Key Battles of American History - Key Battles of American History

Key Battles of the Barbary War, Episode 6: Swashbuckling Ship Battles and 500-Mile Desert Marches Won the First Barbary War Nov 20, 2024

In Episode 6, we dive into two pivotal battles in the First Barbary War: Tripoli and Derne. It starts with Stephen Decatur's dramatic assault on Tripoli Harbor in August 1804, where he led American gunboats against a larger Tripolitanian fleet, avenging his brother's death in single combat and shelling the city. Commodore Preble's daring attempts to destroy Tripoli's defenses are followed by the tragic loss of the USS Intrepid crew.

We then move to William Eaton’s ambitious overland march with a small band of Marines and mercenaries across the Libyan desert to Derne. Facing hunger, mutiny, and harsh terrain, Eaton's force managed to surprise Derne’s defenders, capturing the city in America’s first coordinated land-sea assault. Despite Eaton’s victory, peace talks led by Tobias Lear overshadowed Eaton’s campaign, forcing a strategic withdrawal that left Hamet Karamanli, Eaton’s ally, without power. Eaton returned home as a hero, but haunted by the treaty’s outcome. This episode captures the challenges of America’s first overseas conflict and the complicated peace that followed.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Pacific Episode 5 Nov 16, 2024

In this episode, Sean and James discuss Part 5 of The Pacific, in which Eugene Sledge goes into combat for the first time. Sledge is briefly reunited with Phillips on Pavuvu before Phillips departs to return home to Mobile. Sledge meets Merriell "Snafu" Shelton, R.V. Burgin, Bill Leyden, Gunny Haney, and his company commander Andy Haldane, all of whom will be his companions in the fighting come. Later, the 1st Marine Division lands at Peleliu, where they encounter stiff resistance from the Japanese defenders.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Key Battles of the Barbary Wars, Episode 5: The Destruction of the USS Philadelphia Nov 13, 2024

The USS Philadelphia, launched in 1799, played a crucial role in early American naval history but was captured by Tripolitan forces in 1803 after running aground near Tripoli during the Barbary Wars. Captain William Bainbridge attempted to prevent its capture by lightening the ship and destroying key materials but was ultimately forced to surrender, leading to his crew’s captivity and increased ransom demands. Commodore Preble responded by planning to destroy the Philadelphia to prevent it from strengthening Tripoli's forces, selecting Lieutenant Stephen Decatur for a daring raid to set the frigate ablaze. Decatur and his crew succeeded in a swift, covert operation that won admiration back in the U.S. and internationally, shifting the balance of the war in America’s favor.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Pacific Episode 4 Nov 09, 2024

Previously limited by a heart murmur, Eugene Sledge enlists in the Marines and trains for combat, while Leckie and the 1st Marine Division are put into action at Cape Gloucester. The relentless rain and jungle environment takes its toll on the Marines. Leckie is treated for nocturnal enuresis caused by combat stress and is hospitalized for a number of weeks. The Marines (including both Sledge and Leckie) arrive on Pavuvu, which serves as a temporary base for the 1st Marine Division. Meanwhile, Basilone continues to promote war bonds in the U. S. but becomes increasingly disenchanted and longs to return to combat.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Key Battles of the Barbary Wars, Episode 4: The First Barbary War (1801-05) Nov 06, 2024

The First Barbary War began in response to decades of harassment of American traders by North African pirates. Before becoming president, Thomas Jefferson faced renewed Barbary pirate attacks, with the Pasha of Tripoli threatening war unless more tribute was paid. Despite being known for his frugality and opposition to a naval buildup, Jefferson deployed a naval squadron, believing military force was cheaper and more effective than paying tribute.

In 1801, after the U.S. failed to meet the Pasha’s demands, Tripoli declared war, leading to naval skirmishes, including a decisive early victory by the USS Enterprise. Jefferson's efforts to blockade Tripoli faced setbacks, including the capture of the American frigate Philadelphia and its crew. This loss raised the stakes, with the Pasha demanding an even larger ransom, complicating efforts to resolve the conflict.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Pacific Episode 3 Nov 02, 2024

The 1st Marine Division on Guadalcanal is relieved and arrives in Melbourne, Australia. Battle weary, many Marines go AWOL, engaging in drunken escapades. Leckie falls in love with an Australian girl of Greek descent, who invites him to stay at her parents' home. Not wanting to go through the pain of losing him, Stella breaks up with Leckie and tells him not to return. As a result, Leckie becomes belligerently drunk; when his friend Lew Juergens asks Leckie to relieve him on guard duty so he can urinate, an officer catches him, culminating in Leckie pulling a sidearm and both he and Juergens are punished and demoted. Basilone receives the Medal of Honor for his actions on Guadalcanal and is sent home to sell war bonds.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Key Battles of the Barbary Wars, Episode 3: The Barbary States and Their 300-Year Reign of Mediterranean Piracy Oct 30, 2024

The Barbary States (Morocco, Tripoli, Algiers, Tunis) were the greatest thorn in the side of the young American republic after it won independence, preying on trade ships, enslaving American crews, and demanding levels of ransom that consumed much of the federal budget. But why did the Barbary states rely on piracy for economic survival and why couldn't they engage in typical commerce?

