Podcasts about Londinium

Londinium 91 AD: The Debate Over Venezuela. Gaius and Germanicus of the Friends Mystery Debating Society discuss at a cold wine bar by the choppy Thames the potential decision by emperor Trump to invade Venezuela, noting the presence of a sizable, powerful military force gathered deliberately off its shores. Germanicus argues that American engagement in the Caribbean is a deep-rooted tradition dating back to the Monroe Doctrine, with the current military buildup serving as a symbolic initiative signaling to powers like China and Russia that the U.S. is reasserting influence in its accepted sphere. However, he cautions there are huge risks because the U.S. military's connection to strategic realities has declined massively, with capabilities depleted partly due to the war in Ukraine. U.S. history of warfare since Korea is marked by poor net assessment, where planners privilege desires over reality. Maduro has reportedly offered tribute of 300 million barrels of oil, suggesting the conflict is currently an aggressively conducted negotiation dependent heavily on Venezuelan armed forces loyalty. The emperor faces pressure to achieve a consolation prize if he chooses not to invade to avoid looking weak, leaving the outcome undecided. 80 BCE. SULLA

Londinium 91 AD: Corruption and the Imperial Slip. Gaius and Germanicus shift attention to Washington, observing that wealth has grown more powerful than government in the U.S., similar to Rome's path into empire. Evidence includes Washington insiders like Rudy Giuliani and Hunter Biden allegedly operating on payrolls of corrupt foreign interests such as the Democratic Republic of Congo. Republicans typically avoid registering foreign work under the Foreign Agents Registration Act by using cutouts or undocumented money, while Democrats use think tanks during interregnums, making the process so transparent it suggests everybody's in on the game. Insiders are even willing to work for adversaries like sanctioned Russian arms makers or the Taliban under the justification of private diplomacy. Germanicusanalyzes this decline through three vantages: the Gilded Age, where corporations owned government but lacked today's foreign entanglement; foreign penetration, where adversaries and allies like Israel, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia have enormous leverage; and irreconcilable ideological conflict, where corruption fuels severe ideological struggle tearing away the rule of law. They conclude that the transition into an emperor system is subtle and happens without notice, weakening the system when corruption damages trust. SULLA

Londinium 91 AD: The Aging Emperor's Urgency. Gaius and Germanicus discuss the physical and mental state of emperor Trump, noting his senior age and frantic, restless pace as potentially signs of an aging brain or alternatively adrenaline and confidence. Germanicus believes the emperor is acutely self-aware of his limited time, driven by tremendous brutal urgency to secure a lasting legacy including fiscal stability, border control, and eliminating principles like DEI. However, the stress of this frantic pace combined with age could cloud his judgment, making him more impulsive or desperate. The emperor's focus on revenge cycles, such as indicting former directors, is typical of historical emperors against their enemies. Germanicus worries this could lead to physical decline and reckless action. A critical marker of a republic's collapse into an emperor system is when the incoming president pursues and imprisons his predecessor, an easy push into civil war seen in places like Brazil. They conclude the transition is quietly happening, with the question of whether the U.S. will experience violence remaining unknown. 81 BCE SULLA Retry

Russian Aggression, NATO Tensions, and the Specter of 1914. Gaius and Germanicus, hosting the Friends of History Debating Society in Londinium, discuss the future of the Roman Empire's inheritor, the United States, and its empire in the 21st century. The conversation, held by the turbulent Thames, focuses on the extreme challenges facing US institutions, both outside and inside its borders. The primary external challenge discussed is Russian aggression against Ukraine and the heightened tensions along the NATO frontier. Gaius is reliably told that any provocation, such as blockading the Russian shadow fleet or shooting down a Russian warplane, could lead to Mr. Putin's removal by his right-wing compatriots who believe he has supervised a bad war. Germanicus notes that while no one plans provocations, accidents happen, and hotheads exist in NATO alongside appeasers. Putin is seen as driven by his right-wing elements, demanding recognition and respect for Russia, with conditions comparing the situation to 1914, not 1939. Germanicus counters that Putin is a "Kaiser" (Caesar), comparable to the emperor in Washington, D.C., and must secure a "big victory." Putin's attack on the Ukrainian electrical grid is viewed as smart, bringing Ukraine to the brink without destroying the whole grid, thereby deterring Western media backlash and demonstrating Russia's capacity against NATO. Gaius observes that Washington (specifically the neocons) thinks it must win. The comparison to 1914 suggests that a quick collapse of the Ukrainian war effort could spark a dangerous "July crisis" if the West loses its head. Germanicus, however, sees domestic US political turmoil and European weakness making a major war "almost impossible," suggesting Democrats might prefer Russia to win to politically damage Mr. Trump. 1923 PETROGRAD

Domestic Crisis: US Political Conflict Compared to Charles I and the Long Parliament. Gaius and Germanicus, speaking in Londinium, explore a significant domestic threat to the American Empire by drawing an analogy to 1641-1642 England, prior to the regicide of Charles I. They argue that the current US "emperor" is ignoring the repudiation registered by a recent vote, similar to Charles I ignoring the Long Parliament. Gaius fears that relentless impeachment awaits if Democrats dominate Congress. A scenario is hypothesized where a "blue governor" defies a presidential order (e.g., regarding ICE business), is detained, inciting Democratic rage and an overwhelming electoral victory. This state defiance is compared to historical examples like South Carolina against Andrew Jackson. Germanicus notes that escalating defiance by governors like Pritzker or Newsom is currently rhetorical, but an actual confrontation requiring federal force (Marshals, National Guard) would be necessary to truly break the Constitution. Such a confrontation could resemble an insurrection, potentially turning Americans against the president if handled poorly, or against the governor if he seems to be unraveling the Republic. Misperception is identified as a dangerous factor, referencing the panic in London when Charles I sought to arrest six traitors. Gaius insists that things get out of control without an "evil mastermind" and that any political trigger after the 2026 election could lead to impeachment. They agree that participants often fail to see the escalation toward crisis, much like in 1642 or 1914. Germanicus concludes that since Mr. Trump is unlikely to compromise, this lack of restraint could push things "over the edge." 1649

