The cold, vast plains of Eastern Europe bear witness to a dark and ancient history.

In this episode, Ewen tells the story of Russia. Hear the sounds of ancient contests between settled people of the riverlands and the fierce, horse-riding nomads of the open steppe. Learn of the rise and fall of kingdoms amid the waterways and deep forests of the Russian heartlands. Discover Russia’s long history of imperial triumphs and violent invasions, of kings and revolutions, of war and peace; and enter the eye of the Kremlin, as its gaze looks west.

How has Russia’s geography and ancient past shaped the country today? What motivates Russia’s powerful and often tyrannical leaders? And what will happen when Vladimir Putin falls at last?

------------------

Musical themes, tracks and elements in this episode are licenced via PremiumBeat, a Shutterstock company. Additional Royalty Free Tracks have been used in specific chapters as per the list below:

1. (Introduction - 2026 & Beyond) "Endless" by Lucas King @lucaskingpiano (YouTube)
2. (Antiquities) "You are the Almighty God" - Nikos Politis
3. (Antiquities) "Sons of Mars" - Farya Faraji
4. (The Mongols) Shamanic Ritual - Sacred Soundscapes
5. (The Slavs) "Lost"- Filip Lackovic
6. (Medieval Times) "Orthodox Chat" - Steve Oxen, Fesliyan Studios
7. (Tsars & Soviets) "Varchavianka" performed by the Red Army Choir
8. (2026 & Beyond) "Suspense Rises" by Soundridemusic

------------------

A translation of Vladimir Putin's words in chapter 2026 & Beyond:

1. "With your ambition"
2. "Incompetence and pure greed"
3. "You have held these people hostage"
4. "It is absolutely unacceptable"

------------------

A History of the Future is produced by Southern Skies Media on behalf of Yaffa Media (www.yaffa.com.au). If you wish to use any of this podcast's audio, please contact Yaffa Digital via [email protected].

Host: Ewen Levick

Executive Producer: Steve Visscher

Voiceovers: Kevin Hillier

Yaffa Media - © 2026