In the 16th century, the Barbary States transitioned from Mediterranean trade to piracy after Spain's conquests and Ottoman expansion disrupted their economy. Algiers and other North African ports became notorious bases for corsairs, launching raids on European shipping under the protection of the Ottoman Empire. By the early 17th century, piracy became central to their economy, with hundreds of corsair vessels operating from Algerine ports, capturing ships and enslaving crews. However, by the late 1800s, the Barbary States' power had waned due to European naval interventions, reducing their fleets and influence significantly.

But they were still a major threat, as the newborn United States was soon to find out. In this episode, James and Scott look at the origins of the Barbary States and understand their perspective in the Barbary Wars.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Pacific Episode 2 Oct 26, 2024

In this episode, Dave and James discuss the second episode of HBO’s The Pacific. This episode deals primarily with the Battle of Henderson Field, especially Sgt. John Basilone’s role in the battle. Basilone and the Seventh Marines land on Guadalcanal to bolster the defenses around Henderson Field. During the Japanese attack on the Marine perimeter, Basilone, attempting to relocate his machine gun to a better position, bare-handedly cradles the hot barrel and severely burns his arms. Despite this, he continues fighting and kills scores of Japanese troops. Later, Basilone is awarded the Medal of Honor for his conduct during the battle.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Key Battles of the Barbary Wars, Episode 2: The British Origins of the US Navy Oct 23, 2024

The American Navy was birthed in the Barbary Wars. Sure, there was a token navy in the Revolutionary War, but battles were mostly won in that war by American privateers (or, if you were British, pirates). To understand where the U.S. Navy came from, we need to take a step back and look at the stake of naval warfare in the 18th century.

The early American Navy resembled the British Navy in its use of British ship designs, naval tactics, and organizational structures, largely inherited from the colonial period when the colonies relied on British maritime power. Many American naval officers had British training or were influenced by British traditions, such as ship discipline, officer ranks, and the use of frigates for protecting trade routes.

However, the U.S. Navy was different in its focus and scale. While the British Navy was a vast global force designed for empire-building and large-scale warfare, the early American Navy was smaller and more focused on defending American merchant ships, often relying on nimble frigates rather than large ships-of-the-line. Additionally, the U.S. Navy operated with a more democratic ethos, as naval officers in America were often more accountable to elected officials, reflecting the values of the new republic.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Pacific Episode 1 Oct 19, 2024

In this episode, Dave and James discuss and review Part 1 of the epic 2010 HBO miniseries The Pacific, which follows the lives and wartime actions of three well-known Marines who served in the Pacific Theater: John Basilone, Robert Leckie, and Eugene Sledge. In Episode 1 of The Pacific, we are introduced to the three main characters and we witness the initial Marine landing on Guadalcanal, the Battle of Alligator Creek, and the Battle of Savo Island.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Key Battles of the Barbary Wars, Episode 1: America Wanted to Take 1776 to the High Seas. North African Pirates Disagreed. Oct 16, 2024

In this new mini-series, Scott Rank is rejoined by James Early (his co-host on many other military history mini-series, covering the Civil War, World War One, and the Revolutionary War) to look at a little-known war that pitted the infant United States against the Barbary States of North Africa.
The Barbary Wars were a series of conflicts between the United States and the Barbary States of North Africa (modern-day Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia, and Libya) from 1801 to 1815, fought over the piracy and tribute demands imposed on American ships. These wars marked the U.S. Navy's first significant overseas military engagements and helped establish American maritime power. We also see the birth of of the U.S. Marines and how they literally fought on the shore of Tripoli.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Operation Tidal Wave Oct 09, 2024

On August 1 1943, a force of 177 American heavy bombers conducted a strategic bombing mission over the oil fields near Ploesti, Romania to deny petroleum-based fuel to the Axis powers. The operation was one of the costliest for the USAAF in the European Theater, with 53 aircraft and 500 aircrewmen lost. It was proportionally the most costly major Allied air raid of the war, and its date was later referred to as "Black Sunday." Join James as he tells the gripping story of "Operation Tidal Wave" in this special topical episode written by Sean McIver.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

FIW 10: Epilogue to the French and Indian War Oct 02, 2024

In this final episode of the series, Jacob and James discuss the legacy of the French and Indian War and the post-war lives and careers of the main leaders on both sides.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

FIW 9: More Conflict in the Caribbean and the Treaty of Paris Sep 25, 2024

Following the French surrender of Canada, General Jeffrey Amherst began working on consolidating British control of North America. Meanwhile, British naval and ground forces captured Martinique. Spain joined the war, and Britain promptly attacked and captured the key city of Havana, Cuba. Finally, France and Britain signed the Treaty of Paris, bringing peace and many territorial changes in North America. Join Jacob and James as they discuss the final stages of the French and Indian War.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

FIW 8: The Fall of Canada and the Cherokee War Sep 18, 2024

Having lost Quebec in 1759, the French tried to retake it in 1760 but failed. Soon afterward, three separate British armies converged on the last major French possession in Canada: Montreal. Meanwhile, in late 1758, conflict between Cherokee warriors and British colonists broke out in the southern colonies. The fighting would last for three years before a long-term peace was established. Join Jacob and James as they discuss the final major campaigns of the war on the North American continent.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

