25. Empires

“The speaker mentions having written about the Persian Empire in their book, 'Persian Fire', discussing its innovations and infrastructure.”

“The Bible is mentioned as a significant influence on the Western tradition's view of empires, often portraying them as morally corrupt.”

“The Book of Revelation is described as a powerful work of anti-imperial propaganda, particularly referencing the Whore of Babylon.”

“The Persian Aegean Empire is mentioned in the context of Athenian expansion after the defeat of the Persians.”

“Tacitus is referenced in relation to Roman views on empire and corruption, particularly his famous line about creating a desert.”

“John Darwin, a historian at Oxford, makes this point in his book After Tamerlane, which is a great history of empires.”

“The speaker discusses C.L.R. James's book, which critiques imperialism while being deeply rooted in British culture and literature.”