History 102 with WhatifAltHist’s Rudyard Lynch and Erik Torenberg

In this episode of History 102, 'WhatIfAltHist' creator Rudyard Lynch and co-host Austin Padgett explore pivotal historical moments about the English Civil War.

They masterfully weave together religious conflict, economic transformation, and cultural dynamics to explain how this crucial conflict shaped modern capitalism, the Industrial Revolution, and even contemporary progressive politics.

Their engaging conversation style makes complex history accessible and relevant.

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Notion offers powerful workflow and automation templates, perfect for streamlining processes and laying the groundwork for AI-driven automation. With Notion AI, you can search across thousands of documents from various platforms, generating highly relevant analysis and content tailored just for you - try it for free at notion.com/cognitiverevolution.

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Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/id1765716600

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/38DK3W1Fq1xxQalhDSueFg

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TIMESTAMPS:

(00:00) Introduction and Significance of the English Civil War

(03:15) The Importance of Engaging with Politics

(04:43) The English Civil War and its Long-Term Effects

(07:21) Context: The 16th Century and the Seeds of Conflict

(08:09) Economic and Religious Factors

(12:32) Underlying Issues and Symbolism in Conflict

(14:13) Sponsor: Incogni | Givewell

(17:22) The English Civil War: A Seesaw Conflict

(20:26) Social Conservatism and the Secular Cycle

(21:33) The Secular Cycle and its Parallels to Modernity

(24:10) Escaping Malthusian Traps

(27:14) The Agricultural Revolution and Property Rights

(29:08) Trade Restrictions and the Industrial Revolution

(30:18) The Anglo Diaspora

(31:00) The Cousin's War and Genetic Factors

(33:13) Sponsor: Notion

(34:27) Cultural Homogeneity and Genetic Markers

(36:00) The Role of Monopolies and Religious Divisions

(41:20) The Spark of the English Civil War

(44:50) The Course of the War

(48:07) The Rise of Cromwell and the Interregnum

(51:18) Cromwell's Rule and Religious Tolerance

(53:00) The Conquest of Ireland and the British Navy

(57:10) Anglo-Dutch Wars

(1:00:00) The Role of Cambridge and Saxony

(1:01:20) Puritanism and Modern Progressivism

(1:02:40) Puritanism and Modern Social Justice

(1:03:50) The Death of Cromwell and the Restoration

(1:07:00) The Glorious Revolution and England's Long Period of Stability

(1:08:01) Conclusion and Book Recommendations

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BOOK RECOMMENDATIONS:

"History of Western Warfare" (Volume 2) by JFC Fuller

"History of the English Speaking Peoples" (Volume 2) by Winston Churchill

"The Age of Reason Begins" by Will Durant

"Protestants: The Faith That Made the Modern World" by Alec Ryrie

"Albion's Seed" by David Hackett Fischer

In this episode of History 102, 'WhatIfAltHist' creator Rudyard Lynch and co-host Austin Padgett talk about the Protestant Reformation, masterfully drawing parallels between historical information technology revolutions (like the printing press) and our current internet age, exploring how such advances fundamentally alter how societies process information and relate to authority.

They offer fresh perspectives on well-worn historical territory, suggesting for instance that the Reformation wasn't just about religious doctrine, but represented a quantum leap in human agency and individualism that helped birth the modern world.

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GiveWell spends 50,000 hours every year doing deep-dives into different charitable programs to try to find the ways to do the most good for your dollar. GiveWell has now spent over 17 years researching charitable organizations and only directs funding to a few of the HIGHEST-IMPACT opportunities they’ve found. Visit https://www.givewell.org to find out more or make a donation. Select PODCAST and enter Econ 102 at checkout to make sure they know you heard about them from us.

Notion offers powerful workflow and automation templates, perfect for streamlining processes and laying the groundwork for AI-driven automation. With Notion AI, you can search across thousands of documents from various platforms, generating highly relevant analysis and content tailored just for you - try it for free at notion.com/cognitiverevolution.

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RECOMMENDED PODCAST:

🎙️ Unpack Pricing - Dive into the dark arts of SaaS pricing with Metronome CEO Scott Woody and tech leaders. Learn how strategic pricing drives explosive revenue growth in today's biggest companies like Snowflake, Cockroach Labs, Dropbox and more.

Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/id1765716600

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/38DK3W1Fq1xxQalhDSueFg

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FOLLOW ON X:

@whatifalthist (Rudyard)

@LudwigNverMises (Austin)

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TIMESTAMPS:

(00:00) Intro

(01:10) History as psychological/biological process

(01:50) Importance of psychological shifts in Reformation

(02:10) Two modern parallels to Reformation

(02:50) Warhammer Fantasy analogy

(03:10) Catholic Church's medieval dominance

(05:39) Carl Jung's analysis of Catholicism

(10:11) Information technology breakthrough comparison

(10:35) Gutenberg's printing press invention

(11:24) Media control in 20th century

(12:29) Sponsors: GiveWell | Notion

(15:20) Catholic Church's role in literacy

(18:26) Catholic Church as science investor

(19:00) Discussion of Cathars and early heresies

(20:01) Impact of Black Death

(21:30) Italian Renaissance discussion

(31:30) Martin Luther's background

(35:40) Luther's 95 Theses

(43:40) Introduction of Calvinism

(46:06) Calvinism and totalitarianism

(49:52) Spanish attempts to destroy Protestantism

(51:20) Germanic and English Protestant adoption

(52:34) Modern elite's Protestant/French Revolution roots

(54:40) Harvard's Calvinist origins

(56:02) Left's appropriation of Protestant ideas

(57:30) Modern rejection of rational inquiry

(58:41) Elite perspectives on population control

(1:00:07) Book recommendations begin

(101:09) Show outro and network information

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BOOKS RECOMMENDED:

"The Reformation" by Will Durant"

"Protestants: The Faith That Made the Modern World" by Alec Ryrie

"Doubt" by Alec Ryrie

"A Secular Age" by Charles Taylor

"Rise of the West" by William H. McNeill

In this episode of History 102, 'WhatIfAltHist' creator Rudyard Lynch is joined by business development executive and agriculture technology industry entrepreneur Austin Padgett and explore 17th century Western Europe's pivotal transformation. They examine how the Protestant-Catholic divide, parallel to modern political polarization, shaped warfare, science, and economics.

The conversation reveals how the Dutch and English success in breaking monopolies and embracing agricultural innovation set the stage for the Industrial Revolution and modern capitalism.

,

RECOMMENDED PODCAST:

🎙️ Unpack Pricing - Dive into the dark arts of SaaS pricing with Metronome CEO Scott Woody and tech leaders. Learn how strategic pricing drives explosive revenue growth in today's biggest companies like Snowflake, Cockroach Labs, Dropbox and more.

Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/id1765716600

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/38DK3W1Fq1xxQalhDSueFg

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SPONSOR: GIVEWELL

GiveWell spends 50,000 hours every year doing deep-dives into different charitable programs to try to find the ways to do the most good for your dollar. GiveWell has now spent over 17 years researching charitable organizations and only directs funding to a few of the HIGHEST-IMPACT opportunities they’ve found. Visit https://www.givewell.org to find out more or make a donation. Select PODCAST and enter Econ 102 at checkout to make sure they know you heard about them from us.

