A History of the World in 100 Objects - Empire Builders (300 BC - 1 AD)
Neil MacGregor continues his global history told through objects. This week he is with the great rulers of the world around 2,000 years ago
A History of the World in 100 Objects - Empire Builders (300 BC - 1 AD) - Chinese Han lacquer cup
Neil MacGregor explores the imperial ambitions of Han Dynasty China, with reference to a beautiful lacquer cup.
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A History of the World in 100 Objects - Empire Builders (300 BC - 1 AD) - Head of Alexander
Neil MacGregor tells the story of Alexander the Great through a small silver coin, one that was made years after his death but that portrays him as a vigorous young man.
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A History of the World in 100 Objects - Empire Builders (300 BC - 1 AD) - Head of Augustus
Neil MacGregor introduces us to the great Roman emperor Augustus, whose powerful, God-like status is brilliantly enshrined in a larger-than-life bronze head with striking eyes.
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A History of the World in 100 Objects - Empire Builders (300 BC - 1 AD) - Pillar of Ashoka
Neil MacGregor tells the story of how the Indian ruler Ashoka turned his back on violence and plunder to promote the ethical codes of Buddhism.
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A History of the World in 100 Objects - Empire Builders (300 BC - 1 AD) - Rosetta Stone
The story behind one of the most familiar objects at the British Museum - the Rosetta Stone. Neil MacGregor describes a power struggle in ancient Egypt.
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