Warfare

<p>In accounts of the Second World War, the role Navy's played is often overlooked. But the Navy's of both the Allied and Axis forces engaged in some of the biggest maritime campaigns in history. From near total elimination of forces, to epic sea battles, the Second World War changed seafaring conflict and naval power forever. So what can we learn about this period in history, and what are some of the stand out moments?</p><br><p>In this episode, James joined renowned military historian Paul Kennedy at Yale University, to dive into this moment of history. Together, they explore the history of the Royal Navy and the other naval powers of WW2; examining their ferocious maritime campaigns and answering the question, how were the Allies were finally able to achieve victory at sea?</p><br><p>Paul's book <em>Victory at Sea</em> is available <a href="https://yalebooks.co.uk/page/detail/victory-at-sea/?k=9780300219173" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a>.</p><br><p>The Senior Producer was Elena Guthrie</p><p>The Assistant Producer was Annie Coloe</p><p>Mixed & edited by Aidan Lonergan</p><br><p>For more Warfare content, subscribe to our Warfare newsletter <a href="https://www.historyhit.com/sign-up-to-history-hit/?utm_source=timelinenewsletter&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=Timeline+Podcast+Campaign" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here.</a> If you'd like to learn even more, we have hundreds of history documentaries, ad free podcasts and audiobooks at <a href="https://access.historyhit.com/?utm_source=audio&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=Podcast+Campaign&utm_id=Podcast" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">History Hit</a> - subscribe today!</p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

<p>2023 marks the 20th anniversary of the US and its allies invading Iraq under the pretence to remove dictator Saddam Hussein and his apparent ‘weapons of mass destruction’. One of the most controversial and divisive military campaigns of the modern era, the legalities of the war are still debated today. Two decades later, the Iraq War continues to have a profound impact on global politics, military strategy, and the lives of those who were involved.</p><br><p>In this episode, James welcomes back Ben Barry, who oversaw an official British military analysis of the Iraq War, to reflect on this event. Ben provides a comprehensive overview of the conflict, exploring the political and historical context that led to the invasion, the military strategy employed by the US and its allies, and the complex and evolving nature of urban conflict on the ground. So how did this conflict change the modern world, and what can we learn 20 years on?</p><br><p>Tickets are still available for James' talk <a href="https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/james-rogers-killing-precisely-a-history-of-precision-warfare-tickets-559954357557" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a>.</p><br><p>Ben's new book is available <a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/Blood-Metal-Dust-Victory-Afghanistan/dp/1472831047" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a>.</p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

<p>The Korean War was a vital moment in world history - changing geopolitics on the Korean Peninsula and beyond forever. With nearly 5 million dead, it's often referred to as 'the forgotten war' - but <em>Devotion</em> author Adam Makos is trying to change that. Following the true story of famous aviator duo, Lieutenant Tom Hudner and Ensign Jesse Brown, Adam looks at the acts of bravery and sacrifice that defined this period of world history. But what role did the US Navy play in Korea - and why is Hudner and Brown's story so remarkable?</p><br><p>In this episode, James is joined by Adam to take a deep dive into the true story that inspired his book, and later the Hollywood blockbuster. Looking at Adam's incredible first-hand interviews with the Veterans who served in Korea and how this event changed their lives forever - will the Korean War finally be remembered as it should?</p><br><p>Tickets are still available <a href="https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/james-rogers-killing-precisely-a-history-of-precision-warfare-tickets-559954357557" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a> for James' talk 'Killing Precisely: A History of Precision Warfare'</p><br><p>For more Warfare content, subscribe to our Warfare newsletter <a href="https://www.historyhit.com/sign-up-to-history-hit/?utm_source=timelinenewsletter&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=Timeline+Podcast+Campaign" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here.</a> If you'd like to learn even more, we have hundreds of history documentaries, ad free podcasts and audiobooks at <a href="https://access.historyhit.com/?utm_source=audio&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=Podcast+Campaign&utm_id=Podcast" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">History Hit</a> - subscribe today!</p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

<p>March 2023 marks the 20th anniversary of the Iraq war, seeing US and British troops enter the country - the legalities of which are still debated today. The legacy it’s left behind includes over 1 million Iraqi deaths, thousands of troops, and a power vacuum that allowed the rise to power of terrorist organisation, ISIS. So how did the United Kingdom end up embroiled in a so called ‘Illegal War’, and was there anything that could’ve been done to prevent it?</p><br><p>In the first episode of our March mini-series, reflecting back on the Iraq war, James is joined by Dr James Strong to examine Tony Blair and the UK Government’s involvement in the middle east. Looking at the series of events paving the way for the invasion, inaccurate MI6 information, and the role the so called ‘Special Relationship’ played - it asks the question, why <em>was</em> Blair so desperate to get into Iraq, and what legacy has he left behind?</p><br><p>This episode was produced by Annie Coloe. The editors were Tomos Delargy and Aidan Lonergan.</p><br><p>For more Warfare content, subscribe to our Warfare newsletter <a href="https://www.historyhit.com/sign-up-to-history-hit/?utm_source=timelinenewsletter&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=Timeline+Podcast+Campaign" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here.</a> If you'd like to learn even more, we have hundreds of history documentaries, ad free podcasts and audiobooks at <a href="https://access.historyhit.com/?utm_source=audio&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=Podcast+Campaign&utm_id=Podcast" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">History Hit</a> - subscribe today!</p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

<p>One of the most significant events of the 20th century, the 1917 Russian Revolution saw the overthrow of the Tsar and the birth of a new communist era. So what exactly led up to Russia’s historic and bloody transformation into the Soviet Union?</p><br><p>In this episode, James is joined by renowned historian and author Sir Antony Beever at the very London pub where Vladimir Lenin and other exiled Russian revolutionaries plotted their overthrow of the Tsarist regime. Together, they reflect on the ideas, motivations, and actions of those who shaped the course of history from this very spot over 100 years ago.</p><br><p>Sir Antony's new book on the Russian Revolution is available for pre-order <a href="https://www.waterstones.com/book/russia/antony-beevor/9781474610162" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a>. </p><br><p>For more Warfare content, subscribe to our Warfare newsletter <a href="https://www.historyhit.com/sign-up-to-history-hit/?utm_source=timelinenewsletter&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=Timeline+Podcast+Campaign" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here.</a> If you'd like to learn even more, we have hundreds of history documentaries, ad free podcasts and audiobooks at <a href="https://access.historyhit.com/?utm_source=audio&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=Podcast+Campaign&utm_id=Podcast" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">History Hit</a> - subscribe today!</p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

<p>As Cold War tensions escalated in the early 1950s, the White House became obsessed with one core goal: Containing Communism. Nowhere was this more true than in Guatemala. The United States viewed the Central American country as one which was firmly within its own backyard, and thus fair game for external interference. It was for this reason that in 1954 - before the Bay of Pigs or the Cuban Missile Crisis - the CIA carried out one of its most damaging, and notorious, military coups - aiding the overthrow of Guatemala's first democratically elected President.</p><br><p>In this episode, James is joined by Dr Rachel Nolan from Boston University, to take a deep dive into the CIA's infamous 1954 military coup that sparked a wave of violence in Guatemala and beyond for decades. With the effects of this geopolitical scandal still felt today, what can we learn from this shocking moment in history, and how come not one, but <em>two</em>, US Presidents signed off on it?</p><br><p>For more US history, check out History Hit's newest podcast - American History Hit. From pre-colonial times to independence, slavery to civil rights, the Gold Rush to the Space Race, join Don Wildman as he explores America's past, to understand the United States of today. New episodes every Monday and Thursday. Listen here, wherever you get you podcasts: <a href="https://pod.link/1638918169" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://pod.link/1638918169</a></p><br><p>For more Warfare content, subscribe to our Warfare newsletter <a href="https://www.historyhit.com/sign-up-to-history-hit/?utm_source=timelinenewsletter&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=Timeline+Podcast+Campaign" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here.</a> If you'd like to learn even more, we have hundreds of history documentaries, ad free podcasts and audiobooks at <a href="https://access.historyhit.com/?utm_source=audio&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=Podcast+Campaign&utm_id=Podcast" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">History Hit</a> - subscribe today!</p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

