Dan Carlin’s Hardcore History 71 – Mania for Subjugation

Why this one hits different

How do you build a world-class apex predator? In the first part of "Mania for Subjugation," Dan Carlin suggests the answer for Alexander the Great comes down to three Ns: nature, nurture and nepotism.

Who is Dan Carlin?

Dan Carlin is the host of "Hardcore History," the long-form history podcast famous for multi-hour episodes that turn ancient and modern history into gripping, dramatic storytelling. His series on World War I, "Blueprint for Armageddon," is often cited as one of the best history podcasts ever made.

What's on the table

Episode 71 opens Carlin's series on Alexander the Great, looking at the forces that shaped him: his extraordinary father, Philip II of Macedon, his upbringing and the world he was born into.

Why it's worth your time

Alexander is one of history's most-told stories, and Carlin's gift is making familiar history feel urgent and human. Set aside a long drive, because Hardcore History episodes run for hours.

Quick answers

What is "Mania for Subjugation" about?

Alexander the Great. Episode 71 is part one of the series.

When did it come out?

2024. Part II (episode 72) followed around the start of 2025.

More: Dan Carlin.