The British Empire: The Complex Truth

Please join the David Starkey Members' Club via Patreon / davidstarkeytalks or Subscribestar www.subscribestar.com/david-s... and submit questions for members Q & A videos. Also visit www.davidstarkey.com to make a donation and visit the channel store shop.davidstarkey.com. Thank you for watching.
Please do not re-upload any David Starkey Talks video without permission.
#Davidstarkey #Davidstarkeytalks #History

[@davidstarkeytalks]

Please join the David Starkey Members' Club via Patreon www.patreon.com/davidstarkeytalks or Subscribestar www.subscribestar.com/david-starkey-talks and submit questions for members Q & A videos. Also visit www.davidstarkey.com to make a donation and visit the channel store shop.davidstarkey.com. Thank you for watching.

[@janed7774]

I wonder if you are aware of “ History debunked” aka Simon Webb I would love you both to have a conversation

[@allenomalley4014]

Isn’t it the finest … absolutely brilliant just interesting interesting and entertaining too

[@GodsOwnPrototype]

1:23:00 Really? Given that many contemporary Jews who would know say otherwise this seems another echo of the anti-Catholic black legend...and of course there is also the context of the Evil Empire which was already known to have committed mass slaughter and atrocities before any fascists had even existed.

[@anitasimon7201]

At the end of your videos you mention a way to have lunch with you - how is that arranged?

[@PhilBaird1]

@@anitasimon7201 David will meet you at any Wetherspoon in the London area.

[@headshot6959]

Dr Starkey will go down in history for coining the phrase that bookends English Monarchy: "Started with William the Conqueror and ended with William the Woke." BRAVO.

[@tenacioustubbs8358]

I think “woke” as a term will age quite quickly. I prefer William the Abnegator, one who abnegated his responsibilities to his country, it’s history, culture, institutions and people. Conceder or Conferrer have a nice alliteration with Conquerer, but neither really capture the sense of reckless abandonment that I feel is appropriate.

[@joedias7946]

Richard why are you waffling on. Tell us how to be a racist Without saying so. Be a man Say so. Don't behave like a mouse.

[@headshot6959]

@@joedias7946 Did you reply to the wrong comment?

[@MartinWillett]

@@joedias7946 Are you a racist or do you want to have cartoon enemies? The idea that all people are equal is transparently untrue. They are all different and there is a huge variation within each population. But to expect all groups to be the same, to have the same averages, is absurd. It requires faith to believe such an absurd idea. The idea that differences in outcomes is proof of racism by white people is far more absurd than transubstantiation or belief in witches in league with Satan.

[@AbbaJoy1]

​@@tenacioustubbs8358 I don't understand. I only see what wonderful and kind people both the Prince and Princess of Wales are. Is there reason to suspect that he will not be good for the people. Sincere question. I would so appreciate an honest explanation, if you can take the time.

[@lucajohnson8318]

1 hour 40 of Dr Starkey lecturing on the British Empire! I'm going to make myself a cup of tea and enjoy the hell out of this.

[@philipbrooks402]

You will not be disappointed.

[@lucajohnson8318]

@@philipbrooks402 I certainly was not. I'm also very excited to hear of his announcement that he'll have a regular slot on GB News!

[@ellencook1658]

Tea? I’m making a G&T. Get the limes!

[@stablish4314]

I’m enjoying the fruits of the commonwealth and drinking Caribbean Spiced Rum.

[@RussiaIsARiddle778]

@@stablish4314 Very appropriate, as it happens.

[@alejo7365]

I am from Argentina, i am a student of history and i love listen to this talks, im deeply love the british history and David Starkey works

[@alejo7365]

@Sate Fate I support the claim, but like you said, war of goverments, the war is a nasty business, many and i included don't support the Junta and the beligerant diplomacy, i believe in negotiations but for now my country is far away to negotiations in condition because: economy greetings from the south my friend

[@alejo7365]

@Nick Morris I dont wan't to use this space to debate another topic, sorry mate is disrespectful to David Starkley, i only want to make clear that point and ended there

[@crowbar9566]

@@alejo7365 Between 1831 and 1832 the Falklands Islands were under the de facto control of both the United States and later on Argentina. Less then one years control almost 200 years ago is not a legitimate basis for a claim of sovereignty.

