Join us at the Royal Agricultural University, Cirencester, as we mark 180 years since the foundation of the Royal Agricultural College, the very first agricultural college in the English speaking world.
We are holding a series of events throughout the year - including lectures, debates, and open days - so do follow us to make sure you stay up to date on our events and celebrations.
Globalisation and Empire; an archaeology
The second lecture in our 180th anniversary lecture series will take place on Wednesday 11 June 2025 in the Boutflour Hall at the Royal Agricultural University (RAU).
The lecture, entitled Globalisation and Empire; an archaeology, will be delivered by Professor Mark Horton, RAU Pro Vice-Chancellor Research and Enterprise, and Professor of Archaeology at the RAU, and eminent historian William Dalrymple.
Discussing Professor Horton's 40 years of archaeological and historical research, their conversation will take us from the shores of Madagascar, Zanzibar, and Sri Lanka, to the Vikings, Panama, the Caribbean, and Virginia, and will help to explain why historical archaeology is so important in discovering the origins of the modern world.
Professor Horton has conducted archaeological research since 1980s in East Africa, the Caribbean, Europe and America. His research has included investigating the ancient origins of the maritime silk road, how crops and animals were dispersed across Eurasia, and the pioneer colonies established by Europeans during the 16th and 17th centuries.
William Dalrymple is a prolific author on Indian history, colonialism, and empire, and his most recent book, The Golden Road, explores the profound influence of India on the ancient world.
Come along to hear more about why historical archaeology is so important in discovering the origins of the modern world.
Location: RAU Cirencester
Date: 11 June 2025
Time: 18.00 to 20.00
Tickets and parking are free.