Rudyard Lynch, creator of the enormously popular YouTube channel WhatifAltHist joins Erik Torenberg every week to offer a deeper understanding of critical moments in history. Together they identify patterns in order to predict the future and understand the dynamics that result in civilizations rising and falling.
On this season we’ll cover WW1, WW2, Classical Greece, Medieval Islam, the rise of Communism, and more.
History 102 is a part of the Turpentine podcast network. Learn more: www.turpentine.co
The podcast History 102 with WhatifAltHist’s Rudyard Lynch and Erik Torenberg is created by Turpentine. The podcast and the artwork on this page are embedded on this page using the public podcast feed (RSS).
In this episode of History 102, 'WhatIfAltHist' creator Rudyard Lynch and co-host Austin Padgett talk about Southeast Asia: where ancient slave empires meet modern tech hubs. From Angkor's temples to Singapore's skylines, discover how this crossroads between India and China shaped global trade while maintaining its uniquely fluid cultural identity.
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HIGHLIGHTS:
Geographic & Demographic Context
Cultural Development & Trade
Key Historical States
Colonial Period
Modern Development
Cultural Insights
Contemporary Relevance
In this episode of History 102, 'WhatIfAltHist' creator Rudyard Lynch and co-host Austin Padgett explores how the Silk Road shaped global civilization through expansive trade networks, cultural exchange, and power dynamics between Europe, the Middle East, India, and China.
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🎙️ 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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HIGHLIGHTS:
From Authoritarianism to Trade Routes: Setting the Stage
China's First Contact: The Quest for Blood-Sweating Horses
Disease, Death, and Trade: The Dark Side of Connection
The Maritime Silk Road: An Ocean of Wealth
Rise and Fall of Trade Empires
The Mongol Factor: Building an Empire on Skulls
BOOK RECOMMENDATIONS:
In this episode of History 102, 'WhatIfAltHist' creator Rudyard Lynch and co-host Austin Padgett explore the fascinating world of Ancient Europe, from the mysterious megalith builders to the warring Celtic tribes. Listen as they uncover how waves of migration, technological advances, and cultural shifts shaped the continent. Learn how archaeology, genetics, and mythology reveal stories of ancient battles, complex trade networks, and forgotten civilizations that laid the foundation for modern European society.
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Finding the right life insurance shouldn't be another task you put off. SelectQuote compares top-rated policies to get you the best coverage at the right price. Even in our AI-driven world, protecting your family's future remains essential. Get your personalized quote at https://selectquote.com/cognitive
--
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:
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TIMESTAMPS:
(00:00) Intro
(01:19) Mesopotamians and indigenous Europeans
(06:20) Negative psychological pins from the 20th century
(10:51) Hunter gatherer confederacy and the spread of agriculture
(14:57) Hunter gatherers vs farmers lifestyle
(19:45) Threats to modern populations: Supply chain issues, disease, war
(20:18) Population fluctuations in ancient Europe
(24:28) Social contracts vs theocracies
(32:44) Ancient Europe during the last ice age
(40:11) Genetic differences across Europe
(46:25) The transition from bronze age to iron age culture
(53:15) Europe in 500 BC and the dominance of the Celts
(56:00) The Celtic military strategy and its limitations
(1:00:09) The Roman conquest of Gaul and the German migrations
(1:06:55) The Baltic Origins of Homer's Tales
(1:11:42) The Roman Empire and the Germanic peoples
(14:56) The Slavic expansion into Eastern Europe
(17:11) The importance of paternity protection in societal cohesion
(1:18:07) Book recommendations
BOOK RECOMMENDATIONS:
In this episode of History 102, 'WhatIfAltHist' creator Rudyard Lynch and co-host Austin Padgett do a fascinating deep dive into Medieval Britain.
They explore how a tiny population in northwest Europe shaped the modern world. From the fall of Roman Britain to the Norman Conquest, they unpack how the English created their cultural identity, legal code, and political system – innovations that still influence us today. Through Viking invasions, peasant revolts, and epic battles, they reveal how England emerged as one of history's most consequential nations despite its modest size.