FIW 7: The Quebec Campaign Sep 11, 2024

While British General Prideaux was busy laying siege to Fort Niagara and General Amherst was marching on Fort Carillon, the ambitious and aggressive 32-year-old James Wolfe was preparing an assault on the French fortress town of Quebec. This massive campaign would last three months and would involve nearly 9000 British soldiers and 162 ships attacking an incredibly strong fortress on a bluff nearly 300 feet above the St. Lawrence River. Join Jacob and James as they tell the fascinating story of the British campaign to take the capital city of New France.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

FIW 6: More French Losses: Guadeloupe, Ft. Niagara, and Ft. Carillon Sep 04, 2024

In 1759, the British had launched a highly successful campaign to push the French out of the Ohio Country and into Canada. Influenced by British sugar magnates, William Pitt decided to order a British attack on the major French sugar-producing islands in the Caribbean. The attack on Martinique failed, but the subsequent invasion of Guadeloupe was a huge success. Back in North America, General Jeffrey Amherst attempted to rack up more British victories against the tenacious French forces. Would he succeed? You already know the answer to the question...listen, and you shall find out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

FIW 5: The Tide Turns: Fort Frontenac and Fort Duquesne Aug 28, 2024

By the summer of 1758, the French position in North America was growing increasingly tenuous. The flow of food and other supplies was drying up due to the British naval blockade of North America. There were simply too many British soldiers and not enough French to fight off the various British attacks. Meanwhile, the ambitious British campaign of 1758 continued with a bold strike on the key French supply hub of Fort Frontenac and with a slow but sure attack on that old thorn in the British side, Fort Duquesne.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

FIW 4: Victory and Defeat: Louisbourg (again) and Fort Carillon Aug 21, 2024

Beginning in 1758, the British war effort would be run by the brilliant and aggressive Member of Parliament William Pitt. Pitt opened up the government’s purse to properly fund the war effort and sent a cadre of new, younger, and more aggressive generals to try and turn the tide in North America. They kicked off the 1758 campaigning season with bold assaults on the key French positions of Louisbourg and Fort Carillon. Would these efforts succeed? Join Jacob and James as they tell you.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Last of the Mohicans Part 2 Aug 17, 2024

In this episode, Jacob and James conclude their discussion of the 1992 film The Last of the Mohicans, concluding the review (as always!) by rating the film on a scale of 0 to 5.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Last of the Mohicans Part 1 Aug 14, 2024

In this episode Jacob and James discuss the epic 1992 film The Last of the Mohicans, which provides a fictionalized account of the 1757 French siege of Fort William Henry.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

FIW 3: More Disasters: Oswego, Louisbourg, and Fort William Henry Aug 07, 2024

After the French defeat of British forces led by George Washington in 1754 and Edward Braddock in 1755, things did not improve for the British. In 1756 and 1757, French forces captured the British forts Bull, Ontario, Oswego, and WIlliam Henry, while the French navy blocked a British attempt to capture Louisbourg. Meanwhile, in London, the King searched for a leader who could turn the tide in North America. Join Jacob and James as they tell how Britain was driven to the brink of collapse in the New World.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

FIW 2: Washington, Albany, and Braddock's Defeat Jul 31, 2024

After the French refused the young George Washington’s request that they leave the Ohio Country, Washington took a greater force and tried again. It did not go well. The next year, the British sent a still larger force under General Edward Braddock to expel the French by force. Did Braddock succeed? Listen, and Jacob and James will let you know!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

FIW 1: Britain and France: Centuries of Conflict Jul 24, 2024

By 1754, Great Britain and France had been fighting each other off and on for centuries. In the early seventeenth century, both empires began establishing colonies in North America, and both empires’ presence in the region grew over the next 150 years. As the British colonies looked to expand west and the French pushed south and east, conflict became inevitable. Join Jacob and James as they explore the roots of the French and Indian War.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

FIW 0: Introduction to the French and Indian War Jul 17, 2024

In this episode, James and new cohost Jacob Herr kick off a new series on the French and Indian War. You’ll want to catch every action-packed episode of this narrative of a little-known but crucial war for control of the region that later became the United States of America.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Oppenheimer (Part 2) Jul 13, 2024

In this episode, Sean and James conclude their discussion of the epic 2023 biopic Oppenheimer.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Oppenheimer (Part 1) Jul 10, 2024

In this episode, James and Sean discuss the first half of the epic 2023 biopic Oppenheimer.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Masters of the Air Episode 9 Jul 06, 2024

In February 1945, Major Rosenthal's plane is shot down over Berlin; he parachutes into no man's land and is rescued by the Red Army. The Germans evacuate Stalag Luft III, forcing the prisoners to march in freezing conditions; they are taken via train to Nuremberg before being interned at Stalag XIII. Cleven and two other officers escape, and Cleven makes it to Allied lines. Egan and the other prisoners are taken to Stalag VII and are liberated soon after. In Poznań, Major Rosenthal enters Żabikowo prison camp (which replaced Fort VII) where he sees the bodies of prisoners, as well as signs of the earlier Jewish inmates. Majors Cleven, Egan, Rosenthal and Crosby reunite at Thorpe Abbotts; they participate in Operations Manna and Chowhound to supply food to the Dutch population stricken by Hongerwinter. After the German surrender, the 100th departs for home. The series ends with a montage explaining the future lives of its central characters. Join Sean and James as they discuss this epic and heart-warming episode.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Manhattan Project Jul 03, 2024