1. LONDINIUM 91 CE. Seven Warnings, Part I. Gaius and Germanicus, joined by retired centurions, convened at the Friends of History Debating Society to discuss Germanicus's list of seven maxims detailing how empires, specifically the US, engage in self-harm or self-destruction. Gaius offered the example of the emperor deciding Nigeria needs attention due to the killing of Christians, asserting America has no interest whatsoever in this venture. He contrasted this unnecessary entanglement with Rome's historical method of handling threats in its self-interest. Rome, when it decided to win, completely wiped out resisting enemies, as demonstrated by the destruction of Jerusalem in 70 CE and the earlier obliteration of Sepphoris, the capital of Galilee, around 4 BCE. The Romans even renamed Judea to Palestine to deny the populace their historical identity. Germanicus then presented the first four maxims routinely ignored by US war fighters: (1) Never let a foreign power define your interests and objectives—this warning cited historical entanglement examples, including the British in two World Wars and modern manipulation by Ukraine, NATO countries, and Israel; (2) Never let initial success fool you into thinking you're winning—Germanicus noted that this "victory disease" affected the Japanese after Pearl Harbor and the US during the invasion of Iraq and the initial stages of the Ukraine war; (3) The failure chosen now is always better than the failure forced upon you later—this maxim addresses the destructive "stay the course" mentality, exemplified by the Vietnam War, driven by courtiers worried about reputation rather than effectiveness; (4) Judgment of the enemy should not be confirmed by internal biases—this bias leads to disastrous strategy, such as the initial belief that the Japanese could not fly effectively due to poor eyesight, viewing Pearl Harbor as a "freak." NERO

2. LONDINIUM 91 CE. Seven Warnings, Part II. The conversation continued with Germanicus detailing the remaining maxims, noting that the United States seems to follow this list of strategic errors as if it were a program. (5) Never think "it will never happen to us"—this belief stems from American exceptionalism, the idea that the US is superior because "democracy makes us smarter." The shameful US withdrawal from Afghanistan was cited as a major instance of this failure, especially when contrasted with the Soviet withdrawal, which was conducted with dignity and left a regime that lasted three more years. The US, believing itself to be the "gods of war" after World War II, relied on the myth of technological superiority, a mindset preserved even in the proxy war in Ukraine where elites underestimated Russia based on GDP. The danger of biased judgment (Maxim 4) was re-emphasized through the Korean War, where the US despised the Chinese, who ultimately defeated the US in a strategic campaign. The Chinese military adapted to American fire with unconventional tactics, overwhelming US lines, a capability the US disallowed because it viewed the enemy as a "lesser force." This mindset gives a gift to the enemy, allowing them to rely on US unpreparedness (e.g., letting Russians build vast fortifications in Ukraine). (6) Never follow a strategic course of action that makes your enemy stronger—this requires understanding the enemy's source of strength (like the morale and spirit of the Taliban), which the US often fails to attack. The speakers applied this warning to potential US intervention in Venezuela, which is being encouraged by the opposition. The strategy of using overwhelming air power and insufficient ground forces—bombing them into submission—will fail and only make the enemy stronger. Insufficient tactics like leadership decapitation, even if inspired by Israeli actions, will not succeed if the enemy army chooses to resist. The centurions noted that the Romans consistently avoided one mistake: forgiving the enemy.

3. LONDINIUM 91 CE. Hollywood and Rome. Gaius and Germanicus concluded their meeting by critiquing Hollywood's portrayal of Roman decline, focusing on Gladiator 2. Gaius admitted he could not finish the film due to its historically inaccurate conclusion. The film's ultimate payoff—the removal of bad emperors and the return to the Republic—is viewed as fundamentally wrong. Gaius argued that empires do not revert to republics, as the republic was "aged out" and the empire was necessary, suggesting that Hollywood confuses the word "republic" with "democracy." Germanicus elaborated on this distortion, noting that societies frequently look back and shape the past into a "golden age" from which they have fallen. The founders of the American republic were informed by Rome and Greece, viewing Rome as a morality play detailing triumph, tragedy, and the ultimate loss of virtue. This tradition of distortion was reinforced by Gibbon's Decline and Fall, which packaged the later empire as corrupted by "barbarism and religion" to suit the ideals of the Enlightenment. This historical lens persists, leading to a simplistic modern conventional wisdom, especially prevalent in Hollywood media, that "republic is good, empire is bad." Hollywood fails to recognize that the imperial institution maintained many of the Republic's institutions and sensibilities. Furthermore, the media elite confuses the Roman imperial office with a "mafia don" or "banana republic dictatorship." The speakers concluded that while they see the world "as it is," American aspirations (like those reflected in Hollywood) see the world "as they want it to be." AGRIPPINA MINOR Retry

LONDINIUM 91 AD. Political Revenge: Comparing Modern American Vendettas to Roman Gore Gaius (John Batchelor) and Germanicus (Michael Vlahos) The conversation focuses on the nature of political revenge, prompted by the revival of Seneca's bloody revenge play Octavia. Gaius expresses astonishment that editorialists appear surprised by Mr. Trump seeking vengeance against those who attempted to jail him, noting that revenge is inherent to the Roman and American empires. Germanicus states he is only surprised that the opposing party refuses to confess to similar actions, citing historical Democratic precedents such as the Palmer raids under Wilson and successful efforts against Richard Nixon. He calls the opposition's outrage a "forked tongue expression," noting the unjustified high-security incarceration of individuals for minor offenses following the 2020 events. Gaius observes that the opposition employs false piety and melodrama—such as claiming democracy faces an existential crisis—in place of historical understanding. Germanicus argues that political bitterness and high levels of lying stem from the opposition's belief that they represent light and truth, leading to the "othering" of the enemy. This dehumanization means that lying becomes perceived as an act of virtue. The hosts conclude that while Roman political revenge sometimes involved preemptively wiping out one's own family, the current American conflict represents a comparatively mild cupcake tyranny. 1883 CATO SUICIDE