[@ubongben3184]

@@alejo7365 to the. b bb. bijib

[@chrisbennett6260]

@@alejo7365 do you know about the wiping out of slaves in Argentina

[@theknowledge.6869]

As an Irishman I have to say that I really enjoy David Starkey = = Very Educational. Edit from this Irishman ~ ~ Just at the end there David Starkey admitted that he had never studied Ireland much ~ ~ Very honest of him ~ ~ Some dark times with the British in Ireland alright ~ But this was done by the British Elites ( OK sometimes with the help of ordinary British People ~ Did these ordinary People have much choice ? ) = = In any case it is easy to judge People in the past by the standards of today = = Remember , we too may well be judged by the standards of the future ( what-ever they may be ) ?

[@HelenA-fd8vl]

I used to be very critical of the British Empire in my youth, but like you I have mellowed. Once you see flaws in your own nature, you begin to forgive similar in others. Isn’t Starkey an Irish name?

[@theknowledge.6869]

@@HelenA-fd8vl The musician Feargal Starkey is certainly Irish anyway.

[@amandawilliams7133]

@@theknowledge.6869 It’s Feargal Sharkey, not Starkey.

[@goodjollymissholly9152]

@@HelenA-fd8vl I googled it. A referenced source says the name was first found in Cheshire, but another suggests Lancashire.

[@michealcurrie8272]

Ringo is from Liverpool.

[@jebjeb1498]

Delighted to hear you are going to be a GB News regular.

[@tancreddehauteville764]

Dear Dr Starkey, I still remember when you came to my university (Birmingham) as a guest lecturer in 1987, at the invitation of the late Prof Eric Ives, my tutor, to give your views on a topic of Tudor history (I can't recall what it was). You were dapper and rather flamboyant, but you made a strong impression on the students. You have the ability to make even the most mundane aspects of history interesting.

[@nettaglover8183]

I just love listening to Dr Starkey. It is not like being educated but almost entertained. I listen to him at the gym enables me to do more work because I want to keep listening to him.

[@thedativecase9733]

Dapper is such an under used word these days.

[@mangiagatti85]

My tutor@ L.S.E. in 1974-75. He encouraged me to think for myself...as 'a proper little Renaisance man' (his assessment of my 18 year old self!)...& he hasn't lost any of his edge when it comes to historical debates! No one ever pulled the wool over his eyes...or mine, I hope. Keep going, David!

[@paulbrunton877]

Great idea Sir David, Empire Day should be reinstated as soon as possible.

[@thehound9638]

​@Nick Morris Maybe just something to reflect on a more positive side of British history? The British empire did have a positive side, abolition of international slavery, the cure for smallpox, creation of penicillin, industrial revolution etc. We focus too much on the crimes in my opinion, everyone playing the victim of all conquering England!

[@joedias7946]

Empire day when it is lost. Oh lord how great we are.bless us.

[@christinerussell113]

Two very good reasons why the Trans Atlantic slave trade has been the main focus of discussions on the terrible evil of slavery are mentioned by Dr Starkey. The lack of descendants of those luckless slaves in Muslim countries, and the very obvious determination to concentrate on white guilt only, while ignoring brown on brown responsibility for what was after all a worldwide industry. But I would add a third reason, and that is the willingness of whites, particularly here in Britain, to feel that guilt over past misdemeanors. Too many people are happy to indulge in cultural cringe, a desire to express remorse over events which none of us were alive to have been responsible for, or indeed were in a position at the time to have benefited from, ie, the majority of Brits during those years were themselves leading poverty stricken, miserable lives. The fact is many European nations, Portugal for instance, who were major slave traders before Britain joined in, or even the French, who, as mentioned here, behaved abominably to Haiti, do not indulge in hand wringing to the extent that we Brits appear ready to do. As for countries like Turkey, they do not involve themselves at all in such self destructive behaviour. Go figure.

[@chrisbennett6260]

yeah and the attitudes ,beliefs and prejudices of that time never went away so do me a favour with that nonsense

[@christinerussell113]

@@chrisbennett6260 What an interesting comment. However, perhaps your comments re. attitudes, beliefs and prejudices never going away would be better directed at those nations who have never expressed regret over their own disgusting behaviour, nor have been held to account. Of course that would mean admitting that all peoples, or various countries, cultures, and shade of skin, are equally guilty. Now that would never do, would it Mr or Ms Bennett, I mean we all know that only white folks have ever indulged in evil practices. Er no. So please, do me a favour and stop with your nonsense.

