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Explaining History

627 episodes - English - Latest episode: 9 days ago - ★★★★★ - 79 ratings

The Explaining History Podcast has been exploring the 20th Century in weekly chapters for the past 10 years, helping students and enthusiasts engage with the past. With the help of expert guests, your host Nick Shepley navigates competing debates around the key events and processes of the past century.

Become a member at https://plus.acast.com/s/explaininghistory.


Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Society & Culture History history modern history totalitarianism the second world war stalinism maoism nazism stalin mao hitler
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Episodes

Black Britain 1948-89: Economic drivers of migration

April 17, 2024 15:07 - 31 minutes - 72.4 MB

During the post war decades, migration from Britain's colonies in the Caribbean to the UK grew considerably. There are well documented 'pull' factors that led to this, including a deep sense of identification that many Jamaicans, Barbadians and others felt for the 'mother country'. However, long term structural economic hardships, the effects of a devastating hurricane in 1944 and the lack of any real prospect of migration to America after 1952 created powerful 'push' factors towards Britain...

Infiltrating the IRA: Terror and Espionage in Northern Ireland

April 08, 2024 17:19 - 33 minutes - 30.3 MB

In this gripping episode of *Explaining History*, we delve into the shadowy world of espionage, conflict, and moral ambiguity with intelligence writer Henry Hemming, author of the explosive new book on one of the most controversial figures of The Troubles, the IRA double agent known as Stakeknife. Henry Hemming takes us behind the veil of secrecy to reveal the complex life of Stakeknife, who, while deeply embedded within the IRA, passed critical intelligence to British security forces. This...

IRA double agents - Terror and espionage with Henry Hemming

April 06, 2024 13:41 - 34 minutes - 79.4 MB

In this gripping episode of *Explaining History*, we delve into the shadowy world of espionage, conflict, and moral ambiguity with intelligence writer Henry Hemming, author of the explosive new book on one of the most controversial figures of The Troubles, the IRA double agent known as Stakeknife. Henry Hemming takes us behind the veil of secrecy to reveal the complex life of Stakeknife, who, while deeply embedded within the IRA, passed critical intelligence to British security forces. Thi...

A timeline of everything - In conversation with Bruce Tapping

April 04, 2024 06:46 - 33 minutes - 76.6 MB

In this episode of Explaining History, we sit down with the acclaimed writer Bruce Tapping, author of, "Bruce's Complete Timeline of the World." Join us as we embark on a fascinating journey through the timeline, unravelling the complexities of our past, from the agricultural revolutions that reshaped society to the intellectual awakening of the Renaissance. Bruce offers his unique insights into some of the most pivotal events in history, including the theories surrounding 9/11 and the tran...

Mexico, America and NAFTA 1994-1995

March 20, 2024 17:15 - 34 minutes - 78.8 MB

In "Mexico, America, and NAFTA 1994-1995," we delve into the intricate web of economic, political, and social ramifications of the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) in the mid-90s, guided by insights from John Gray's seminal work, "False Dawn: The Delusions of Global Capitalism." This episode sheds light on the high hopes and harsh realities that followed the implementation of NAFTA, focusing on the promise of seamless trade and prosperity versus the actual outcomes for local econ...

Neoliberalism VS National Liberation Movements 1945-79

March 08, 2024 10:55 - 41 seconds - 1.6 MB

In this episode of the Explaining History Podcast, we delve into the complex and often overlooked intersection of Neoliberalism and National Liberation Movements during the pivotal decades of the 1940s, 50s, and 60s. Drawing insights from Quinn Slobodian's insightful book "Globalists," we unravel the ideological and practical challenges that the process of decolonization presented to neoliberal thinkers of the era.  As countries across Asia, Africa, and Latin America broke free from coloni...

World War Two: The Good War?

February 23, 2024 13:06 - 42 minutes - 96.9 MB

In this episode of the Explaining History podcast, we delve deep into the heart of the twentieth century's most defining conflict: World War II. Often remembered as "The Good War," this episode, inspired by Geoffrey Wheatcroft's insightful essay and Richard Overy's comprehensive study, invites listeners to re-examine the conventional narratives that have shaped our understanding of the war. Through a meticulous analysis of "World War Two: The Myth of the Good War" and "Blood and Ruins," we ...