FOLLOW ON X:

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@eriktorenberg (Erik)

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TIMESTAMPS:

(00:00) Intro

(01:27) The 17th Century: On the Edge of Modernity

(03:52) The Pike and Shot Era & Military Transitions

(06:58) Mercenaries and Defensive Warfare

(09:50) The French Revolution and Mass Conscription

(10:40) Libertarian Perspective & The Shifting Political Compass

(13:40) North Europe's Victory Over South Europe

(17:26) Economic Factors and the Weakening of Monarchies

(20:08) The Elizabethan Golden Age and the Secular Cycle

(22:41) The Protestant Reformation and its Impact

(26:47) Lessons from the 17th Century

(28:04) The Thirty Years War and its Impact on Europe

(30:00) Spain's Economic Failures as a Lesson

(35:30) England and the Netherlands' Breakthroughs

(36:24) The Scientific, Agricultural, and Social Revolutions

(44:48) The Political Context of the 17th Century

(49:51) The Enlightenment and the Thirty Years War's Legacy

(1:00:54) Louis XIV's Reign and the Cultural High Point of France

(1:02:08) Conclusion and U.S. Political Implications

(1:02:50) Book Recommendations

(1:03:46) The Importance of Agriculture

(1:04:19) Wrap

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BOOK RECOMMENDATIONS:

"The Global Crisis" by Geoffrey Parker

"The Military Revolution" by Geoffrey Parker

"The Age of Reason Begins" by Will Durant

"The Age of Louis XIV"by Will Durant

In this episode of History 102, 'WhatIfAltHist' creator Rudyard Lynch and Erik Torenberg dive deep into the fascinating yet often overlooked realm of 17th century Eastern Europe.

Join Rudyard and Erik as they bring this pivotal era to life: unravel the rise and fall of Poland-Lithuania, Russia's emergence as a great power, and Sweden's surprising dominance, and discover how Cossacks, Ottoman Turks, and visionary leaders shaped the region's destiny.

With a blend of scholarly insight and engaging storytelling, Rudyard uncovers the absurdities, triumphs, and tragedies that defined this transformative century

🔥 Apply to join over 400 founders and Execs in the Turpentine Network: https://www.turpentinenetwork.co/

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SPONSOR: GIVEWELL

GiveWell spends 50,000 hours every year doing deep-dives into different charitable programs to try to find the ways to do the most good for your dollar. GiveWell has now spent over 17 years researching charitable organizations and only directs funding to a few of the HIGHEST-IMPACT opportunities they’ve found. Visit https://www.givewell.org to find out more or make a donation. Select PODCAST and enter Econ 102 at checkout to make sure they know you heard about them from us.

-

RECOMMENDED PODCAST:

🎙️ Unpack Pricing - Dive into the dark arts of SaaS pricing with Metronome CEO Scott Woody and tech leaders. Learn how strategic pricing drives explosive revenue growth in today's biggest companies like Snowflake, Cockroach Labs, Dropbox and more.

Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/id1765716600

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/38DK3W1Fq1xxQalhDSueFg

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FOLLOW ON X:

@whatifalthist (Rudyard)

@eriktorenberg (Erik)

@SamoBurja (Samo)

@TurpentineMedia

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TIMESTAMPS:

(00:00) Intro

(01:39) Rudyard's Personal Connection to 17th Century Eastern Europe

(03:15) The Three Great Frontiers of Western Civilization

(06:18) Eastern Europe as a Frontier

(08:18) Serfdom and the Role of the Church in Eastern Europe

(13:44) Sponsor: Givewell

(17:56) The Time of Troubles in Russia

(22:10) The Rise and Fall of Poland-Lithuania

(28:51) The Cossacks and the Deluge

(34:41) The Rise of the Romanovs and the Conquest of Siberia

(42:11) Sweden and the Rise of Gustavus Adolphus

(49:56) The Turkish Empire and the Siege of Vienna

(56:41) The Khanate of Crimea and the Saratov Line

(59:56) Peter the Great, Charles XII, and the Great Northern War

(1:04:41) Conclusion and Book Recommendations

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BOOK RECOMMENDATIONS:

"Europe's Steppe Frontier: 1500-1800" by William H. McNeill

"The Rise of the West" by William H. McNeill

"Poland: A History" by Adam Zamoyski

"Russia: A History" by Olli Vares

"The Age of Reason Begins" by Will Durant

"The Age of Louis XIV" by Will Durant

In this episode of History 102, 'WhatIfAltHist' creator Rudyard Lynch is joined again by Bismarck Analysis's Samo Burja (podcast host: Live Players) for a mind-bending discussion and deep dive into the concept of "long ripples" — how ideas and events from the distant past continue to shape our present and future in unexpected ways. From Plato's influence on modern political movements to the unforeseen consequences of the Industrial Revolution, this conversation challenges our understanding of historical cause and effect.

Are we truly progressing, or are we caught in cycles we fail to recognize? Can we learn from the past, or are we doomed to repeat it in new, technologically-amplified ways? This episode is a rollercoaster ride through time, technology, and human nature, forcing us to reconsider our place in the grand sweep of history. 

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Apple: https://link.chtbl.com/3CG3TbHY?sid=Turpentine

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This show is produced by Turpentine: a network of podcasts, newsletters, and more, covering technology, business, and culture — all from the perspective of industry insiders and experts. We’re launching new shows every week, and we’re looking for industry-leading sponsors — if you think that might be you and your company, email us at [email protected].

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FOLLOW ON X:

@whatifalthist (Rudyard)

@eriktorenberg (Erik)

@SamoBurja (Samo)

@TurpentineMedia

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TIMESTAMPS:

(00:00) Intro

(00:15) Exploring Plato's Influence

(05:10) Historical Ripples and Convergent Evolution

(06:45) The Fall of Civilizations

(12:43) Comparing Civilizational Cycles

(17:42) The Future of Human Civilization

(23:30) Sponsor: Dealcraft | Fundrise

(29:02) AI and Genetic Engineering: Potential and Pitfalls

(33:30) Pandemic Era Reflections

(34:04) Genetic Engineering and Society

(34:49) Sponsor: WorkOS

(35:43) 19th Century Misconceptions

(38:23) Cycles of Societal Transformation

(40:54) Intellectual Decay and Historical Rewriting

(43:13) Anthropology and Cultural Studies

(45:34) Decline of Western Institutions

(52:12) Space Exploration and Technological Decline

(1:00:15) Hypernormalization and Social Reality

(1:01:39) Wrap

BOOKS MENTIONED:

• What Is To Be Done? by Vladimir Lenin
• Homo Deus by Yuval Noah Harari's
• Fitzpatrick's War by Theodore Judson

In this episode of History 102, 'WhatIfAltHist' creator Rudyard Lynch and Erik Torenberg explore the origins, impacts, and global spread of the Industrial Revolution, from 18th century Britain to modern challenges.

Unleashing progress or Pandora's box? This episode presents a unique perspective, framing the Industrial Revolution as "the magic of kings" - a transformative force that granted humanity godlike powers while leaving our fundamental nature unchanged.

🔥 Apply to join over 400 founders and Execs in the Turpentine Network: https://www.turpentinenetwork.co/

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RECOMMENDED PODCASTS:

🎙️ This Won't Last - Eavesdrop on Keith Rabois, Kevin Ryan, Logan Bartlett, and Zach Weinberg's monthly backchannel. They unpack their hottest takes on the future of tech, business, venture, investing, and politics.

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/id1765665937

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2HwSNeVLL1MXy0RjFPyOSz

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ThisWontLastpodcast

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SPONSOR: FUNDRISE | WorkOS

💡 Level up your portfolio with access to pre-IPO companies via the Fundrise Innovation Fund. Access a $125M+ fund of cutting edge tech companies including AI frontrunners, now available to individual investors. Start your journey at Fundrise.com/upstream.