<p>One year ago today, on February 24th 2022, the world watched as Russia launched a full scale invasion of Ukraine. Despite intelligence gathered from Ukraine's western allies in the previous months, the invasion was a shock to many in Ukraine and beyond. With the expectation that Kyiv would fall within a matter of days, it was a surprise to all when President Zelensky defiantly posted a video of him and his team standing in the middle of the city a day after the invasion, having rejected US offers of evacuation, declaring '<em>I need ammunition, not a ride</em>'.</p><br><p>Since then, various world leaders have visited Kyiv to look at the destruction that has been caused in the last 12 months. With Western supplies of ammunition, and President Biden doubling down on his unwavering support for Ukraine, it's hard to see where, and when, this conflict will end. With an unconfirmed death toll from either side, and the largest European refugee crisis since the Second World War, peace is seemingly nowhere on the horizon a year on. So what's next for Ukraine? Today James is joined by Professor Michael Clarke, a leading defence expert and Government advisor, to look at the key turning points within the conflict, while trying to answer - what's next for Ukraine, and in hand, the rest of the world?</p><br><p>The Senior Producer was Elena Guthrie</p><p>The Assistant Producer was Annie Coloe</p><p>Mixed & edited by Aidan Lonergan</p><br><p>For more Warfare content, subscribe to our Warfare newsletter <a href="https://www.historyhit.com/sign-up-to-history-hit/?utm_source=timelinenewsletter&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=Timeline+Podcast+Campaign" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here.</a> If you'd like to learn even more, we have hundreds of history documentaries, ad free podcasts and audiobooks at <a href="https://access.historyhit.com/?utm_source=audio&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=Podcast+Campaign&utm_id=Podcast" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">History Hit</a> - subscribe today!</p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

<p>9/11 remains the most infamous act of terrorism perpetrated against the United States - but it did not mark the first time terrorists had targeted New York’s World Trade Center. Thirty years ago on February 26 1993, a huge 600kg bomb exploded in the parking garage beneath the twin towers, causing a 100ft crater that was several stories deep. Six people died instantly, with thousands hurt in panicked attempts to evacuate. And yet, due to what would happen at the World Trade Center eight years later, this attack is rarely remembered.</p><br><p>In this episode, James is joined by leading terrorism expert and University of Birmingham historian Dr Steve Hewitt to learn more about the day Middle Eastern terrorism arrived on American soil, foreshadowing the tragic events of 2001.</p><br><p>The Senior Producer was Elena Guthrie</p><p>The Assistant Producer was Annie Coloe</p><p>Mixed & edited by Aidan Lonergan</p><br><p>For more US history, check out History Hit's newest podcast - American History Hit. From pre-colonial times to independence, slavery to civil rights, the Gold Rush to the Space Race, join Don Wildman as he explores America's past, to understand the United States of today. New episodes every Monday and Thursday. Listen here, wherever you get you podcasts: <a href="https://pod.link/1638918169" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://pod.link/1638918169</a></p><br><p>For more Warfare content, subscribe to our Warfare newsletter <a href="https://www.historyhit.com/sign-up-to-history-hit/?utm_source=timelinenewsletter&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=Timeline+Podcast+Campaign" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here.</a> If you'd like to learn even more, we have hundreds of history documentaries, ad free podcasts and audiobooks at <a href="https://access.historyhit.com/?utm_source=audio&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=Podcast+Campaign&utm_id=Podcast" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">History Hit</a> - subscribe today!</p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

<p>Vladimir Lenin is one name that is known across the world. Rising to power during the Russian Revolution and Civil War, he was the first Communist dictator in history and the architect of the Red Terror - a deadly campaign of political oppression and execution carried out in the earliest years of Soviet Russia. But contrary to his self-avowed image as champion of the proletariat, Lenin was actually raised in an upper-middle-class family of Russian monarchists, with little to mark him out as a future revolutionary.</p><br><p>In this episode James is joined by Victor Sebestyen, a renowned historian of Communism and Russian History. Together they examine the life of Lenin, from his privileged upbringing to his exile in the UK & Europe, and finally to his triumphant return to the motherland during the October Revolution that heralded a the Soviet Era. Looking at the events that shaped Lenin's political mind, it raises the question - was Lenin always destined to usher in a new age of Russian history?</p><br><p>Victor's book is available <a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/Lenin-Man-Dictator-Master-Terror/dp/1101871636" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a>.</p><br><p>For more Warfare content, subscribe to our Warfare newsletter <a href="https://www.historyhit.com/sign-up-to-history-hit/?utm_source=timelinenewsletter&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=Timeline+Podcast+Campaign" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here.</a> If you'd like to learn even more, we have hundreds of history documentaries, ad free podcasts and audiobooks at <a href="https://access.historyhit.com/?utm_source=audio&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=Podcast+Campaign&utm_id=Podcast" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">History Hit</a> - subscribe today!</p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

<p>Before America officially entered the Second World War in December 1941, it offered the allies significant support in terms of military supplies and funds. A well oiled and efficient machine, American industry was serving the war effort from September 1940, and it's output only increased as the War went on. Over time, America provided two thirds of the Allies' military equipment, including 2 million army trucks and nearly 300,000 aircrafts. But where was this all happening, and how was it sustainable for the people running the show?</p><br><p>In this episode, James chats to Len Roberto at the Connecticut Air and Space Museum, about this fascinating moment of American History. Due to it's location on the Atlantic coast, Connecticut was a hub of innovation and industry during the Second World War. So what's there to be learnt about this lesser known part of American History, and just how much did it influence the War?</p><br><p>For more US history, check out History Hit's newest podcast - American History Hit. From pre-colonial times to independence, slavery to civil rights, the Gold Rush to the Space Race, join Don Wildman as he explores America's past, to understand the United States of today. New episodes every Monday and Thursday. Listen here, wherever you get you podcasts: <a href="https://pod.link/1638918169" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://pod.link/1638918169</a></p><br><p>For more Warfare content, subscribe to our Warfare newsletter <a href="https://www.historyhit.com/sign-up-to-history-hit/?utm_source=timelinenewsletter&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=Timeline+Podcast+Campaign" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here.</a> If you'd like to learn even more, we have hundreds of history documentaries, ad free podcasts and audiobooks at <a href="https://access.historyhit.com/?utm_source=audio&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=Podcast+Campaign&utm_id=Podcast" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">History Hit</a> - subscribe today!</p><p><br></p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

<p>What happens when a nuclear bomb is accidentally dropped onto foreign soil? Or when a nuke just goes missing? Rather worryingly, it happens more often that you would think.</p><br><p>There’s a special term for these nuclear near misses - ‘broken arrow incidents’. In this episode, James is joined by Warfare favourite and historian Alex Wellerstein, to explore these many broken arrow incidents spanning from the Cold War to the present day. They'll be finding out how close to disaster we’ve come over the years, and importantly where those missing nukes might be hiding.</p><br><p>Alex Wellerstein’s blog is <a href="https://alexwellerstein.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a>.</p><br><p>Senior Producer: Elena Guthrie. Assistant Producer: Annie Coloe. Edited and mixed by Stuart Beckwith.</p><br><p>For more Warfare content, subscribe to our Warfare newsletter <a href="https://www.historyhit.com/sign-up-to-history-hit/?utm_source=timelinenewsletter&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=Timeline+Podcast+Campaign" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here.</a></p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

<p>When you think of some of the remarkable feats of airpower throughout history, you might think of the Dambusters, or the Battle of Britain. But what about some of the untold stories of Britain's remarkable black airmen? Since the early 20th Century, black airmen played vital roles as pilots, ground crew, and even resistance fighters across the world wars and beyond. But what do we actually know about these exceptional figures?</p><br><p>In this episode, James is joined by author K.N. Chimbiri to shine a light on some of the incredible men who helped shape Britain's future. Looking at the vital contributions these individuals made to the war effort, and even world history, what can we learn from the Britain's black airmen?</p><br><p>Kandace's book <em>The Story of Britain's Black Airmen</em> is available <a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/Story-Britains-Black-Airmen/dp/0702307424" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a>.</p><br><p>Senior Producer: Elena Guthrie. Assistant Producer: Annie Coloe. Edited and mixed by Aidan Lonergan.</p><br><p>For more Warfare content, subscribe to our Warfare newsletter <a href="https://www.historyhit.com/sign-up-to-history-hit/?utm_source=timelinenewsletter&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=Timeline+Podcast+Campaign" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here.</a></p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