Socialism and Fascism - what they are and are not

February 14, 2024 16:18 - 30 minutes - 69.5 MB

Hi everyone, I get trolled from time to time on Twitter by various far right types who object to a particular video I did years ago which states that Hitler was not, in fact, a socialist and did not , in fact, have socialist ideas. Here I revisit the argument, though I doubt it will do me much good. Anyway, would love to hear your thoughts (unless you want to tell me he is a socialist, and whilst I'm all for free discourse, you should know that I've heard this one before, lots). Thanks Ni...

Resistance from the right: America's campus backlash against the counter culture

February 02, 2024 10:52 - 31 minutes - 72.8 MB

In this thought-provoking episode of the Explaining History podcast, we delve into the often overlooked conservative resistance on American college campuses during the height of the counter-culture movement. Join us as we sit down with Lauren Lassabe Shepherd, academic at the University of New Orleans and distinguished historian and author, who sheds light on the dynamic and complex interactions between conservative students and the liberal ideologies that defined much of the 1960s and 70s ...

Wilson, Jenkins and austerity 1968-70

January 26, 2024 16:21 - 36 minutes - 82.6 MB

Description: In this insightful episode of the Explaining History Podcast, we delve into a pivotal period in British history - the years 1968-1970 under the leadership of Prime Minister Harold Wilson and his Chancellor of the Exchequer, Roy Jenkins. Drawing from Kenneth O. Morgan's meticulously researched book "The People's Peace," we explore the significant economic challenges and austerity measures that defined this era. As Britain faced mounting economic pressures, Wilson and Jenkins's...

Gaza 2024

January 17, 2024 16:06 - 37 minutes - 86.4 MB

Hi everyone, this is a podcast I should have done a couple of months ago and I have been remise in not creating it sooner. This are some thoughts on the ongoing genocide of the Palestinian people in Gaza. Become a member at https://plus.acast.com/s/explaininghistory. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The rise and fall of Harry Clifton and the English Aristocracy - In conversation with David Slattery-Christy

December 06, 2023 14:25 - 35 minutes - 26.6 MB

In this captivating episode of the Explaining History podcast, we sit down with David Slattery-Christy, author of "Flyte Or Fancy," to delve into the tragic and fascinating life of aristocrat Harry Clifton. Join us as we explore the tumultuous world of Harry Clifton, a figure whose life story reads like a novel, filled with grandeur, crisis, and heartbreak. David Slattery-Christybrings to life the compelling narrative of Clifton, heir to a vast family fortune that was squandered in a lifeti...

Merze Tate - Groundbreaking scholar of colonialism and disarmament

November 15, 2023 16:26 - 34 minutes - 25.7 MB

In this episode of the Explaining History podcast, we turn our focus to the remarkable life and enduring legacy of Merze Tate, a groundbreaking intellectual whose contributions have left an indelible mark on the study of international relations, disarmament, colonialism and post colonialism, race, gender and injustice. Joining us for this exploration is esteemed Professor Barbara Savage, an expert in African American history and culture. Professor Savage guides us through the extraordinary ...

Discussing Che Guevara

November 15, 2023 16:14 - 34 minutes - 25.9 MB

In this episode of the Explaining History podcast, we dive deep into the complex legacy of Che Guevara, the iconic revolutionary figure whose image has transcended generations. Our special guest, acclaimed author Otto English, joins us to discuss his new book, "Fake Heroes," which critically examines the myths and realities surrounding Che Guevara. English, known for his incisive analysis and engaging storytelling, sheds light on the lesser-known aspects of Guevara's life and the consequen...

SAS raids in Italy 1943-45

October 29, 2023 22:44 - 31 minutes - 24.5 MB

Description: In this episode of the Explaining History podcast, we delve into the clandestine world of the Special Air Service (SAS) during its critical missions in Italy from 1943 to 1945. Joining us is n historian and author Damien Lewis, an expert on the SAS, whose new book "Forged in Hell" meticulously chronicles this intriguing chapter of World War II history. Lewis provides captivating insights into the daring and audacious raids carried out by the SAS, shedding light on the unwaver...

Interwar Espionage and the rising threat of Nazism

October 20, 2023 12:57 - 35 minutes - 26.9 MB

 Winthrop Bell is probably the most important spy you've never heard of. In this episode of the Explaining History podcast we hear about his life and exploits and his attempts during the 1930s to draw attention to the growing threat that Nazism posed. Academic and author Jason Bell joins us on the podcast to discuss the life, career and legacy of Winthrop Bell and his new book Cracking the Nazi Code. You can order a copy of the book here Become a member at https://plus.acast.com/s/explai...