LONDINIUM 91 A.D.: The Emperor's Legacy: Debating Trump's Greco-Roman White House Addition Gaius (John Batchelor) and Germanicus (Michael Vlahos) Gaius and Germanicus discuss the proposed 90,000 square foot Greco-Roman casino-style building intended for the White House, which the Washington Post endorsed, calling the current need to erect tents on the South Lawn an embarrassment. Gaius notes that changes to the White House traditionally draw large protests, citing Jefferson and Jackie Kennedy. He compares Mr. Trump, who has no claim to royalty, to the Flavians (Vespasian and Titus), who were business-class provincials yet built the Colosseum, the symbol of Rome. Germanicus explains that it is the prerogative of the emperor to leave a physical legacy, a tradition dating back to Augustus, who transformed Rome from a city of brick to one of marble. He argues that official architecture in Washington, D.C., follows this majestic imperial Greco-Roman tradition, cemented by Franklin Delano Roosevelt. Gaius reveals that the current White House is actually a complete 1950s reproduction, rebuilt under Truman after structural deficiencies were discovered. Finally, they discuss Mr. Trump's desire for a moon landing before leaving office, viewing it as part of his mission to restore American greatness and secure a significant legacy. 1902 ROME

LONDINIUM 91 A.D.: Roman Siege Tactics and Russian Attrition: A Study in Political Vengeance and War Strategy Gaius (John Batchelor) and Germanicus (Michael Vlahos) Gaius and Germanicus open by discussing fresh swan meat in Londinium before moving to the main topic of political vengeance, noting that Romans recognize it while American editorialists are discovering it afresh due to Emperor Trump. They review the war in Ukraine, where Russians are employing a strategy of attrition to achieve the collapse of the Ukrainian army. Germanicus explains that Ukraine's strategy of refusing to retreat has led to disproportionate losses and the encirclement of up to 10,000 soldiers in "cauldrons" near Pokrovsk and Kupyansk. Gaius relates this situation to successful Roman siege tactics used at Carthage and Jerusalem. Historically, the reward for Roman soldiers breaking a siege was to ransack the city, causing the prices of gold and slaves to plummet. Germanicus asserts, however, that the Russians are taking pains to signal that leveling cities is not their way, emphasizing mercy due to the kinship between the two related peoples. The hosts also mention the delay of a summit involving Vladimir Putin and Mr. Trump's proposed Greco-Roman style building at the White House. 80 BCE SULLA SACKS ROME

LONDINIUM 91 AD. Carthage, Gaza, and the Risk of Unhealable Imperial Wounds. Gaius and Germanicus open by reviewing recent international news, including a major ceasefire signing hosted by Mr. Trump and proposals for US-Russia talks in Budapest, moderated by Mr. Orbán. The conversation pivots to the analogy between the Roman destruction and subsequent revival of Carthage and the modern conflict in Gaza. Despite being destroyed in 146 BCE, Carthage became prosperous and essential to the Western Roman Empire's bread basket centuries later. Gaza, however, is a "wholly symbolic artifact of contention." Germanicus observes that Israel's dependence on the US to preserve its vision, which currently requires the emptying and incorporation of Gaza, tests the West's moral standards regarding the conduct of war. The hosts discuss whether reconciliation can occur over historical time. However, if Israel forces an expulsion of the people of Gaza—mirroring what the Romans did to Israel—the resulting transgression will be so great that the wound will become "codified in the very identity of the people who were wronged" and never heal. This unforgiven wrong risks the long-term disappearance of the US and Israel, much like how the memory of the Roman presence in North Africa was "expunged and wiped away." 1569 LONDINIUM

The Oligarchic Motives Behind the "No Kings" Protest. Gaius and Germanicus, speaking from Londinium, discuss the contemporary "No Kings" protest occurring across the American Empire, noting the young people involved are protesting the outcome and subsequent actions taken following the 2024 democratic vote. While Gaius sees the protest as amateurish, Germanicus finds it rooted in deep ignorance. Germanicus emphasizes that kingship is profoundly alien to both the Roman experience (which was founded on the overthrow of kings) and the American experience, pointing out that even a Roman emperor would never call himself a king. The true American Revolution was a rebellion against Parliament, not King George III. The element that is truly sinister, however, is not the youthful protestors but the oligarchy that created the enterprise. This elite class, which feels entitled to rule and controls the ruling institutions, is threatened by the rise of "big men" (like Crassus or Pompey) supported by populism. The "No Kings" metaphor is an absurd and ahistorical tactic used by the threatened oligarchy to quash this popular movement. The hosts then turn to debating the necessity of moving the American Empire's capital, as DC's usefulness is outworn. 1582 OTHO

What if Arthur was a bloke? You know, a regular street tough, a geezer, a guy up from the harsh streets of Londinium, who defeats an evil wizard-king with his merry band of criminals? Then you'd have Guy Ritchie's version of the Arthurian story. And honestly? It's not that bad. Don't get me wrong, it's not great–the story is silly, the CGI looks terrible, and there are parts that drag quite a lot. But it has Jude Law as the evil King Vortigern, swishing his way through the story, and Charlie Hunnam is pretty affable as a guy who goes from bouncer to king. Starring Charlie Hunnam, Jude Law, Astrid Bergès-Frisby, Djimon Hounsou, Eric Bana, Aidan Gillen, Tom Wu, and Neil Maskell. Written by Joby Harold and Guy Ritchie. Directed by Guy Ritchie. This is a preview of the latest episode of our series Hollywood Avalon. To hear the entire episode, join the Mary Versus the Movies patreon for $3/month to hear this and the entire series Hollywood Avalon: https://www.patreon.com/maryvsmovies. 

LONDINIUM CHRONICLES: GAIUS & GERMANICUS PHILOSOPHIZE Summary of Audio Part 1 Gaius and Germanicus, reflecting on 21st-century events from Londinium, compare the American "princeps" (emperor) issuing ultimatums against "gangsters" in places like Gaza and Caracas to the Roman precedent of figures like Pompey suppressing the Cilician pirates, noting that emperors do not negotiate. Germanicus suggests the current US administration's approach of reducing direct administrative control over allies while maintaining titular supremacy is reminiscent of how the Roman Emperor in Constantinople dealt with emerging barbarian kingdoms by bestowing Roman titles like Consul and Patrician. They debate whether Europe's recent emergency meeting in Copenhagen regarding a "drone wall" signifies European independence or a success of the US princeps' policy of creative retrenchment, criticizing the arbitrary basis of 20th-century alliances like NATO and the discredited domino theory.

