From Maastricht to Brexit, the European Union's first three decades have entailed plenty of political and economic drama. Danny Bird speaks to Dermot Hodson about his new book, Circle of Stars, which focuses on some of the key individuals that helped shape the history of the EU, from advocates of European integration to dyed-in-the-wool Eurosceptics.
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Aug 13
How opium became a powerful global commodity
Opium has been a painkiller, a vice and the fuel for at least two wars. But what makes it such a powerful global commodity? Benjamin Robert Siegel takes Isabel King through this complex history, exploring how opium shaped capitalism, medicine and global power from ancient poppy f ... Show More
44m 1s
Aug 11
A wild history of partying
For hundreds of years, people have gathered after dark to drink, dance and escape the pressures of everyday life. But how did 'going out' become a habit across the world? Jon Bauckham chats to Imogen Willetts about the hedonistic history of partying, journeying from 17th-century ... Show More
40m 9s
Apr 2025
A divorce and a birthday: Five years of Brexit, 10 years of POLITICO
With POLITICO turning 10 and Brexit hitting 5 earlier this year, this episode of EU Confidential takes stock of two milestones that shaped Brussels — in very different ways. Host Sarah Wheaton kicks things off with Zoya Sheftalovich, editor of Global Playbook, reflecting on POLIT ... Show More
43m 21s
<p><strong>🗒️ About this episode: </strong>
<em>"There was a recognition in Europe of the need for countries to work together in politics, economics and security..."</em>
Today's episode is about the development of the European Union. It covers:</p>
<ul>
<li>The h ... Show More