In this episode, James and Sean McIver briefly tell the story of the Manhattan Project, the history-changing effort to develop an atomic bomb and end the Second World War.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Masters of the Air Episode 8 Jun 29, 2024

In this episode, Sean and James discuss Part 8, which introduces the heroic Tuskegee Airmen into the story. In June 1944, Captain Crosby conducts operational planning for two hundred bombing missions against Wehrmacht positions in France in preparation for Operation Overlord. Working for three straight days, he passes out and sleeps through D-Day. There is virtually no resistance from the Luftwaffe. During Operation Dragoon, the Tuskegee Airmen of the 99th Fighter Squadron are downed attacking German positions at the Côte d'Azur; 2nd lieutenants Richard Macon, Robert Daniels, and Alexander Jefferson are transferred to Stalag Luft III, now under control of the SS. They are invited by Cleven to join with preparations for a potential breakout, now that the Red Army is approaching.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Into the Cold Blue with Jared Frederick Jun 26, 2024

In this episode, James welcomes historian, author, and YouTuber Jared Frederick back to the podcast.
James and Jared discuss Jared’s exciting new book Into the Cold Blue, coauthored with WW2 veteran John Homan, who flew 35 missions as copilot of a B-24 bomber crew during 1944.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Masters of the Air Episode 7 Jun 22, 2024

In the Spring of 1944, the men of the 100th are upset to learn that the number of missions required for a crew to be discharged is being increased to twenty-eight. Captain Rosenthal completes his twenty-fifth mission, but decides to reenlist. Rosenthal is placed in command of the 350th. Captain Crosby begins an affair with ATS officer Westgate. Sgts. Quinn and Bailey return to base and are exempted from further missions due to their knowledge of the escape lines. In Stalag Luft III, Major Cleven and other prisoners of war build a crystal radio to tune into the BBC news. A large group of British prisoners escape; Cleven, Egan and the other American officers are threatened that the camp will be turned over to the SS and Gestapo if there are further escape attempts. Join Sean and James as they discuss this exciting episode.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

World War 2 War Crimes Tribunals with Carl Archer Jun 19, 2024

In this episode, James interviews Carl Archer, an attorney, history buff, and Colonel in Early’s Raiders, about the war crimes tribunals that occurred after the Second World War.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Masters of the Air Episode 6 Jun 15, 2024

In this episode, Sean and James discuss Part 6, which takes us with Egan and Cleven into a German POW camp. October 1943; Major Egan is taken prisoner and almost dies after he and other downed pilots are attacked by civilians while being marched through a bombed town. He is taken to Dulag Luft for interrogation before being transferred to Stalag Luft III. There, he meets other comrades from the 100th, including Cleven. Meanwhile, Lt. Rosenthal and his crew are sent to a country estate for relaxation and counseling, which Rosenthal resists. Captain Crosby attends a conference at the University of Oxford where he meets a British ATS officer whom he bonds with before she is unexpectedly called away.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bermuda Code Breakers Jun 12, 2024

When you think about key centers of code breaking activity in the Second World War, what places come to mind? How about Bermuda? It has been said Bermuda was Britain’s number-one listening post during World War II. In this episode, commissioned by Early's Raiders Major Joan Bellfort, James discusses the British Imperial Censorship Station on Bermuda, whose censors (many of whom were women) revealed a major plot to damage American merchant convoys to the U. K.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Masters of the Air Episode 5 Jun 08, 2024

The 100th returns from the Bremen mission after taking heavy casualties. Lt. Crosby replaces Captain Payne as the lead navigator and is promoted. Major Egan leads another bombing raid to Münster just days after the Bremen mission. The mission ends disastrously for the 100th after they are intercepted by swarms of fighters. All but one B-17, piloted by Lt. Rosenthal, are shot down. Having bailed from his doomed plane, Major Egan parachutes alone into the German countryside of Westphalia. Join Sean and James as they discuss this second transitional episode, in which Lt. “Rosie” Rosenthal replaces Cleven and Egan as the heart and soul of the “Bloody 100th”

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Black Hawk War of 1832 Jun 05, 2024

In this episode, commissioned by Early's Raiders Col. Matt Schaper, James gives an overview of the 1832 U. S. Army war with Sac and Fox leader Black Hawk and his band of warriors. This war is little known, but it had a major impact on the history of the midwestern states and on the United States as a whole. Three future American presidents participated in the war.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Masters of the Air Episode 4 Jun 01, 2024