[@johncarroll772]

The good old morally superior Christians and their slave trade

[@zuzemoyo7696]

BRITAIN carries the necessary guilt because it was built on theft and oppressive rule a process still alive and kicking today.

[@ThinkermanQuindo]

It’s like getting 1st class Oxford education in your own home… and is a very timely and correct perspective on those who have nothing nice to say about the British empire while enjoying its extraordinary blessings - so sought out today by those had earlier rejected it, and often still do while they exploit it. For all its actual - and supposed - evils, the British empire (as Prof. Starkey here so eloquently explains) established the foundation and framework to bring the entire world together (if it chooses to so participate), and it did so through centuries of its own suffering peoples (as well as of course of many others) - and then it redeemed itself morally of its crimes in so doing by putting its entire existence on the line - not just once, but many times ( and still even today, and against all and any odds) in defence of not its narrow self-interest (but even against it…) to defend a higher principle: the universal rights of man and rule of democracy and law to bring all mankind together in peaceful harmony and mutual co-operation. In this way Prof. Starkey transcends his genre to become the greatest Anglo-Saxon historian of our time.

[@Teribuswallace]

@Somewhatskeptical and lots of experts and non-experts would no doubt disagree with your viewpoint. So?

[@TheWhitehiker]

@Somewhatskeptical how do you know what he's read?

[@TheWhitehiker]

@Somewhatskeptical 'expert'--seems knowledgeable to me.

[@TheWhitehiker]

@Somewhatskeptical off topic there, skep; he seems on target and well read.

[@tomrogers7110]

@Somewhatskeptical In the context of writing, researching and publishing history, what is a 'recognised expert'?

[@catrionamacfarlane4949]

BRILLIANT. Just finished listening to this unbelievable explanation of Empire.... Thank you so much Dr. Starkey. So glad you are back. Will share your lecture with my chidren...they were not educated in the UK. l was fortunate enough to have excellent history teachers during my school years (1960s) and thus still have a thirst for it.

[@kelleysmith7345]

England has definitely had a profound effect on the world. English language and law and an early assertion of individual right to your person and property unmolested. The struggle with religion and government, that they are two separate things. So many ideas. I’m lucky to have been a benefactor of these ideas up to now in America. Thank you Dr. Starkey.

[@87stevan]

And we are unlucky to have America and its "culture" going around now trying to be the self-appointed World police.. Please stay out of other countries affairs. Thank you.

[@baylorsailor]

@@87stevan that's not "American" culture, that is Hollywood culture.... All Western countries are playing world police right now. The British are the OG of world police (next to the Roman Empire) but I still love ya'!

[@RussiaIsARiddle778]

@@baylorsailor He’s a troll, don’t feed the 🧌

[@Alfred5555]

@@baylorsailor The key term is "self appointed" Pax Romana and Pax Britannica actually existed, but with Pax Americana literally no one asked for it or wants it, (Hitler himself respected the presence and reality of the British Empire (Pax Britannica) and didn't wish to infringe on it's existence, because even to a man like him that idea was just insane...America didn't have such quibbles) there has not been peace or prosperity, just American enlargement, which on the whole means cultural genocide (even genocide of it's own earlier and original culture pre-revolution). You can't from within America, just ignore people who say they are witnessing a unique American culture destroy their own and that of others with no justification or merit.

[@ROTHSTEIN01]

Nah, other than the English language, USA and British Empire has nothing in common seriously.

[@deanstrickland6993]

Dr. Starkey, I am in awe of your intellect and your singular ability to distill down the rich tapestry of the human story into an essential oil of the story of the past and simultaneously the history of the future. I am no historian. I am an organic chemist. But I have always been a student of history and very attuned to our collective history of the British Empire, being from Canada, and counting my blessings for having been born into that Empire. Forgive me for being incredibly presumptuous, but I would counter on the point of the Durham report being about our Empire “willing itself out of existence”. I have long held the position that the British Empire never ended. Rather, it evolved. Just as families do. Ours is an empire of the mind; ideas, philosophy, principles. As you stated, the Empire effectively ruled the world. Ours is the dream and the gold standard of most human beings on this world who want to live a good life and cherish their children. If that is correct, then I would posit that the British Empire can never, ever fall as long as there is one soul who lives and breathes and holds dear the values you have so eloquently described in this wonderful chat. Thank you so very much for the light and clarity that you bring to this world.

