Despite being the most widely spoken African language on Earth, KiSwahili originates from a people who are shockingly small in number. However, what the Swahili lacked in numbers, they made up for in influence and fascination. Join us for our sixth season, as we dive into the history of the Swahili coast, and the fascinating history of how its residents beca ... Show More
Feb 2025
Boer Wars: The White African Tribe
On today's episode, we followup on the Boer Wars, focusing on Afrikaner identity and their conflicts with the British Empire. We explore the Cape Colony, the Great Trek, and early encounters with the Zulu nation, highlighting Zulu military tactics under Shaka Zulu, highlighting s ... Show More
1h 26m
Aug 2022
John McWhorter Describes Human Language's 20,000-Year Journey from Proto-Sumerian to Ebonics
Language not only defines humans as a species, placing us head and shoulders above even the most proficient animal communicators, but it also beguiles us with its endless mysteries. How did different languages come to be? Why isn't there just a single language? How does a languag ... Show More
54m 6s
Dec 2024
The 12 Books of Christmas | Zeinab Badawi on an African History of Africa
To celebrate 2024, we’re taking a look backwards, and diving into the standout thinkers who have taken to the Intelligence Squared stage in the past 12 months. You might still be on the hunt for that perfect gift for the avid reader in your life, or perhaps you’re after some food ... Show More
1h 2m