💻 Building an enterprise-ready SaaS app? WorkOS has got you covered with easy-to-integrate APIs for SAML, SCIM, and more. Join top startups like Vercel, Perplexity, Jasper & Webflow in powering your app with WorkOS. Enjoy a free tier for up to 1M users! Start now at https://bit.ly/WorkOS-Turpentine-Network

This show is produced by Turpentine: a network of podcasts, newsletters, and more, covering technology, business, and culture — all from the perspective of industry insiders and experts. We’re launching new shows every week, and we’re looking for industry-leading sponsors — if you think that might be you and your company, email us at [email protected].

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FOLLOW ON X:

@whatifalthist (Rudyard)

@eriktorenberg (Erik)

@SamoBurja (Samo)

@TurpentineMedia

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TIMESTAMPS:

(00:00) Introduction

(00:23) Change of topic to Industrial Revolution

(01:16) Magic of kings vs magic of priests

(03:23) Pre-industrial vs post-industrial life

(06:16) The Unabomber's critique of industrial society

(09:58) Oversocialization and leftism

(15:55) Sponsor: Fundrise | WorkOS

(16:58) Historical origins of the Industrial Revolution

(21:23) Agricultural Revolution and its impacts

(25:58) Different models of industrialization

(30:23) Industrialization and European colonialism

(34:58) Post-industrial societies and their challenges

(38:23) Global spread of industrialization

(42:58) Positives and negatives of the Industrial Revolution

(47:01) Recommended books on the Industrial Revolution

(48:48) Wrap

BOOK RECOMMENDATIONS:

"Why Nations Fail" by Daron Acemoglu and James A. Robinson 

"Tragedy and Hope" by Carroll Quigley

"Bloodlands" by Timothy Snyder

"Enlightenment Now" by Steven Pinker

In this episode of History 102, Rudyard Lynch and Erik Torenberg are joined by Bismarck Analysis's Samo Burja (podcast host: Live Players) to uncover the hidden threads connecting ancient Babylon to Silicon Valley. Did you know that 2,500 years ago, people complained about information overload just like we do today? Or that some civilizations saw 70% of their population enslaved?

Rudyard and Samo peel back the layers of history, revealing:

• The shocking similarities between ancient Athens and the Taliban
• Why California might be birthing new religions as we speak
• How deforestation toppled empires (and why it matters now)

From psychedelic Greek philosophers to the eerie parallels between Polish-Lithuanian and Cambodian history, this episode is a mind-bending tour of humanity's greatest triumphs and strangest quirks.

🔥 Apply to join over 400 founders and Execs in the Turpentine Network: https://www.turpentinenetwork.co/

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RECOMMENDED PODCASTS:

🎙️ This Won't Last - Eavesdrop on Keith Rabois, Kevin Ryan, Logan Bartlett, and Zach Weinberg's monthly backchannel. They unpack their hottest takes on the future of tech, business, venture, investing, and politics.

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/id1765665937

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2HwSNeVLL1MXy0RjFPyOSz

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ThisWontLastpodcast

--

SPONSOR: FUNDRISE | WorkOS

💡 Level up your portfolio with access to pre-IPO companies via the Fundrise Innovation Fund. Access a $125M+ fund of cutting edge tech companies including AI frontrunners, now available to individual investors. Start your journey at Fundrise.com/upstream.

💻 Building an enterprise-ready SaaS app? WorkOS has got you covered with easy-to-integrate APIs for SAML, SCIM, and more. Join top startups like Vercel, Perplexity, Jasper & Webflow in powering your app with WorkOS. Enjoy a free tier for up to 1M users! Start now at https://bit.ly/WorkOS-Turpentine-Network

This show is produced by Turpentine: a network of podcasts, newsletters, and more, covering technology, business, and culture — all from the perspective of industry insiders and experts. We’re launching new shows every week, and we’re looking for industry-leading sponsors — if you think that might be you and your company, email us at [email protected].

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FOLLOW ON X:

@whatifalthist (Rudyard)

@eriktorenberg (Erik)

@SamoBurja (Samo)

@TurpentineMedia

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TIMESTAMPS:

(00:15) Intro

(00:56) Differences Between Civilizations

(02:21) Non-Abrahamic Societies and Linear Time

(04:11) Egalitarian Impulses Across Civilizations

(07:04) Classical Civilization vs Modern West

(09:25) Literacy in Ancient Rome (12:31) Greek Philosophy and Religion

(14:23) Political Cycles in Ancient Greece

(16:07) The American Founding Fathers and Political Theory

(18:56) Sponsors: Fundrise | WorkOS

(19:44) Pre-modern Feminism in Ancient Civilizations

(21:37) Cyclical Progression of Political Forms

(24:15) Thomas Jefferson's Views on Revolution

(25:12) Babylonian Empire and Civilizational Trajectories

(27:40) Immigration and Cultural Clashes in Ancient Civilizations

(29:33) Environmental Degradation in Ancient Mediterranean

(32:12) Archaeology in Ancient Babylon

(34:41) Social Breakdown in Ancient Civilizations

(36:42) Modern China as a Hybrid Civilization

(38:54) California's Unique Cultural Landscape

(42:20) Emerging Religions in Modern America

(46:57) Religion's Impact on Society and Nature

(48:26) Regional Differences Within America

(50:43) Obscure Civilizations: The Nuragic Civilization

(52:21) Higher and Lower Civilizations

(53:06) The Khmer Civilization and Southeast Asian History

(55:05) Wrap

In this episode of History 102, 'WhatIfAltHist' creator Rudyard Lynch and Erik Torenberg provides a detailed overview of the American Revolution, covering its causes, key events, major figures, and outcomes, while exploring the political, social, and strategic factors that shaped the conflict and led to the birth of the United States.

🔥 Apply to join over 400 founders and Execs in the Turpentine Network: https://www.turpentinenetwork.co/

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RECOMMENDED PODCASTS:

🎙️ This Won't Last - Eavesdrop on Keith Rabois, Kevin Ryan, Logan Bartlett, and Zach Weinberg's monthly backchannel. They unpack their hottest takes on the future of tech, business, venture, investing, and politics.

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/id1765665937

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2HwSNeVLL1MXy0RjFPyOSz

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ThisWontLastpodcast

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💻 Building an enterprise-ready SaaS app? WorkOS has got you covered with easy-to-integrate APIs for SAML, SCIM, and more. Join top startups like Vercel, Perplexity, Jasper & Webflow in powering your app with WorkOS. Enjoy a free tier for up to 1M users! Start now at https://bit.ly/WorkOS-Turpentine-Network

This show is produced by Turpentine: a network of podcasts, newsletters, and more, covering technology, business, and culture — all from the perspective of industry insiders and experts. We’re launching new shows every week, and we’re looking for industry-leading sponsors — if you think that might be you and your company, email us at [email protected].

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FOLLOW ON X:

@whatifalthist (Rudyard)

@eriktorenberg (Erik)

@TurpentineMedia

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TIMESTAMPS:

(00:00) Intro

(02:00) British American colonization and expansion

(07:00) Comparison of French and American Revolutions

(15:02) Sponsor: Babbel | WorkOS

(16:00) British colonies and tensions with Britain

(26:00) Political aspects of the American Revolution

(38:00) Start of the Revolutionary War

(45:00) Battle of Saratoga and French involvement

(52:00) British southern campaign

(55:00) Siege of Yorktown and end of the war

(56:00) Post-war America and the Constitution

(57:04) Book recommendations

(57:48) Wrap

BOOKS MENTIONED:

American Revolutions by Alan Taylor

The Cousins' Wars by Kevin Phillips

Atlantic America by D.W. Meinig

The Oxford History of the American People by Samuel Eliot Morison

In this episode of History 102, 'WhatIfAltHist' creator Rudyard Lynch and Erik Torenberg dive into the West European Dark Ages, discussing the period from the fall of Rome until the rise of medieval Europe around 1000 AD.

Were they really a decline or a period of critical transformation? Uncover the surprising truth behind this oft-misunderstood era.