[@BrianFrancisHeffron-1776]

Such deeply delusional nonsense about one of the most hated countries in the world. All around the globe, the british flag is called "The Butcher's Apron" for the very good reason that the brits murdered more people of color than any other nationality in history. It is sad to see all these posters who clearly have no real understanding of the uk's actual position on the world stage. White people in the uk will literally believe anything.

[@user-lp7wo7og4x]

Agreed

[@DIBBY40]

David Starkey's ability to speak and hold my complete attention for nearly an hour and half is amazing. Brilliant mind. Thankyou Dr. Starkey for giving us this.

[@thedativecase9733]

He reminds me a little of the historian AJP Taylor who did the same sort of thing on TV. Oddly enough AJP was from a working-class Lancashire background just as Dr Starkey is. Yes so am I, but not quite so clever. Not quite :)

[@zoltanrudolf9413]

He’s been at the Danube Institute in Budapest? That makes this Hungarian very proud!

[@Gerrythesaint]

Being cancelled is the best thing that could have happened, the content here is so good , this channel without question is the best thing Dr Starkey has done. Supercool and fluent. Modern and Masterful.

[@morpety]

What learning! Quality education is available to all on KZbin. Thank you, David Starkey.

[@mbar11]

You deserve to be seen and heard far and wide. Your knowledge and ability to recount history is truly inspiring.

[@artfuldodger9312]

The extremely talented Dr. David Starkey. Tonight promises to be very enjoyable for me. In my eyes, David, you are a living legend. You have a way of explaining history that is unparalleled on the entire planet. Please keep up the good work.

[@williamkanegateshead]

No, you meant, David, you are a fascist. No need to thank me!

[@washingtongarden4078]

This man is a absolute disgrace. How can he say the Holocaust was a lot worse than slavery, slavery lasted 400yrs, how many humans died in that time, millions of humans were chucked over board on the journey, how many humans were born as a slave and died as a slave. Give thanks he’s been removed from mainstream and now in back alleys chatting is shit 😂😂😂

[@MichaelKingsfordGray]

You bloody coward.

[@balloch]

Mr Starkey I can’t think of a better way than to spend a Friday night sharing a glass of wine with you x

[@AndyJarman]

He has risen! The resurrection of the cancelled! Congratulations Mr Starkey.

[@lenwilkinson672]

Government and media wouldn’t be happy to print or broadcast the truthful history of our Island and latterly The Empire.A shame that the BBC doesn’t televise your programme.Thank you for your programme.

[@OldSarge]

...a riveting talk. I looked at the time it would take and said, "Oh, my God! Pushing two hours!" When it was over, I was sorry it didn't last twice as long. It must be said, though, that the thought of celebrating the British Empire is going to get you, predictably, into hot water with the modern "woke" crowd...and your examination of the African slave experience will get you pilloried well and truly. It's not that you're wrong. Not in the least! It's that what you've said is grossly unfashionable, and it goes head-on into a good many "woke" little empires, where everyone from street corner hucksters to governmental and media solons have built careers around telling the story incorrectly, or skewing the facts in ways from which they can profit...and threatening anyone who puts their little empires at risk with banishment to the Outer Darkness. Good. Let 'em bellow and holler! This is a story that needs telling. Thank you for telling the uncomfortable truths, Dr. S. Thank you very much.

[@davidr2802]

I recognize its hard to get over the difficulty of having the benefit of being an average white guy in the face of so much imagined discrimination but I know you can do it!

[@jedg4746]

@@davidr2802 Why not give your own analysis instead of making personal comments about others. Or, is that actually why you are watching?

[@billyyousaf2036]

Hi David. Absolutely magnificent video! Us as Brits are far too scared to talk about the British empire properly and criticise the Arabs for being the actual participants in slavery as we don't want to be accused of being islamophobic, racist etc. The truth needed to be told and you told it spectacularly! 👍👍 Big thank you for the video! Cheers, Billy

[@barrymarshall]

An incredibly thoughtful and nuanced account of the topic of empire. I've learnt an enormous amount from this erudite lecture. Thank you, Dr. Starkey.

[@druirving9142]

Brilliant mind.

[@yingyang1008]

Always wondered what might have happened had Britain focused on its strong links with Canada, Australia, South Africa and New Zealand as opposed to opting for EU membership Can't help feeling we have lost something special

[@dunkirk1581]

Ted Heath prime minister at the time was blackmailed by German secret service because he was a pedophili, he enrolled Britain into the eu/common market Then they realised this should have been legally approved by a referendum of the peoples vote, so they held one after we joined and too no surprise, they won the approval, Basically it looked like we were taken into the EU by blackmail and fraud.