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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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TIMESTAMPS:
(00:16) Introduction: Three Models of History & Medieval England's Significance
(05:10) Fall of Roman Britain & The Anglo-Saxon Invasions
(13:56) King Arthur and the Anglo-Saxon Myth
(20:00) Anglo-Saxon Conquest: Genetics & Language
(22:40) Christianity's Role in Medieval Britain
(30:50) Viking Invasions and the Unification of England
(44:50) The Norman Conquest & the Rise of Feudalism
(1:01:40) The Hundred Years War: England vs. France
(1:09:50) The Wars of the Roses & the Tudor Monarchy
(1:10:55) Technological and Economic Advancements in Medieval Britain
In this episode of History 102, 'WhatIfAltHist' creator Rudyard Lynch and co-host Austin Padgett talk about the French Revolution and the fascinating parallels between 18th-century French social dynamics and today's political landscape.
From bureaucratic upheaval to radical terror, journey through the chaos that transformed France and birthed modern political divisions. Learn how a centralized monarchy crumbled into revolutionary fervor, spawning new ideas of nationalism, secularism, and total war that would reshape Europe.
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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.
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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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TIMESTAMPS:
(00:15) Intro and Personal Anecdotes
(04:13) Introduction to the French Revolution and Secular Cycles
(08:40) Open and Closed Societies
(15:47) Sponsor Message 1
(17:33) Sponsor Message 2
(18:44) The French Monarchy and its Attempt to Protect Freedom
(25:50) The French Enlightenment and Modernity
(30:52) Causes of the French Revolution
(37:00) The Internal Conflicts and Instability of the Revolution
(46:50) The Reign of Terror and the Jacobins
(52:40) The Napoleonic Wars and their Impact on Europe
(1:00:00) The Left and Right in French Politics
(1:03:40) Counterfactual History: What if the Fronde had succeeded?
(1:04:20) The French Army and National Identity
(1:07:12) Outro
BOOK RECOMMENDATIONS:
"Fire in the Minds of Men" by James Hadley Billington
"The Old Regime and the French Revolution" by Alexis Henri C M Clerel Tocqueville
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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SPONSOR: INCOGNI | GIVEWELL | NOTION
Take your personal data back with Incogni! Use code ECON102 at the link below and get 60% off an annual plan: https://incogni.com/econ102
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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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)
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@TurpentineMedia
--
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
--
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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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
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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.
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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)
@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
-
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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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:
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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:
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
--
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].
-
FOLLOW ON X:
@whatifalthist (Rudyard)
@eriktorenberg (Erik)
@SamoBurja (Samo)
@TurpentineMedia
-
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:
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/
-
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].
-
FOLLOW ON X:
@whatifalthist (Rudyard)
@eriktorenberg (Erik)
@SamoBurja (Samo)
@TurpentineMedia
-
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/
-
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].
-
FOLLOW ON X:
@whatifalthist (Rudyard)
@eriktorenberg (Erik)
@TurpentineMedia
--
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
-
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].
-
FOLLOW ON X:
@whatifalthist (Rudyard)
@eriktorenberg (Erik)
@TurpentineMedia
-
RELATED EPISODES:
Byzantine Empire
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/6wzpVoPhWiAecAuImjCnxZ?si=sM8t0T97Qh-BjxsOXmHUNA
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/byzantine-empire/id1730633913?i=1000662716343
Rise of Islam
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/79fMsZSGfvSY2f9WENJvTq?si=09DZdn9PSX690vXcVUDuFg
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:
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
-
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:
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:
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:
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
–
FOLLOW ON X:
@whatifalthist (Rudyard)
@eriktorenberg (Erik)
@TurpentineMedia
–
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
–
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
-
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].
–
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:
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
--
Books mentioned:
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.
–
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
--
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
A Secular Age by Charles Taylor
Europe Emerges: Transition Toward an Industrial World-Wide Society, 600-1750 by Robert L. Reynolds
This episode of History 102 delves deeply into the ancient history of China, from its foundation around 2000 BC to the fall of the Han Dynasty around 200 AD. WhatifAltHist creator Rudyard Lynch and Erik Torenberg also explore the rise and fall of the Shang, Zhou, Qin, and Han dynasties, uncovering the political and social forces that shaped ancient Chinese history.
🔥 Apply to join over 400 founders and Execs in the Turpentine Network: https://hmplogxqz0y.typeform.com/to/JCkphVqj
Discover how ancient China evolved in isolation, developing its own unique civilization, institutions, and beliefs, with surprising parallels to other world powers.