🔥 Apply to join over 400 founders and Execs in the Turpentine Network: https://hmplogxqz0y.typeform.com/to/JCkphVqj

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RECOMMENDED PODCASTS:

🎙️ This Won't Last - Eavesdrop on Keith Rabois, Kevin Ryan, Logan Bartlett, and Zach Weinberg's monthly backchannel. They unpack their hottest takes on the future of tech, business, venture, investing, and politics.

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/id1765665937

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2HwSNeVLL1MXy0RjFPyOSz

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ThisWontLastpodcast

–

SPONSOR: BABBEL | WorkOS

🌐 Ready to achieve your 2024 goals? Start learning a new language with Babbel in just three weeks. Enjoy app lessons, live classes, and podcasts designed for real-world conversations. Get up to 60% off at babbel.com/torenberg

💻 Building an enterprise-ready SaaS app? WorkOS has got you covered with easy-to-integrate APIs for SAML, SCIM, and more. Join top startups like Vercel, Perplexity, Jasper & Webflow in powering your app with WorkOS. Enjoy a free tier for up to 1M users! Start now at https://bit.ly/WorkOS-Turpentine-Network

This show is produced by Turpentine: a network of podcasts, newsletters, and more, covering technology, business, and culture — all from the perspective of industry insiders and experts. We’re launching new shows every week, and we’re looking for industry-leading sponsors — if you think that might be you and your company, email us at [email protected].

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FOLLOW ON X:

@whatifalthist (Rudyard)

@eriktorenberg (Erik)

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RELATED EPISODES:

Byzantine Empire

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Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/byzantine-empire/id1730633913?i=1000662716343

Rise of Islam

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Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/rise-of-islam/id1730633913?i=1000659000133

Vikings

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/4QXRdG77RTnsaXtCvUmwng?si=ZgQd2kOcSMG9olIziKG2cw

Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-vikings/id1730633913?i=1000645968027

--

TIMESTAMPS:

(00:00) Introduction

(00:21) The Concept of the Dark Ages

(01:24) Historical Narratives

(02:59) Civilizational Decline

(03:58) Anti-Religious Bias

(04:31) Anthropological Bias

(10:11) Gradual Process

(12:53) Cultural and Technological Stagnation

(14:44) Sponsor: WorkOS | Babbel

(21:47) Roman Empire and Christianity

(28:40) Western Individualism

(54:49) The Carolingian Empire

(58:45) Conclusion

BOOKS MENTIONED:

Coming to Our Senses by Morris Berman

The Birth of the West by Peter Collins

Inheritance of Rome by Chris Wickham

World of Late Antiquity by Peter Brown

The Forge of Christendom by Tom Holland

Empires and Barbarians by Peter Heather

The Bicameral Mind by Julian Jaynes

In this episode of History 102, WhatIfAltHist creator Rudyard Lynch and Erik Torenberg talk about the Aryan invasions around 2000 BC and how it reshaped Eurasia from Ukraine to India. This discussion explores their origins, methods, and lasting impacts on genetics, culture, and religion across diverse regions.

Discover the shocking truth about the Aryan invasions and why this significant event was hidden from history for decades.

🔥 Apply to join over 400 founders and Execs in the Turpentine Network: https://hmplogxqz0y.typeform.com/to/JCkphVqj

-

RECOMMENDED PODCAST:

🎙️ This Won't Last - Eavesdrop on Keith Rabois, Kevin Ryan, Logan Bartlett, and Zach Weinberg's monthly backchannel. They unpack their hottest takes on the future of tech, business, venture, investing, and politics.

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/id1765665937

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2HwSNeVLL1MXy0RjFPyOSz

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ThisWontLastpodcast

–

SPONSOR: BABBEL | WorkOS

🌐 Ready to achieve your 2024 goals? Start learning a new language with Babbel in just three weeks. Enjoy app lessons, live classes, and podcasts designed for real-world conversations. Get up to 60% off at babbel.com/torenberg

💻 Building an enterprise-ready SaaS app? WorkOS has got you covered with easy-to-integrate APIs for SAML, SCIM, and more. Join top startups like Vercel, Perplexity, Jasper & Webflow in powering your app with WorkOS. Enjoy a free tier for up to 1M users! Start now at https://bit.ly/WorkOS-TCR

This show is produced by Turpentine: a network of podcasts, newsletters, and more, covering technology, business, and culture — all from the perspective of industry insiders and experts. We’re launching new shows every week, and we’re looking for industry-leading sponsors — if you think that might be you and your company, email us at [email protected].

–

FOLLOW ON X:

@whatifalthist (Rudyard)

@eriktorenberg (Erik)

@TurpentineMedia

-

RELATED EPISODES:

Ancient India

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/0jhPHGxxKTWAf5GkDDT0QG?si=ygZ4Z_MaTt-IuvhamBVAiA

Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ancient-india/id1730633913?i=1000656237395

Mesopotamia

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/1pjImOX4ReJDkEpen0wq2W?si=iz2HdmSDTqWn9JVmPdnJhg

Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mesopotamia/id1730633913?i=1000664108773

-

TIMESTAMPS:

(00:00) Intro

(00:55) Academic controversy and recent genetic evidence

(02:47) The "blue pill era" and misconceptions about prehistoric peoples

(05:04) Scope and terminology of Indo-European migrations

(11:54) Geographic origins and pastoralism

(13:19) Sponsor: WorkOS | Babbel

(15:42) Development of the chariot and military advantage

(19:52) Genetic patterns in modern European populations

(23:39) Cultural characteristics of herding societies

(28:24) Aryan migrations into Europe

(35:47) Mythology and cultural continuity

(44:50) Aryan invasions in India and the caste system

(51:50) Recommended books and further reading

(54:39) Wrap

-

BOOKS RECOMMENDATIONS:

"Who We Are and How We Got Here" by David Reich

"Ancestral Journeys: The Peopling of Europe from the First Venturers to the Vikings" by Jean Manco

"Comparative Mythology" by Jaan Puhvel

"The Horse, the Wheel, and Language: How Bronze-Age Riders from the Eurasian Steppes Shaped the Modern World" by David W. Anthony

In this episode of History 102, WhatIfAltHist creator Rudyard Lynch and Erik Torenberg uncover the diverse and fascinating world of ancient Greek city-states, beyond Athens and Sparta, and their unique cultures.

Discover the realities of ancient Greece beyond the myths, including its complex social structures, its role in philosophy, and its impact on the world.

🔥 Apply to join over 400 founders and Execs in the Turpentine Network: https://hmplogxqz0y.typeform.com/to/JCkphVqj

--

RECOMMENDED PODCAST:

🎙️ This Won't Last - Eavesdrop on Keith Rabois, Kevin Ryan, Logan Bartlett, and Zach Weinberg's monthly backchannel. They unpack their hottest takes on the future of tech, business, venture, investing, and politics.

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/id1765665937

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2HwSNeVLL1MXy0RjFPyOSz

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ThisWontLastpodcast

–

SPONSOR: BABBEL | WorkOS

🌐 Ready to achieve your 2024 goals? Start learning a new language with Babbel in just three weeks. Enjoy app lessons, live classes, and podcasts designed for real-world conversations. Get up to 60% off at babbel.com/torenberg

💻 Building an enterprise-ready SaaS app? WorkOS has got you covered with easy-to-integrate APIs for SAML, SCIM, and more. Join top startups like Vercel, Perplexity, Jasper & Webflow in powering your app with WorkOS. Enjoy a free tier for up to 1M users! Start now at https://bit.ly/WorkOS-TCR

This show is produced by Turpentine: a network of podcasts, newsletters, and more, covering technology, business, and culture — all from the perspective of industry insiders and experts. We’re launching new shows every week, and we’re looking for industry-leading sponsors — if you think that might be you and your company, email us at [email protected].