[@joedias7946]

We lost America is never mentioned. Why, why

[@crowbar9566]

@Chase Williams There was talk of a federall empire in the early 20th century but Canada and Australia were becoming nations in their own right and didn't want to do it.

[@poyo6838]

@@crowbar9566 I thought it was because politicians even in UK were divided by how practical this federation would be and how it would be handled, then those talks were prevented by WW1 and rising nationalism in settler colonies after that put a final nail in the coffin

[@crowbar9566]

@@poyo6838 I can't remember to be honest

[@youtubehatesus2651]

Wow. I am 30 minutes in and my head is spinning. I will have to watch more than once. I love listening to history spill from the lips of someone so learned. It's an absolute pleasure. You are passing it on to future generations and those of us already here. I saw you on Triggernometry and am now a huge fan. .

[@georger64]

I‘m very glad you were busy, Sir David. It certainly beats the alternative.

[@FunkmeisterOfSedgley]

Excellent as always David. Thanks so much for this very informative lecture. As I'm only 57, I was taught nothing about our Empire at school.

[@thehound9638]

I'm 35 and whenever there was mention of British history at school it always seemed to be negative! I was at school during the Blaire years and I can fully understand why there is so much self hatred amongst some of the younger people in this country! It was taught to them!

[@georgehetty7857]

@@thehound9638 Hi👋🏻

[@thehound9638]

@@georgehetty7857 Evening George. 👍

[@georgehetty7857]

@@thehound9638 🍺?

[@thehound9638]

@@georgehetty7857 Not tonight mate, I'm still recovering from last night! I got a little carried away after bumping into an old friend. 🤒🤢

[@kieranfolkard2403]

Thanks professor David starkey you are a legend

[@casperdog777]

100% informative and it's also balanced and fair too. So interested in your honest assessment of slavery. Interesting because Islamic slavery doesn't fit the narrative the revisionists of woke airbrush it out of their history. Professor Starkey gives a master class here. Privilege to listen to him. Also spot on about holocaust and how different the Nazi holocaust was and is to slavery. Masterclass.

[@jeffreyrodrigoecheverria2613]

Islam and England both hated Christendom, so both are bad unlike the glorious of imperial Spain.

[@crowbar9566]

Its still going on, it's called the Kafala system - its touted in east africa as some kind of work abroad scheme but when the get to the middle east the agency takes their passports and hand them over to the family where the are kept in bonded servitude for a fixed time and of course, they have no rights. The old more 'traditional' system of chattel slavery carried on in Saudi Arabia until the mid 1960s.

[@kiwitrainguy]

As well as the term "Trans-Atlantic Slave Trade" we also need the term "Trans-Saharan Slave Trade". Although I realise that most of the slaves taken for Islam would've travelled via the East African Coast.

[@AndyJarman]

Every time I see David's opening seconds of his videos I have a quiet little giggle. The raised eyebrow speaks volumes!

[@louisebendall2894]

Thank you again. This wonderful summation should be heard by all, especially the detractors of our beloved country.

[@sirierieott5882]

Superb summary sir. Over 2000 years in under 2 hrs, and it didn’t seem rushed… and I didn’t fall asleep! WTF? I don’t feel pride but rather simply at peace with my British identity and the British cultural contribution to the world. Thank you Mr Starkey.

[@louisgiokas2206]

Briiant! I am glad that you did not limit yourself on time. This is one of your best, and I am impressed with all of your content. Of course, I did not find it until late, and now as I finish watching it dawn is coming. Oh, well. This is not the first time.

[@ScienceChap]

I've just read "A Politically Incorrect History of the British Empire". Not as in depth as this, but really very positive review. Thanks Dr Starkey.

[@robertgough508]

Yes Sir I am always astounded by your incisiveness and understanding. Nothing short of brilliant and the alternative national treasure!

[@paradox7358]

Weird to think that the British Empire was the closest humanity has ever come to being united as one nation.

[@jasonandlynnechambers3420]

United? 🤣🤣🤣

[@seniorslaphead8336]

Human nature dictates that the only way you will ever get a united world is if there is some external existential threat.

