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May 24, 2025 10 mins

She fled a murderous brother, founded one of the ancient world’s greatest cities, and broke a Roman hero’s heart. But who was Dido - queen, exile, sorceress, or political genius?

In this episode of History Shorts, we dive into the legend and legacy of Dido, the fabled founder of Carthage. Blending myth and history, we explore her dramatic flight from Tyre, the cunning land deal that won her a kingdom, and the tragic love story with Aeneas that became a centerpiece of Virgil’s Aeneid.

We also ask:

  • What does archaeology tell us about the real Carthage Dido might have ruled?

  • Was she a mythologized pawn of Roman propaganda—or an independent figure in Phoenician history?

  • How did Dido’s death become a symbol of betrayal, resistance, and feminine power?

Whether you know her from epic poetry or high school mythology, Dido’s story is more than ancient melodrama—it’s a tale of resilience, diplomacy, and the founding of an empire that would one day rival Rome.

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LEARN MORE AT: www.historyshortspodcast.com

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