–

FOLLOW ON X:

@whatifalthist (Rudyard)

@eriktorenberg (Erik)

@TurpentineMedia

TIMESTAMPS:

(00:00) Introduction

(02:30) The Geography Connection

(09:04) Greek Dark Ages and Recovery

(10:49) Greek Military and Democracy

(13:46) Athens vs. Sparta

(15:08) Sponsor: Babbel

(36:00) Greco-Persian Wars

(44:13) Peloponnesian Wars and Decline

(48:42) Rise of Macedonia

(51:30) The Philosophical Contributions of Aristotle

(54:22) Misunderstandings and Underappreciated Aspects

BOOKS MENTIONED:

"The Ancient City" by Numa Denis Fustel de Coulanges

"The Life of Greece" by Will Durant

"Sailing the Wine-Dark Sea" by Thomas Cahill

"Rise of the West" by McNeil

"The Classical World" by Robin Lane Fox

In this episode of History 102, join WhatIfAltHists creator Rudyard Lynch and Erik Torenberg as they explore the intricate history of Mesopotamia. This episode dives into the origins, advancements, and eventual decline of one of the world's earliest civilizations, covering everything from early agriculture to the prominent empires and their societal structures.

🔥 Apply to join over 400 founders and Execs in the Turpentine Network: https://hmplogxqz0y.typeform.com/to/JCkphVqj

--

RECOMMENDED PODCAST:

🎙️ This Won't Last - Eavesdrop on Keith Rabois, Kevin Ryan, Logan Bartlett, and Zach Weinberg's monthly backchannel. They unpack their hottest takes on the future of tech, business, venture, investing, and politics.

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/id1765665937

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2HwSNeVLL1MXy0RjFPyOSz

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ThisWontLastpodcast

–

SPONSOR: BEEHIIV | BABBEL

Head to Beehiiv, the newsletter platform built for growth, to power your own. Connect with premium brands, scale your audience, and deliver a beautiful UX that stands out in an inbox. 🐝 to https://Beehiiv.com and use code “MOZ” for 20% off your first three months

🌐 Ready to achieve your 2024 goals? Start learning a new language with Babbel in just three weeks. Enjoy app lessons, live classes, and podcasts designed for real-world conversations. Get up to 60% off at babbel.com/torenberg

This show is produced by Turpentine: a network of podcasts, newsletters, and more, covering technology, business, and culture — all from the perspective of industry insiders and experts. We’re launching new shows every week, and we’re looking for industry-leading sponsors — if you think that might be you and your company, email us at [email protected].

–

FOLLOW ON X:

@whatifalthist (Rudyard)

@eriktorenberg (Erik)

@TurpentineMedia

TIMESTAMPS:

(00:00) Introduction and Setting

(03:53) The Fertile Crescent and Three Cultural Designations

(07:10) The Formation of City-States in Mesopotamia

(09:58) The Impact of Climate Change on Mesopotamia

(10:55) The Role of Warfare in Mesopotamian Society

(12:24) The Rise of the Priest Class and Theocracy

(13:48) City-States and Government in Mesopotamia

(15:05) The Development of Writing and Law Codes

(15:07) Sponsor: Babbel | beehiiv

(17:26) Religion and Idol Worship in Mesopotamia

(21:06) The Influence of Mesopotamian Civilization on the Bible

(22:31) The Decline of Mesopotamian Civilization

(23:57) Sumeria: The First Civilization

(25:22) The Rise of Akkad and the First Empire

(27:19) The Legacy of Mesopotamian Civilization

(28:45) The Rise and Fall of Mesopotamian Empires

(32:01) The Transition to Imperial Rule

(34:22) The Evolution of Babylon

(40:01) The Brutal Conquests of the Assyrians

(42:23) The Impact of the Bronze Age Collapse

(54:15) The Conquest of Mesopotamia by the Persians

BOOKS MENTIONED:

Against the Grain: A Deep History of the Earliest States by James C. Scott

The Story of Civilization by Will Durant

Assyria: The Rise and Fall of an Ancient Superpower by Eckhart Frahm

Scribes and Kings: The Lost History of the Ancient Near East by Marc Van De Mieroop

The Guide to the Bible by Isaac Asimov

In this episode of History 102, WhatifAltHist creator Rudyard Lynch and Erik Torenberg Explore the tumultuous history of Imperial Russia, from its Viking origins to the rise of the Romanovs and the impact of the Mongols.

When did Russia truly become a significant player on the global stage, and what were the key events that solidified its status? Listen and discover how Imperial Russia grappled with its identity, its relationship with the West, and its long journey toward modernization

🔥 Apply to join over 400 founders and Execs in the Turpentine Network: https://hmplogxqz0y.typeform.com/to/JCkphVqj

--

RELATED EPISODE:

Vikings

Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-vikings/id1730633913?i=1000645968027

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/4QXRdG77RTnsaXtCvUmwng?si=nFl5Tr-HSGyiMuPBW8IwUQ

WWI

Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ww1/id1730633913?i=1000645115591

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/3WxXaBZ67fTBecmJ9fjScE?si=u8bTINbnRpqD0faAqWTckQ

Communism

Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/communism/id1730633913?i=1000659725695

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/1RAyzbTOEHlXlO2TK52FXf?si=2mqcB9xOT6qG_1VYqOxZmw

Explaining Russian Civilization

Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/explaining-russian-civilization/id1737510373?i=1000652947542

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/4NGM1O9ZycFD1rfgHcMJfp?si=kuduN4c0TZKg2H5cpZUZ8g

-

RECOMMENDED PODCAST

Complex Systems with Patrick McKenzie

Patrick McKenzie (@patio11) talks to experts who understand the complicated but not unknowable systems we rely on. You might be surprised at how quickly Patrick and his guests can put you in the top 1% of understanding for stock trading, tech hiring, and more.

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3Mos4VE3figVXleHDqfXOH

Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/complex-systems-with-patrick-mckenzie-patio11/id1753399812

–

SPONSOR: BEEHIIV | BABBEL

Head to Beehiiv, the newsletter platform built for growth, to power your own. Connect with premium brands, scale your audience, and deliver a beautiful UX that stands out in an inbox. 🐝 to https://Beehiiv.com and use code “MOZ” for 20% off your first three months

🌐 Ready to achieve your 2024 goals? Start learning a new language with Babbel in just three weeks. Enjoy app lessons, live classes, and podcasts designed for real-world conversations. Get up to 60% off at babbel.com/torenberg

This show is produced by Turpentine: a network of podcasts, newsletters, and more, covering technology, business, and culture — all from the perspective of industry insiders and experts. We’re launching new shows every week, and we’re looking for industry-leading sponsors — if you think that might be you and your company, email us at [email protected].

–

FOLLOW ON X:

@whatifalthist (Rudyard)

@eriktorenberg (Erik)

@TurpentineMedia

–

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00) Intro

(01:51) The Mongols and the Viking Influence

(04:36) The Post-Viking Period and the Mongol Yoke

(08:00) Russia's Lost Potential

(11:48) Moscow's Rise and the Third Rome

(19:19) The Tatar Raids and the Great Wall of Russia

(22:44) Key Russian Leaders and Their Legacy

(29:00) Expansion Eastward and the Cossacks

(35:00) Siberia's Colonization and Russia's Global Reach

(42:00) The Time of Troubles and the Rise of the Romanovs

(45:00) Peter the Great's Modernization

(53:00) The Rise of Industrialization and the Seeds of Revolution

(55:24) Wrap

--

BOOK RECOMMENDATIONS:

• History of Russia by Orlando Figg
• A History of Russia, Central Asia, Mongolia by David Christian
• War, Peace, and War by Peter Turchin
• The Rise of the West by William H. McNeil

In this episode of History 102, WhatifAltHist creator Rudyard Lynch and Erik Torenberg talk about the story of the Byzantine Empire, Rome's eastern successor, and how it thrived while the West crumbled. They also discuss on the Byzantine Empire's constant battles against invaders and how it defied expectations to survive for a millennium.

