Anthology Of Heroes History

Feb 11 2025 98 ep. 39 mins 256
Anthology Of Heroes History Podcast artwork

Inspiring stories of extraordinary figures who defied the odds and altered the course of history.

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  History  Society & Culture  Education
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The 1453 Siege Of Constantinople: Part 1

Feb 11 2025 73 mins  
In this episode, we trace the final, desperate days of the Byzantine Empire through the eyes of its last emperor, Constantine XI Palaiologos, and his formidable rival, Sultan Mehmet II. As the walls of Constantinople trembled under the relentless bombardment of Ottoman cannons, two vastly different leaders prepared for war—Constantine, a resolute ruler defending his crumbling em

End Of The Roman Empire | Part 2: Manuel II Palaiologos

Dec 31 2024 21 mins  
The Byzantine Empire was on the verge of collapse. Surrounded by enemies, Emperor Manuel II faced the daunting task of saving Constantinople from the relentless advance of the Ottoman Turks. Sultan Bayezid "The Thunderbolt" had tightened his grip around the ancient city, and its fall seemed inevitable. Yet, when all hope seemed lost, an unexpected threat to the Ottomans arose, off

End Of The Roman Empire | Part 1: The Beggar Kings

Dec 17 2024 51 mins  
In this episode, we dive into the turbulent final century of the Byzantine Empire through the eyes of one of its most fascinating figures: John VI Kantakouzenos. A reluctant emperor, John inherited a crumbling empire beset by internal strife and foreign threats. While others dreamed of restoring Rome’s former glory, John envisioned a smaller, reformed state that could survive by

The 1845 Irish Famine | Part 2: Exodus

Oct 22 2024 79 mins  
In the final episode of our two-part series on the Irish Potato Famine, we examine the most devastating years of the crisis. As Lord John Russell’s government prioritizes cost-cutting, Charles Trevelyan enforces harsh famine relief policies that intensify the suffering. Amid the chaos, the Quakers revolutionize soup kitchens, while Asenath Nicholson opens her home to the starving

The 1845 Irish Famine | Part 1: The Great Hunger

Sep 09 2024 57 mins  
In this episode, we explore the early years of the Irish Potato Famine, a devastating event that reshaped Ireland's history. Known as The Great Hunger (an Gorta Mór), this crisis led to the deaths of over a million people and forced millions more to flee their homeland. But this was no mere natural disaster—it was a crisis made worse by the actions, and inactions, of those in po

The Weirdest Battle Of World War II (Quickfire)

Aug 19 2024 17 mins  
In this episode of Quickfire, we take a lighthearted look at one of World War II’s most bizarre moments: The Battle of Castle Itter. Picture this—a ragtag group featuring Nazis fighting against their fellow Nazis, American GIs, a French tennis champion, and a tank affectionately dubbed Besotted Jenny, all banding together to defend an ancient Austrian castle. Tune in as Alex an

4 Petty Letters Of The Ancient World (Quickfire)

Jul 02 2024 22 mins  
Join us for a lively journey into the ancient world as co-host Alexander Gates and I delve into the most scandalous and petty letters of antiquity. From expletive-laden tirades to guilt-tripping manipulations, we uncover the outrageous communications of everyday people. Listen in as we explore the fiery exchanges between an Ottoman Sultan and his insolent correspondent, a Sogdian

The Battle of Manzikert 1071 | Part Three: Emperor's Folly

Jun 19 2024 50 mins  
“The most decisive disaster in Byzantine history” - Steven Runciman In the epic conclusion to our series, we delve into the monumental Battle of Manzikert in 1071. Through the perspectives of Alp Arslan and Emperor Romanos IV Diogenes, we explore the motivations and strategies of these two pivotal leaders leading up to this climactic confrontation. Drawing from primary and se

The Battle of Manzikert 1071 | Part Two: Alp Arslan and The Seljuk Onslaught

Jun 04 2024 55 mins  
In this episode we'll explore the rise of the Seljuk Turks and the crises within the Byzantine Empire leading up to the pivotal Battle of Manzikert in 1071. We delve into the transformation of the Seljuk Turks from a steppe horde into a powerful empire under the leadership of Alp Arslan. His strategic brilliance and conquests have cemented his status as an Islamic hero today. As t

The Battle of Manzikert 1071 | Part One: Wolves At The Door

May 21 2024 50 mins  
“Our Empire is withering!” - Empress Eudokia Today, we'll explore the events leading up to the 1071 Battle of Manzikert through the reign of Byzantine Emperor Constantine IX. During Constantine IX's reign, the Byzantine Empire faces threats from all sides. We meet the Seljuk Turks, whose ambitions and determination set the stage for future conquest. Constantine IX struggles t