--
SPONSORS: 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
–
Recommended Podcast: Company Breakdowns
Each episode of Company Breakdowns dives into S-1s and series B-and-beyond companies, interviewing founders and investors to break down the companies. First episode is on Rubrik - which just IPO'd. Coming up this season: Databricks, Reddit + more,
–
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
(00:15) Casual Catch-Up and Initial Thoughts
(00:36) Discussing Viewer Reactions
(01:27) Introduction to Ancient China
(02:14) China's Unique Historical Evolution
(06:20) Geography and Early Civilizations
(09:34) The Shang Dynasty and Early Theocracies
(12:07) The Zhou Dynasty and the Mandate of Heaven
(17:28) The Warring States Period and Philosophical Developments
(20:02) Sponsor: Beehiiv | Babbel
(32:20) The Rise of the Qin Dynasty
(40:16) The Han Dynasty: China's Golden Age
(48:18) The Fall of the Han Dynasty and Its Aftermath
(55:01) Wrap
Recommended Books:
The Grace of Kings by Ken Liu
This episode of History 102 dives into ancient India, exploring its rich civilizations, philosophical divergences from the West, and the profound influence of the caste system on its society. WhatifAltHist creator Rudyard Lynch and Erik Torenberg also debunk myths and explore the real impact of the caste system, Hindu nationalism, and the arrival of Islam on ancient Indian civilization.
🔥 Apply to join over 400 founders and Execs in the Turpentine Network: https://hmplogxqz0y.typeform.com/to/JCkphVqj
–
SPONSORS: 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
–
Recommended Podcast: Company Breakdowns
Each episode of Company Breakdowns dives into S-1s and series B-and-beyond companies, interviewing founders and investors to break down the companies. First episode is on Rubrik - which just IPO'd. Coming up this season: Databricks, Reddit + more,
–
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
(00:43) A Deep Dive into Ancient India: Uncovering Hidden Histories
(07:30) Exploring the Indus Valley Civilization: The Bronze Age's Forgotten Empire
(10:07) The Aryans and the Birth of the Caste System
(25:06) Sponsor: Beehiiv | Babbel
(26:10) Buddhism vs. Hinduism: A Battle for India's Soul
(39:56) The Mauryan Empire: India's Golden Age
(42:09) India's Dark Age and the Rise of Hindu Conservatism
(53:44) Controversial Takes: The British Impact on India
(58:51) Recommended Readings
Recommended Books:
The Soul of India by Amaury de Riencourt
The Rise of the West
Our Oriental Heritage: The Story of Civilization, Volume I by Will Durant
This episode of History 102 features a follow up analysis of World War II focused on Japan, China, and the events located in the Pacific. WhatifAltHist creator Rudyard Lynch and Erik Torenberg discuss the build-up to the Pacific War, the geopolitical backdrop of Japan's militaristic expansion, and the cultural psyche that fueled its aggressive actions.
🔥 Apply to join over 400 founders and Execs in the Turpentine Network: https://hmplogxqz0y.typeform.com/to/JCkphVqj
Key points include Japan's transition to authoritarianism in the 1920s, its strategic ambitions in China leading to the Sino-Japanese War, and the critical battles and dynamics with other global powers including the USSR and the USA. The episode also explores the nuanced causes and justifications behind the Pacific War, Japan's wartime atrocities, and the decisive moments that led to Japan's surrender, including discussions around the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki. Tourism content in the episode includes the broader implications of WWII, the downfall of colonial empires, and the socio-political changes in post-war Japan.
–
SPONSORS: 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
–
Recommended Podcast: Company Breakdowns
Each episode of Company Breakdowns dives into S-1s and series B-and-beyond companies, interviewing founders and investors to break down the companies. First episode is on Rubrik - which just IPO'd. Coming up this season: Databricks, Reddit + more,
–
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
–
Recommended Books:
This episode of History 102 features a comprehensive analysis of World War II. WhatifAltHist creator Rudyard Lynch and Erik Torenberg discuss the build-up to the war, including the aftermath of World War I and the conditions in Europe that led to the rise of Hitler. Recommendations for further reading on the subject are provided, enhancing understanding of the war's complex aspects and its lasting impact on global history.