Why is the Byzantine Empire largely ignored? Explore its rich history, intriguing culture, and its impact on Eastern Europe and Russia.

🔥 Apply to join over 400 founders and Execs in the Turpentine Network: https://hmplogxqz0y.typeform.com/to/JCkphVqj

--

RELATED EPISODE:

Fall of Rome

Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/fall-of-rome/id1730633913?i=1000647197583

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/57r8lT5fiO8W9igWZRwm59?si=rODTidJ3RnmYXW0TsgymMw

--

RECOMMENDED PODCAST:

🎙️ Second Opinion - A new podcast for health-tech insiders from Christina Farr of the Second Opinion newsletter. Join Christina Farr, Luba Greenwood, and Ash Zenooz every week as they challenge industry experts with tough questions about the best bets in health-tech.

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/id1759267211

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0A8NwQE976s32zdBbZw6bv

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Complex Systems with Patrick McKenzie

Patrick McKenzie (@patio11) talks to experts who understand the complicated but not unknowable systems we rely on. You might be surprised at how quickly Patrick and his guests can put you in the top 1% of understanding for stock trading, tech hiring, and more.

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3Mos4VE3figVXleHDqfXOH

Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/complex-systems-with-patrick-mckenzie-patio11/id1753399812

–

SPONSOR: BEEHIIV | BABBEL

Head to Beehiiv, the newsletter platform built for growth, to power your own. Connect with premium brands, scale your audience, and deliver a beautiful UX that stands out in an inbox. 🐝 to https://Beehiiv.com and use code “MOZ” for 20% off your first three months

🌐 Ready to achieve your 2024 goals? Start learning a new language with Babbel in just three weeks. Enjoy app lessons, live classes, and podcasts designed for real-world conversations. Get up to 60% off at babbel.com/torenberg

This show is produced by Turpentine: a network of podcasts, newsletters, and more, covering technology, business, and culture — all from the perspective of industry insiders and experts. We’re launching new shows every week, and we’re looking for industry-leading sponsors — if you think that might be you and your company, email us at [email protected].

–

FOLLOW ON X:

@whatifalthist (Rudyard)

@eriktorenberg (Erik)

@TurpentineMedia

–

TIMESTAMPS:

(00:00) Introduction to History 102

(00:22) The Byzantine Empire: An Overview

(04:10) The Fall of Rome and the Rise of Byzantium

(06:37) Constantinople: The Heart of Byzantium

(10:17) Byzantine Military and Cultural Identity

(14:40) Sponsors: beehiiv | Babbel

(28:48) Justinian's Ambitious Reign

(40:16) The Impact of the Muslim Conquests

(51:38) Byzantine Decline and the Rise of the Turks

(59:38) The Final Days of Byzantium

(1:03:56) Conclusion and Legacy

--

BOOK RECOMMENDATIONS:

• Byzantium: The Empire of New Rome by Cyril Mango
• The World of Late Antiquity: AD 150-750 (Library of World Civilization) by Peter Brown
• The Age of Faith by Will Durant

In this episode of History 102, WhatifAltHist creator Rudyard Lynch and Erik Torenberg explore the surprising origins of Christianity.

From a carpenter's son's teachings to its unexpected rise to global dominance, discover how this religion, appealing to the marginalized, provided a sense of community and purpose in a brutal world. Learn how this religion, once seen as a radical threat, became a defining force in Western history.

🔥 Apply to join over 400 founders and Execs in the Turpentine Network: https://hmplogxqz0y.typeform.com/to/JCkphVqj

--

RECOMMENDED PODCAST:

🎙️ Second Opinion - A new podcast for health-tech insiders from Christina Farr of the Second Opinion newsletter. Join Christina Farr, Luba Greenwood, and Ash Zenooz every week as they challenge industry experts with tough questions about the best bets in health-tech.

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/id1759267211

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0A8NwQE976s32zdBbZw6bv

-

Complex Systems with Patrick McKenzie

Patrick McKenzie (@patio11) talks to experts who understand the complicated but not unknowable systems we rely on. You might be surprised at how quickly Patrick and his guests can put you in the top 1% of understanding for stock trading, tech hiring, and more.

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3Mos4VE3figVXleHDqfXOH

Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/complex-systems-with-patrick-mckenzie-patio11/id1753399812

–

SPONSOR: BEEHIIV | BABBEL

Head to Beehiiv, the newsletter platform built for growth, to power your own. Connect with premium brands, scale your audience, and deliver a beautiful UX that stands out in an inbox. 🐝 to https://Beehiiv.com and use code “MOZ” for 20% off your first three months

🌐 Ready to achieve your 2024 goals? Start learning a new language with Babbel in just three weeks. Enjoy app lessons, live classes, and podcasts designed for real-world conversations. Get up to 60% off at babbel.com/torenberg

This show is produced by Turpentine: a network of podcasts, newsletters, and more, covering technology, business, and culture — all from the perspective of industry insiders and experts. We’re launching new shows every week, and we’re looking for industry-leading sponsors — if you think that might be you and your company, email us at [email protected].

–

FOLLOW ON X:

@whatifalthist (Rudyard)

@eriktorenberg (Erik)

@TurpentineMedia

–

TIMESTAMPS:

(00:00) Introduction

(00:16) The Rise of Christianity

(02:04) Roman Empire and Social Dynamics

(04:35) Jesus of Nazareth and His Impact

(15:06) Sponsor: beehiiv | Babbel

(16:10) Christianity's Appeal and Spread

(33:16) Persecution and Triumph

(38:16) The Evolution of Christianity

(50:59) Christianity's Cultural Adaptations

(57:45) Conclusion and Book Recommendations

--

BOOK RECOMMENDATIONS:

• The Immortality Key: The Secret History of the Religion with No Name by Brian C. Muraresku
• Apollodorus of Tyana
• Household Gods by Harry Turtledove 
• Misreading Scripture with Western Eyes: Removing Cultural Blinders to Better Understand the Bible by E. Randolph Richards
• The 3D Gospel: Ministry in Guilt, Shame, and Fear Cultures Kindle Edition by Jayson Georges
• Dominion by Tom Holland
• Through the Eye of a Needle: Wealth, the Fall of Rome, and the Making of Christianity in the West, 350-550 AD by Peter Brown
• The World of Late Antiquity by Peter Brown 
• Christianity: The First Three Thousand Years by Diarmaid MacCulloch
• The Rise of Christianity by Rodney Stark

In this episode of History 102, WhatifAltHist creator Rudyard Lynch and Erik Torenberg discuss the history of the Muslim slave trade, a forgotten tragedy that predates and rivals the Atlantic slave trade in both scale and brutality.

Dive into the complex dynamics and enduring impact of this dark chapter in African history, and explore the Muslim and internal slave trades while also challenging the 1619 Project's narrative. Learn about the broader context of global slavery, the complex origins of racial inequality, and the global network that fueled the transatlantic slave trade.

🔥 Apply to join over 400 founders and Execs in the Turpentine Network: https://hmplogxqz0y.typeform.com/to/JCkphVqj

--

RECOMMENDED PODCAST:

🎙️ Second Opinion - A new podcast for health-tech insiders from Christina Farr of the Second Opinion newsletter. Join Christina Farr, Luba Greenwood, and Ash Zenooz every week as they challenge industry experts with tough questions about the best bets in health-tech.