LONDINIUM CHRONICLES: GAIUS & GERMANICUS PHILOSOPHIZE Summary of Audio Part 2 Gaius and Germanicus discuss the emperor's ceremonial gathering of the legion leadership at Quantico, where the new mission of "Fortress America" was announced, an event they view as a necessary ritual to overturn previous command disobedience and re-establish the emperor's authority. They connect the current US political crisis to the end of the Roman Republic, observing that the constitutional system cannot sustain the ongoing conflict between the immensely rich oligarchic Senate faction (represented by "blue" elites) and the popular movement championed by the powerful leader, similar to the clash between senators and populares. This power struggle is visible in the Governor of California's challenge to the president's authority to use the National Guard against perceived "insurrections," which they believe is an unavoidable dynamic leading towards the establishment of a principate system.

3. Rituals of Command and the Cicero Revelation Londinium Chronicles Gaius & Germanicus Debate The emperor asserted command authority over the legions in a ritual event at Quantico, Virginia, with his viceroy addressing the leadership of the legions. This ceremony was designed to overturn the previous instances of "command disobedience" experienced by Trump during his first term (such as General Milley's reported actions). The message delivered was a direct command: "New mission. Fortress America. If you are uncomfortable with that, leave."Domestically, this ongoing power transition draws parallels with the murder of Caesar, which marked the end of the Roman Republic and the path toward the principate. A newly shared detail from the documents of Marcus Tullius Cicero reveals that Brutus allegedly raised his dagger while striking Caesar and shouted "Cicero." This detail suggests Cicero, the master storyteller and champion of the senatorial class, provided the intellectual legitimacy and imprimatur for the assassination, affirming that the murder was committed in the name of the Senate's vision of republicanism. 1802

Un grande ritorno con Lex Arcana, il gioco edito da @Acheron ambientato in un impero romano che non è mai caduto!Il contubernium trova un nuovo compagno a Londinium, dove vengono inviati a risolvere un caso che attanaglia la capitale della Britannia. Come sempre quando la Cohors Arcana interviene, qualcosa di grosso bolle in pentola...Speriamo vi possa piacere, consigliateci altri GDR che vi potrebbero interessare!Potete trovare i video di #IntavernadaKurt su:●⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Twitch⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠●⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Youtube⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠●⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠●⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Telegram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠●⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Discord⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Londinium Chronicles Part 2 Sept 28.mp3 HEADLINE: The Verres Moment: Indictment, Corruption, and the Threatened Legitimacy of the American Vote SPEAKERS: Gaius and Germanicus 200 WORD SUMMARY: Gaiusand Germanicus draw parallels between the collapse of the Roman Republic—where the people lost confidence in the Senate—and modern America. They recount the trial of Verres, the notoriously corrupt governor of Sicily in 70 B.C.E., whom Cicero prosecuted to expose corruption not just of Verres, but of the entire Roman establishment. Cicerofamously appealed to common sense and immediately brought in witnesses to demonstrate the blatant nature of the corruption. Gaius asks if the indictment of former FBI Director Comey represents a modern "Verres moment," a necessary "hinge moment" to expose deep corruption in the US political system. Germanicus confirms the goal is to expose the systemic failure that is strangling representative government. Gaius views Trump as a "tribune of the people" seeking payback against a corrupt system that undermined the vote's credibility in 2016, 2020, and 2024. Gaius expects more indictments, noting that, like Cicero, the current political appeal is to sentiment rather than solely evidence. Germanicus worries that the escalation of political combat into "lawfare" could lead to a complete breakdown of constitutional order and legitimate transfers of power, citing the Spanish Civil War. The underlying cause is the extreme inequality of wealth and income, where a tiny minority holds immense political status while the majority is reduced to "plebeians." 1902

Londinium Chronicles Part 3 Audio Sept 28.mp3 HEADLINE: How to Move the Billionaires: War, Leveling, and the Failure of Reform SPEAKERS: Germanicus and Gaius 200 WORD SUMMARY: The speakers address the internal crisis within "Fortress America": the modern-day Palatine Hill, represented by the billionaires who are untouchable and above the law. Gaius cites economist Thomas Piketty, highlighting the "gigantic" wealth amassed by the super-rich. Germanicus asserts that the only guaranteed pathway to practical leveling—bringing the super-rich back down—is through war, whether external conflict or civil war. He explains that upheaval is necessary because the rate of return on investments consistently outpaces inflation, creating extraordinary wealth imbalance. World War II and the Great Depression were instruments of leveling in the US, creating the middle class and a more cohesive society. Today, US society is highly bifurcated, with the top 7-8% of the population holding 60% of the nation's wealth. Germanicus suggests that the populares committed to radical change are not the conventional "socialist" progressives (who are "parasites" of the state), but groups motivated by non-material goals. Both speakers emphatically agree that the problem of wealth inequality and the power of the Palatine will not be solved by reforms, calling reform a "misdirection." They conclude that maintaining the "status quo" means they are deeply "in trouble." 1790 SULLA'S PROSCRIPTIONS

Londinium Chronicles Part 1 Sept 28.mp3 HEADLINE: Reorganizing the Legions: Fortress America, the Corrupt Senate, and the Stranglehold of the Military-Industrial Complex SPEAKERS: Gaius Londinium and Germanicus 200 WORD SUMMARY: The Friends of History Debating Society opens by discussing the panicking temperament of European leadership due to Russian provocations (drones, jamming) and Washington's silence on requests for Tomahawks for Kyiv. They contrast the effective Roman legions—combat units and engineers—with the modern USmilitary, which has "too many generals and too few war fighters." Major changes are anticipated, including a speech by Secretary of Defense Hegseth promoting the theme of "Fortress America" and reorganizing the military to match the needs of an empire. Germanicus argues that the US military needs an overhaul akin to Rome's transition from the Republic, having squandered its post-Cold War strength and now facing powerful rivals like Russia and China, who have adopted new technologies. He notes that the US military is hampered by reliance on 1945 weapon systems (like the heavy bomber). Germanicus believes the military is unwilling to change because the military-industrial complex (MIC), dominated by five defense firms, maintains a powerful stranglehold over procurement and general officers. This results in massive inefficiencies, such as the F-35 program, a trillion-dollar effort with only 10% combat availability. Gaius insists the core problem is the corrupt Senate (Congress), which enables these wasteful contracts and sets priorities like focusing on DEI and climate change over war fighters. 1770 PANTHEON