-
SPONSORS: BEEHIIV
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
–
Recommended Podcast: Company Breakdowns
Each episode of Company Breakdowns dives into S-1s and series B-and-beyond companies, interviewing founders and investors to break down the companies. First episode is on Rubrik - which just IPO'd. Coming up this season: Databricks, Reddit + more,
–
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
(05:49) Hitler's Goal: Conquering Eastern Europe
(11:59) Blitzkrieg: Rapid Conquest
(17:52) Sponsor: Beehiiv | Babbel
(26:50) Hitler's Strategic Miscalculations
(35:53) Exploring the Eastern Front: The Turning Point of WWII
(50:05) The Holocaust: A Horrific Atrocity
(53:52) Recommendations for Further Reading
(55:36) Wrap
Recommended Books:
In this episode of History 102, Rudyard Lynch and Erik Torenberg delve into critical historical moments and patterns, focusing on the Spanish Empire's unique and often overlooked role in shaping the modern world. This episode challenges common historical narratives by examining Spain's extractive policies, and the consequences of its colonization efforts, including the impact on indigenous populations and the development of an extractive culture that contrasts with other Western societies' developmental paths.
SPONSORS: BEEHIIV
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
–
Recommended Podcast: Company Breakdowns
Each episode of Company Breakdowns dives into S-1s and series B-and-beyond companies, interviewing founders and investors to break down the companies. First episode is on Rubrik - which just IPO'd. Coming up this season: Databricks, Reddit + more,
–
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
(02:30) Exploring the Roots of Global Inequality
(03:56) The Formation of the Spanish Empire: From Medieval Europe to Columbus
(09:13) Columbus' Dark Legacy and the Consequences of Conquest
(12:14) The Spanish Inquisition: Reality vs. Myth
(15:46) Sponsor: Beehiiv | Turpentine | Babbel
(24:09) Extractive Systems and Their Impact
(33:11) The Conquest of the Aztecs
(35:12) The Aztec Empire: Conquest and Sacrifice
(36:02) Cortes and the Fall of the Aztecs
(38:37) Population Collapse and Cultural Impact
(39:24) The Inca Empire: Swift Expansion and Spanish Conquest
(41:17) Exploring the Spanish Empire: Governance and Social Structure
(45:16) The Decline of the Spanish Empire: Economic Mismanagement and Independence Movements
(1:01:23) Final Thoughts and Recommendations
(1:02:03) Wrap
Recommended Books:
In this episode of History 102, Rudyard Lynch and Erik Torenberg explore the rise of Rome, from its origins as a small settlement in Central Italy to becoming a dominant force in the known world, drawing parallels between historical events and modern-day societal patterns. They discuss themes of decadence, social cohesion, and the cyclical nature of civilizations.
-
SPONSORS: BEEHIIV | PLUMB | 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
Plumb is a no-code AI app builder designed for product teams who care about quality and speed. What is taking you weeks to hand-code today can be done confidently in hours. Check out https://bit.ly/PlumbTCR for early access.
🌐 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
–
Recommended Podcast: Company Breakdowns
Each episode of Company Breakdowns dives into S-1s and series B-and-beyond companies, interviewing founders and investors to break down the companies. First episode is on Rubrik - which just IPO'd. Coming up this season: Databricks, Reddit + more,
–
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
(01:26) Rise of Rome
(02:02) The Influence of Greek Civilization on the Latins
(05:09) The Romans: From City-State to Empire
(16:41) Sponsors: Harmonic | Plumb | Babbel
(37:13) The Punic Wars: Rome's Defining Battles
(49:35) Rome's Expansion East and the Fall of Carthage
(55:12) Reflections and Recommendations on Roman History
(57:25) Closing Thoughts and Next Episode Teaser
(57:09) Wrap
–
Recommended Books:
Recommended Podcast:
In this episode of History 102, hosts Erik Torenberg and Rudyard Lynch delve into the American Civil War, providing a comprehensive overview encompassing its causes, key battles, and the aftermath.
---
SPONSOR: PLUMB
Plumb is a no-code AI app builder designed for product teams who care about quality and speed. What is taking you weeks to hand-code today can be done confidently in hours. Check out https://bit.ly/PlumbTCR for early access.
