Published Feb 8, 2022

149. The Birth of Russia

Explore the Viking origins and transformative cultural shifts that shaped early Russia, as Tom Holland and Dominic Sandbrook delve into the myth-laden history of figures like Rurik, Vladimir, and Olga of Kiev, revealing a narrative of vengeance, conversion, and expansion.

Episode Highlights

Topics covered

Episode Highlights

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Dexa/The Rest Is History

149. The Birth of Russia

Topics covered

Popular Clips

End of the Vikings

Vikings and Byzantium

Conversion of the Rus

Power and Religion

Viking Origins Explored

Exile and Ambition

Conversion and Conquest

Expansion and Death

Ruthless Rulers

Viking Intrusions

Viking Endings

Kiev's Historical Roots

Viking Ambitions

Rurik's Legacy

Olga's Revenge

Episode Highlights

Viking Origins

Cultural Integration

Conquests and Expansion

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71. England v Denmark

165. The Rise of Genghis Khan

358: Viking Sorcery

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140. The Birth of the Railways

149. The Birth of Russia

Topics covered

Popular Clips

Episode Highlights

Viking OriginsIn this episode, Tom Holland and Dominic Sandbrook explore the Viking influence on the formation of Russia, focusing on key figures like Rurik and Oleg. They unravel the mix of myth and history that defines the early Russian state.

Viking Origins

Cultural IntegrationThe conversion of Vladimir and the Rus to Christianity was a transformative event, aligning them with Byzantine culture and religion. This shift not only influenced their spiritual landscape but also integrated Byzantine political and cultural elements into Rus society.

Cultural Integration

Conquests and ExpansionThe episode explores the dramatic and often brutal history of early Russia, focusing on figures like Olga of Kiev and their impact on the region's development. It highlights the blend of vengeance, conversion, and military ambition that shaped the nascent Russian state.

Conquests and Expansion

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