<p>The Battle of Stalingrad was the deadliest battle of the Second World War, seeing 1.2 million killed, and thousands more wounded. One of the most brutal clashes in history, the battle raged between the forces of Nazi Germany and Soviet Russia for five months from August 1942 to February 1943. A key turning point of World War Two, Stalingrad played host to some the fiercest urban warfare ever seen throughout history, and left a devastating legacy.</p><br><p>In this episode, 80 years on from the siege ending, James is joined by historian Iain MacGregor, to reveal the hidden truths at the heart of the Battle. Looking at the historical context and the significance it still holds today, what can we learn from the Battle of Stalingrad 80 years on?</p><br><p>Iain's book <em>The Lighthouse of Stalingrad</em> is available <a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/Lighthouse-Stalingrad-Hidden-Centre-Greatest/dp/1472135210" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a>.</p><br><p>Senior Producer: Elena Guthrie. Assistant Producer: Annie Coloe. Edited and mixed by Aidan Lonergan.</p><br><p>For more Warfare content, subscribe to our Warfare newsletter <a href="https://www.historyhit.com/sign-up-to-history-hit/?utm_source=timelinenewsletter&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=Timeline+Podcast+Campaign" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here.</a></p><br><p>If you'd like to learn even more, we have hundreds of history documentaries, ad free podcasts and audiobooks at <a href="https://access.historyhit.com/?utm_source=audio&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=Podcast+Campaign&utm_id=Podcast" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">History Hit</a> - enter promo code WARFARE for a free trial, plus 50% off your first three months' subscription.</p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

<p>Dwight D. Eisenhower was born in 1890, before the Wright Brothers had completed man's first flight, and died just weeks short of man's first steps on the moon. With involvement in multiple wars, from soldier to president - how did 'Ike' as he was known become the giant of history that we know today?</p><br><p>In this episode James is joined by award-winning Journalist, and White House press corps member Paul Brandus, who takes us through Eisenhower's remarkable career. Looking at the major conflicts he was involved in, and the political legacy he left - what can Eisenhower's life & legacy teach us about the key moments in American History?</p><br><p>Senior Producer: Elena Guthrie. Assistant Producer: Annie Coloe. Edited and mixed by Aidan Lonergan.</p><br><p>For more Warfare content, subscribe to our Warfare newsletter <a href="https://www.historyhit.com/sign-up-to-history-hit/?utm_source=timelinenewsletter&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=Timeline+Podcast+Campaign" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here.</a></p><br><p>If you'd like to learn even more, we have hundreds of history documentaries, ad free podcasts and audiobooks at <a href="https://access.historyhit.com/?utm_source=audio&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=Podcast+Campaign&utm_id=Podcast" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">History Hit</a> - enter promo code WARFARE for a free trial, plus 50% off your first three months' subscription.</p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

<p>The Bahía de Cochinos, also known as the Bay of Pigs, is a place that lives in infamy for the CIA. On April 17 1961, 1,500 US-trained Cuban exiles launched an unprecedented military landing operation on their homeland there, but how did it go so disastrously wrong? With hundreds of men killed, and even more captured, why did President John F. Kennedy sign off on such a perilous plan - and who really came up with it?</p><br><p>In this episode of Warfare, James is joined by writer Jim Rasenberger to take us through this chaotic moment in history. Looking at the US's relationship with Cuban Dictator Fidel Castro, the logistics that went into the operation, and Jim's personal connection to the story - just what happened at the Bay of Pigs, and who was really to blame?</p><br><p>Senior Producer: Elena Guthrie. Assistant Producer: Annie Coloe. Edited and mixed by Aidan Lonergan.</p><br><p>For more Warfare content, subscribe to our Warfare newsletter <a href="https://www.historyhit.com/sign-up-to-history-hit/?utm_source=timelinenewsletter&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=Timeline+Podcast+Campaign" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here.</a></p><br><p>If you'd like to learn even more, we have hundreds of history documentaries, ad free podcasts and audiobooks at <a href="https://access.historyhit.com/?utm_source=audio&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=Podcast+Campaign&utm_id=Podcast" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">History Hit</a> - enter promo code WARFARE for a free trial, plus 50% off your first three months' subscription.</p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

<p>Located off the coast of Florida, Puerto Rico, and its namesake Bermuda - the mysterious Bermuda Triangle is an urban myth that's risen in popularity over the decades. But how come so many planes and boats disappear in this region - and what makes Flight 19 so special? In December 1945, at the end of the Second World War, 5 bombers took off from Fort Lauderdale in a routine navigational training exercise. But these bombers, along with the crew members inside them, would never be seen again. So what happened to Flight 19 and its men?</p><br><p>In this episode James is joined by historian David O'Keefe to help unravel this historical mystery. David put together an expert team to go out into the Triangle to see if they could recover any of the wreckage - but what did they actually find? And how did NASA and the President of the United States end up being involved?</p><br><p>Senior Producer: Elena Guthrie. Assistant Producer: Annie Coloe. Edited and mixed by Aidan Lonergan.</p><br><p>For more Warfare content, subscribe to our Warfare newsletter <a href="https://www.historyhit.com/sign-up-to-history-hit/?utm_source=timelinenewsletter&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=Timeline+Podcast+Campaign" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here.</a></p><br><p>If you'd like to learn even more, we have hundreds of history documentaries, ad free podcasts and audiobooks at <a href="https://access.historyhit.com/?utm_source=audio&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=Podcast+Campaign&utm_id=Podcast" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">History Hit</a> - enter promo code WARFARE for a free trial, plus 50% off your first three months' subscription.</p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

<p>Founded in 1775, the United States Marines Corps (colloquially known as the US Marines) have a long standing history, and a reputation that precedes them. An elite group made up of personnel from across the United States, they played a vital role in the Pacific during the Second World War, and were tasked with taking on the Imperial Japanese army. But how did a group of Marines earn the nickname 'devil dogs', and who's responsible for telling this harrowing story?</p><br><p>In this episode James is joined by award winning historian and author Saul David, to take us through the Devil Dog's journey. From Guadalcanal in 1942 to the shores of Japan in 1945 - what happened to this group of men, and who lived to tell the tale of Okinawa?</p><br><p>For more Warfare content, subscribe to our Warfare newsletter <a href="https://www.historyhit.com/sign-up-to-history-hit/?utm_source=timelinenewsletter&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=Timeline+Podcast+Campaign" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here.</a></p><br><p>If you'd like to learn even more, we have hundreds of history documentaries, ad free podcasts and audiobooks at <a href="https://access.historyhit.com/?utm_source=audio&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=Podcast+Campaign&utm_id=Podcast" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">History Hit</a> - enter promo code WARFARE for a free trial, plus 50% off your first three months' subscription.</p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

<p>After the fall of France during the Second World War, Britain became an isolated nation - dependent on the strength of it's coastal forces to keep the Axis powers at bay. The task to protect the small island nation fell on 2000 small, wooden boats to fight back against the enemy no matter the weather. But how successful were these forces, and why did they earn the nickname the 'Spitfires of the Seas'?</p><br><p>In todays episode, James is joined by archaeologist and historian Stephen Fisher, to help shine a light on this often overlooked subject. Looking at the origins of these vital boats from both World Wars, through to their repurposed lives now - what do we know about the Spitfires of the Sea?</p><br><p>For more Warfare content, subscribe to our Warfare newsletter <a href="https://www.historyhit.com/sign-up-to-history-hit/?utm_source=timelinenewsletter&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=Timeline+Podcast+Campaign" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here.</a></p><br><p>If you'd like to learn even more, we have hundreds of history documentaries, ad free podcasts and audiobooks at <a href="https://access.historyhit.com/?utm_source=audio&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=Podcast+Campaign&utm_id=Podcast" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">History Hit</a> - enter promo code WARFARE for a free trial, plus 50% off your first three months' subscription</p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

<p>Known today as one of the most powerful law enforcement agencies in the world - the Federal Bureau of Investigation, more colloquially known as the FBI, didn't always have such a great reputation. Once riddled with scandal and unseemly behaviour, how did the FBI turn into the well oiled machine it is today? And just who was responsible for this change?</p><br><p>In today's episode, James joined Professor Beverly Gage at Yale University to talk about the man behind this extraordinary feat - J. Edgar Hoover. Looking at Beverly's decade of research into this infamous figure - just how did Hoover transform the FBI, and what secrets was she able to uncover in the process?</p><br><p>Beverly's book <em>G-Man: J. Edgar Hoover and the Making of the American Century</em> is available <a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/G-Man-Edgar-Hoover-American-Century/dp/0857201050" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a>.</p><br><p>For more Warfare content, subscribe to our Warfare newsletter <a href="https://www.historyhit.com/sign-up-to-history-hit/?utm_source=timelinenewsletter&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=Timeline+Podcast+Campaign" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here.</a> </p><br><p>If you'd like to learn even more, we have hundreds of history documentaries, ad free podcasts and audiobooks at <a href="https://access.historyhit.com/?utm_source=audio&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=Podcast+Campaign&utm_id=Podcast" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">History Hit</a> - enter promo code WARFARE for a free trial, plus 50% off your first three months' subscription.</p><br><p>To download, go to <a href="https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.historyhit&hl=en_GB&gl=US" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Android ></a> or <a href="https://apps.apple.com/gb/app/history-hit/id1303668247" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Apple store ></a></p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