🌐 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
–
Recommended Podcast: Company Breakdowns
Each episode of Company Breakdowns dives into S-1s and series B-and-beyond companies, interviewing founders and investors to break down the companies. First episode is on Rubrik - which just IPO'd. Coming up this season: Databricks, Reddit + more,
–
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
–
RECOMMENDED BOOKS:
Roll, Jordan, Roll by Eugene D. Genovese
The Guns of the South by Harry Turtledove
–
TIMESTAMPS:
(00:00) Intro
(00:41) Exploring the Roots of the American Civil War
(01:24) Complex Causes Behind the Civil War
(02:02) Slavery in Sparking the Civil War
(04:12) The Industrial Revolution's Impact on the Civil War
(06:34) Reflections and the Debate on Civil War Causes
(16:55) Beliefs of the North and South
(20:57) The South's Strategy and the Role of International Powers
(22:57) Sponsor: Plumb | Babbel
(21:00) The Turning Points of the Civil War
(30:14) The War Itself
(49:19) The Aftermath and Reconstruction Era
(56:26) Wrap
In this episode which was first aired on Whatifalthist’s podcast, Rudyard Lynch explores the hypothetical scenario of World War III, analyzing potential winners, front lines, and geopolitical alliances.
---
SPONSOR: PLUMB
Plumb is a no-code AI app builder designed for product teams who care about quality and speed. What is taking you weeks to hand-code today can be done confidently in hours. Check out https://bit.ly/PlumbTCR for early access.
🌐 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
–--
Recommended Podcast: Company Breakdowns
Each episode of Company Breakdowns dives into S-1s and series B-and-beyond companies, interviewing founders and investors to break down the companies. First episode is on Rubrik - which just IPO'd. Coming up this season: Databricks, Reddit + more,
–
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) Welcome
(00:12) Exploring the What Ifs and Changing Perspectives of World War III
(01:50) Theoretical Alliances and Their Strengths
(03:19) Potential Flashpoints and Concerns
(04:35) The Unpredictability of Predicting the Future
(05:11) Imagining a Scenario: China's Invasion of Taiwan
(08:28) The Realities of Modern Warfare and Technology
(10:21) Reevaluating China's Military and Social Stability
(11:43) Sponsor: Turpentine | Babbel
(17:43) The Complex Terrain of Potential Conflicts
(21:55) A New Type of War: Demographic and Economic Battles
(25:30) Concluding Thoughts and the Future of Warfare
(26:00) Wrap
Today, we're excited to announce that Turpentine will be releasing Rudyard Lynch's WhatifAltHist as a podcast feed! Click the link below to subscribe. The highlighted episode we're airing today was touched on in our most recent History 102 episode on China's Modern History. Rudyard lays out his the patterns that predict China's coming socio-economic crisis.
---
SPONSOR: PLUMB | BABBEL
Plumb is a no-code AI app builder designed for product teams who care about quality and speed. What is taking you weeks to hand-code today can be done confidently in hours. Check out https://bit.ly/PlumbTCR for early access.
🌐 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
–
Recommended Podcast: Company Breakdowns
Each episode of Company Breakdowns dives into S-1s and series B-and-beyond companies, interviewing founders and investors to break down the companies. First episode is on Rubrik - which just IPO'd. Coming up this season: Databricks, Reddit + more,
–
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)
@dwr (Dan)
@moz_podcast (Moment of Zen)
@TurpentineMedia
–
BOOKS CITED:
TIMESTAMPS
(00:00) Intro
(00:43) Exploring China's Impending Social and Economic Crisis
(02:11) The Western Fascination with Authoritarian Regimes
(03:00) Understanding China's Internal Struggles and Media Misrepresentation
(05:15) The Demographic Challenges Facing China
(09:50) Economic Pressures and Real Estate Bubble in China
(14:51) The Shift Towards Maoism and Increased Oppression
(20:54) The Potential for Revolution and Civil Unrest
(30:18) Predicting the Collapse of Modern China
(31:42) Conclusion
Today, we're releasing a special episode from the Moment of Zen podcast where Rudyard was the featured guest along with hosts Erik Torenberg and Dan Romero. They discuss his analysis of potential future global events, such as an American civil war and a revolution in China, considering economic conditions, demographics, and societal behaviors.
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].
