705. Queen Victoria’s Revenge: The Mad Emperor of Abyssinia (Part 1)
Summary
This episode details the 1868 Abyssinian Expedition, a British military campaign to rescue European hostages held by Emperor Tewodros II. The story explores the complex relationship between the British and the isolated Ethiopian kingdom, highlighting the rise of Tewodros as a charismatic but increasingly erratic ruler. It covers the diplomatic failures that led to the capture of envoys and missionaries, and the subsequent decision to launch a massive military force into the highlands. The narrative weaves together the perspectives of key figures like Consul Cameron and archaeologist Hormuzd…
Topics discussed
Sponsors and introduction to the Abyssinian crisis
The mystery of the missing British hostages
Historical context: Abyssinia's isolation and Christian roots
Walter Plowden's arrival and the 'War of the Roses' era
The prophecy of Theodore and the rise of Kassa
First meeting: Plowden's impression of Emperor Theodore
Theodore's modernization efforts and confusion over the Crimean War
The Coptic Patriarch's visit and Theodore's letter to Victoria
Theodore's mental decline and the failure of British diplomacy
The failed attempt to build artillery with missionaries
Captain Cameron's mission and the growing paranoia
The arrest and trial of missionaries Stern and Rosenthal
The capture of the British consul and other hostages
The lost letter: How Theodore's plea was ignored in London
Queen Victoria's reply and the selection of Hormuzd Rassam
Rassam's arrival and the dire conditions of the hostages
Life in the Magdala citadel and the short chains
Rassam's diplomatic success and Theodore's erratic behavior
The release of hostages and Theodore's obsession with Rassam
Theodore's infatuation and the re-capture of Rassam
Theories on Theodore's motives and the escape of Flad
Flad's mission to London and the failed gift delivery
Theodore's final interactions and the 'I am mad' farewell
The decision for war: Lord Derby's cabinet meets
Episode conclusion and sponsor promotions
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