14: The World's Second Oldest Profession

Before cocaine, before cartels and before borders as we know them, there was smuggling.Former UK Customs officer and de facto drug war historian Mike Gough Cooper takes us deep into the fascinating history of what he calls the world’s second oldest profession.From Roman Britain and Viking protection rackets to Robin Hood, and brutal smuggling gangs, this is the story of how smuggling shaped Britain, funded wars, corrupted officials, and helped create modern law enforcement. Customs men Geoffrey Chaucer, Robbie Burns and Dick Whittington all chased smugglers in their time. Mike also explains how customs officers were once among the most powerful figures in the country, armed with extraordinary search powers, secret commissions, and even the authority to call in the military.These are the Narco Warriors.New episodes every Monday.Host: Lindsay CharltonInsider: Mike Gough Cooper