#LONDINIUM90AD: MICHAEL VLAHOS. FRIENDS OF HISTORY DEBATING SOCIETY. @MICHALIS_VLAHOS HEADLINE: From Dalmatia to Poland: Frontier Tensions, Roman Legacy, and the Danger of Miscalculation The discussion opens with Gaius (John Batchelor) in Londinium speaking to Germanicus (Michael Vlahos), who is in Dalmatia (the Dalmatian coast, modern Croatia), a frontier area of the former Roman Empire. Germanicus observes that this region, Ragusa, maintained its Roman continuity through the Middle Ages and was critical as it connected Italy and the Western Empire to Greece and the Eastern Empire. They reflect on Roman figures such as Augustus and Drusus(Nero Claudius Drusus Germanicus), who fought in Germania. Drusus's son, Claudius, became a highly effective emperor who brought the empire to its maximal state, establishing Londinium. The conversation shifts to modern frontier tensions: the Russian probing of the Polish border using drones and warplanes, leading to NATO intervention and British assistance. Drawing on films like The Bedford Incident, they worry about accidental catastrophe due to miscalculation. Germanicus warns that tiny NATO states like the Baltics, driven by paranoia and insecurity, are acting "spasmodically and irresponsibly" and that the United Kingdom is acting like a "rogue state" aggressively pushing for conflict, creating a dangerous situation that could plunge Russia and the West into general war. 41 AD. CLAUDIUS BEGS

The Friends of History Debating Society: Setting, Immediate Events, and Media Critique The Friends of History Debating Society convenes with Gaius (also known as John Batchelor) hosting from Londinium, specifically a wine bar he favors. Michael Vlahos participates from the "Edge of the Empire." In his persona as Germanicus, Michael Vlahos is on a mission in Dalmatia, a "slightly untamed" region that serves as "connecting tissue" between the Roman Empire's eastern and western halves, visiting fortified places like Ragusa and planning a trip to Spalato. As Dramaticus, Michael Vlahos is "traveling on the road" and is reminded by Gaius to "walk with Centurions" for protection from potentially "obsequious and violent" locals. The society's purpose is to review weekly events through a "Roman eye," with participants seeing themselves as "Roman citizens" attempting to understand and potentially "help" the 21st century, while also observing. Gaius reports on a recent visit by Michael Vlahos (in his Dramaticus persona) to the "Imperial Court," or President Trump's White House, during the sad news of Mr. Kirk'sdeath. Despite this somber event, the overall atmosphere in the Oval Office was described as "busy, positive, energetic, attractive, and working perfectly," reminiscent of Augustus's imperial court. Gaius notes that the mainstream media, committed to "hurting Trump," unanimously portrays him as a "demon," "evil force," or "another Hitler," with his followers characterized as "Nazis" or "white supremacists." This rhetoric, according to Michael Vlahos, contributed to events like Mr. Kirk's assassination. Both Gaius and Michael Vlahos find this equating of speech with violence "immature and ignorant," revealing a lack of historical understanding among those in the "blue" faction.             

#Londinium90AD: Gaius & Germanicus debate the question: Do empires need allies? Michael Vlahos. Friends of History Debating Society. @Michalis_Vlahos. Headline: Ancient Rome's Imperial Dilemma: Alliance Strategy in 90 AD In 90 AD Londinium, two Roman figures engage in a critical debate about imperial strategy. Gaius and Germanicusexamine whether the Roman Empire requires alliances to maintain its vast territories and growing influence. Michael Vlahos of the Friends of History Debating Society moderates this historical discussion, exploring how Rome'sapproach to partnerships with client states, tribal confederations, and regional powers shaped its longevity. The debate addresses fundamental questions about imperial overextension, the costs of military occupation versus diplomatic cooperation, and whether sustainable empire-building requires collaborative governance structures. This ancient discussion resonates with modern debates about great power competition, alliance systems, and the balance between unilateral strength and multilateral cooperation in maintaining global influence and regional stability. 1712 CAESAR

#LONDINIUM90AD: Gaius & Germanicus debate the cycle of Optimates and Populares. Michael Vlahos. Friends of History Debating Society. @Michalis_Vlahos Headline: Roman Political Factions: The Eternal Cycle of Elite vs. Popular Power In 90 AD Londinium, Gaius and Germanicus examine the recurring political struggle between the Optimates(aristocratic party) and Populares (popular party) that defined late Republican Rome. Michael Vlahos of the Friends of History Debating Society moderates this discussion of Rome's fundamental political divide. The Optimates, representing senatorial privilege and traditional governance, consistently clashed with the Populares, who appealed directly to citizens and plebeian assemblies. This cycle saw figures like Sulla and Cato defending aristocratic interests against populist leaders like Marius, Pompey, and Caesar. The debate explores how this factional warfare ultimately destroyed the Roman Republic, leading to imperial autocracy. The discussion examines whether such political polarization represents an inevitable cycle in republican governments, questioning if elite-populist tensions doom democratic institutions to cyclical breakdown and authoritarian resolution. 1783 ABDICATION OF SULLA