<p>Abraham Lincoln is a name that's been immortalised throughout history - the 16th President who led the country through the infamous American Civil War, and ultimately abolished slavery. But who is the man behind the myth, and why is he so revered even to this day?</p><br><p>In this episode, James is joined by Professor Adam Smith to look at this giant of history. Looking at Lincoln's early life as a self-taught Lawyer, through to his meteoric political ascent - what drove Abraham Lincoln to greatness, and is there anything to be learnt from his actions?</p><br><p>For more Warfare content, subscribe to our Warfare Wednesday newsletter <a href="https://www.historyhit.com/sign-up-to-history-hit/?utm_source=timelinenewsletter&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=Timeline+Podcast+Campaign" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a>.</p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

<p>Napoleon, Alexander the Great, and Boudicca. These are the names that normally top the list when it comes to the greatest military leaders in history, but today’s guest is taking a slightly different approach. </p><br><p>Professor of War Studies at University of Warwick, Anthony King, is drawing on his experience with some of the most senior military leaders to rank his top five divisional commanders based on what he’s learnt about command, through their actions. </p><br><p>What do you think needs to be taken into consideration to decide whether a commander is good or bad? Is It number of wins or defeats? Is it execution of logistics or operational sense? Is it their officer selection or how they deploy a division? </p><br><p>Who would be in your list? And do you agree with Professor King? </p><br><p>Anthony King is the author of <a href="https://www.cambridge.org/core/books/command/59A39CC5E0F416CAA5AA361629114C16" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Command: The Twenty-First Century General</a>.</p><br><p>This episode was produced by Elena Guthrie, and edited by Joseph Knight.</p><br><p>For more Warfare content, subscribe to our Warfare newsletter <a href="https://www.historyhit.com/sign-up-to-history-hit/?utm_source=timelinenewsletter&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=Timeline+Podcast+Campaign" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here.</a> </p><br><p>If you'd like to learn even more, we have hundreds of history documentaries, ad free podcasts and audiobooks at <a href="https://access.historyhit.com/?utm_source=audio&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=Podcast+Campaign&utm_id=Podcast" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">History Hit</a> - enter promo code WARFARE for a free trial, plus 50% off your first three months' subscription.</p><br><p>To download, go to <a href="https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.historyhit&hl=en_GB&gl=US" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Android ></a> or <a href="https://apps.apple.com/gb/app/history-hit/id1303668247" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Apple store ></a></p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

<p><em>A warning that this episode contains descriptions of genocide and terms for groups which were classified that way at the time.</em></p><br><p>Personal accounts of the Second World War are far and wide, and an invaluable tool for learning about one of the most devastating conflicts in history - but what can we learn from collective histories, specifically that of a small Bavarian Village? In this episode of Warfare, James is joined by author Julia Boyd to look at the shared history of the inhabitants of Oberstdorf, and how the arrival of fascism changed their lives.</p><br><p>Using first hand accounts from the people who lived through the war, Julia is able to shine a light on some of the lesser known aspects and consequences of living in Nazi Germany, and how people responded in the face of rising Nazism. Using a mix of interviews, archive materials and letters, Julia demonstrates just what life was really like for ordinary Germans during this tumultuous time in world history.</p><br><p>For more Warfare content, subscribe to our Warfare Wednesday newsletter <a href="https://www.historyhit.com/sign-up-to-history-hit/?utm_source=timelinenewsletter&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=Timeline+Podcast+Campaign" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a>.</p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

<p>In the early hours of 30 October 1961, a bomber took off from an airstrip in northern Russia and began its flight through cloudy skies over the frigid Russian Arctic. Hanging below this Soviet plane was a nuclear bomb the size of a small school bus. It was the largest and most powerful bomb ever to be created, and it was about to be tested. </p><br><p>The Tsar Bomba’s gigantic detonation was intended to be secret, but was detected by American intelligence agencies—bringing brewing Cold War tensions to fever pitch. The thermonuclear hydrogen bomb yielded the equivalent of 50–58 megatons of TNT, enough to annihilate a small country. The resultant mushroom cloud reached an altitude seven times higher than Mount Everest, and its 8-km-wide wide fireball could be seen from almost 1,000km away.</p><br><p>This week, James is joined by Alex Wellerstein, an expert on the history of nuclear weapons. Together they discuss their development from WW2 to today, and the terrifying legacy of the largest man-made explosion in history.</p><br><p>For more Warfare content, subscribe to our Warfare Wednesday newsletter <a href="https://www.historyhit.com/sign-up-to-history-hit/?utm_source=timelinenewsletter&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=Timeline+Podcast+Campaign" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a>.</p><br><p>To download, go to <a href="https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.historyhit&hl=en_GB&gl=US" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Android</a> or <a href="https://apps.apple.com/gb/app/history-hit/id1303668247" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Apple</a> store.</p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

<p>Like most aspects of the organisation, the CIA drone programme is shrouded in secrecy. With covert bases located across the globe, all armed with high tech sensors and precision missiles, it begs the questions, is anywhere safe in this new modern age? But how did the CIA drone programme begin, and how did it evolve into the covert operation it is today?</p><br><p>In the final episode of our CIA miniseries, James is joined by Professor Chris Fuller to look at the origins of CIA drone programme. Author of 'See It/Shoot It' Chris is the perfect guest to shed light on this clandestine part of the CIA. Looking at drone involvement in the 1980's and the role they played in locating Gaddafi, through to their uses in a post 9/11 world - what can we really know about the CIA drone programme, and is there anywhere on earth left to hide?</p><br><p>For more Warfare content, subscribe to our Warfare Wednesday newsletter <a href="https://www.historyhit.com/sign-up-to-history-hit/?utm_source=timelinenewsletter&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=Timeline+Podcast+Campaign" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a>.</p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

<p>The Special Air Service, more colloquially known as the SAS, was the creation of Officer David Stirling during the Second World War. Located in the deserts of Northern Africa, they were given instructions by Churchill himself to wage 'total war' against the Axis powers. Recently, this group of mavericks have been depicted in the TV series SAS Rogue Heroes - but how can we separate fact from fiction when the actual truth is so unbelievable? </p><br><p>To help with this endeavour, bestselling author Damien Lewis joins James on the podcast to delve into the incredible histories of the men who made the SAS. Shining light on the brilliant people who helped change the face of warfare, what do we really know about this group of rogue heroes?</p><br><p>For more Warfare content, subscribe to our Warfare Wednesday newsletter <a href="https://www.historyhit.com/sign-up-to-history-hit/?utm_source=timelinenewsletter&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=Timeline+Podcast+Campaign" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a>.</p><br><p>To download, go to <a href="https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.historyhit&hl=en_GB&gl=US" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Android</a> or <a href="https://apps.apple.com/gb/app/history-hit/id1303668247" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Apple</a> store.</p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

<p>The Cold War saw an era of heightened tensions between the United States and the Soviet Union - double agents, clashing political ideologies, and advancements in nuclear war; it was a tense time on the geopolitical stage. But how did all of these factors ultimately lead to the CIA knowingly recruiting former Nazi's into their ranks?</p><br><p>In the third episode of our CIA series, James is joined by Professor Norm Goda to look at this dark chapter of the CIA's past. Co-author of 'US Intelligence and the Nazis', Norm takes us through his work on declassifying CIA material, and the stunning revelations behind one of the world's most formidable government organisations and it's dark past of the Nazi war criminals it once employed.</p><br><p>You can find Norm's book with Richard Breitman here: <a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/Hitlers-Shadow-Nazi-Criminals-Intelligence/dp/130034735X/ref=sr_1_1?crid=3BUEGKQLTAI14" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.amazon.co.uk/Hitlers-Shadow-Nazi-Criminals-Intelligence/dp/130034735X/ref=sr_1_1?crid=3BUEGKQLTAI14</a></p><br><p>For more Warfare content, subscribe to our Warfare Wednesday newsletter <a href="https://www.historyhit.com/sign-up-to-history-hit/?utm_source=timelinenewsletter&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=Timeline+Podcast+Campaign" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a>.</p><br><p>To download, go to <a href="https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.historyhit&hl=en_GB&gl=US" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Android</a> or <a href="https://apps.apple.com/gb/app/history-hit/id1303668247" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Apple</a> store.</p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