[@corneliuscapitalinus845]

Thats the dimension i dislike the most about Anglo stripes of Imperialism. Humanity isnt One and shouldnt be so.

[@andysamet4554]

@Somewhatskeptical Queen Victoria declared war some 250 times. The Brits weren't the Mongols, but they were busy bodies and single handedly caused Western civilization to enter terminal decline with their creation of two world wars.

[@mks1975a]

@@andysamet4554 yes what were the Brits thinking of in the occupying Czechoslovakia then invading Poland and Denmark, Holland & Belgium and they should of known better than let someone shoot Franz Ferdinand so they could invade Serbia, now pass some of what your smoking to the rest of us

[@chriscarson7384]

Thank you for this extremely thought-provoking presentation, Dr. Starkey.

[@evilcraftknife5705]

This guy is a giant of explaining complicated stuff to idiots like me. This video has made my week complete. I can't wait for the next.

[@nigelsouthworth5577]

I live in Edinburgh. The odd thing is, Empire Day is still a holiday for civil servants and school staff in the capital of Scotland, although it is called Victoria Day.

[@dawnemile4974]

I have a Prussian ancestor who fought at the Battle of Waterloo and went or was sent to British Guiana in 1817. He was a decorated soldier and had the position of Receiver General there during his working life.

[@Orson2u]

CONGRATULATIONS on your GB gigs! Exciting news worth sharing with us - thank you.

[@anthonyspinks2640]

Get in well done Dr Starkey Historically accurate that's all I want. GB news after a shaky start starting to sign up real quality.

[@christopherarkell9862]

Dear Dr Starkey - thank you for drawing attention very clearly to the speech given by Prince Albert in 1840.

[@cryptorun6610]

I find the idea of the time period each country separates from the British empire fascinating. The reflection in policies and slight differences in societies is crystal clear when talking about the US. Canada and Australia. We need more teachers like you.

[@kiwitrainguy]

This was the most important thing I learned from this talk. New Zealand achieved Dominion Status (self-governing) in 1907.

[@shauntempley9757]

@@kiwitrainguy Which was barely 60 years after it first existed! For NZ, that was a total disaster for our national links to the Treaty partners, and lead to the issues and situations we are having today. That is something we still are dealing with well over 100 years later. The Treaty being a hot topic right now was set in motion with the 1907 decision, and the main reason, was because India pushed for it as the main driver for it. Canada and Australia jumped on board. We did not, because we were still sorting things out for our needs, and our leaders recognised we were not ready for it. We have been behind in this kind of nation building as a result from that moment. We are always reacting to what is happening world wide, not proactively responding, because we never learned how to do that to maintain our social cohesiveness.

[@CS-cn6bh]

This is a lecture (not costing me £9250) similar to my university lecture and a 1000 times more educational.

[@andyw3232]

Thoroughly interesting and informative - and balanced.

[@Apollo_Mint]

Once again I find myself mesmerised. Even Father Time stops to listen to our David Starkey.

[@leroyholm9075]

Brilliant, totally informative and you always manage to bring up serious points that we all miss. Thank You

[@saelind73]

I spit my coffee all over at William the Conqueror vs William the Woke. 🤣

[@loftlegacy]

Your commentary on the Jubilee were so insightful and engaging. I’ve never been so fascinated watching a Royal event than when listening to your detailed words. Thank you.

[@USA50_]

Thanks for a balanced approach to history 😊❤🇺🇸🇬🇧

[@sirrodneyffing1]

Absolutely magical listening to David Starkey in full flow.

[@SF-ru3lp]

Thank you David for such a marvellous talk and exposé. I am from Ireland. I love history (though not everything that happened in hostory). I studied history (Early Modern) for my Leaving Certificate examination in 1982. I was enthralled by your books on the Reformation. I loved your more recent programmes on TV. I am a fan of yours! I do think that Ireland was colonised by Rome "second hand" in that it came later from a country that had experienced how to colonise ruthlessly and the waves of repression kept coming. So glad that there is a public conversation now regarding the repressive aspects of treatment meeted out by English forces of the past. The recipients of the "civilising influences" found it hard to understand that little of the "underbelly" of English history made it into the British Education system. Am delighted to subscribe. 🤗 Best regards. Georgina. Ireland

[@philiphudgens4726]

We are so lucky to have you, Mr Starkey.

[@Yonder792]

Excellent so glad you will have your own slot David. Another marvellous talk.

