In the dusty uplands of eastern Asia begins the story of three rivers that became the lifeblood of a superpower.

In this episode, Ewen Levick tells the story of China. He explores how civilisation first arose in the floodplains of three major river deltas, some of the most fertile and abundant lands on Earth. Hear the story of the first dynasties and how they took a sign from the heavens as their mandate to rule. Discover China’s long history of golden ages and violent collapse, of philosophy and invention, of war and tribute; and hear how it all came crashing down in the Industrial Age, only to rise again in the 21st century.

How has China’s ancient past shaped the country we know today? What do China’s leaders fear most of all? And are the US and China destined to go to war?

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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 digitalmanager@yaffa.com.au.

Host: Ewen Levick

Executive Producer: Steve Visscher

Yaffa Media - © 2026