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/id1759267211

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0A8NwQE976s32zdBbZw6bv

-

Complex Systems with Patrick McKenzie

Patrick McKenzie (@patio11) talks to experts who understand the complicated but not unknowable systems we rely on. You might be surprised at how quickly Patrick and his guests can put you in the top 1% of understanding for stock trading, tech hiring, and more.

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3Mos4VE3figVXleHDqfXOH

Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/complex-systems-with-patrick-mckenzie-patio11/id1753399812

–

SPONSOR: BEEHIIV | BABBEL

Head to Beehiiv, the newsletter platform built for growth, to power your own. Connect with premium brands, scale your audience, and deliver a beautiful UX that stands out in an inbox. 🐝 to https://Beehiiv.com and use code “MOZ” for 20% off your first three months

🌐 Ready to achieve your 2024 goals? Start learning a new language with Babbel in just three weeks. Enjoy app lessons, live classes, and podcasts designed for real-world conversations. Get up to 60% off at babbel.com/torenberg

This show is produced by Turpentine: a network of podcasts, newsletters, and more, covering technology, business, and culture — all from the perspective of industry insiders and experts. We’re launching new shows every week, and we’re looking for industry-leading sponsors — if you think that might be you and your company, email us at [email protected].

–

RELATED EPISODE/S:

Rise of Islam: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/rise-of-islam/id1730633913?i=1000659000133

–

FOLLOW ON X:

@whatifalthist (Rudyard)

@eriktorenberg (Erik)

@TurpentineMedia

–

TIMESTAMPS:

(00:00) Introduction

(00:42) African Slave Trade Basics

(01:42) Misconceptions and Context

(03:20) Different African Slave Trades

(03:25) Muslim Slave Trade

(14:19) Sponsor: beehiiv | Babbel

(20:49) Comparisons with the Atlantic Slave Trade

(41:34) Impact of Slavery on America

(55:09) Slavery in Brazil and the Caribbean

(58:30) Book Recommendations

(59:10) Wrap

--

BOOK RECOMMENDATIONS:

• African Founders by David Hackett Fisher
• Conquests and Cultures by Thomas Sowell
• Africa by John Reeder
• Africa and the Africans by John Thornton

In this episode of History 102, WhatifAltHist creator Rudyard Lynch and Erik Torenberg dive deep into the Axial Age, a transformative time that birthed new philosophies and religions. Uncover the surprising link between the invention of coinage, explore the decline of traditional religions, and discover the reasons why people sought new spiritual paths in 500 BC.

🔥 Apply to join over 400 founders and Execs in the Turpentine Network: https://hmplogxqz0y.typeform.com/to/JCkphVqj

--

RECOMMENDED PODCAST:

🎙️ Second Opinion - A new podcast for health-tech insiders from Christina Farr of the Second Opinion newsletter. Join Christina Farr, Luba Greenwood, and Ash Zenooz every week as they challenge industry experts with tough questions about the best bets in health-tech.

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/id1759267211

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0A8NwQE976s32zdBbZw6bv

-

Complex Systems with Patrick McKenzie

Patrick McKenzie (@patio11) talks to experts who understand the complicated but not unknowable systems we rely on. You might be surprised at how quickly Patrick and his guests can put you in the top 1% of understanding for stock trading, tech hiring, and more.

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3Mos4VE3figVXleHDqfXOH

Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/complex-systems-with-patrick-mckenzie-patio11/id1753399812

–

SPONSOR: BEEHIIV | BABBEL

Head to Beehiiv, the newsletter platform built for growth, to power your own. Connect with premium brands, scale your audience, and deliver a beautiful UX that stands out in an inbox. 🐝 to https://Beehiiv.com and use code “MOZ” for 20% off your first three months

🌐 Ready to achieve your 2024 goals? Start learning a new language with Babbel in just three weeks. Enjoy app lessons, live classes, and podcasts designed for real-world conversations. Get up to 60% off at babbel.com/torenberg

This show is produced by Turpentine: a network of podcasts, newsletters, and more, covering technology, business, and culture — all from the perspective of industry insiders and experts. We’re launching new shows every week, and we’re looking for industry-leading sponsors — if you think that might be you and your company, email us at [email protected].

–

RELATED EPISODES:

Ancient India: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ancient-india/id1730633913?i=1000656237395

Ancient China: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ancient-china/id1730633913?i=1000657394929

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FOLLOW ON X:

@whatifalthist (Rudyard)

@eriktorenberg (Erik)

@TurpentineMedia

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TIMESTAMPS:

(00:00) Introduction & Overview

(01:06) The Axial Age & Strange Parallels

(03:31) The Role of Urbanization & Coinage

(04:49) Theocracies & Devolving Religion

(08:15) The Rise of Universal Religions

(11:18) Religious Revival & Modern Science

(13:00) Communism as a Religion & String Theory

(14:58) The Impact of Coinage & Breakdown of Social Relationships

(15:02) Sponsor: beehiiv | Babbel

(18:53) Social Instability & Moral Dilemma

(22:05) Innovation & Renewal

(27:49) Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle: The Search for Spiritual Truth

(37:24) India: The Rise of Jainism and Buddhism

(47:00) Confucius, Taoism, and the Stability of China

(52:00) The Spiritual Bank Account

(57:10) Misunderstandings and the Importance of Understanding the Axial Age

(58:33) Book Recommendations

(59:35) Wrap

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BOOK RECOMMENDATIONS:

Religions of the World by Huston Smith: A comprehensive overview of major world religions

Philosophic Teachings That All World Religions Share by Huston Smith: Explores common themes across religions

Debt by David Graeber: Discusses the economic history of credit and coinage

History of Western Philosophy by Bertrand Russell: Provides a detailed account of Greek philosophy

The Great Transformation by Karen Armstrong: A comprehensive study of the Axial Age

In this episode of History 102, WhatifAltHist creator Rudyard Lynch and Erik Torenberg talk about the brutal cost of communist ideology, from mass killings to cultural destruction, and the psychological motivations driving its appeal. From Marx to Mao, explore the rise, fall, and enduring legacy of communism, its impact on history, and its surprising influence today.

🔥 Apply to join over 400 founders and Execs in the Turpentine Network: https://hmplogxqz0y.typeform.com/to/JCkphVqj

RECOMMENDED PODCAST:

Patrick McKenzie (@patio11) talks to experts who understand the complicated but not unknowable systems we rely on. You might be surprised at how quickly Patrick and his guests can put you in the top 1% of understanding for stock trading, tech hiring, and more.

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3Mos4VE3figVXleHDqfXOH

Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/id1753399812https://podcasts.apple.com/id1753399812

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Complex Systems with Patrick McKenzie

Patrick McKenzie (@patio11) talks to experts who understand the complicated but not unknowable systems we rely on. You might be surprised at how quickly Patrick and his guests can put you in the top 1% of understanding for stock trading, tech hiring, and more.

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3Mos4VE3figVXleHDqfXOH

Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/complex-systems-with-patrick-mckenzie-patio11/id1753399812

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SPONSOR: BEEHIIV | BABBEL

Head to Beehiiv, the newsletter platform built for growth, to power your own. Connect with premium brands, scale your audience, and deliver a beautiful UX that stands out in an inbox. 🐝 to https://Beehiiv.com and use code “MOZ” for 20% off your first three months

🌐 Ready to achieve your 2024 goals? Start learning a new language with Babbel in just three weeks. Enjoy app lessons, live classes, and podcasts designed for real-world conversations. Get up to 60% off at babbel.com/torenberg

This show is produced by Turpentine: a network of podcasts, newsletters, and more, covering technology, business, and culture — all from the perspective of industry insiders and experts. We’re launching new shows every week, and we’re looking for industry-leading sponsors — if you think that might be you and your company, email us at [email protected].