1.  #LONDINIUM90AD LIVE AT 6 PM ET SUNDAY: 8/31:  GAIUS & GERMANICUS DEBATE:  The Tiberius Model: Aged Leadership and Succession in the American Empire.  Gaius and Germanicus, speaking as 1st-century Romans from Londinium, discuss the "Tiberius model" to analyze challenges in 21st-century American leadership, particularly concerning the age of leaders and succession. They note that empires, much like history, often repeat themes or "rhyme". Tiberius, despite being Augustus's successful stepson and a capable general, showed little interest in being emperor after 14 AD, eventually assigning duties to Sejanus (head of the Praetorian Guard) and retiring to an island. His later years were chaotic, and his reign was followed by disruption. Germanicus describes Tiberius as "careless and irresponsible" and narcissistic, which "played havoc with the stability of Rome". The speakers draw direct parallels to recent and current American presidents, including Joe Biden and Mr. Trump, highlighting the inherent risks of age in leadership. Historically, Romans preferred a a "young and vigorous" emperor, with older rulers like Andronicus II often leading to disaster, though Nerva served as a transitional exception. In America, they recall FDR's fourth election in 1944 as retrospectively "not responsible" due to an unfixed succession plan, leading to "great turmoil" in 1945. In contrast, successful succession planning is exemplified by Eisenhower choosing a young Richard Nixon (39 years old at the time) as his running mate, providing a vital "plan B". Gaius notes that Joe Biden's presidency represented a "Tiberius moment" not only because of his age but also due to the "aged" leadership within the Democratic Party, making Kamala Harris "as infirm a choice as was Caligula" for succession. Mr. Trump is commended for being candid about his legacy and preparing for succession, which Gaius considers "sensible and grown up". The conversation emphasizes that the U.S. has effectively become an "emperor system," where the "health of the emperor is also so directly connected to the health of the nation". This makes the age issue one of "transcendent importance," teasing out the transition to this emperor system for all to see. They also acknowledge that younger generations (Gen X, millennials, Gen Z, and the alpha generation) need to understand these critical discussions about leadership and aging.  1872 EXCAVATING ROMAN FORUM. #LONDINIUM90AD LIVE AT 6 PM ET EVERY SUNDAY: GAIUS & GERMANICUS DEBATE. FRIENDS OF HISTORY DEBATING SOCIETY. @MICHALIS_VLAHOS. PRODUCED BY CHRIS NOEL.

Deux fois par jour, la marée dévoile les rives de la Tamise, permettant à des dizaines de Londoniens de venir ratisser les plages à la recherche de vestiges archéologiques. Ces trouvailles, fortement régulées par la ville, permettent de reconstruire, collaborativement, l'histoire de la capitale britannique.   Les cloches de la cathédrale Saint-Paul de Londres retentissent au loin. Les touristes font la queue devant la Tate Modern, musée situé sur la rive opposée. La marée atteindra son point le plus bas dans une demi-heure. Alors, Carolina se fraie un chemin sur la plage de galets de Cannon Street, dotée de gants en latex et de bottes imperméables. « Ici, c'est un endroit très spécial, s'enthousiasme-t-elle, on peut trouver des restes très anciens, jusqu'à l'époque romaine, mais on n'a pas le droit de creuser. »   Ce matin-là, ils sont une poignée armés, comme elle, d'un petit seau en plastique, à ratisser du regard la rive de Tamise. Leur passion : le « mudlarking », un mot intraduisible qui décrit les fouilles archéologiques entreprises par ces Londoniens amateurs sur les bords de leur fleuve. En quelques minutes, Carolina a déjà ramassé quelques trésors : « Voyez, un fragment de céramique bleue ici, sûrement un vase. Ça, c'est un bout d'os, du temps où les bouchers jetaient leurs carcasses dans la Tamise... Et là, un morceau de pipe, mais je ne vais pas le prendre. » Il faut dire que ces longs tubes d'argile, parfois accompagnés d'une chambre à tabac entière, sont trop communs pour représenter un quelconque intérêt pour les mudlarkers expérimentés.   Le frisson de la découverte  Londonienne d'adoption depuis 20 ans, Carolina s'intéresse particulièrement aux fossiles. Sur son téléphone, elle fait défiler les photos d'oursins fossilisés trouvés près de chez elle, au sud-est de la capitale. À deux pas, une autre chercheuse, Emma, s'émerveille d'un éclat de céramique romaine... Après tout, la « City » de Londres a été construite sur les frontières de Londinium, fondée au premier siècle. Emma s'empresse de prendre une photo pour la partager sur son compte Instagram : « Je viens ici parce qu'on trouve surtout des vestiges de l'époque Tudor. J'adore trouver des pièces qui datent du règne de Henri VIII ou d'Elizabeth Ire... Je frissonne quand je pense que je suis la première personne à la toucher depuis des siècles. »   Carolina connaît bien cette excitation : « On trouve de tout, c'est vraiment une manière de reconstruire l'histoire de Londres. » Et justement, parce qu'on trouve de tout et de toutes les époques, il a fallu réguler la pratique. « Il faut un permis pour mudlarker », explique Carolina, pour qui l'attente a duré plusieurs mois. Seuls 4 000 Londoniens sont accrédités en même temps, et la liste d'attente dépasse les 10 000 noms... Les agents de la Port of London Authority (PLA) contrôlent de temps en temps. « Il n'y a pas de formation, mais on doit s'engager à respecter les différentes zones, et à déclarer ce qu'on trouve si l'objet date d'il y a plus de 300 ans », poursuit Carolina. Si la trouvaille présente un intérêt archéologique, elle se retrouve sur le bureau de Stuart Wyatt, officier des trouvailles auprès du Programme d'antiquités mobile (PAS). Le chercheur l'examine, tente de reconstituer l'histoire de l'artéfact puis le restitue au mudlarker ou recommande la transmission aux institutions culturelles... Le processus prend environ cinq mois.   Une exposition pour mettre en valeur ces trésors du fleuve... et leur face sombre  Cette année, pour la première fois, un musée londonien a prêté ses étagères aux plus belles trouvailles. En quelques mois, plusieurs milliers de curieux ont franchi les portes de Secrets of the Thames, l'exposition du Museum of London Docklands.   « Nous avons des objets qui reflètent l'histoire portuaire de Londres, comme ce cadran solaire dont les deux parties ont été trouvées à huit ans d'intervalle, détaille James Stewart, guide intarissable sur l'exposition. Beaucoup de bijoux, quelques couteaux de l'époque Tudor... La vase a permis de conserver le bois et le cuir du manche. » Dans une armoire, un œil de verre des années 1920, frappant de réalisme ; dans une autre, les médailles remportées par le tennisman Peter Fleming à Wimbledon et jetées dans la Tamise par un cambrioleur...   Le guide s'arrête devant une vitrine consacrée à l'histoire coloniale de la capitale britannique, et pointe du doigt le visage d'un homme africain sculpté dans une pipe : « Dans l'Empire, on commercialisait du tabac, du sucre, dont la production dépendait de l'esclavage. Des objets comme cette pipe sont typiques des représentations du XVIIIe siècle, déshumanisantes, comme pour justifier l'esclavage. » La pipe, qui reprend les stéréotypes de l'époque, a été trouvée aux côtés de cauris, un coquillage utilisé comme monnaie en Afrique de l'Ouest, ramené en larges quantités par les marchands coloniaux.   Les premiers mudlarkers, à l'aube du XIXe siècle, peignaient les rives de la Tamise à la recherche de morceaux de charbon, de cordes, de métaux : « Des choses qu'ils pouvaient revendre pour survivre dans le Londres de l'époque victorienne », bien loin de ces nouveaux mudlarkers en quête d'un frisson de découvertes... Mais la survie de la pratique a permis de compléter le tableau déjà très riche de l'histoire de la capitale, selon James Stewart : « Tellement de gens mudlarkent aujourd'hui. Les objets qu'ils trouvent et l'endroit où ils les trouvent permettent de comprendre à quoi ressemblait la vie de nos ancêtres, plus encore qu'un livre ou qu'un tableau puisqu'il s'agit d'objets du quotidien. »   Même s'il ne représente qu'une goutte d'eau (3%) des découvertes archéologiques nationales, le mudlarking fournit chaque année 2 000 trésors potentiels aux institutions culturelles.   À lire aussiRoyaume-Uni: la préservation du mur d'Hadrien