In this episode, Sean and James discuss Part 4, a transitional episode. In October 1943, fresh B-17 crews, including Lt. Robert Rosenthal, arrive. The 100th bombs Bremen once again. Feeling the effects of combat exhaustion, Major Egan is sent on leave to London, where he has a one-night stand with a Polish war widow. Learning that Major Cleven did not return from Bremen, Egan returns to duty early. Meanwhile, Sgt. Quinn is guided by Belgian resistance smugglers. He also meets two other American airmen, including Bob, who is killed after being exposed as a German infiltrator. Quinn and the others arrive via train to German occupied Paris on the way to Spain.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Great Lakes Naval Station in the World Wars May 29, 2024

In 1911, the U. S. Navy opened the Naval Training Station, Great Lakes, on the shore of Lake Michigan. During the First World War, about 125,000 sailors trained there. Later, during the Second World War, approximately one million naval personnel learned their skills at Great Lakes. These included thousands of aviators, who practiced takeoffs and landings on three aircraft carriers that floated on the lake. Join James as he narrates the exciting early history of Naval Station, Great Lakes and the Great Lakes Fleet.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This American President - Presidential Succession Crises May 27, 2024

Discover the intricate balance between tradition and vulnerability in America's presidential succession process with legal scholar Roy E. Brownell II in this compelling bonus episode from "This American President"
Stay informed and engaged with thought-provoking content from "This American President." Subscribe now to ensure you never miss an episode and follow on Apple or Spotify for updates, insights, and community engagement. Find more shows like this on Parthenonpodcast.com

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Masters of the Air Episode 3 May 25, 2024

In August 1943, the 100th participates in the Schweinfurt–Regensburg mission to destroy aircraft manufacturing plants deep within Germany before traveling to meet the Twelfth Air Force in North Africa. Lt. Biddick and his co-pilot are killed when they crash trying to make an emergency landing in a forest clearing. Sergeant Quinn parachutes to safety after his B-17 is destroyed; he lands in Belgium and is met by resistance members from an escape line. The surviving members of the 100th arrived in Algeria at Telergma Airfield. The Regensburg task force had lost 24 bombers; more than 60 of the 122 surviving aircraft landing in North Africa had suffered battle damage. Join Sean and James as they break down this exciting and gut-wrenching episode.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bombing Hitler's Hometown with Mike Croissant May 22, 2024

On April 25, 1945, the U. S. 15th Air Force conducted the final major bombing run of an Axis-controlled city. The target was Linz, Austria. Linz was one of Nazi Germany's most vital assets. Not only was it a crucial transportation hub and communications center, it was also claimed by Hitler as his home town. Linz was also heavily defended, making the raid hell for the American air crews. In this special episode, James interviews Mike Croissant, author of Bombing Hitler's Hometown, the exciting story of the April 25 bombing raid on Linz.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Masters of the Air Episode 2 May 18, 2024

Sean and James continue their discussion of Masters of the Air, this time reviewing Part 2, in which the 100th copes with its first combat losses. At a pub, RAF members challenge the American tactic of daytime raids; feeling disrespected, Lieutenant (Lt.) Curtis Biddick defeats a British pilot in a bare-knuckle boxing match. When Major Marvin Bowman is incapacitated by illness, Major Cleven is tasked with leading the 100th on their second mission: bombing German U-boat pens in Norway. Lt. Harry Crosby, despite airsickness, successfully navigates the mission. Lt. Biddick's B-17 is damaged; the other planes reduce airspeed to stay with Biddick's, which makes a controlled landing without power in Scotland.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Battleship Texas with Sean McIver (Part 2) May 15, 2024

In this episode, Sean and James discuss the Battleship Texas’ service in World War II, its brief postwar service, its conversion to a museum ship, and the many efforts to refurbish it and keep it alive.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Masters of the Air Episode 1 May 11, 2024

In this episode, Sean and James discuss the initial episode of the recently-released Apple TV+ series, Masters of the Air, which tells the story of the 100th Bomb Group, part of the Eighth Air Force that bombed Germany during World War II. In June 1943, the 100th, comprising four squadrons of B-17s from RAF base Thorpe Abbots, is sent on a daytime bombing mission to destroy targets in Bremen, Germany. Despite the use of the advanced Norden Bombsight the bombardiers are unable to confirm the targets due to heavy cloud cover, and the mission is aborted. The 100th is forced to fly through heavy anti-aircraft fire, and is then attacked by German fighter pilots. The failed mission results in the loss of three B-17s and thirty men, while the 100th commanding officer is relieved of command due to illness.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Battleship Texas with Sean McIver (Part 1) May 08, 2024

In this two-part topical episode, Sean McIver returns to the podcast! Sean and James discuss the origin of modern battleships, the history-making introduction of the HMS Dreadnought, the first ships called Texas, and the modern USS Texas’ service prior to World War II.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

G13: Epilogue to Guadalcanal May 01, 2024

In this epilogue to the Guadalcanal series, Dave and James discuss the human and material costs of the battle for Guadalcanal. They also evaluate the performance of both sides and the short-and long-term significance of the campaign.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Thin Red Line (with Steve Guerra) Apr 27, 2024

