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Tamerlane's Timurid Empire: His Grand Conquest and Architectural Legacy with Dr. Nina Wieda
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A powerful statesman and military leader, Tamerlane, also known as Prince Timur, wanted to immortalize his name through grandiose architecture that would be visible from a day's journey away and take people's breath away. While he conquered new lands with his characteristic cruelty, he spared artists, architects, and craftsmen, and put them all to task of developing Samarkand into a city like no other. Second only to Genghis Khan, Tamerlane caused the death of 5% of the world's population during his conquests. His pet project - the unforgettable city of Samarkand - still stands today. This lecture introduces its participants to the larger-than-life figure of Prince Timur, his grand conquest, and the archeological legacy of his rule that we can still see today.
Led by an expert on Eurasian history and culture, Nina Wieda, this Conversation will enrich the participants' understanding of Eurasian history, as well as the history of architecture. Designed to inform curiosity as well as future travels, participants will come away with an increased appreciation for the nuances of political and art history and more understanding of the architectural wonders of today.
Nina Wieda is a native of the Caucasus living in Chicago, USA. She holds a Ph.D. in Slavic from Northwestern University and an MA in Nationalism Studies from Central European University. Nina also has experience in journalism, advertising, and consumer research – her writing has been published in three languages. She wrote her Master's thesis about the Northern Caucasus region. Dr. Wieda currently teaches at Northwestern University near Chicago.
This conversation is suitable for all ages.
90 minutes, including a 30 minute Q&A.
Provided a good context for the wonderful architecture in Samarkand.
Brilliant presentation, as usual for Dr. Wieda. I have some experience in this field, but I always learn something new from Dr. Wieda. Great visuals and very deep knowledge of the area, which she conveys very well.
Nina's talks on Central Asia are always informative but today I had a run in with Zoom! That made me late to the first of her talk. I like to be there LIVE but Zoom messed that up so I missed the first 10 minutes - but I love nina and her talks
Superb discussion of the history, historic, implications, and architectural reminders of Tamarlane’s reign.
Nina is such a storyteller! Right to the point, she will make you understand the importance of Central Asia in our global story!