The Lost Cities of the Taklamakan Desert

Show notes

This episode explores how Central Asia's desolate Taklamakan Desert became a focal point in imperial theories of climate stability during the late 19th century. Imperial explorers, including Aurel Stein and Sven Hedin, sought out the region's “lost cities,” uncovering a complex interplay of environmental change, geopolitical intrigue, and multicultural narratives.

The episode delves into the scientific investigations and debates that linked the “lost cities” of the Silk Roads to broader theories of climate change and desiccation, ultimately shaping uneven attempts by empires to impose global environmental norms. Based on research by Dr Lachlan Fleetwood, it sheds light on the overlooked role of Central Asian guides and brokers in these explorations, emphasizing the multicultural records that fueled imperial imaginations.

By examining the imperial categories rooted in environmental determinism, the episode unravels the past of Eurocentric climate theories, as exemplified by figures like Ellsworth Huntington. The lost cities of the Taklamakan, also help in understanding the historical roots of climate debates with contemporary implications.

As debates on climate-induced migration and global climate crises intensify, this episode urges listeners to critically assess historical understandings of climate and their postcolonial legacies. It emphasizes the importance of recognizing cultural biases and political interests embedded in our historical relationship with the environment, offering insights to reimagine our environmental narratives in the face of the present climate crisis.

Join us as we journey through the sands of time, unraveling the threads of environmental history that continue to shape our perceptions of habitability and climate stability today.

Episode idea and research: Lachlan Fleetwood Written by: Lachlan Fleetwood Podcast idea: Roland Wenzlhuemer & David Grillenberger (global dis:connect) Podcast concept: Roland Wenzlhuemer (global dis:connect) & Daniel Fürg (48forward) Production: The 48forward Studios