Amazing Grace: The history of an anti slavery hymn and civil rights anthem

October 20, 2023 11:51 - 30 minutes - 21.9 MB

In this episode of Explaining History, we delve deep into the origins and enduring impact of one of the world's most powerful hymns: "Amazing Grace." A song that has transcended boundaries of religion, race, and nation, it has served as an anthem for both the abolition of slavery and the civil rights movement in the United States. Joining us for this exploration is the esteemed Professor Emeritus James Walvin, an expert in the history of slavery and abolition. Professor Walvin traces the h...

The Great Defiance: In conversation with David Veevers

October 08, 2023 16:06 - 31 minutes - 48.5 MB

In this thought-provoking episode, we sit down with esteemed historian David Veevers to discuss his latest work, "The Great Defiance." Beyond the usual tales of empire-building and domination, Veevers sheds light on the often overlooked stories of those who stood up, resisted, and defied the might of English and later British colonizers throughout the early modern period. Together, we delve deep into the rich tapestry of histories that highlight the resilience, courage, and tenacity of commu...

Discussing W.E.B. Du Bois with Chad Williams

September 27, 2023 14:09 - 34 minutes - 26 MB

In this episode of the Explaining History podcast, I'm joined by Professor Chad Williams to explore the life and thought of W.E.B. Du Bois, the foremost intellectual of the civil rights movement. We discuss his complex and often difficult relationship with the First World War and its aftermath and his unfinished work, African Americans and the Wounded World. This is a fascinating discussion of Du Bois's life, his intellectual journey and his significance. If you like this episode, remember...

The modern right in Spain, from the Partido Popular to Vox

September 23, 2023 16:15 - 32 minutes - 119 MB

In this episode, I've had the pleasure of talking with a good friend of the podcast, Alvaro Gomez Velasco, our eyewitness on contemporary politics in Spain. We explore the recent rise of right wing populism across Europe and the growth of the Vox movement in Spain. Examining the legacy of Franco, the suppression of the Catalan independence movement and the issue of immigration, we explore the reasons for a resurgence of the right in Spain and the prospects for the left in the future. Become...

The origins of global free markets 1840-2001

September 14, 2023 17:54 - 31 minutes - 314 MB

Description: In this episode of the Explaining History podcast, we embark on a journey through modern economic history, tracing the evolution of global free markets from the height of Victorian Britain to the transformative concepts of Francis Fukuyama's "End of History." Drawing insights from the seminal work "False Dawn: The Delusions of Global Capitalism" by renowned scholar John Gray, we delve deep into the intricate web of economic, political, and social forces that have shaped our w...

Eye Witness: The End of White Rule in Rhodesia

August 30, 2023 17:37 - 34 minutes - 24.2 MB

This episode takes our listeners on a remarkable journey into the tumultuous period of the 1970s in Rhodesia/Zimbabwe, as seen through the lens of James McManus, the former Africa correspondent for The Guardian. McManus was not just a journalist chronicling events from the periphery; he was in the thick of it, engaging with pivotal figures who would shape the course of the nation's history. In an era marked by political upheaval, civil strife, and a tug-of-war for power, McManus met the st...

California: A Slave State - Part Two

August 29, 2023 22:07 - 46 minutes - 32.3 MB

**Explaining History Podcast Episode Description:** In the highly anticipated second installment of our conversations with the esteemed Professor Jean Phaelzer, author of the groundbreaking work, "California: A Slave State," we delve deeper into the interwoven tapestry of California's historical landscape. The Gold Rush, a period synonymous with opportunity and prosperity, bore witness to the dark side of fortune as it intersected with the repercussions of the Fugitive Slave Act.  The Gold...

Colonialism and Culture Wars - In conversation with Professor Alan Lester

August 10, 2023 18:22 - 33 minutes - 24.9 MB

In this episode, we navigate the contemporary debates around colonialism, empire and slavery and its resonating echoes in modern culture wars with the guidance of Professor Alan Lester. As an eminent historian, Alan brings profound insight into the intricate relationship between colonial legacies and the contemporary debates surrounding them. Together, we journey into the heart of the British Empire, examining its impact on the world and, more importantly, how it's remembered and debated to...

Slavery in California - In conversation with Jean Pfaelzer

August 03, 2023 14:57 - 31 minutes - 22.2 MB

n this eye-opening episode, we journey into the often-overlooked history of slavery in California, guided by the insights of Professor Jean Pfaelzer, author of the seminal book, "California: A Slave State." Pfaelzer's groundbreaking research uncovers a hidden chapter of California's past, where the institution of slavery played a significant, if clandestine, role. Through an engaging conversation, we explore the legal, political, and social mechanisms that allowed slavery to exist in a stat...

