In this episode, we explore the complex causes behind the outbreak of World War II. Listeners will learn how the harsh terms of the Treaty of Versailles, economic turmoil during the Great Depression, and the rise of fascist leaders like Adolf Hitler set the stage for global conflict. We break down the policies and political decisions—including appeasement by Britain and France, the failure of the League of Nations, and alliances between Germany, Italy, Japan, and the USSR—that allowed aggression to go unchecked. The episode covers key moments such as Germany’s rearmament, the Nazi-Soviet Pact, and the invasion of Poland that triggered the war. By the end, you’ll understand why WWII became inevitable and how the world’s major powers responded—often too late—to one of history’s most devastating conflicts.Written by Mark Cartwright and narrated by Scarlett Hart.#history #wwii #worldwar #whe
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20:30
Agriculture in the Fertile Crescent & Mesopotamia
Explore the pivotal role of agriculture in shaping human history in our latest episode. Journey back to the ancient Near East, where the Fertile Crescent is celebrated as the birthplace of agriculture. Discover how the domestication of plants and animals in regions like Mesopotamia and the Levant led to the first large-scale cities and empires. This cradle of civilization, enriched by fertile soil and rivers like the Euphrates and Tigris, witnessed innovations such as artificial irrigation, crop rotation, and the use of plows, which transformed semi-nomadic groups into permanent agricultural societies.
Delve into how agriculture's surplus production was essential for the emergence of urban centers and complex societies. In Mesopotamia, cereal grains became a cornerstone for taxation, supporting centralized governments and enabling trade and urbanization. The podcast underscores how agriculture not only sustained growing populations but also laid the foundation for specialized trades and empires, ultimately fueling human progress and civilization's advancement across the globe.
Written and read by Jan van der Crabben. Original article: https://www.worldhistory.org/article/9/agriculture-in-the-fertile-crescent--mesopotamia/
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15:22
Twelve Great Women of Ancient Persia
In this episode, we explore the fascinating history of women in ancient Persia, revealing their significant roles and freedoms within society. Listeners will learn about notable Persian women like Cassandane Shahbanu, Atusa Shahbanu, and Artemisia I of Caria, who were queens, military leaders, businesswomen, and more. The episode highlights how Persian women held positions of power, managed businesses, and even led military campaigns, enjoying rights and autonomy unparalleled in many other ancient cultures. We also discuss the decline in women's status following the Arab Muslim conquest and how modern Iranian women continue to resist restrictions. This episode offers insights into the enduring legacy of Persian women's contributions to their society and culture.
Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/whencyclopedia
Original Article: https://www.worldhistory.org/article/1493/twelve-great-women-of-ancient-persia/
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21:02
Women in Ancient Persia
In this episode, we explore the fascinating role of women in ancient Persia, highlighting their high status and autonomy across various empires. Listeners will learn about the rights and responsibilities of women during the Achaemenid, Parthian, and Sassanian periods. Discover the influential roles of royal women, their participation in business, and even their presence in military ranks. We'll also discuss the decline of women's rights following the fall of the Sassanian Empire and how Persian women resisted this oppression. Join us as we delve into the stories of remarkable women who shaped ancient Persian society and continue to inspire today.
Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/whencyclopedia
Original Article: https://www.worldhistory.org/article/1492/women-in-ancient-persia/
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26:52
Egyptian Gods - The Complete List
In this episode, we delve into the fascinating world of Ancient Egyptian mythology, exploring the pantheon of over 2,000 deities that shaped the daily lives and spiritual beliefs of the Egyptian people for more than 3,000 years. Listeners will learn about some of the most prominent gods and goddesses, such as Isis, Osiris, Horus, Amun, and Ra, as well as lesser-known but equally intriguing deities like Qebhet and Seshat. We'll discuss how these gods were worshiped and their roles in various aspects of life, from state deities to regional patrons and ritual figures.
The episode also covers the evolution of Egyptian religious beliefs from animism to a complex anthropomorphic system infused with magic, highlighting the significance of Heka, the god of magic and medicine. We'll explore how the Egyptians syncretized gods to reconcile differing beliefs and how worship practices evolved over time.
Additionally, we'll touch upon key cultural concepts like ma'at (harmony and balance) and explore mythological stories and transformations involving deities such as Set and Serket. Join us as we journey through the rich tapestry of Egyptian mythology and its lasting impact on culture and religion.
Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/whencyclopedia
Original Article: https://www.worldhistory.org/article/885/egyptian-gods---the-complete-list/
We are a non-profit organization publishing the world's most-read history encyclopedia. Our mission is to engage people with cultural heritage and to improve history education worldwide.
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