The Romanovs: Power, Glory, and Intrigue

Program Details

Description: For over 300 years, the Romanovs reigned supreme, transforming Russia from a ridiculed outlier into a dominant empire on the world stage. This is the saga of rulers who earned titles like "The Great" and "The Terrible," shaping a legacy of brilliance, ruthlessness, and ambition. Explore how their dynasty laid the foundations of modern Russia and inspired leaders like Putin himself. And in a surprising twist of history, discover how—should the Romanovs ever return—our own King Charles might have a claim to their throne. FEE: Free for Patrons SCHEDULE: Thursday, February 13 from 10:00 to 11:00 AM FORMAT: This is an online event. A link will be emailed to participants one day before the event. PRESENTER Alan Freeland is a passionate historian and educator who brings the past to life through engaging workshops and lectures. After a successful career in IT, he shifted his focus to history and art, inspiring audiences with his dynamic teaching and deep knowledge. At the Farnham branch of the University of the Third Age (u3a), Alan leads workshops for the Art History and World History groups and is a sought-after speaker for Probus groups, London u3a virtual programs, and the London u3a Summer School. One of his specialties is the history of the Romanov dynasty, a topic he explores with passion and precision in his workshops. Alan also has a deep connection to the history of the Silk Roads, a subject he explored extensively during a three-year u3a group he led. His travels along this historic route—from Xi’an, China, to the Turkmenistan border and through Georgia—provide firsthand insights that enrich his teaching. Additionally, he offers Silk Road-themed tours at the Victoria and Albert Museum and the British Museum, sharing the fascinating legacy of this ancient trade network. Whether uncovering the stories of the Romanovs or unraveling the Silk Roads, Alan’s passion for history and talent for teaching leave his audiences inspired and informed.