The Fear of War in 1930s Europe

July 24, 2023 11:37 - 26 minutes - 20.4 MB

In this episode of the Explaining History podcast, we delve into the intellectual climate of 1930s Europe, as detailed in Richard Overy's illuminating work, "The Morbid Age." The episode seeks to uncover the complex web of fears, anxieties, and escalating tensions that pervaded Britain and the broader European landscape, leading many to view the outbreak of war as an inevitability by the late 1930s. The 1930s, marked by economic turmoil, political instability, and the rise of totalitarian i...

Black Britain 1948-89 Part One

July 20, 2023 14:56 - 24 minutes - 18.6 MB

In the first episode of our exploration into "Roots and Culture" by Eddie Chambers, we delve into the history of Black Britain from 1948 to 1989. This period witnessed a profound shift in Britain's cultural, social, and racial landscape, marked by the arrival of the Windrush Generation in 1948 and culminating with the end of the 1980s. In this episode, we navigate the complex tapestry of Black British history, charting the experiences, struggles, and triumphs of Black communities within Bri...

German victories in the Caucasus: Spring - Summer 1942 (Part Two)

July 18, 2023 15:59 - 25 minutes - 57.6 MB

In the second episode of our deep dive into the months prior to Stalingrad, reading Max Hastings' "All Hell Let Loose," we shift our gaze to a pivotal moment in 1942. This was a year marked by startling contrasts between the strategic decision-making processes in the Kremlin and the Führerbunker. We explore how the relentless calamities faced by the Red Army on the Eastern Front became a powerful catalyst for change. Recognizing the fatal errors of his overbearing control, Soviet leader Jo...

German victories in the Caucasus: Spring - Summer 1942

July 17, 2023 15:43 - 26 minutes - 61 MB

In this episode of Explaining History, we dive into the tumultuous events of World War II's Eastern Front, focusing on the German victories in the Caucasus region during the spring and summer of 1942. Drawing upon insights from Max Hastings's masterful book, "All Hell Let Loose," we present a comprehensive account of this critical phase of the war. Our exploration begins with the German Wehrmacht's ambitious summer offensive, Case Blue, aimed at seizing the oil-rich Caucasus and the strateg...

The collapse of Mexican neoliberalism 1994-5

July 14, 2023 16:38 - 29 minutes - 68.3 MB

In this thought-provoking episode of Explaining History, we turn our focus to a pivotal period in Latin American economic history - the collapse of Mexican neoliberalism between 1994-5. Drawing from John Gray's incisive book "False Dawn," we delve into the intricacies of this economic implosion and its far-reaching implications. Our exploration takes us through the establishment of neoliberal economic policies in Mexico, their relationship with the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA...

Maoism Explained Part One

July 13, 2023 16:12 - 33 minutes - 77 MB

In this compelling episode of Explaining History, we delve deep into the ideological and historical currents that gave rise to Maoism, the influential doctrine of China's revolutionary leader, Mao Zedong. Drawing from Julia Lovell's profound work, "Maoism: A Global History," we aim to demystify Mao's philosophy and its global impact. Our exploration takes us from the early seeds of Mao's political thought, encapsulated in his infamous aphorism "Power comes from the barrel of a gun," to its ...

From the Pentagon Papers to Watergate 1971-74

July 12, 2023 15:41 - 33 minutes - 77 MB

Join us on this episode of Explaining History, where we journey back to one of the most politically turbulent eras in American history. We're privileged to have Mary McNeil, a renowned historian and scholar, as our guide through the labyrinth of events that transpired from the release of the Pentagon Papers to the fall of the Nixon administration in the Watergate scandal. Mary elucidates the critical roles that Daniel Ellsberg and John Dean played in these defining moments of the early 1970...

Elton John VS the Sun Newspaper 1987-88

July 11, 2023 13:53 - 35 minutes - 81.8 MB

In this episode of Explaining History, we turn our focus from world events to a pivotal moment in pop culture history: the infamous legal battle between music superstar Elton John and the British tabloid, The Sun. Based on John Sweeney's insightful feature, "The Sun and the Star," from the "Faber Book of Pop" anthology, we unravel the intricate story behind one of the most high-profile libel cases of the 1980s. Our exploration takes us through the tumultuous relationship between the media ...

