Condensed Histories

Condensed Histories bridges the gap between history and popular culture. In each episode of Condensed Histories our host, Jem Duducu, takes an item of popular culture and looks under the surface to find real history hiding inside, with fascinating facts and stories about history spanning all eras, and also about the development of the piece pop-culture itself, appealing to history lover and enthusiasts of movies, games and music alike!

From shows on Netflix, Prime or Disney Plus, to the lastest blockbuster films, and even video games, songs, board games and food, Jem shows us how much history is lurking in our everyday entertainment.

Wandavision, The Dig, Warhammer, Queen’s Gambit, Assassin’s Creed, Jojo Rabbit, Cobra Kai, The Lord of the Rings and Monopoly are among the subjects in which which Jem has so far discovered a surprising amount of history!

Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/condensed-histories.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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Episodes

The Olmecs - Animation, Archaeology, and Ancient Alien Absurdity

Jem looks into the Olmec Empire! Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/condensed-histories . Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Apr 10, 2025•39 min

Remakes - Older Than You Might Think

Jem talks about Remakes, and how old they really are! Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/condensed-histories . Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Apr 03, 2025•42 min

The Brilliance of Board Games!

On this week's episode Jem is talking about board games, and just how far back in time they go! Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/condensed-histories . Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mar 27, 2025•41 min

Dinosaurs with Megabeast Games!

In this exciting episode of Condensed History, host Jem Duducu interviews Steve Foot from MegaBeast Games and Claire Marr, a DPhil student from Oxford University, about their new dinosaur board game called 'MegaBeast' launching on Kickstarter. The conversation highlights the game's scientific foundations, the collaboration between game design and paleontology, and interesting debates on dinosaur behavior and evidence. They also delve into the game's mechanics and inspirations, and answer fascina...

Mar 20, 2025•49 min

The Rich History and Surprising Influence of Wrestling

In this episode of Condensed Histories, host Jem Duducu explores the long and fascinating history of wrestling, a sport that dates back thousands of years and has evolved into a major element of modern pop culture. From ancient cave paintings to the extravagant spectacle of WWE, learn how wrestling has shaped and been shaped by various cultures, including Greek, British, and Mexican traditions. Jem also delves into wrestling's unique influence on entertainment, its iconic characters, and its end...

Mar 13, 2025•41 min

Unveiling 'A Gentleman in Moscow': History Behind the Adaptation

Join host Jem Duducu on Condensed Histories as he delves into Amor Towles' novel and its intriguing adaptation 'A Gentleman in Moscow.' Discover the connections to the Russian Revolution, the state of streaming entertainment, and the historical context, all inspired by a request from a listener. Explore the novel's unique premise, its TV adaptation starring Ewan McGregor, and comparisons to Soviet cinema, including the iconic 'Battleship Potemkin.' Learn about historical storytelling, the role o...

Mar 06, 2025•41 min

The Ongoing Conflict: Ukraine, Russia, and the Changing Face of Modern Warfare

In this episode of Condensed Histories, host Jem Duducu explores the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia, providing a comprehensive summary of events since the full-scale invasion on February 24, 2022. Jem delves into the complex history dating back to the initial invasion in 2014, examines the current state of frontline warfare, and highlights significant developments such as the use of drone technology, international involvement, and geopolitical implications. This episode offers an in...

Feb 27, 2025•45 min

The History and Impact of Civilization: Exploring Sid Meier's Franchise

In this episode of Condensed Histories, Jem delves into the history and cultural impact of the beloved video game series Sid Meier's Civilization. He discusses the evolution of the game from its inception in 1991 to the latest installment, Civilization VI, and the anticipated Civilization VII. He explores gameplay mechanics, strategies, and the educational value of the series, highlighting how it brings world history to life by allowing players to lead various civilizations from antiquity to mod...

Feb 20, 2025•44 min

Unveiling the Real History Behind Kingdom Come Deliverance 2

Join Jem in this episode of Condensed History as he delves into the historical layers underpinning the video game 'Kingdom Come Deliverance 2'. Jem explores the game's unique approach to medieval role-playing, contrasting it with other popular RPGs like Skyrim and The Witcher, and examines how Kingdom Come Deliverance sets itself apart with its commitment to historical accuracy and realism. From discussing the ethos of video games to recounting fascinating historical tales from the medieval king...

Feb 13, 2025•42 min

Warhammer and Culture Wars: Unpacking Pop Culture and Modern Sensitivities

In this episode of Condensed Histories, Jem DuDucu dives deep into the world of Warhammer to discuss its intersection with contemporary culture wars. Jem addresses the challenges and complications faced by large organizations like Games Workshop, as they navigate sensitive issues of inclusivity and representation in their products. From the backlash against diverse depictions in Warhammer to the controversy over female Custodians, and comparisons with other pop culture phenomena like Disney's Th...

Feb 06, 2025•37 min

Coldplay's Viva La Vida and the French Revolution

In this episode of Condensed Histories, host Jem Duducu delves into Coldplay's 2008 hit 'Viva La Vida' and explores the connections between modern British rock music and historical events, particularly the French Revolution. Discussing Coldplay's rise to fame, the band's unique sound, and the historical themes integrated into their music, Jem not only offers insights into the evolution of the band but also ties it to significant historical revolutions, including insights on the American Revoluti...

Jan 30, 2025•34 min

Churchill at War

Jem looks into Netflix documentary 'Churchill at War', where they do Churchill injustice, and the biggest mark against Churchill that the documentary doesn't mention. Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/condensed-histories . Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information....

Jan 23, 2025•40 min

SAS Rogue Heroes and The Six Triple Eight

Jem looks into some of the history behind the new series of SAS Rogue Heroes, and compares it to the film Six Triple Eight. Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/condensed-histories . Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information....

Jan 16, 2025•38 min

The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim

Jem looks at the animated film 'The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim', and the question of protecting copyright! Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/condensed-histories . Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information....

Jan 09, 2025•42 min

A Year of Movies... Part Three

Jem concludes his epic journey through a whole year of movies! Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/condensed-histories . Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dec 19, 2024•1 hr 1 min

A Year of Movies... Part Two

Jem continues his journey through a whole year of movies! Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/condensed-histories . Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dec 17, 2024•50 min

A Year of Movies... Part One

Jem begins his journey through an entire year of movies! Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/condensed-histories . Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dec 12, 2024•56 min

Bicycle Theives and Rubble Movies

Jem looks into the film The Bicycle Theif and the world of Rubble Movies. Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/condensed-histories . Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dec 10, 2024•38 min

Bruce Lee

Following a suggestion from the Condesed Histories Podcast Facebook Group, Jem takes a look into the history surrounding Bruce Lee! Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/condensed-histories . Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information....

Dec 05, 2024•39 min

Alexander Nevsky

Jem looks into Soviet Cinema and Alexander Nevsky. Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/condensed-histories . Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dec 03, 2024•39 min

Terence Malick

Jem interviews John Bleasdale, author of 'The Magic Hours The Films and Hidden Life of Terence Malick' about the subject of the book, Terence Malick himself! Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/condensed-histories . Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information....

Nov 28, 2024•44 min