[@jonmould2946]

"William the woke" lol!

[@1who4me]

The Byzantine empire began and ended with an emperor Constantine

[@YorkshireScottASMR]

I find it interesting that the queen's reign started with Churchill and if the Queen dies in the next couple of months and if Boris survives, her last prime minister is greatly influenced by churchill. he will certainly be the queens last prime minister in his mind as he is thinks he will be prime minister way into the 30s. Unless the queen lives to 105 plus he certainly will. He probably won't last the year but he does defy the odds and expectations so who knows.

[@kiwitrainguy]

@@YorkshireScottASMR Well, we all know the answer to that one now. Boris was replaced by Liz Truss and Elizabeth has been replaced by Charles.

[@philipbrooks402]

Interesting that at 25.35 Dr Starkey talks about the Norman Conquest and Prince Charles' words about slavery. In modern wokedom, of which HRH appears to be a very active participant, history does not begin until the first slave ships of the transatlantic trade. Curious that he does not feel the need to talk about the English of the Anglo-Saxon period being sold into slavery.

[@shelleyphilcox4743]

@Somewhatskeptical Serfs had some rights. Slaves had absolutely no rights.

[@shelleyphilcox4743]

@Somewhatskeptical Apologies...I dont know how I misinterpreted your point...but I did. Early night for me!!!!

[@ironmind258]

@Somewhatskeptical I doubt that they wouldn't notice the change, I find that a odd notion

[@doctorbritain9632]

Excellent talk

[@curt3494]

I'm gonna have to come back to this one. Settled down in front of EU4 and listen to David Starkey for 1:40 whilst I battle the French.

[@anitasimon7201]

Brilliant! Thank you for addressing this very controversial subject in a very objective way.

[@jillkursner6494]

Another wonderful lecture. Many thanks Dr.Starkey.

[@grahamreels214]

Thank you so much for this.

[@jasonwatterson5739]

David Starkey at his brilliant best, 👏 Well done and thank you.

[@SMichaelDeHart]

Excellent job 👏 👍 Dr Starkey. VERY MUCH enjoyed!!

[@TheScoopGorrilla]

Thank you Dr Starkey, fascinating!

[@yingyang1008]

For most of history, an empire required occupation and a more or less constant state of war Modern technology and finance allows for a more nuanced form of control of other nations

[@bobblue_west]

*Excellent* re: your GBNews appointment. Finally, intelligent commentators on main stream media.

[@yingyang1008]

lol

[@matthewstavrowsky2393]

Superb. Thank you for this wonderful talk. So very enlightening.

[@allsortsgifts6202]

Great to hear of your recent successes. Very happy for you considering the terrible recent years

[@johnarbuthnott3445]

As always brilliantly edifying , never to be repeated by the BBC and the woke left. Thank you for the education lesson. Don’t expect Charles or William to wise up

[@Dan-mm1yl]

So glad you have a KZbin channel always enjoy listening to you talk

[@stephaniecorbett5356]

Such an interesting and informative talk, thank you so much.

[@davidreid8075]

Gosh! Someone who knows the objective historical truth..at last!

[@RussiaIsARiddle778]

Only 4% of Africans brought through the Atlantic slave trade ended up in North America. By far most went to Portuguese plantations, where the production of cane sugar became highly in demand. I think that many North Americans miss that understanding and wear the quilt/burden of ALL African slaves.

[@timsteinkamp2245]

One thing I never heard of is the indigenous people of America being made slaves.

[@kiwitrainguy]

The country with the highest population of black people, outside of the continent of Africa, is Brazil.

[@sovereign_paul]

Just brilliant, this is required viewing for every person that occupies these islands! Thank you kind Sir.

[@josephking3654]

Just Brilliant. Solid , clear and precise fact and insights. Thank you Mr.Starkey

[@aaronfire359]

Excellent excellent talk once again Dr Starkey!

[@masterofnone8400]

As an irishman I approve this message

[@alecblunden8615]

And as one descended from a Pictish family , I join with the descendents of Britonic families in the West of Britain in deploring the vicious imperial incursions of the Irish.

[@tinahooper7324]

Excellent talk. I enjoyed this thoroughly. David Starkey is a real treasure.

[@tammiemcdaniel1633]

Big fan from USA! I enjoy your videos...thank you..Tammie from Tn .

