The Mines of Potosi - Part 1

The Mines of Potosi - Part 1

Author: Max Serjeant May 25, 2025 Duration: 20:57

It is hard to overstate the impact one lonely peak high up on the Bolivian altiplano had on world history - the silver which was dug from within it changed the world. It is however, largely forgotten today.

In this first part of a short series on the subject, I describe Potosi today using my observations from when I visited. It is a strange place, haunted by it's history and marked by poverty. Crumbling Spanish buildings hint at its former wealth, and the miners still enter the hill and work in dangerous conditions which feel like they haven't changed much since the colonial era.



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Hosted by Max Serjeant, The Latin American History Podcast is a deep and chronological journey through the entire story of Spanish and Portuguese America. This isn't a simple list of dates and battles; it's an immersive exploration of the forces that shaped a continent. The narrative stretches from ancient civilisations and first contacts through the tumultuous colonial era, right up to the modern day, weaving together the vast themes of conquest, resistance, and cultural fusion. Within this framework, the podcast dedicates serious attention to the structures of colonial society, the brutal institution of slavery, and the daily realities experienced by the region's diverse inhabitants. You'll encounter tales of extraordinary adventure and exploration that challenge belief, all grounded in thoughtful examination. Each episode builds a comprehensive picture, connecting the dots between geography, science, culture, and social change. For anyone curious about how the past echoes in the present streets, landscapes, and cultures of Latin America, this podcast offers a compelling, long-form audio history. It’s an ongoing project to understand a world forged from incredible complexity.
Author: Language: en-gb Episodes: 50

The Latin American History Podcast
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