<p>An accusation that has dogged the Qatar World Cup throughout the tournament is that of ‘sportswashing’. You’ve probably seen it in an article, or heard it in a news report. But what does ‘sportwashing’ actually mean, and where did it come from? While the term itself wasn't coined until 2015, the idea of despotic rulers and authoritarian regimes using large-scale sporting events to help cleanse their global image has been in practice for nearly a century — just look at the ‘Nazi Olympics’ in 1936. But how did Nazi Germany end up hosting those games, and what comes next for Qatar?</p><br><p>In today's episode, James is joined by Professor Martin Polley, the Director of the International Centre for Sports History and Culture at De Montfort University, to talk about the history of sportswashing. Together, they discuss the relationship between authoritarian regimes and Premier League football clubs, look at what the Nazis got right about the 1936 Olympics, and ask whether ‘sportwashing’ really does work…</p><br><p>This episode was edited by Joseph Knight and produced by Annie Coloe.</p><br><p>For more Warfare content, subscribe to our Warfare Wednesday newsletter <a href="https://www.historyhit.com/sign-up-to-history-hit/?utm_source=timelinenewsletter&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=Timeline+Podcast+Campaign" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a>.</p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

<p>The CIA is one of the most well-known and powerful government organisations across the globe. But who's responsible for its creation, and why have they been overlooked by the history books?</p><br><p>In the wake of the Second World War, four agents played key roles in the organisations formation - dubbed the 'Wise Gals' by their colleagues, Adelaide Hawkins, Mary Hutchison, Eloise Page, and Elizabeth Sudmeier are the unsung heroes of the CIAs history. They played dangerous roles behind enemy lines, recruited double agents, and helped track down stolen Nazi art - their contributions to world history are unrivalled. So why aren't they household names?</p><br><p>In this second episode of our mini-series on the CIA, James Rogers talks to New York Times bestselling author Nathalia Holt about this exceptional history. Together they discuss the unheard story of these remarkable spies who built the CIA and shaped the future of espionage.</p><br><p>You can find Nathalia Holt's book here: <a href="https://uk.bookshop.org/books/wise-gals-the-spies-who-built-the-cia-and-changed-the-future-of-espionage/9781785789588" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://uk.bookshop.org/books/wise-gals-the-spies-who-built-the-cia-and-changed-the-future-of-espionage/9781785789588</a></p><br><p>For more Warfare content, subscribe to our Warfare Wednesday newsletter <a href="https://www.historyhit.com/sign-up-to-history-hit/?utm_source=timelinenewsletter&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=Timeline+Podcast+Campaign" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a>.</p><br><p>To download, go to <a href="https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.historyhit&hl=en_GB&gl=US" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Android</a> or <a href="https://apps.apple.com/gb/app/history-hit/id1303668247" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Apple</a> store</p><br><p><br></p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

<p>2022 marks 80 years since the Red Devils first remarkable campaign in North Africa. In Britain, they were known as the parachute regiment, but after their daring feats in the Second World War the name Red Devils quickly stuck.</p><br><p>In this episode, James is joined by BBC journalist and former British Army officer Mark Urban, to learn more about the eccentric group of individuals who, quite literally, jumped at the chance to wage a new type of warfare against the Nazis. Delving into the history of Operation Torch and the daring, ordinary men, behind this impressive feat - Mark shines a new light on this extraordinary history.</p><br><p>For more Warfare content, subscribe to our Warfare Wednesday newsletter <a href="https://www.historyhit.com/sign-up-to-history-hit/?utm_source=timelinenewsletter&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=Timeline+Podcast+Campaign" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a>.</p><br><p>If you'd like to learn even more, we have hundreds of history documentaries, ad free podcasts and audiobooks at <a href="https://access.historyhit.com/?utm_source=audio&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=Podcast+Campaign&utm_id=Podcast" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">History Hit</a> - enter promo code WARFARE for 7 days free + 50% off your first three months' subscription. To download, go to <a href="https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.historyhit&hl=en_GB&gl=US" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Android</a> or <a href="https://apps.apple.com/gb/app/history-hit/id1303668247" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Apple</a> store.</p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

<p>2022 marks the 75th anniversary of the Central Intelligence Agency, more colloquially known as the CIA. While viewed today as one of the most advanced and powerful intelligence agencies in the world, the United States didn't always sit at the top of this list. </p><br><p>Long before the CIA had been created, Great Britain, China, and even the Soviet Union had long standing intelligence agencies, aiding in matters of foreign affairs and espionage. So why was the United States so late to the intelligence game? And did this late arrival into espionage hinder the CIA's development and success?</p><br><p>In the first episode of our new mini-series on the CIA, James is joined by Pulitzer Prize winning investigative journalist Tim Weiner, to talk about the history of this clandestine government organisation. From looking at the CIA's murky origins, to their post 9/11 purpose and their recent infiltration of the Kremlin, Tim takes us through the agency's tumultuous history.</p><br><p>For more Warfare content, subscribe to our Warfare Wednesday newsletter <a href="https://www.historyhit.com/sign-up-to-history-hit/?utm_source=timelinenewsletter&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=Timeline+Podcast+Campaign" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a>.</p><br><p>If you'd like to learn even more, we have hundreds of history documentaries, ad free podcasts and audiobooks at <a href="https://access.historyhit.com/?utm_source=audio&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=Podcast+Campaign&utm_id=Podcast" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">History Hit</a> - enter promo code WARFARE for 7 days free + 50% off your first three months' subscription. To download, go to <a href="https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.historyhit&hl=en_GB&gl=US" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Android</a> or <a href="https://apps.apple.com/gb/app/history-hit/id1303668247" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Apple</a> store.</p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

<p>8.5 million soldiers died as a result from wounds and disease during the First World War, plunging a society into mourning as loved ones were left to deal with the loss of their family and friends. Desperately wanting to connect with their loved ones, families of fallen soldiers would seek out ways to do so, thus leading to the rise of spiritualism and the belief of ghosts in the post war years.</p><br><p>In today’s episode James is joined by author and academic Professor Andrew Smith, to take us through this strange, yet fascinating, world of friendly spirits and malevolent beings. Together they take a look at the figures who appeared in the trenches, literature and in the minds of those who struggled to cope with the tragic losses of war.</p><br><p>For more Warfare content, subscribe to our Warfare Wednesday newsletter <a href="https://www.historyhit.com/sign-up-to-history-hit/?utm_source=timelinenewsletter&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=Timeline+Podcast+Campaign" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a>.</p><br><p>If you'd like to learn even more, we have hundreds of history documentaries, ad free podcasts and audiobooks at <a href="https://access.historyhit.com/?utm_source=audio&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=Podcast+Campaign&utm_id=Podcast" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">History Hit</a> - enter promo code WARFARE for 7 days free + 50% off your first three months' subscription. To download, go to <a href="https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.historyhit&hl=en_GB&gl=US" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Android</a> or <a href="https://apps.apple.com/gb/app/history-hit/id1303668247" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Apple</a> store.</p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

<p>The Irish War of Independence in 1919 was fought between the Irish Revolutionary Army and British Forces, with support of the RIC and USC. Wounds of this conflict are still visible today, both in Ireland and across the world. While there's a tendency to view this conflict as an insular issue of the time, with most fighting rooted in the Irish countryside - the struggle for independence was actually reflective of a tumultuous time in world history. 1919 - 1921 saw not only conflict in Ireland, but mass violence across central and eastern Europe as empires collapsed in a post war world. But how did these world wide events come to affect the Irish Revolution?</p><br><p>In today's episode James is joined by Irish historian and author Professor Fearghal McGarry from Queen’s University in Belfast. Together they discuss the struggles Ireland faced for independence and the ways in which their fight for liberation fits into the broader international context.</p><br><p>For more Warfare content, subscribe to our Warfare Wednesday newsletter <a href="https://www.historyhit.com/sign-up-to-history-hit/?utm_source=timelinenewsletter&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=Timeline+Podcast+Campaign" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a>.</p><br><p>If you'd like to learn even more, we have hundreds of history documentaries, ad free podcasts and audiobooks at <a href="https://access.historyhit.com/?utm_source=audio&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=Podcast+Campaign&utm_id=Podcast" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">History Hit</a> - enter promo code WARFARE for 7 days free + 50% off your first three months' subscription. To download, go to <a href="https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.historyhit&hl=en_GB&gl=US" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Android</a> or <a href="https://apps.apple.com/gb/app/history-hit/id1303668247" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Apple</a> store.</p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

