The Rebel Empresses: Elisabeth of Austria and Eugénie of France

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In our latest Not Old Better Show, Smithsonian Associates Interview series episode, I had the pleasure of speaking with acclaimed historian and author Nancy Goldstone about her riveting new book, The Rebel Empresses. It’s a dual biography that traces the intertwined lives of two women who refused to be footnotes in the grand story of European empire.

Elisabeth (known as Sisi) and Eugénie were married into power, but they never conformed to it. They pushed boundaries—from challenging court politics to redefining women’s roles in public life. One became the fashion icon of her age; the other quietly reformed prisons, promoted women’s education, and preserved a nation’s cultural identity.

Yet both women lived through unimaginable personal sorrow. Nancy’s storytelling reveals their complexity—not as tragic figures, but as bold, often misunderstood agents of change. For listeners 50+, their stories remind us it’s never too late to be influential, purposeful… even radical.

📚 Whether you love women’s history, European politics, or simply a good story well told, this episode is worth your time. Nancy Goldstone’s research, wit, and passion shine through every minute.

🎙️ Listen on Apple Podcasts!
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