During a war, combatants often ponder the deep existential questions of life. These questions form the basis of Terence Malick’s 1998 war drama The Thin Red Line. On one level, The Thin Red Line is about a U. S. Army division’s attempt to take a hill on the island of Guadalcanal; however, the film also explores many age-old questions, including “How did evil enter the world?”, “Why are humans at war with nature?”, “Why do humans fight and kill each other?”, and “Given all the evil and suffering in the world, how can there be a loving creator?” Join James and Steve Guerra as they discuss this intellectually and emotionally deep film. Note: this episode originally appeared on Steve’s Podcast Beyond the Big Screen.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

G12: The Final Offensive and Operation KE Apr 24, 2024

In January 1943, American forces began slowly but surely pushing west as the Japanese mounted an effort to deceive the Americans into thinking another major offensive was coming. In reality, the Japanese were executing Operation KE, a plan to retreat westward and evacuate all survivors from Guadalcanal. In early February, American forces reached the northwestern tip of the island, only to find that the main body of the Japanese army was gone. The Guadalcanal Campaign was over. In this final regular episode of the series, Dave and James narrate the exciting finish to the 6-month struggle for Guadalcanal.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Guadalcanal Diary Apr 20, 2024

In this episode, Dave and James discuss the 1943 World War II war film Guadalcanal Diary, directed by Lewis Seiler. The film is based on the book of the same name by Richard Tregaskis. The film recounts the fight of the United States Marines in the Guadalcanal Campaign, which occurred only a year before the movie's release. While the film has notable battle scenes, its primary focus is on the characters and back stories of the Marines.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

G11: The Battle of Tassafaronga and the December Decision Apr 17, 2024

In this episode, Dave and James discuss the Battle of Tassafaronga, the final major naval battle of the Guadalcanal Campaign. They also narrate the Americans’ November Matanikau offensive (yes, another one!) and the beginning of the final American ground offensive. Finally, your intrepid hosts discuss the Japanese December 1942 decision to…well, listen, and you will find out what!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

G10: The Naval Battle of Guadalcanal Apr 10, 2024

Undeterred by the failure of their October attempt to capture Henderson Field, the Japanese high command ordered that yet another, still bigger, attempt be made in November. This resulted in two massive ship-to-ship battles between November 13 and 15, in which dozens of warships and planes, plus over 3500 soldiers, sailors, and airmen were lost. Join Dave and James as they tell the exciting story of this epic naval clash, which has come to be known simply as the Naval Battle of Guadalcanal.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

G9: The Battle of the Santa Cruz Islands and More American Offensives Apr 03, 2024

On October 26, American and Japanese naval forces clashed northeast of Guadalacanal in the fourth carrier battle of the war. Soon after this, General Vandegrift ordered offensives designed to extend the Marine perimeter both eastward and westward. And on November 4, the Second Marine Raider Battalion landed on the northeastern part of Guadalcanal and soon began chasing a Japanese force of 3000 that was trying to march to the west side of the island. The Raiders’ march, known now as the “Long Patrol,” would make Carlson’s Raiders legendary in the annals of war. In this episode, Dave and James narrate the thrilling stories of the Battle of the Santa Cruz Islands, the fourth Matanikau offensive, the Battle of Koli Point, and the Long Patrol.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Pacific, Part 2 Mar 30, 2024

In this episode, Dave and James discuss the second episode of HBO’s The Pacific. This episode deals primarily with the Battle of Henderson Field, especially Sgt. John Basilone’s role in the battle. Basilone and the Seventh Marines land on Guadalcanal to bolster the defenses around Henderson Field. During the Japanese attack on the Marine perimeter, Basilone, attempting to relocate his machine gun to a better position, bare-handedly cradles the hot barrel and severely burns his arms. Despite this, he continues fighting and kills scores of Japanese troops. Later, Basilone is awarded the Medal of Honor for his conduct during the battle.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Trans Oceanic Contact Theories Mar 30, 2024

Have you ever wondered if there was a group to reach North America before Christopher Columbus? Find out more in today's bonus episode from another Parthenon podcast "History of North America." Join host Mark Vinet as he discusses the search for the first non-indigenous explorers to reach the North American continent prior to Christopher Columbus’ 1492 voyage.
If you like what you hear, subscribe to "History of North America" on Apple or Spotify and look for it on Parthenonpodcast.com

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

G8: The High Speed Convoy and the Battle for Henderson Field Mar 27, 2024

The Japanese defeat at the Battle of Edson’s Ridge did not deter the Japanese high command, who immediately began planning an even bigger effort to retake Henderson Field and to remove the Americans from Guadalcanal. The new operation was christened “Plan X” and would include massive air, sea, and land attacks on American positions. On the ground, this time an entire division would assault the American perimeter. The American defenders were spread thin and outnumbered. Would the heroic efforts of Col. Chesty Puller, Sgt. John Basilone, Sgt. Mitchell Paige, and countless other Marines and soldiers be enough to stop the Japanese onslaught? Join Dave and James as they tell this exciting story.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

G7: The Battles of the Matanikau and the Battle of Cape Esperance Mar 20, 2024

After the American victory at Edson’s Ridge, the Marines on Guadalcanal were reinforced by the 7th Marine Regiment, which brought the total US strength on the island to about 20,000. The American ground commander General Alexander Vandegrift decided to expand the Marines’ perimeter westward by attacking Japanese positions at the Matanikau River. In addition, an American naval force met a Japanese fleet at Cape Esperance, near the site of the disastrous American defeat at Savo Island. How did these engagements turn out? Dave and James will let you know!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

