarks the world over. Perhaps it's the gorgeous architecture that draws people to its gates or maybe it's the love story behind its inspiration and construction that continues to captivate and win the hearts of all who visit it. Join me as we take a look at the man and woman behind the most iconic structure in India!
2020-09-1709 min
History Loves CompanyPeople of the Book: Timbuktu and Its UniversityTimbuktu has entered the English language as a synonym for a place as mysterious as it is remote. Located within the interior of Africa, it has garnered the reputation of being a distant backwater south of the Sahara Desert. However, at its height, it was the undisputed center of trade and knowledge in the Islamic World, thanks in great part to the university that was founded there. But when and why was the university founded and how did it, in turn, help develop and shape the city surrounding it? Tune in to today's episode to discover more!
2020-09-1009 min
History Loves CompanyDivinely Decadent: The (Very) Short Reign of HeliogabalusFew civilizations in the ancient world were as impressive as Rome. Beginning as a republic in 510 BC, it later became a vast empire (one of the largest in history), ruled by a great many emperors, from the beloved to the most hated. Of all the hated rulers, however, perhaps none was as loathsome as Heliogabalus...or at least, that's how history wants us to remember him. But was he really as bad as all that? What exactly did he do to warrant such hatred throughout the ages? Find out in today's episode!
2020-09-0310 min
History Loves CompanyFool's Quest: Percy Fawcett and the City of ZIn 1925, renowned explorer and adventurer Percy Fawcett embarked on a journey into the Amazon rainforest...never to be seen again. What he was searching for, a lost city he called Z, people had long believed to be a myth, but was he right? Has his lost city been found at last? Find out in today's episode!
2020-08-2712 min
History Loves Company"Dizzy Miss Lizzie": The Crimes of Lizzie Borden"Lizzie Borden took an axe..." So begins a disturbing nursery rhyme that has immortalized the crimes of the titular subject who, to this day, continues to intrigue and fascinate, but the question remains: What exactly happened on that hot August morning in 1892? Tune in to find out!
2020-08-2011 min
History Loves CompanyPondicherry, Mon Amour: The History of French IndiaWhen it comes to colonialism in India, Britain often comes to mind, seeing as how they ruled much of the subcontinent for nearly a century. Lesser known, the French had settlements there at the same time, though it was a far from easy existence. Tune in to find out more about the oft-overlooked French colonies in India!
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2020-08-1308 min
History Loves CompanySo, You Wanna Be a Mandarin: The Scholar-Bureaucrats of Imperial ChinaGiven China's recent history, most notably the Cutural Revolution and Tiananmen Square Protests, it's hard to imagine that there was ever a time when the scholar/intellectual was held in such high esteem. But sure enough, an entire class of scholar-bureaucrats known as the Mandarins heavily shaped China's imperial government, but who were they and what exactly did they do? Find out in today's episode!
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2020-08-0606 min
History Loves Company"Opre Roma!": The Story of the RomaniThroughout history, the Gypsies (or Romani, as they prefer to be called) have wandered the world in search of a home. They've faced persecution and adversity, but have nonetheless persisted, but where did they come from? Find out in this week's episode.
2020-07-3109 min