Queen Nzinga (Early/ Ad Free)

This week we’re heading to 16th-century West Africa to meet one of the most badass rulers we’ve ever covered: Queen Nzinga.

In this episode, we follow Nzinga’s rise from the king’s sharp, politically savvy daughter to a diplomat who could outmaneuver European governors—and eventually to a warrior queen who spent decades fighting colonial powers. Along the way there are power moves, questionable European propaganda, mercenary armies, and one legendary moment involving a human chair that absolutely belongs in a movie.

Basically: if someone tried to make her sit on the floor, Nzinga made sure she ran the room instead. Cheers to that. 🍹

Time stamps:

00:00 SXSW VIP Night

02:54 Meet Queen Nzinga

03:37 Cocktail and Shoutouts

04:41 Tarot Vibe Check

06:00 Nzinga Origins

09:45 Portugal and Slave Trade

18:03 Luanda Power Move

25:03 Crown Grab and Fallout

28:23 Mercenaries and Freelancers

32:29 Harem of Husbands

37:24 Dutch Alliance and Guns

44:00 Catholic PR Strategy

53:15 Peace and Prosperity

57:08 Legacy After Death