G6: The Battle of Edson’s Ridge Mar 13, 2024

On September 12, a Japanese force of several thousand attacked the Marines’ perimeter from three directions. The most effect assault occurred south of the perimeter, near a position that became known as Edson’s Ridge. The Marine defenders, including the First Raider Battalion under Col. Merrit Edson, were greatly outnumbered but were on good ground and were supported by highly effective heavy artillery. Join Dave and James as they discuss this latest chapter in the struggle for control of Guadalcanal.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

G5: The Battle of the Eastern Solomons and the Tokyo Express Mar 06, 2024

After the disaster at Alligator Creek, the Japanese decided to launch a larger effort to recapture Guadalcanal. The objective of this combined air, sea, and land operation was to wipe out the US carrier fleet and the Cactus Air Force and to land enough soldiers to defeat the Marines on the island. In this episode, Dave and James discuss the ongoing Japanese attempts to regain control of Guadalcanal in late August, including the Battle of the Eastern Solomons, which delayed, but did not prevent Japanese reinforcement efforts.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Silent Cavalry and Surprising Civil War Stories Mar 02, 2024

Learn more about the Alabama Unionist soldiers in the Civil War with this exclusive interview from History Unplugged, hosted by Scott Rank.
Continue listening to History Unplugged:
Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3Ysc7Zg
Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3j0QRJy
Parthenon: https://www.parthenonpodcast.com/history-unplugged-podcast

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Pacific - Part 1 Mar 02, 2024

In this episode, Dave and James discuss and review Part 1 of the epic 2010 HBO miniseries The Pacific, which follows the lives and wartime actions of three well-known Marines who served in the Pacific Theater: John Basilone, Robert Leckie, and Eugene Sledge. In Episode 1 of The Pacific, we are introduced to the three main characters and we witness the initial Marine landing on Guadalcanal, the Battle of Alligator Creek, and the Battle of Savo Island.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

G4: Japan Strikes Back: Tojo Time and Alligator Creek Feb 28, 2024

The Japanese realized that if the U. S. were able to hold and utilize the airfield on Guadalcanal, Japan’s strategic objectives in the South Pacific would be foiled. Consequently, Japanese air, naval, and land forces immediately began trying to retake the airfield, recently renamed Henderson Field by the Americans. In August, Japanese bombers began conducting daily bombing raids on the field, an effort that the Americans called “Tojo Time.” In addition, an infantry battalion launched an aggressive attack on the Marine perimeter in an effort to retake the field. But would it work? Listen, and Dave and James will let you know!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

G3: Initial Landings and the Battle of Savo Island Feb 21, 2024

On August 7, 1942, elements of the First Marine Division landed on Guadalcanal. They met little opposition and quickly captured their initial objective, an airfield that the Japanese had recently built. The Marines got to work establishing a perimeter and preparing for the inevitable Japanese counterattack. Soon after, Japanese and American naval forces clashed in the first major naval engagement of the Guadalcanal campaign, the Battle of Savo Island. Join Dave and James as they narrate the exciting opening of the epic struggle for Guadalcanal.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Midway (2019 – With Sean McIver) (ENCORE) Feb 17, 2024

On June 4, 1942, a Japanese naval task force launched an attack on the American naval and air base at Midway Island. The task force then encountered an American carrier fleet, leading to an epic naval battle that helped change the course of the war in the Pacific. The 2019 action-war film Midway tells the story of the leadup to the battle, the battle itself, and the aftermath. Is it historically accurate? Is it a quality film? In this episode, James and Sean McIver answer these and other questions.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

G2: The Road to Guadalcanal 2: The Coral Sea and Midway Feb 14, 2024

In early 1942, Japan’s leaders decided to capture the key Allied port of Port Moresby on the southern coast of New Guinea, in an attempt to threaten American shipping lanes to Australia. But on its way to the port, at the Coral Sea, the Japanese fleet arrived encountered an American naval force. A month later, a large Japanese naval and air force attempted to capture the American base at Midway, but again, they ran into a powerful American fleet. Join Dave and James as they discuss the crucial battles of the Coral Sea and Midway, American victories that made the Guadalcanal Campaign possible.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tora! Tora! Tora! (with Sean McIver) (ENCORE) Feb 10, 2024

In the late 1960s, a Japanese film production team joined forces with an American team in an effort to produce a balanced and accurate retelling of the December 7, 1941 Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor. The result is the classic 1970 film Tora! Tora! Tora! which after more than 50 years still remains the definitive Pearl Harbor film. Join James and Sean McIver as they discuss the film’s story, its historical accuracy, its quality, and its legacy.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

G1: The Road to Guadalcanal 1: Pearl Harbor to The Doolittle Raid Feb 07, 2024

On December 7, 1941, Japanese air and naval forces attacked the American naval and air base at Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, killing 2400 Americans and heavily damaging the US Pacific Fleet. Over the next 5 months, Japan conquered several European and American possessions in southeast Asia, including Guam, Malaya, Wake Island, Hong Kong, Burma, Singapore, the Dutch East Indies, and the Philippines. In this episode, James and new cohost Dave Holland narrate this period of rapid Japanese expansion, including the famous “Doolittle Raid.”