Countdown to Surrender: The last days of World War Two

July 10, 2023 20:22 - 35 minutes - 80.9 MB

In this captivating episode of Explaining History, we delve into the profound historical moments leading to the end of World War II with our special guest, acclaimed writer and historian, Evan Thomas. As the author of numerous bestselling books and an expert in American history and foreign policy, Thomas guides us through the fraught final days of the Pacific War. He elaborates on the intricate blend of military strategy, diplomatic negotiations, and human psychology that marked this tumult...

Post War British Society 1945-1990

July 10, 2023 19:01 - 26 minutes - 61.2 MB

In this episode, we delve deep into the dynamic period in British history spanning 1945 to 1990. Our exploration is based on "The People's Peace" by esteemed historian Kenneth O. Morgan, who masterfully encapsulates the cultural, social, and political transformation of post-war Britain. We open with the euphoria of victory in 1945 and the advent of the welfare state under the Labour government. Drawing on Morgan's in-depth research, we trace the rise of collectivism, the spirit of cooperati...

War reporting in the USSR: 1941-45

July 06, 2023 17:32 - 25 minutes - 59.3 MB

In this thought-provoking episode of the Explaining History Podcast, historian we delve into the captivating world of war reporting during Operation Barbarossa, the German invasion of the Soviet Union in 1941. Drawing inspiration from the renowned book "The First Casualty" by Phillip Knightley, we explore the intricate landscape of journalism, censorship, and chaos that unfolded during this pivotal moment in history. The episode takes us on a compelling journey through the challenges faced ...

Scholar, Spy, Eyewitness: Winthrop Bell (Explaining History in Conversation with Jason Bell)

July 05, 2023 15:37 - 36 minutes - 82.7 MB

In today's podcast I chat with Jason Bell about his book Cracking the Nazi Code, the story of Winthrop Bell, a Canadian academic and MI6 agent who witnessed the rise of Nazism first hand. Become a member at https://plus.acast.com/s/explaininghistory. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Anglo American Liberalism and the Mandate System 1918-1919

July 04, 2023 17:26 - 25 minutes - 57.5 MB

Join historian us on a journey into the intricate world of international politics during the aftermath of World War I in the latest episode of the Explaining History Podcast. In this episode, titled "Anglo-American Liberalism and the Mandate System 1918-1919," we delve into the clash between imperial ambitions, paternalism, and the ideals of Wilsonian internationalism. We will unravel the complex dynamics that unfolded at the Paris Peace Conference, where the victors of the war convened to ...

Mussolini's Mausoleum - 1957

July 03, 2023 14:46 - 25 minutes - 58.6 MB

Welcome to a captivating episode of the Explaining History Podcast, we take an insightful journey into the legacy of Mussolini's historical memory in Italy. In this episode, titled "Mussolini's Mausoleum," our focus centers on the site where his remains are interred, located in Predappio, Italy. We delve into the fascinating history surrounding the mausoleum and its significance as a symbol of Mussolini's enduring impact on Italian society. Join us as we navigate the complex emotions, contr...

Thatcherism's Contradictions 1975-2023

July 02, 2023 21:01 - 29 minutes - 67.3 MB

Episode Description: In the latest instalment of the Explaining History Podcast, join us as we delve into the multifaceted nature of Thatcherism, a political ideology that has left an indelible mark on British society. This episode, titled "Thatcherism's Contradictions, 1975-2023," explores the intricate relationship between social conservatism and economic liberalism, which have often found themselves in conflict during the era shaped by the Iron Lady. The show takes us on a captivating j...

Paris 1870 siege and revolution - In conversation with David Lawday

June 22, 2023 19:49 - 37 minutes - 86.6 MB

In this episode of Explaining History, we are delighted to welcome renowned author and dedicated Francophile, David Lawday. With his extensive knowledge and passion for French history, David delves into the dramatic and impactful events of the Siege of Paris in 1870 and the subsequent Paris Commune. The year 1870 was a turning point for France, marked by the defeat of Napoleon III and the Siege of Paris during the Franco-Prussian War. Lawday brings to life this brutal siege, transporting u...

Agent Twister - The life and faked death of John Stonehouse

June 01, 2023 22:30 - 35 minutes - 80.3 MB

This week, we have an intriguing episode as we converse with acclaimed author Philip Augur, who brings to life the tale of John Stonehouse, the controversial Labour MP. We explore the remarkable and complex narrative depicted in the book 'Agent Twister', co-written with Keely Winstone. Discover Stonehouse's tumultuous journey from political prominence to disgrace, marked by an infamous scandal that astonished the British public, a story truly stranger than fiction. Our conversation uncov...

