The Nika Riots: the bloodiest riots in Roman history
About this episode
This episode explores the Nika Riots, a violent insurrection in Constantinople that nearly overthrew Emperor Justinian, highlighting the pivotal role of Empress Theodora.
The Nika Riots are some of the bloodiest ever recorded. They unfolded in Constantinople in 532. This insurrection nearly toppled Emperor Justinian, but Empress Theodora makes a speech that changes the course of events. This episode takes you into the Eastern Roman Empire in a period of violence, natural disasters, and social upheaval. From slaves and prostitutes to patrician gossip and botched executions, this episode will take you through one of the most violent moments in the history of Constantinople. This is episode 2 in a series on Emperor Justinian and Empress Theodora. Support this podcast at: patreon.com/evaschubert For details on enrolling in the course email: villainsandvirginspodcast@gmail.com
People in this episode
Host: Eva Schubert
Topics covered
- Nika Riots
- Eastern Roman Empire
- Emperor Justinian
- Empress Theodora
- violence
- social upheaval
Mentioned in this episode
Places: Constantinople
More episodes of Villains and Virgins History Podcast
- The Circus Performer who became Roman Empress: Theodora and Justinian
- The Man who Blew Up Troy: Heinrich Schliemann
- Rumi and the Sufis: The Man and his World
- Fourth Crusade Ep 2: When Crusaders attacked and burned Constantinople
- Crusaders against Christians: The Fourth Crusade part 1
- The Return of King Richard the Lionheart: Legends of the Third Crusade
Explore listener stats, chart rankings, contacts and more on the Villains and Virgins History Podcast podcast page.