Ridiculous History Podcast Summary

Episode: Are the Vikings to Blame for Cats?
Release Date: November 19, 2024
Host: Ben Bullen and Noel Brown
Producer: Max Williams
Production: iHeartPodcasts

Introduction to Feline Fascination

Timestamp: [00:00 - 02:40]

Ben Bullen and Noel Brown kick off the episode with their characteristic humor, highlighting their shared appreciation for cats. Introducing their super producer, Max Williams, the hosts delve into the enigmatic nature of felines. Noel references a witty quote attributed to Sir Winston Churchill:

“Dogs look up to us, cats look down on us, and pigs treat us as equals.”
—Noel Brown [00:50]

This sets the tone for their exploration of cats' complex relationship with humans and their place in history.

Domestication: Cats on Their Own Terms

Timestamp: [02:08 - 08:00]

Ben elaborates on the unique domestication of cats, emphasizing that unlike many domesticated animals, cats essentially domesticated themselves. Noel concurs, noting:

“That's so like them.”
—Noel Brown [02:09]

They discuss the widespread popularity of cats throughout human civilization, citing Amy Tucannon from Britannica, who suggests that Vikings played a significant role in spreading domestic cats globally. This introduces the episode's central theme: the Vikings' influence on cat distribution.

Cats in Ancient Civilizations

Timestamp: [08:00 - 16:19]

The hosts delve into the historical significance of cats in ancient Egypt. Ben references Britannica:

“After the non-avian dinosaurs became extinct, mammals became the dominant life forms. The first feline-like mammal, the Proailurus, evolved about 30 million years ago.”
—Ben Bullen [08:11]

Noel humorously adds:

“They are pretty cute. And they're still around.”
—Noel Brown [08:56]

They explore how cats were revered in Egypt, protected in granaries, and even deified. Stories include Egyptian forces allegedly refusing to fight when cats were strapped to soldiers, illustrating the deep respect and almost sacred status cats held.

The Viking Connection: Cats Across the Seas

Timestamp: [23:05 - 40:27]

Ben introduces a pivotal study by Eva Marie Geigel, a paleogeneticist, which analyzes mitochondrial DNA from cat remains across Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. The study reveals that:

“Cats from the Near East and Classical Egypt accompanied people on their journeys, thereby conquering the ancient world. They were the ancestors of our present-day domestic cats all over the world.”
—Ben Bullen [27:32]

Noel discusses the Vikings' extensive trade networks, noting that:

“The Vikings were farmers as well as seafaring marauders. They raised cats for their warm fur and to control pests.”
—Noel Brown [38:10]

This symbiotic relationship between Vikings and cats facilitated the spread of felines across various regions, including distant lands like Greenland and Iceland. The hosts also touch upon Norse mythology, highlighting Freya, the goddess of love, who was depicted with cats pulling her carriage, further cementing the bond between Vikings and their feline companions.

Evolution and Behavior: From Ancient Hunters to Modern Pets

Timestamp: [40:26 - 43:57]

The discussion shifts to the evolution of domestic cats, with Ben pointing out an intriguing trend:

“Domestic cats in Denmark, especially, have increased significantly in size since the Viking Age. About 16% bigger on average since what we call the Viking era.”
—Ben Bullen [37:52]

Noel muses on this anomaly:

“It's interesting. I don't quite understand why they've grown.”
—Noel Brown [37:38]

They speculate that factors such as improved access to food and better living conditions may have contributed to the larger size of modern domestic cats. Additionally, Ben compares cats to other agile creatures:

“Cats are famous for being able to maneuver their bodies through apertures that… land on their feet.”
—Ben Bullen [42:09]

Noel adds humorously:

“Fun at parties.”
—Noel Brown [41:38]

This segment underscores the remarkable adaptability and resilience of cats, traits that have allowed them to thrive alongside humans for millennia.

Cultural Impact and Folklore

Timestamp: [43:57 - 44:36]

Ben and Noel wrap up the historical exploration by acknowledging the rich folklore surrounding cats. They invite listeners to engage by sharing cat photos and stories, celebrating the enduring legacy of felines in both ancient and modern cultures.

Noel playfully comments on their producer Max's knowledge about cats on boats:

“Guys, just don't die around your pets.”
—Noel Brown [41:38]

This lighthearted exchange highlights the podcast's blend of informative content and entertaining banter.

Conclusion and Acknowledgments

Timestamp: [44:10 - 47:01]

In concluding the episode, the hosts extend gratitude to their contributors, including Max Williams and various listeners who shared their cat stories. They emphasize the significant role Vikings may have played in the global dissemination of domestic cats, leaving listeners with a deeper appreciation for these "ridiculous" yet majestic creatures.

Notable Quotes:

• Noel Brown [00:50]: “Dogs look up to us, cats look down on us, and pigs treat us as equals.”

• Ben Bullen [08:11]: “After the non-avian dinosaurs became extinct, mammals became the dominant life forms. The first feline-like mammal, the Proailurus, evolved about 30 million years ago.”

• Ben Bullen [27:32]: “Cats from the Near East and Classical Egypt accompanied people on their journeys, thereby conquering the ancient world. They were the ancestors of our present-day domestic cats all over the world.”

• Noel Brown [38:10]: “The Vikings were farmers as well as seafaring marauders. They raised cats for their warm fur and to control pests.”

• Ben Bullen [37:52]: “Domestic cats in Denmark, especially, have increased significantly in size since the Viking Age. About 16% bigger on average since what we call the Viking era.”

• Ben Bullen [42:09]: “Cats are famous for being able to maneuver their bodies through apertures that… land on their feet.”

This episode of "Ridiculous History" offers a captivating journey through time, unraveling the intertwined destinies of Vikings and cats. By blending historical analysis with engaging storytelling, Ben and Noel illuminate how these formidable seafarers may have inadvertently shaped the global presence of one of humanity's most beloved companions.