PREVIEW LONDINIUM 90AD: Gaius & Germanicus debate the drawn-out end of Ukraine as sovereign. Michael Vlahos. Friends of History Debating Society. @michalis_vlahos 1942 UKRAINE

PREVIEW LONDINIUM 90AD: Gaius & Germanicus observe Musk challenge the emperor and his heir, Vance. Michael Vlahos. Friends of History Debating Society. @michalis_vlahos 1672 ACTIUM

PREVIEW LONDINIUM 90AD: Gaius admits to Germanicus that he had not understood before reading that the 5th century Visigoths were Romans. Michael Vlahos. Friends of History Debating Society. @michalis_vlahos 1750 ROME

PREVIEW LONDINIUM 90AD: Gaius & Germanicus debate why the 21st century intelligentsia avoids acknowledging that America is an empire in the Roman model. Michael Vlahos. Friends of History Debating Society. @michalis_vlahos 1700 ANTONY AND CLEOPATRA

PREVIEW LONDINIUM 90AD: Gaius & Germanicus praise the American emperor for a good week of dominating foe and friend, especially at the NATO summit. Michael Vlahos. Friends of History Debating Society. @michalis_vlahos 1799 Agrippina Minor, wife and poisoner of an emperor, mother of an emperor.

PREVIEW LONDINIUM 90AD: Gaius & Germanicus remark that Russia manages the Ukraine front in the way Rome managed the Danube and Rhine front with occasional extreme violence. Michael Vlahos. Friends of History Debating Society. @michalis_vlahos 1600 SABINE WOMEN

PREVIEW LONDINIUM 90AD: Gaius & Germanicus do not see much of a difference comparing US attack on BRICS and SCO member Iran and Russia's attack on EU and NATO candidate Ukraine.  Empires strike at a client of the rival. More. Michael Vlahos. Friends of History Debating Society. @michalis_vlahos 1855 CRIMEAN WAR TATARS

PREVIEW LONDINIUM 90AD: Gaius & Germanicuss observe that the Republican Party divides between the younger voters led by VPOTUS Vance and the aged boomers led by POTUS. More. Michael Vlahos. Friends of History Debating Society. @michalis_vlahos 1981 REAGAN

LONDINIUM 90AD: Gaius and Germanicus observe that the Americans do not appear informed that the Iranians are the uncowed, unconquered Parthians of Crassus and Caesar aka Persians of Sparta and Athens -- except for Alexander 4th century BCE. More. Michael Vlahos. Friends of History Debating Society. @michalis_vlahos

Londinium 90 AD Gaius & Germanicus weigh the Tiberius failures of extreme age with the failure of Mark Twain and Joe Biden to resist staffer manipulation in their seniority. Michael Vlahos Friends of History Debating Society @michalis_vlahos 1907 MARK TWAIN

Londinium 90 AD Is Ukraine another fragmented Yugoslavia for Europe to pay for? Michael Vlahos Friends of History Debating Society @michalis_vlahos https://www.reuters.com/business/aerospace-defense/russian-drone-fragments-set-kyiv-apartment-building-ablaze-official-says-2025-05-24/ 1941 Italian invasion of Yugoslavia

Londinium 90 AD Gaius & Germanicus compare the fourth century acclamatory Roman Senate to the twenty-first century acclamatory US Congress. Michael Vlahos Friends of History Debating Society @michalis_vlahos 1750 ROME

Londinium 90 AD Gaius & Germanicus consider the choice of the Eastern Roman Empire capital, Constantinople, for peace talks. Michael Vlahos Friends of History Debating Society @michalis_vlahos 1870

Londinium 90 AD Gaius & Germanicus puzzle at the inadequacy of Emperor Tiberius, aka Joe Biden. Michael Vlahos Friends of History Debating Society @michalis_vlahos AUGUSTUS AND CLEOPATRA

Londinium 90 AD Gaius & Germanicus celebrate the poet laureate of the American Revolution, Vergil. Michael Vlahos Friends of History Debating Society @michalis_vlahos 1776 AFTER TRENTON

