21. Majapahit - Empire of the Islands
Summary
Host Paul Cooper explores the rise and fall of the Majapahit Empire in medieval Indonesia. The episode details English official Thomas Stamford Raffles’ 1815 survey of Java’s ancient ruins, linking them to this powerful Hindu-Buddhist civilization. It examines how Java’s volcanic geography and advanced seafaring skills enabled Majapahit to expand its influence across the archipelago and beyond.
Topics discussed
Sponsorship and introduction
Thomas Raffles' arrival and early observations
Raffles' exploration of ancient ruins
Raffles' legacy and the mystery of the fall
Geology of the Indonesian archipelago
The geography and abundance of Java
Ancient reputation and the rise of Mataram
The Mataram kingdom and its temples
Borobudur: architecture and cultural life
Maritime trade and connections to Africa
Volcanic threats and the fall of Mataram
The rise of Ken Angrok and Singhasari
Wayang shadow puppetry and courtly culture
Majapahit's strategic location and trade
The Mongol invasion and Kertanegara's defiance
Founding of Majapahit and the Regreg War
Jayanegara's troubled reign and court intrigue
Queen Tribhuwana's rule and expansion
Hayam Wuruk and the golden age of Majapahit
The Mandala system and imperial administration
Succession crisis and the decline of power
Zheng He's voyages and the Ming dynasty
The spread of Islam and the rise of Demak
The fall of Majapahit and the Sultanate of Demak
Colonial era and the rediscovery of ruins
Credits and acknowledgments
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