---
SPONSOR: PLUMB | BABBEL
Plumb is a no-code AI app builder designed for product teams who care about quality and speed. What is taking you weeks to hand-code today can be done confidently in hours. Check out https://bit.ly/PlumbTCR for early access.
🌐 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
–
RELATED CHANNELS:
Subscribe to Moment of Zen: https://www.youtube.com/@MomentofZenPodcast
History 102: https://www.youtube.com/@History102-qg5oj
Subscribe to WhatifAltHist: https://www.youtube.com/@WhatifAltHist
–
FOLLOW ON X:
@whatifalthist (Rudyard)
@eriktorenberg (Erik)
@dwr (Dan)
@moz_podcast (Moment of Zen)
@TurpentineMedia
–
BOOKS CITED:
Guns, Germs, and Steel: The Fates of Human Societies by Jared Diamond
Who We Are and How We Got Here: Ancient DNA and the New Science of the Human Past by David Reich
The Coming Caesars by Amaury De Riencourt
The Eye of Shiva: Eastern Mysticism and Science by Amaury De Riencourt
Bulfinch's Mythology - All Three Volumes - The Age of Fable, The Age of Chivalry, and Legends of Charlemagne by Thomas Bulfinch
Dune by Frank Herbert
Sapiens: A Brief History of Humankind by Yuval Noah Harari
–
TIMESTAMPS:
(00:00) Intro
(01:29) Rudyard and Dan's Approach to History
(03:39) Alt History
(10:05) Modern Civilization and Historical Patterns
(17:40) Sponsor: Turpentine | Babbel
(19:00) Possibility of a Civil War?
(40:27) Political Crisis and the Split of States
(42:27) Power of American National Guards
(44:23) Dependence of States on Federal Funding
(44:50) Economic Divide in America
(45:20) Struggles of Average Americans
(47:16) Insane Minorities in Civil Wars
(48:12) Power of Elites in Conflicts
(48:53) Potential for a Competent Trump-like Populist
(01:03:16) The Future of China and Its Potential Revolution
(01:15:45) Wrap
In today's episode, hosts Rudyard Lynch and Erik Torenberg delve into the rich and complex history of China in the last several hundred years -- a critical period if we consider China the greatest rival of the US. The discussion explores China's once stagnant technological and social progress, periods of humiliation by Western powers, China under Mao, and the subsequent rise to become a global superpower. Rudyard's comprehensive narrative also highlights the dramatic shifts in China's demographic, political, and economic landscapes, illuminating the factors that have shaped its current politics and societal challenges. Watch this episode accompanied by maps and illustrations on History 102's YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@history102-qg5oj
History 102 is part of the Turpentine podcast network. Learn more: turpentine.co
---
SPONSOR: PLUMB | BABBEL
Plumb is a no-code AI app builder designed for product teams who care about quality and speed. What is taking you weeks to hand-code today can be done confidently in hours. Check out https://bit.ly/PlumbTCR for early access.
🌐 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 PODCAST: If you dig History 102, we think you'll love Live Players with Samo Burja from Turpentine. Every week Samo and Erik dive into a key power player, institution, or company changing the course of history.
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5fbMTkHBnom1JIBWYNVBK1
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/id1718925188
---
RECOMMENDED BOOKS:
LINKS:
WhatifAltHist on What if China Wasn't Communist: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Kt5RY_DRbDU
---
TIMESTAMPS:
(00:00) Intro
(00:20) Understanding China's Historical Context
(02:04) China's Isolation and Technological Stagnation
(07:56) China's Geopolitical Position During the Manchu Dynasty
(10:57) 300-year Period of Peace in China
(12:12) The Opium Wars: A Turning Point in Chinese History
(15:28) Be a Sponsor of a Turpentine Podcast
(16:17) The Opium Wars - continued
(21:40) The Taiping Rebellion: A Forgotten War
(31:55) The Boxer Rebellion and the Fall of the Chinese Monarchy
(33:18) Communism and Mao's China
(39:08) Deng Xiaoping's Reforms and China's Economic Boom
(41:56) Predicting China's Future: Growth and Potential Challenges
(46:36) Wrap and Further Reading Recommendations
In today's episode, Rudyard Lynch and Erik Torenberg discuss critical moments in colonial American history -- a span of 180 years before the revolution. They discuss the formation of regional cultures in colonial America, the foundation of modern America, and lesser-studied elements of American history before the revolution. Drawing upon colonial America, the English Civil War, the French and Indian War, they analyze how American culture has been shaped by its history and also delve into the future of America, alluding to a civil war predictor based on patterns from history. Watch this episode accompanied by maps and illustrations on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@history102-qg5oj
History 102 is part of the Turpentine podcast network. Learn more: turpentine.co
---
SPONSOR: PLUMB | BABBEL
Plumb is a no-code AI app builder designed for product teams who care about quality and speed. What is taking you weeks to hand-code today can be done confidently in hours. Check out https://bit.ly/PlumbTCR for early access.