<p>November 22nd marks 59 years since the assassination of US President John F. Kennedy. One of the most famous assassinations in history, JFK's death sent shockwaves not only through the United States, but across the world. However, before that fateful day in history, JFK was a journalist, a Senator, and finally President - but what do we know about his early political career? And what actually went on behind the closed doors of the Oval office?</p><br><p>Today James is joined by Deirdre Henderson, a former colleague and friend of JFK. Deirdre had worked with JFK when he was a senator, and played a significant role in helping to form a group of key advisors to secure his Presidential election. Not only that, but Deirdre went on to work in matters of defence and security for the state - and in the early years of their friendship, was gifted JFK's personal diary. Together, Deirdre and James talk about how Deirdre came to work for the then Senator, her experience at the 1961 Inauguration, and her final moments with JFK. Deirdre offers an unprecedented look inside JFK's White House, allowing for a new side of John F. Kennedy to be seen.</p><br><p>For more Warfare content, subscribe to our Warfare Wednesday newsletter <a href="https://www.historyhit.com/sign-up-to-history-hit/?utm_source=timelinenewsletter&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=Timeline+Podcast+Campaign" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a>.</p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

<p>Accounts of the Second World War usually involve tales of exceptional bravery in battle, as the allied nations stood together against fascism. But from the eyes of the 60,000 conscientious objectors who refuse to take up arms, the war looks extremely different - a perception of which has almost been entirely forgotten. A conscientious objector not only faced inordinate public scrutiny from their fellow countrymen, but even from their own families, often being viewed as cowards. But how accurate was that belief?</p><br><p>In this episode, James is joined by author Tobias Kelly who delves into why these people could not in good conscious, pick up arms, and how it changed their lives forever. Some faced jail time, others took up non-combat roles on the front lines - the scenes of which stayed with them long past the war. The 60,000 conscientious objectors role's in the War have often been overlooked in history, but their contribution to the wartime effort is now finally being discussed in a hopes to change common misconceptions.</p><br><p>For more Warfare content, subscribe to our Warfare Wednesday newsletter <a href="https://www.historyhit.com/sign-up-to-history-hit/?utm_source=timelinenewsletter&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=Timeline+Podcast+Campaign" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a>.</p><br><p>If you'd like to learn even more, we have hundreds of history documentaries, ad free podcasts and audiobooks at <a href="https://access.historyhit.com/?utm_source=audio&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=Podcast+Campaign&utm_id=Podcast" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">History Hit</a> - enter promo code WARFARE for 7 days free + 50% off your first three months' subscription. To download, go to <a href="https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.historyhit&hl=en_GB&gl=US" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Android</a> or <a href="https://apps.apple.com/gb/app/history-hit/id1303668247" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Apple</a> store.</p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

<p>Exactly a century after the 1922 March on Rome which brought fascist dictator Benito Mussolini to power, the far-right party Brothers of Italy have been voted into government.</p><br><p>Fratelli d'Italia (FDL), which has its roots in Italy’s post-war Neo-fascist social movement, is lead by prime minister Giorgia Meloni - the most right-wing Italian leader since Mussolini himself.</p><br><p>So with these contemporary events in mind, James is joined by renowned historian Professor John Gooch to dig deep into the origins of fascism and war in Italy.</p><br><p>You can find John's book <em>Mussolini's War</em> <a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/Mussolinis-War-Fascist-Collapse-1935-1943/dp/014198029X" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a>.</p><br><p>For more Warfare content, subscribe to our Warfare Wednesday newsletter <a href="https://www.historyhit.com/sign-up-to-history-hit/?utm_source=timelinenewsletter&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=Timeline+Podcast+Campaign" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a>.</p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

<p>The 11th of November marks Remembrance Day, a memorial day honoured since the end of the First World War. Hostilities ended on the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month in 1918 after four years of global conflict. As we use this day to look back at those lost, it's important to understand what caused one of the most devastating conflicts in modern history.</p><br><p>On the 28th of June 1914, Archduke Franz Ferdinand was assassinated. His death is often cited as the spark that started the First World War - but how accurate is this statement? Claiming this assassination as an isolated incident ignores the troubling context of the time. What should've been a conflict restricted to the Balkans somehow turned into a catastrophic global conflict, with rising nationalistic sentiments brewing, and the eventual involvement of European Superpowers - what really lead Gavrilo Princip to fire a shot against the heir of the Austro-Hungarian Empire?</p><br><p>In this episode, James Rogers is joined by Paul Miller-Melamed to examine the origins of the wider geopolitical context of First World War.</p><br><p>You can find Paul Melamed's book <a href="https://www.abebooks.co.uk/Misfire-Sarajevo-Assassination-Winding-Road-World/313095710[…]tf_kusxM3d_4RVqQUNuxBpKV0unXn94djynhXlB-5PURa8aAqbMEALw_wcB" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a></p><br><p>For more Warfare content, subscribe to our Warfare Wednesday newsletter <a href="https://www.historyhit.com/sign-up-to-history-hit/?utm_source=timelinenewsletter&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=Timeline+Podcast+Campaign" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a>.</p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

<p>The Second Battle of El Alamein marked a key turning point in the Second World War - a moment when the Allies were no longer on the defensive, but on the offensive. Fought in the unrelenting deserts of North Africa, the eventual Allied victory prevented Nazi expansion into North Africa and the Middle East. Had the Axis-Power and German Field Marshall Erwin Rommel managed to breakthrough at El Alamein, it would have brought the Holocaust to the entire Middle East, where there were around 75,000 Jewish people in Egypt, over half a million in Palestine, and populations in Syria, Lebanon and Iraq. It was the Allies victories in North Africa that prevented genocide happening on the same scale as Europe.</p><br><p>In this episode, James Rogers is joined by Washington Post Journalist and author Gershom Gorenberg to detail the decisive tactics of Rommel and the Allies, the importance of retreat as a military strategy, and the arrival of Field Marshal Bernard Law Montgomery, one of the most prominent and successful British commanders of the Second World War.</p><br><p>You can find Gershom's book <a href="https://www.littlebrown.co.uk/titles/gershom-gorenberg/war-of-shadows/9781541702677/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a>.</p><br><p>For more Warfare content, subscribe to our Warfare Wednesday newsletter <a href="https://www.historyhit.com/sign-up-to-history-hit/?utm_source=timelinenewsletter&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=Timeline+Podcast+Campaign" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a>.</p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

<p>The current uprisings in Iran have connections that date back to the 1979 Iranian revolution, which saw the country go from a monarchy, to an Islamic Republic. It became one of the most defining moments of the 20th century. </p><br><p>Ayatollah Khomeini was now the Supreme Leader of the Republic of Iran, and a conservative rule of the country was now enforced. Freedoms that had been enjoyed previously in Iran like drinking alcohol and listening to western music were now banned, and women were now required by law to wear a veil.</p><br><p>Tensions between Iran and the West have continued fluctuate, with most recent events concerning Iran's support of Russia in the war against Ukraine by supplying arms. This comes at the same time as the Iranian government continues to suppress it's own people amid on-going anti-Government protests.</p><br><p>Today, James Rogers is joined by activist and author Nasrin Parvaz, who at the age of 23 in 1982 was arrested by the regime’s secret police for resisting the Ayatollah's regime. She was sentenced to death and tortured before her sentence was later commuted to 10 years imprisonment. She was released after 8. She discusses her experiences during this key turning point in modern history.</p><br><p>Warning: This episode contains content that some listeners may find distressing.</p><br><p>This episode was edited by Aidan Lonergan.</p><br><p>For more Warfare content, subscribe to our Warfare Wednesday newsletter <a href="https://www.historyhit.com/sign-up-to-history-hit/?utm_source=timelinenewsletter&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=Timeline+Podcast+Campaign" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a>.</p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