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Recommended Podcast: The Riff with Byrne Hobart

Byrne Hobart, the writer of The Diff, is revered in Silicon Valley. You can get an hour with him each week. See for yourself how his thinking can upgrade yours.

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6rANlV54GCARLgMOtpkzKt

Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-riff-with-byrne-hobart-and-erik-torenberg/id1716646486

–

FOLLOW ON X:

@whatifalthist (Rudyard)

@eriktorenberg (Erik)

@TurpentineMedia

–

TIMESTAMPS:

(00:15) Introduction and Communism as a Moral Lesson

(02:32) Marxism's Influence

(05:37) Origins of the Modern Left

(09:33) Saint Simon and the Roots of Leftism

(12:37) Pre-Marxist Socialist Thinkers

(13:38) Karl Marx and the 1848 Revolutions

(16:36) Marx's Intellectual Ability and Hegelianism

(17:49) The Industrial Revolution and the Rise of Communism

(19:43) The Psychology of Leftism and Power

(25:52) The Russian Revolution and Lenin

(28:05) The Nature of Communist Revolutions

(29:10) Sponsor: beehiiv | Babbel

(30:25) Stalin and the Purges

(33:33) The Soviet Union and the Iron Curtain

(35:37) The Decline of Communism

(38:01) Communism's Death Toll and the Need for Reassessment

(40:05) Communism and Social Justice

(41:35) Mao Zedong and the Chinese Communist Party

(46:26) Cambodian Communism and the Khmer Rouge

(48:24) The Geographic Apex and Decline of Communism

(51:15) Post-Communist Transition

(53:34) The Need for a Psychological Revolution

(56:10) Conclusion + Wrap

Books Mentioned:

• The Decline and Fall of Socialism
• Fire in the Minds of Men by James Billington
• Les Miserables
• The 100 Greatest Atrocities of the Twentieth Century by Matthew White

This episode of History 102 explores the fascinating rise of Islam, its Golden Age, and its decline, unpacking the cultural, political, and economic factors that shaped this pivotal period in history.

🔥 Apply to join over 400 founders and Execs in the Turpentine Network: https://hmplogxqz0y.typeform.com/to/JCkphVqj

WhatifAltHist creator Rudyard Lynch and Erik Torenberg talk about the cultural and scientific achievements of the Umayyad and Abbasid Caliph - a period of unprecedented growth and innovation in the Islamic world. Then, uncover the reasons behind the decline of the Abbasid Caliphate, from internal conflicts and moral decay to the rise of the Turks and the shift from scientific progress to religious conservatism.

Apply to join over 400 founders and Execs in the Turpentine Network: https://hmplogxqz0y.typeform.com/to/JCkphVqj

–

SPONSOR: BEEHIIV | BABBEL

Head to Beehiiv, the newsletter platform built for growth, to power your own. Connect with premium brands, scale your audience, and deliver a beautiful UX that stands out in an inbox. 🐝 to https://Beehiiv.com and use code “MOZ” for 20% off your first three months

🌐 Ready to achieve your 2024 goals? Start learning a new language with Babbel in just three weeks. Enjoy app lessons, live classes, and podcasts designed for real-world conversations. Get up to 60% off at babbel.com/torenberg

This show is produced by Turpentine: a network of podcasts, newsletters, and more, covering technology, business, and culture — all from the perspective of industry insiders and experts. We’re launching new shows every week, and we’re looking for industry-leading sponsors — if you think that might be you and your company, email us at [email protected].

–

RECOMMENDED PODCAST:

Patrick McKenzie (@patio11) talks to experts who understand the complicated but not unknowable systems we rely on. You might be surprised at how quickly Patrick and his guests can put you in the top 1% of understanding for stock trading, tech hiring, and more.

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3Mos4VE3figVXleHDqfXOH

Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/id1753399812https://podcasts.apple.com/id1753399812

–

FOLLOW ON X:

@whatifalthist (Rudyard)

@eriktorenberg (Erik)

@TurpentineMedia

–

TIMESTAMPS:

(00:00) Introduction

(01:45) The Enigma of Muhammad

(03:14) The World Before Islam

(04:42) Internal Conflicts

(07:30) Sponsor: beehiiv | Babbel

(09:00) The Umayyad Caliphate

(33:12) The Abbasid Caliphate

(34:56) Misconceptions About Islam

(37:00) The Decline of the Abbasids

(39:15) Internal Conflicts and Barbarian Mercenaries

(42:00) The Rise of Al Ghazali and the End of Science

(45:17) The Decline of Capitalism

(46:41) The Loss of the Mediterranean

(48:42) The First Crusade and Societal Choices

(50:10) Wrap

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Books mentioned:

• In the Shadow of the Sword: The Rise and Fall of Islam by Tom Holland
• Destiny Disrupted: A History of the World Through Islamic Eyes by Tamim Ansary
• The Venture of Islam: Conscience and History in a World Civilization by Marshall Hodgson (3-volume set)
• Islam and the Arab World
• The Myth of a Tolerant Muslim Spain

This episode of History 102 explores the European Middle Ages, its misunderstood aspects, technological and social advancements, and critical events. WhatifAltHist creator Rudyard Lynch and Erik Torenberg discover how the seemingly "dark" medieval era set the stage for the scientific revolution, the age of exploration, and the rise of modern Europe.

🔥 Apply to join over 400 founders and Execs in the Turpentine Network: https://hmplogxqz0y.typeform.com/to/JCkphVqj

–

SPONSOR: BEEHIIV | BABBEL

Head to Beehiiv, the newsletter platform built for growth, to power your own. Connect with premium brands, scale your audience, and deliver a beautiful UX that stands out in an inbox. 🐝 to https://Beehiiv.com and use code “MOZ” for 20% off your first three months

🌐 Ready to achieve your 2024 goals? Start learning a new language with Babbel in just three weeks. Enjoy app lessons, live classes, and podcasts designed for real-world conversations. Get up to 60% off at babbel.com/torenberg

This show is produced by Turpentine: a network of podcasts, newsletters, and more, covering technology, business, and culture — all from the perspective of industry insiders and experts. We’re launching new shows every week, and we’re looking for industry-leading sponsors — if you think that might be you and your company, email us at [email protected].

–

RECOMMENDED PODCAST:

Patrick McKenzie (@patio11) talks to experts who understand the complicated but not unknowable systems we rely on. You might be surprised at how quickly Patrick and his guests can put you in the top 1% of understanding for stock trading, tech hiring, and more.

Spotify

Apple

–

FOLLOW ON X:

@whatifalthist (Rudyard)

@eriktorenberg (Erik)

@TurpentineMedia

–

TIMESTAMPS:

(00:00) Intro

(00:23) Setting the Stage: The European Middle Ages

(03:58) Misconceptions About the Middle Ages

(05:29) The High Middle Ages: Society and Innovations

(14:12) Feudalism and Social Structures

(28:34) Sponsor: Beehiiv | Babbel

(30:17) Political Dynamics in Medieval Europe

(41:10) The Decline of the Middle Ages

(44:39) The Black Death and Its Aftermath

(47:53) Legacy of the Middle Ages

(1:02:29) Conclusion and Book Recommendations

(1:03:51) Wrap

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Recommended Books:

The Rise of the West: A History of the Human Community by William H. McNeill

A Short History of the Middle Ages by Barbara Rosenwein 

The Time Traveler's Guide to Medieval England: A Handbook for Visitors to the Fourteenth Century by Ian Mortimer

A Secular Age by Charles Taylor

Europe Emerges: Transition Toward an Industrial World-Wide Society, 600-1750 by Robert L. Reynolds