🌐 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
---
RELATED PODCAST: If you dig History 102, we think you'll love Live Players with Samo Burja from Turpentine. Every week Samo and Erik dive into a key power player, institution, or company changing the course of history.
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5fbMTkHBnom1JIBWYNVBK1
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/id1718925188
---
RECOMMENDED BOOKS:
Albion's Seed by David Hackett Fisher
The Barbarous Years by Bernard Bailyn
American Colonies: The Settling of North America by Alan Taylor
---
FOLLOW US ON X:
@eriktorenberg (Erik)
@whatifalthist (Rudyard)
@turpentinemedia (Turpentine)
FOLLOW US ON YOUTUBE:
History 102 https://www.youtube.com/@history102-qg5oj
WhatifAltHist [Main] https://www.youtube.com/@WhatifAltHist
Upstream with Erik Torenberg https://www.youtube.com/@UpstreamwithErikTorenberg
---
TIMESTAMPS:
(00:00) Intro
(00:16) Exploring Early America
(02:05) Understanding America's British Roots
(03:10) America: A Side Effect of the English Civil War
(14:28) Civil War in the Future
(16:30) The Influence of the English Civil War on American Culture
(17:38) Another Civil War Looming in the Future?
(21:49) The Start of America's National Cohesion
(24:49) Global Balance of Power: What Was the Most Powerful Country at this Time?
(26:28) The British Empire's Loss of Power
(28:29) The Formation of Distinct Regional Cultures in America
(44:52) The Birth of American Democracy
(47:44) Understanding America as a People
(48:42) Wrap
--
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].
"Imagine this giant gradually getting attacked by mosquitos..." In today's episode, Rudyard Lynch and Erik Torenberg delve into the critical moments and competing narratives of the fall of the Roman Empire. They compare the classical Greeks and Romans, identify key Roman figures and outsiders who impacted the course of history, and identify the major influences that shaped their era - and our current one.
Watch this episode accompanied by maps and illustrations on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@history102-qg5oj
History 102 is part of the Turpentine podcast network. Learn more: turpentine.co
---
SPONSOR: PLUMB | BABBEL
Plumb is a no-code AI app builder designed for product teams who care about quality and speed. What is taking you weeks to hand-code today can be done confidently in hours. Check out https://bit.ly/PlumbTCR for early access.
🌐 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
---
RELATED PODCAST: If you dig History 102, we think you'll love Live Players with Samo Burja from Turpentine. Every week Samo and Erik dive into a key power player, institution, or company changing the course of history.
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5fbMTkHBnom1JIBWYNVBK1
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/id1718925188
---
RECOMMENDED BOOKS:
---
FOLLOW US ON X:
@eriktorenberg (Erik)
@whatifalthist (Rudyard)
@turpentinemedia (Turpentine)
FOLLOW US ON YOUTUBE:
History 102 https://www.youtube.com/@history102-qg5oj
WhatifAltHist [Main] https://www.youtube.com/@WhatifAltHist
Upstream with Erik Torenberg https://www.youtube.com/@UpstreamwithErikTorenberg
---
TIMESTAMPS:
(00:00) Intro
(00:18) Diving into the Fall of Rome
(02:39) The Rise of Rome: A Historical Context
(07:49) You Can't Beat The Romans In A Battle Of Willpower
(10:56) Classic Rome and Ancient Greece
(16:36) The Fall of Rome: Theories and Perspectives
(23:44) The Impact of the Huns on the Roman Empire
(27:51) Multiple Ways of Looking at the Fall of Rome
(38:47) The Aftermath of the Fall of Rome
(44:38) Two Historical Schools on the Fall of Rome
(46:35) Legacy and Significance of the Roman Empire
(50:33) Recommendations for Further Reading
(51:35) Wrap
Today WhatifAltHist's Rudyard Lynch and Erik Torenberg dive into the Vikings, the topic that got Rudyard into history in the first place. This discussion covers the misconceptions about the dark ages, the Vikings' significant reach, and their role in shaping history. They also highlight the Vikings’ legacy of establishing trade links and what how the society of the Vikings closely mirrors our own. Watch this Vikings episode accompanied by maps and illustrations on Rudyard's YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CommonGround-qg5oj
History 102 is part of the Turpentine podcast network. Learn more: turpentine.co
---
SPONSOR: PLUMB | BABBEL
Plumb is a no-code AI app builder designed for product teams who care about quality and speed. What is taking you weeks to hand-code today can be done confidently in hours. Check out https://bit.ly/PlumbTCR for early access.