<p>In a scathing attack on the West, Russian President Vladimir Putin has declared the world faces its most dangerous decade since WW2 - having reaffirmed that Russia will use every available weapon in its arsenal, including tactical nuclear weapons.</p><br><p>Not only that, Russia has also made unsubstantiated claims that Ukraine is preparing to deploy a dirty bomb - a mix or explosives and radioactive waste. This has led many in the West, including US president Joe Biden, to wonder if such remarks are laying the groundwork for Russia’s own tactical nuclear strike.</p><br><p>In this episode James welcomes Dr Jean-François Bélanger from the University of Waterloo back onto the podcast. Jean-Francois, who advises the Canadian Ministry of Defence, takes us through the history behind these latest nuclear escalations.</p><br><p>This episode was edited by Aidan Lonergan.</p><br><p>For more Warfare content, subscribe to our Warfare Wednesday newsletter <a href="https://www.historyhit.com/sign-up-to-history-hit/?utm_source=timelinenewsletter&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=Timeline+Podcast+Campaign" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a>.</p><br><p>If you'd like to learn even more, we have hundreds of history documentaries, ad free podcasts and audiobooks at <a href="https://access.historyhit.com/?utm_source=audio&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=Podcast+Campaign&utm_id=Podcast" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">History Hit</a> - enter promo code WARFARE for 7 days free + 50% off your first three months' subscription. To download, go to <a href="https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.historyhit&hl=en_GB&gl=US" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Android</a> or <a href="https://apps.apple.com/gb/app/history-hit/id1303668247" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Apple</a> store.</p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

<p>Here’s a special episode of Cautionary Tales, a podcast from our friends at Pushkin Industries.</p><br><p>On Cautionary Tales, bestselling author Tim Harford shares stories of human error, natural disasters, and tragic catastrophes from history that contain important lessons for today. In 1917, a brilliant British officer developed a way to use an emerging military technology: the tank. The British army promptly squandered the idea – but the Germans did not. Blitzkrieg, the devastating advance of German tanks across Europe in 1940, was invented by the British.</p><br><p>This is a common story: Sony invented the forerunner of the iPod, Xerox the personal computer, and Kodak the digital camera. In each case they failed to capitalize on the idea. Why? Find out on Cautionary Tales. You can hear more episodes at https://podcasts.pushkin.fm/warfare.</p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

<p>As protests continued across Iran last week, a number of Iranian-made kamikaze drones were fired by Russian forces at targets thousands of miles away in Kyiv, Ukraine.</p><br><p>It marks the first time that these Iranian weapons have been used against a European capital, as well as a new low for relations between Iran and the West - which were already under strain.</p><br><p>So how did we get here? In this episode, James is joined by Professor Ali Ansari of St Andrews University in Scotland to learn the historical context of modern Iran - from the Iranian Revolution to the nuclear deal torn up by former US President Donald Trump in 2018.</p><br><p>For more Warfare content, subscribe to our Warfare Wednesday newsletter <a href="https://www.historyhit.com/sign-up-to-history-hit/?utm_source=timelinenewsletter&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=Timeline+Podcast+Campaign" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a>.</p><br><p>If you'd like to learn even more, we have hundreds of history documentaries, ad free podcasts and audiobooks at <a href="https://access.historyhit.com/?utm_source=audio&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=Podcast+Campaign&utm_id=Podcast" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">History Hit</a> - enter promo code WARFARE for 7 days free + 50% off your first three months' subscription. To download, go to <a href="https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.historyhit&hl=en_GB&gl=US" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Android</a> or <a href="https://apps.apple.com/gb/app/history-hit/id1303668247" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Apple</a> store.</p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

<p>The siege of Dien Bien Phu took place in 1954 and was a definitive victory for Vietnam. Although the battle brought an end to French colonial rule, the separation of the country’s north and south created a volatile political environment between capitalism and communism, eventually leading to American involvement.</p><br><p>But how did the long time leader of Vietnam - Ho Chi Minh, take his guerilla army and turn it into a modern fighting force that was capable of overthrowing an empire?</p><br><p>In this episode, James is joined by author and Professor Christopher Goscha from the University of Quebec to help us understand just how the French lost their way in Vietnam.</p><br><p>For more Warfare content, subscribe to our Warfare Wednesday newsletter <a href="https://www.historyhit.com/sign-up-to-history-hit/?utm_source=timelinenewsletter&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=Timeline+Podcast+Campaign" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a>.</p><br><p>If you'd like to learn even more, we have hundreds of history documentaries, ad free podcasts and audiobooks at <a href="https://access.historyhit.com/?utm_source=audio&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=Podcast+Campaign&utm_id=Podcast" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">History Hit</a> - enter promo code WARFARE for 7 days free + 50% off your first three months' subscription. To download, go to <a href="https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.historyhit&hl=en_GB&gl=US" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Android</a> or <a href="https://apps.apple.com/gb/app/history-hit/id1303668247" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Apple</a> store.</p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

<p>The Battle of Midway has gone down in history as a key turning point in the Pacific Campaign of the Second World War. In June 1942, the US Navy outthought, outflanked and overwhelmed the formidable Imperial Japanese forces thanks largely to the work of pioneering codebreakers.</p><br><p>Japan's first-line carrier strength was obliterated as well as a huge percentage of the country's highly-trained pilots, either of which were easily replaceable. But just how did the Americans find themselves in such a remarkable position, harnessing the element of surprise to devastating effect?</p><br><p>In this episode James is joined by award-winning historian Dr Sarah-Louise Miller, who reveals the forgotten history of the intelligence battle that set up a decisive victory at Midway.</p><br><p>For more Warfare content, subscribe to our Warfare Wednesday newsletter <a href="https://www.historyhit.com/sign-up-to-history-hit/?utm_source=timelinenewsletter&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=Timeline+Podcast+Campaign" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a>.</p><br><p>If you'd like to learn even more, we have hundreds of history documentaries, ad free podcasts and audiobooks at <a href="https://access.historyhit.com/?utm_source=audio&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=Podcast+Campaign&utm_id=Podcast" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">History Hit</a> - enter promo code WARFARE for 7 days free + 50% off your first three months' subscription. To download, go to <a href="https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.historyhit&hl=en_GB&gl=US" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Android</a> or <a href="https://apps.apple.com/gb/app/history-hit/id1303668247" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Apple</a> store.</p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

<p>In a world so dependent on the need for oil and gas, it's no wonder why oil rich nations like Russia hold such power on the global stage. The power these Petrostates have influence foreign policy and conflicts around the globe. But why does oil play such a key role in global geo-politics? And what does the development of clean energy mean for those dependent on oil?</p><br><p>In this episode, James is joined by author Emma Ashford to help explore the potential links between oil production and possession in influencing foreign policy, as well as how global conflict can be exasperated by oil's very presence.</p><br><p>For more Warfare content, subscribe to our Warfare Wednesday newsletter <a href="https://www.historyhit.com/sign-up-to-history-hit/?utm_source=timelinenewsletter&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=Timeline+Podcast+Campaign" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a>.</p><br><p>If you'd like to learn even more, we have hundreds of history documentaries, ad free podcasts and audiobooks at <a href="https://access.historyhit.com/?utm_source=audio&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=Podcast+Campaign&utm_id=Podcast" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">History Hit</a> - enter promo code WARFARE for 7 days free + 50% off your first three months' subscription. To download, go to <a href="https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.historyhit&hl=en_GB&gl=US" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Android</a> or <a href="https://apps.apple.com/gb/app/history-hit/id1303668247" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Apple</a> store.</p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

<p>In World War Two the ancient fortress of Colditz Castle was used by the German Army to hold its most defiant prisoners of war. Located near Leipzig, deep in Germany, it was almost impossible to escape.</p><br><p>If an Allied escapee did manage to make it out of the castle walls, they’d face a journey home of hundreds of miles in enemy territory, with no guarantee of safety or help. But the men of Colditz were no ordinary prisoners, and their captors were about to find out why.</p><br><p>In this episode James is joined by bestselling author Ben Macintyre as he reveals the characters who became legends of World War Two due to their daring escapes.</p><br><p><a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/Colditz-Prisoners-Castle-Ben-MacIntyre/dp/0241408520" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Ben's new book <em>Colditz: Prisoners of the Castle</em> is available here.</a></p><br><p>For more Warfare content, subscribe to our Warfare Wednesday newsletter <a href="https://www.historyhit.com/sign-up-to-history-hit/?utm_source=timelinenewsletter&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=Timeline+Podcast+Campaign" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here.</a></p><br><p>If you'd like to learn even more, we have hundreds of history documentaries, ad free podcasts and audiobooks at <a href="https://access.historyhit.com/?utm_source=audio&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=Podcast+Campaign&utm_id=Podcast" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">History Hit</a> - enter promo code WARFARE for 7 days free + 50% off your first three months' subscription. To download, go to <a href="https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.historyhit&hl=en_GB&gl=US" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Android</a> or <a href="https://apps.apple.com/gb/app/history-hit/id1303668247" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Apple</a> store.</p><br><p>For your chance to win 5 Historical Non-Fiction Books (including a signed copy of Dan Snow's On This Day in History), please fill out <a href="https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/podcasts-survey" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><strong>this</strong></a> short survey.</p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