The SAS and World War Two: In conversation with Damien Lewis

May 24, 2023 19:54 - 37 minutes - 85 MB

Join us on an enthralling journey into the annals of history as we delve into the extraordinary exploits of the Special Air Service (SAS) during World War Two. In this captivating episode of Explaining History, host [Podcast Host's Name] sits down with acclaimed author and historian, Damien Lewis, to explore the gripping tales of war, trauma, and the birth of modern special forces. Drawing on extensive research and first hand accounts, Damien Lewis takes us back to the harrowing days of the...

Isaac Murphy and the Reconstruction Era (1861-96): Explaining History in conversation with Katherine Mooney

May 03, 2023 14:59 - 36 minutes - 83.5 MB

Join us in this captivating episode of Explaining History as we delve into the remarkable life of Isaac Murphy, a legendary African American jockey, and his experiences during the Reconstruction Era (1861-96). This week Nick is joined by esteemed historian and author Katherine Mooney, who provides an insightful look into the untold stories of this pivotal period in American history. Together, they discuss the challenges faced by African Americans following the Civil War, the complexities ...

Los Angeles and Core - The Freedom Rides 1947-61

April 18, 2023 05:18 - 31 minutes - 71.8 MB

This podcast episode "Los Angeles and CORE - The Freedom Rides 1947-61" delves into the origins of the Congress of Racial Equality (CORE) and their pivotal role in the civil rights movement. The episode focuses on James Farmer, a civil rights activist and one of the founders of CORE, who was instrumental in organizing the Freedom Rides of 1961 in Alabama and Mississippi. The Freedom Rides were a series of bus trips taken by civil rights activists to challenge segregation in public transport...

Save the last bullet - stories of Hitler's child soldiers 1943-45

March 29, 2023 20:54 - 41 minutes - 94.7 MB

In this captivating episode of the Explaining History podcast, we sit down with Heidi Langbein Hall, author and daughter of World War II survivor Willi Langbein. Heidi shares the harrowing story of her father's life during the war and how his memoirs have been transformed into a powerful book. At just 13 years old, Willi was taken from his family by the Nazis under the guise of protection. In reality, he and his fellow children were groomed to become sacrificial pawns in the final days of t...

Asian Nationalism and the end of the British Empire - 1945

March 25, 2023 10:28 - 29 minutes - 68.3 MB

In this episode of the Explaining History podcast, we delve into the complex relationships between Asian nationalism and the British Empire in the aftermath of World War II. Focusing on India, Burma, and Malaya, we examine how the war had radicalized nationalist movements in these countries, leading to increasing demands for independence and the eventual end of British colonial rule in the region. We discuss the impact of the war on these societies, including the disruption of traditional p...

Habsburg Strategic Challenges - 1914

March 17, 2023 12:58 - 32 minutes - 74.4 MB

In this episode, we dive into the strategic challenges faced by the Austro-Hungarian Army in 1914 as they mobilized for World War One. As the empire faced threats from multiple directions, including Serbia, Russia, and Italy, the army struggled to coordinate its response and maintain supply lines to its troops. We explore the political and logistical issues that hampered the Austro-Hungarian war effort and examine the impact of these challenges on the course of the conflict. Join us as we de...

The Life of John Burgoyne - In conversation with Norman Poser

March 08, 2023 22:16 - 35 minutes - 80.4 MB

In this special episode of the Explaining History Podcast we hear from biographer Norman Poser, whose new book From the Battlefield to the Stage: The Many Lives of John Burgoyne tells the story of Burgoyne, who famously surrendered to the American armies at Saratoga in 1777. In this fascinating interview we explore the story of Burgoyne himself, the revolutionary war and the nature of parliamentary life in the 18th Century and the foundational ideas of conservatism. You can grab a copy of N...

The American neoliberal counter revolution 1971-80

February 26, 2023 19:31 - 32 minutes - 74 MB

Welcome to the Explaining History Podcast. In this episode, we dive into the American neoliberal counter revolution of the 1970s, a period of profound political and economic change that continues to shape the world we live in today. During this decade, a new political and economic philosophy emerged, driven by figures like Milton Friedman and the Chicago School of Economics, that sought to roll back the gains of the New Deal and reassert the power of the free market. This movement, called n...

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