GOOD EVENING: The show begins in Hong Kong at the show trial of Jimmy Lai... 1930 Hong Kong CBS EYE ON THE WORLD WITH JOHN BATCHELOR FIRST HOUR 9-915 1/2: #HONG KONG: Jimmy Lai on trial for speaking of freedom. Mark Simon, Apple Daily (closed). @GordonGChang, Gatestone, Newsweek, The Hill 915-930 2/2: #HONG KONG: Jimmy Lai on trial for advancing freedom. Mark Simon, Apple Daily (closed). @GordonGChang, Gatestone, Newsweek, The Hill 930-945 #FRANCE: The Roman Empire city of Toulouse welcomes farmers. The Roman Empire City of Londinium provokes farmers. . Simon Constable 945-1000 #SPACEX: Starship No 6 test and the floating plastic banana. Bob Zimmerman BehindtheBlack.com SECOND HOUR 10-1015 #NUKES: What is the threshold? Peter Huessy, Deterrence Studies. @GordonGChang, Gatestone, Newsweek, The Hill 1015-1030 #TAIWAN: Small arms to millions. Brandon Weichert, National Interest. @GordonGChang, Gatestone, Newsweek, The Hill 1030-1045 #PLA: significance of China's J-35A, J-20, J-10. General Blaine Holt , USAF (retired). @GordonGChang, Gatestone, Newsweek, The Hill 1045-1100 #OPCW: Russia accused of CD gas drone dropped on Ukraine trenches. Andrea Stricker, FDD THIRD HOUR 1100-1115 #DOGE:  Poor idea, won't work -- and why.  Tom Modly, American Thinker. 1115-1130 #RUSSIA: Inflation level accelerating. Michael Bernstam, Hoover Institution 1130-1145 1/2: #PRC:  Recommendations for confronting and containing and even combatting CCP in the New Year. Peter Berkowitz, Hoover Institution. 1145-1200 2/2: #PRC:  Recommendations for confronting and containing and even combatting CCP in the New Year. Peter Berkowitz, Hoover Institution. FOURTH HOUR 12-1215 1/2: #HOTEL MARS :The end of SLS? Eric Berger Ars Technica. David Livingston SpaceShow.com 1215-1230 2/2: #HOTEL MARS :The end of SLS? Eric Berger Ars Technica. David Livingston SpaceShow.com 1230-1245 1/2: #RUSSIA: Abkhazia and the Black Sea railroad link to Eurasia. Ekaterina Zolotova, @GPFutures. 1245-100 AM 2/2: #RUSSIA: Abkhazia and the Black Sea railroad link to Eurasia. Ekaterina Zolotova, @GPFutures.p

#FRANCE: The Roman Empire City of Toulouse welcomes farmers. The Roman Empire City of Londinium provokes farmers. . Simon Constable, Occitanie 1911 Agrippina MInor

PREVIEW: LONDINIUM 90 AD: Historian Michael Vlahos examines a critical Roman debate - how the Teutoburg Forest disaster 80 years earlier shaped imperial thinking about Rome's expansion limits. Friends of History Debating Society presents Gaius and Germanicus in reflection. 1872 Excavating the Roman Forum

PREVIEW: LONDINIUM 90 AD: Using historical parallels, Michael Vlahos presents Gaius and Germanicus debating a timeless question - the balance between private ambition and imperial authority, with modern resonance to Musk's rise. Friends of History Debating Society. 1900 Rome

IRON CHANGED EVERYTHING: 5/8: A Rome of One's Own: The Forgotten Women of the Roman Empire  by  Emma Southon  (Author) https://www.amazon.com/Rome-Ones-Own-Forgotten-Empire/dp/1419760181/ref=tmm_hrd_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=&sr= The history of Rome has long been narrow and one-sided, essentially a history of “the Doing of Important Things.” And as far as Roman historians have been concerned, women don't make that history. From Romulus through the political stab-fest of the late Republic, and then on to all the emperors, Roman historians may deign to give you a wife or a mother to show how bad things become when women get out of control, but history is more than that. Emma Southon's A Rome of One's Own is the best kind of correction. This is a retelling of the history of Rome with all the things Roman history writers relegate to the background, or designate as domestic, feminine, or worthless. This is a history of women who caused outrage, led armies in rebellion, wrote poetry; who lived independently or under the thumb of emperors. Told with humor and verve as well as a deep scholarly background, A Rome of One's Own highlights women overlooked and misunderstood, and through them offers a fascinating and groundbreaking chronicle of the ancient world 1737 LONDINIUM

IRON CHANGED EVERYTHING:  3/8: A Rome of One's Own: The Forgotten Women of the Roman Empire  by  Emma Southon  (Author) https://www.amazon.com/Rome-Ones-Own-Forgotten-Empire/dp/1419760181/ref=tmm_hrd_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=&sr= The history of Rome has long been narrow and one-sided, essentially a history of “the Doing of Important Things.” And as far as Roman historians have been concerned, women don't make that history. From Romulus through the political stab-fest of the late Republic, and then on to all the emperors, Roman historians may deign to give you a wife or a mother to show how bad things become when women get out of control, but history is more than that. Emma Southon's A Rome of One's Own is the best kind of correction. This is a retelling of the history of Rome with all the things Roman history writers relegate to the background, or designate as domestic, feminine, or worthless. This is a history of women who caused outrage, led armies in rebellion, wrote poetry; who lived independently or under the thumb of emperors. Told with humor and verve as well as a deep scholarly background, A Rome of One's Own highlights women overlooked and misunderstood, and through them offers a fascinating and groundbreaking chronicle of the ancient world 1569 LONDINIUM

IRON CHANGED EVERYTHING: 4/8: A Rome of One's Own: The Forgotten Women of the Roman Empire  by  Emma Southon  (Author) https://www.amazon.com/Rome-Ones-Own-Forgotten-Empire/dp/1419760181/ref=tmm_hrd_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=&sr= The history of Rome has long been narrow and one-sided, essentially a history of “the Doing of Important Things.” And as far as Roman historians have been concerned, women don't make that history. From Romulus through the political stab-fest of the late Republic, and then on to all the emperors, Roman historians may deign to give you a wife or a mother to show how bad things become when women get out of control, but history is more than that. Emma Southon's A Rome of One's Own is the best kind of correction. This is a retelling of the history of Rome with all the things Roman history writers relegate to the background, or designate as domestic, feminine, or worthless. This is a history of women who caused outrage, led armies in rebellion, wrote poetry; who lived independently or under the thumb of emperors. Told with humor and verve as well as a deep scholarly background, A Rome of One's Own highlights women overlooked and misunderstood, and through them offers a fascinating and groundbreaking chronicle of the ancient world 1682 LONDINIUM

PREVIEW: RUSSIA: BRITAIN Conversation with colleague Anatol Lieven of the Quincy Institute for Responsible Statecraft regarding how Russia could retaliate against Britain for Storm Shadow strikes inside Russia without risking Article 5. More details tonight. 1737 Londinium