🌐 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
---
RELATED PODCAST: If you dig History 102, we think you'll love Live Players with Samo Burja from Turpentine. Every week Samo and Erik dive into a key power player, institution, or company changing the course of history.
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5fbMTkHBnom1JIBWYNVBK1
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/id1718925188
---
RECOMMENDED BOOKS & Links:
---
FOLLOW US ON X:
@eriktorenberg (Erik)
@whatifalthist (Rudyard)
@turpentinemedia (Turpentine)
FOLLOW US ON YOUTUBE:
Common Ground/ History 102 https://www.youtube.com/@CommonGround-qg5oj
WhatifAltHist [Main] https://www.youtube.com/@WhatifAltHist
Upstream with Erik Torenberg https://www.youtube.com/@UpstreamwithErikTorenberg
---
TIMESTAMPS:
(00:03) Introduction to History 102
(01:36) The Vikings and why they're the apex for YOLOs
(09:50) The Dark Ages and the Vikings - the seeds of our current society
(12:40) Could We Be in a Dark Age Now?
(13:52) Mouse Utopia is Akin to the Fall of Civilizations
(16:23) Interconnected and Self-Contained Civilizations During the Dark Ages
(18:38) The End of the Dark Ages and the Rise of Feudalism
(22:08) The Vikings Emerge (and how their social structure is similar to tech startups and venture capital)
(27:32) Civil Wars and the Formation of European monarchies
(30:54) Misconceptions and Underappreciated Aspects of Viking Culture
(34:35) The Fall of the Vikings and the Transition to the Middle Ages
(40:29) Two Reasons for the Conversion to Christianity
(43:34) What if the Vikings Ruled a Bit Longer?
(47:07) The YOLO nature of the Vikings
(52:52) The Vikings' Legacy and Their Impact on World History
(53:16) Upcoming topics of History 102 and book recommendations
--
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].
In the debut episode of History 102, WhatifAltHist creator Rudyard Lynch and Erik Torenberg discuss the causes, events, and impacts of World War I. They highlight key turning points such as Germany's Schlieffen Plan and America's late entry into the war. The discussion also explores the significant cultural and social shifts caused by the war including the rise of communism, feminism, and modern art. They also ponder on possible alternatives had Germany won the war. The episode wraps with book recommendations.
On this season of HIstory 102 we'll cover WW1, WW2, Classical Greece, the Vikings, Medieval Islam, the rise of Communism, and more.
History 102 is a part of the Turpentine podcast network. Learn more: www.turpentine.co
---
SPONSOR: PLUMB | BABBEL
Plumb is a no-code AI app builder designed for product teams who care about quality and speed. What is taking you weeks to hand-code today can be done confidently in hours. Check out https://bit.ly/PlumbTCR for early access.
🌐 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
--
TIMESTAMPS:
(00:00) Introduction to History 102
(00:38) Erik and Rudyard
(02:10) The Start of World War I
(03:19) The Role of Industrial Revolution in World War I
(07:25) The Impact of World War I on Society
(26:19) The US's Role
(40:18) The Aftermath of World War I
(52:31) What If Germany Had Won World War I?
(58:02) The Legacy of World War I
(59:12) Book Recommendations
LINKS:
WhatifAltHist YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@WhatifAltHist
Turpentine: www.turpentine.co
BOOK RECOMMENDATIONS:
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].
En liten tjänst av I'm With Friends. Finns även på engelska.