<p>When we think of pirates our minds turn to figures both real and fictitious such as Blackbeard and Long John Silver, or perhaps even Somali pirates off the Horn of Africa.</p><br><p>We certainly don't tend to think of their involvement in the American Revolution. After all, why would we? What role did those involved in piracy even play in the Revolutionary War?</p><br><p>Well to answer that very question James is joined today by historian, and grandson of General Patton, Robert H. Patton, whose book <em>Patriot Pirates: The Privateer War for Freedom and Fortune in the American Revolution </em>recounts the role of American pirates in bringing an end to British overlordship.</p><br><p><a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/Patriot-Pirates-Privateer-American-Revolution/dp/0307390551" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Bob's book is available here.</a></p><br><p>For more Warfare content, subscribe to our Warfare Wednesday newsletter <a href="https://www.historyhit.com/sign-up-to-history-hit/?utm_source=timelinenewsletter&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=Timeline+Podcast+Campaign" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here.</a></p><br><p>If you'd like to learn even more, we have hundreds of history documentaries, ad free podcasts and audiobooks at <a href="https://access.historyhit.com/?utm_source=audio&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=Podcast+Campaign&utm_id=Podcast" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">History Hit</a> - enter promo code WARFARE for two weeks free + 50% off your first three months' subscription. To download, go to <a href="https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.historyhit&hl=en_GB&gl=US" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Android</a> or <a href="https://apps.apple.com/gb/app/history-hit/id1303668247" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Apple</a> store.</p><br><p>For your chance to win 5 Historical Non-Fiction Books (including a signed copy of Dan Snow's On This Day in History), please fill out <a href="https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/podcasts-survey" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><strong>this</strong></a> short survey.</p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

<p>The resistance fighters of the Moro, an indigenous Muslim population of the Philippines, have been described as most the most successful and least-known guerrillas of World War II's Pacific Theatre.</p><br><p>The Moro mounted an armed opposition so vigorous that the soldiers of the Imperial Japanese Army found themselves outfought time and again by their far less well-armed adversaries. When the soldiers of the Empire of Japan invaded their homeland, the Moros, sometimes with swords as their only weapons, bravely fought on alone after the rapid American surrender of the Philippines.</p><br><p>In this episode James is joined by Thomas McKenna, the author of a new book on the Moro warriors, to learn more about arguably the most successful and unlikely resistance movements of the entire Second World War.</p><br><p><a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/Moro-Warrior-Philippine-Schoolmaster-Remarkable/dp/1956450084" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Tom's book <em>Moro Warrior: The Untold Story of the Most Remarkable Resistance Fighters of World War II</em> in the Pacific is available here.</a></p><br><p>For more Warfare content, subscribe to our Warfare Wednesday newsletter <a href="https://www.historyhit.com/sign-up-to-history-hit/?utm_source=timelinenewsletter&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=Timeline+Podcast+Campaign" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here.</a></p><br><p>If you'd like to learn even more, we have hundreds of history documentaries, ad free podcasts and audiobooks at <a href="https://access.historyhit.com/?utm_source=audio&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=Podcast+Campaign&utm_id=Podcast" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">History Hit</a> - enter promo code WARFARE for two weeks free + 50% off your first three months' subscription. To download, go to <a href="https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.historyhit&hl=en_GB&gl=US" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Android</a> or <a href="https://apps.apple.com/gb/app/history-hit/id1303668247" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Apple</a> store.</p><br><p>For your chance to win 5 Historical Non-Fiction Books (including a signed copy of Dan Snow's On This Day in History), please fill out <a href="https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/podcasts-survey" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><strong>this</strong></a> short survey.</p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

<p>General George S. Patton was one of America's most successful - and indeed unconventional - military leaders.</p><br><p>From a young age, 'Georgie' Patton believed he was destined to lead a great army, and after an eventful youth - in which he even competed in the 1912 Olympic Games - the Californian forged an incredible military career during both World Wars.</p><br><p>In this episode James is joined by General Patton's grandson, Robert H. Patton, to discuss his grandfather's esteemed, if not slightly controversial career - as well as the conspiracies surrounding his death in 1945.</p><br><p><a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/Pattons-Personal-History-American-Family/dp/0517590689/ref=tmm_hrd_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=&sr=" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Bob's book <em>The Pattons: A Personal History of an American Family</em> is available here.</a></p><br><p>For more Warfare content, subscribe to our Warfare Wednesday newsletter <a href="https://www.historyhit.com/sign-up-to-history-hit/?utm_source=timelinenewsletter&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=Timeline+Podcast+Campaign" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here.</a></p><br><p>If you'd like to learn even more, we have hundreds of history documentaries, ad free podcasts and audiobooks at <a href="https://access.historyhit.com/?utm_source=audio&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=Podcast+Campaign&utm_id=Podcast" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">History Hit</a> - enter promo code WARFARE for two weeks free + 50% off your first three months' subscription. To download, go to <a href="https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.historyhit&hl=en_GB&gl=US" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Android</a> or <a href="https://apps.apple.com/gb/app/history-hit/id1303668247" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Apple</a> store.</p><br><p>For your chance to win 5 Historical Non-Fiction Books (including a signed copy of Dan Snow's On This Day in History), please fill out <a href="https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/podcasts-survey" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><strong>this</strong></a> short survey.</p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

<p><u>Warning: This episode contains content that some listeners may find upsetting</u></p><br><p>No matter the war being fought, it's a sad fact that war crimes take place all around the world - we need only look to Russia's offensive war in Ukraine to see how civilians can be illegally targeted in an indiscriminate and disproportionate fashion.</p><br><p>With contemporary events in mind, we decided to take a look at the long history of war crimes and how perpetrators have been held to account over the decades.</p><br><p>To help with this James is joined once again by Oona Hathaway, Professor of International Law at Yale Law School and member of the Advisory Committee on International Law at the US Department of State since 2005.</p><br><p>For more Warfare content, subscribe to our Warfare Wednesday newsletter <a href="https://www.historyhit.com/sign-up-to-history-hit/?utm_source=timelinenewsletter&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=Timeline+Podcast+Campaign" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here.</a></p><br><p>If you'd like to learn even more, we have hundreds of history documentaries, ad free podcasts and audiobooks at <a href="https://access.historyhit.com/?utm_source=audio&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=Podcast+Campaign&utm_id=Podcast" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">History Hit</a> - enter promo code WARFARE for two weeks free + 50% off your first three months' subscription. To download, go to <a href="https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.historyhit&hl=en_GB&gl=US" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Android</a> or <a href="https://apps.apple.com/gb/app/history-hit/id1303668247" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Apple</a> store.</p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

<p>When you think of the Blitz, you think of <em>the</em> Blitz on London. The two are synonymous, and not without reason. Over 57 consecutive nights and days, Luftwaffe raids left tens of thousands dead in Britain's capital in late 1940.</p><br><p>But the truth is that the heavy bombardment of the UK involved so many towns and cities across the country: from Plymouth in the southwest, to Swansea in Wales, to Belfast in Northern Ireland, to the Clydebank in Scotland and all up the northeast coast of England from Hull to Newcastle.</p><br><p>In this episode James is joined by Dr Stephen Moore to learn about the Blitz of the east coast, helping us understand why cities like Newcastle were targeted by the Luftwaffe & why they have become oft forgotten, marginalised histories.</p><br><p>If you enjoyed this episode, you might also enjoy our episode on <a href="https://pod.fo/e/e6333" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">9/11: From the 105th Floor</a>, which was also just shortlisted for a Lovie Award in the Best Interview/Talk Show Category.</p><br><p>For more Warfare content, subscribe to our Warfare Wednesday newsletter <a href="https://www.historyhit.com/sign-up-to-history-hit/?utm_source=timelinenewsletter&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=Timeline+Podcast+Campaign" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here.</a></p><br><p>If you'd like to learn even more, we have hundreds of history documentaries, ad free podcasts and audiobooks at <a href="https://access.historyhit.com/?utm_source=audio&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=Podcast+Campaign&utm_id=Podcast" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">History Hit</a> - enter promo code WARFARE for two weeks free + 50% off your first three months' subscription. To download, go to <a href="https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.historyhit&hl=en_GB&gl=US" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Android</a> or <a href="https://apps.apple.com/gb/app/history-hit/id1303668247" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Apple</a> store.</p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>