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Nika Riots

As Turkish prime minister Erdogan confronts his critics in Taksim Square, Jonathan Freedland considers Emperor Justinian's response to the Nika Riots of AD532 in Constantinople.

Jonathan Freeland takes the long view of riots in Turkey: as Prime Minister Erdogan confronts his critics in Taksim Square, Jonathan and his guests consider Emperor Justinian's response to the Nika Riots of AD532 in Constantinople as the citizens rose up and demanded change at the heart of the Byzantine Empire. Historian Bettany Hughes guides us through the events and brutal response of Justinian and his Empress Theodora - whilst the modern story is reflected by guests from both sides of the political divide.

Producer: Mohini Patel.

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28 minutes

Last on

Tue 2 Jul 2013 21:30

Broadcasts

  • Tue 2 Jul 2013 09:00
  • Tue 2 Jul 2013 21:30

Podcast