[@willhovell9019]

Impressive Dr Starkey. I remember at School marking Empire day / Commonwealth day, as well as May Day celebrations with maypole dancing, and indeed Whitsun or Whit week. An interesting proposition for opening up debate.

[@z00ml1d9]

As always interesting. I don't disagree entirely with the thesis. However, excepting brief references to the Arab and TransAtlantic Slave Trades, I'm perplexed how such a long lecture can overlook the role of business and mercantile classes creating the European Empires. Also, again excepting brief acknowledgement of the Normans, I find the anglicising of the English Monarchy and ruling elite, throughout again troubling. Used as pivot for defining nationhood, Britain remains part of the European-Scandinavian Empire. In this context, where Britain's military played it's role in Empire building, there's an argument to be made that a fair proportion of the colonial wars and conquests were extensions of the conflicts between European dynasts that have raged since the fall of Rome. (Not dissimilar to the proxy wars of the mid 20 century.) Whilst the failing state hypothesis is compelling, it's not the only story. The Empires and Annexations of territories weren't all won by the sword. It seems to me that the European Empires were uniquely trade based by and large. Which means to a great extent complicity with original rulers and elites. In conclusion, the topic of Empire is complex and nuanced. It's worthy of much more discussion than it actually get. So looking forward eagerly to you opining on the topic in future videos.

[@timsteinkamp2245]

It seems to me after the Magna Carta in the 1200's the real start of control started with the proliferation of ship building and shipping of the East India Companies and pirates and maritime law to keep peace between Countries. The laws in an individual Country was no concern to those that didn't live there. From there we have the simple saying that justice may not be fair but it is the best we got. Oh really? Parliament doesn't control the court room does it?

[@72Yonatan]

Excellent presentation, David.

[@ThomasBoyd9373]

Awesome. Brilliant content. Spot on.

[@frmorganwhite3054]

Superb analysis. A very insightful guide to lay aside binary narratives and naïve reading of the complexity of our shared history of people who inhabit these Isles and the wider European context. Welcome to honest ambiguity.

[@notlimey]

The 24th of May is still a holiday in Canada known as Victoria Day - but for how long?

[@notlimey]

@Nick Morris Reminds me to open a U.S. account asap or.... cash under my mattress

[@notlimey]

@Nick Morris Maybe I will buy a tent and move into one of the tent cities that the boy Justin has helped create here in Canada - I'm told I can make about $60 collecting old beer cans each week

[@julianwells2190]

His perspective of the different flavours of culture in the USA, Canada, Australia and New Zealand being linked to when they broke away from the British Empire is a fascinating perspective.

[@gbickell]

Thank you. Cracking stuff.

[@michaeldillon3113]

I hope that part of Dr Starkey's curriculum would include mention of the 250,000 Belgian refugees who came to Britain in WW1 . There is a monument to this along the Embankment. I went to school in the sixties and early 70's and we learnt about the horrors if the slave trade and holocaust but never heard about this historical event regarding the Belgian refugees. Strangely I only learnt about this through ' Upstairs Downstairs ' which rather cleverly wive together history and soap opera .

[@dnstone1127]

They were made to go back home afterwards, to rebuild their shattered towns and villages which had been battlefields, the Belgium government had paid for their upkeep in Britain during the war.

[@michaeldillon3113]

@@dnstone1127 They also made a great contribution to the war effort while they were here I believe .

[@dnstone1127]

@@michaeldillon3113 Well they were allies, Britain had gone to war to defend Belgium, so of course they contributed, their nation was at stake.

[@syedmaricar9946]

Informative. Every empire goes up and down.

[@jesperandersson889]

interesting idea, great initiative!

[@welshman776]

Why is this guy not Sir David Starkey?

[@Kittyscraftcorner-ud6ij]

Not woke enough.

[@nancyfurber4921]

Superb. As ever.

[@DSTH323]

Wonderful to see this!

[@davidpamely217]

Thank you for a brilliant lecture. Many years ago I heard on the radio that France’s General de Gaulle referred to himself as being ‘France’ and referred to himself as ‘We.’ As an Anglo Saxon it seemed laughable to me and has always puzzled me on the level of self regard and as a public persona. Having heard in this lecture that King Louis regarded himself as being France I assume that the idea of an individual being the expression and embodiment of the nation is still, to this day, a part of the French psyche.

[@lynniejenkins2079]

What a fascinating and excellent overview of the centuries of England's imperial ambitions and longings. Thank you!