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Band of Brothers, Episode 10: Points Feb 03, 2024

In this episode Sean and James discuss Band of Brothers Episode 10: Points. Easy captures the Eagle's Nest in Berchtesgaden without resistance, and the end of the war in Europe is announced. Finding a collection of 10,000 bottles of liquor, wine and champagne in a cellar at Hermann Göring's house, Winters allows the company to celebrate before they travel to Austria to become an occupying force. It is then announced that the division will be redeployed to the Pacific Theater, but those with enough points will get to go home. Winters applies for a transfer to the Pacific, but the officer in charge tells him his men have earned the right to keep him around. Despite the peace and the relative ease of life in Salzburg, men continue to be injured and die. Together with the rest of the battalion, Easy oversees the surrender of 25,000 German troops in Zell am See. Over a company baseball game, Winters narrates the fates of some of the men playing in it. He interrupts the game to announce the surrender of the Empire of Japan, which ends the war, and then narrates Nixon's fate and finally his own. The episode concludes with interviews with actual surviving Easy Company members.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

JFK in WW2 Jan 31, 2024

In this special episode, commissioned by Early's Raiders Colonet Daniel Fisher, James discusses John F. Kennedy's service in the Second World War.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Band of Brothers, Episode 9: Why We Fight Jan 27, 2024

In this episode Sean and James discuss Band of Brothers Episode 9: Why We Fight. While on patrol, some of the men of Easy Company stumble across a concentration camp near Landsberg and free the surviving prisoners. The sight of the victims leaves the soldiers horrified and disgusted, and Liebgott serves as a German interpreter for Winters as they learn from one of the survivors that the prisoners are Jews and noncombatants. The German locals deny knowing anything about the camp. The 101st Airborne's commander, General Taylor, imposes martial law and orders all able-bodied civilians from ages 14 to 80 to clean up the camp, including removing the bodies. Nixon informs Easy that Adolf Hitler has committed suicide.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

US Involvement in the Boxer Rebellion Jan 24, 2024

In this topical episode, commissioned by Early’s Raiders Colonel Lee Beaumont, James discusses the Boxer Rebellion, focusing on American involvement in the conflict, especially the role of US Marines. If you would like to commission an episode on a topic of your choosing, you can do so by joining Early’s Raiders at the Major level or higher. For more information, go to Patreon.com and search for Key Battles of American History.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Band of Brothers, Episode 8: The Last Patrol Jan 20, 2024

In this episode Sean and James discuss Band of Brothers Episode 8: The Last Patrol. In Haguenau, Easy adjusts to leaving the combat zone and gives a cold welcome to Private David Webster, who did not break out of the hospital to rejoin the company like others; and new replacement Second Lieutenant Henry Jones, fresh from West Point. Jones and Webster participate in a night raid across the river to get prisoners for interrogation, which gains them some respect. Winters is promoted to major, Lipton's commission becomes official, and Jones is promoted to first lieutenant and transferred to the regimental staff.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Quanah Parker Jan 17, 2024

In this topical episode, commissioned by Early’s Raiders Colonel Terry Davis, James discusses the fascinating life and career of Quanah Parker, a half-Comanche, half-white warrior who played an outsize role in Texas and American history during the nineteenth century.
If you would like to commission an episode on a topic of your choosing, you can do so by joining Early’s Raiders at the Major level or higher.
For more information, go to Patreon.com and search for Key Battles of American History.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Band of Brothers, Episode 7: The Breaking Point Jan 13, 2024

In this episode Sean and James discuss Band of Brothers Episode 7: The Breaking Point. Easy holds the line near Foy, Belgium, losing numerous soldiers. Winters and the men worry about the company's new commander, First Lieutenant Norman Dike, who is frequently absent without explanation. First Sergeant Carwood Lipton attempts to keep Easy's morale up. Lieutenant Lynn "Buck" Compton watches in horror as his close friends Guarnere and Joe Toye lose their legs to shelling, and he too is pulled from the line. During the assault on Foy, Dike freezes up during an attack, so Winters orders Lt. Ronald Speirs to relieve him. Victorious, Easy takes shelter in a church, where Lipton is told he has been given a field commission as a second lieutenant and Speirs is officially assigned command of Easy.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Fierce Valor with Jared Frederick Jan 10, 2024

In this episode, James again interviews professor, reenactor, and YouTuber Jared Frederick, this time about his 2022 book (co-authored with Erik Dorr) Fierce Valor: The True Story of Ronald Speirs and His Band of Brothers. Jared and James discuss the fascinating military career of Ronald Speirs, the final World War II commander of the 101st Airborne Division’s Easy Company and a key character of the award-winning 2001 HBO miniseries Band of Brothers.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Band of Brothers, Episode 6: Bastogne Jan 06, 2024

In this episode Sean and James discuss Band of Brothers Episode 6: Bastogne. Easy faces harsh winter conditions in the Ardennes, running dangerously low on ammunition, food, and medical supplies. Combat medic Eugene "Doc" Roe helps his fellow soldiers where he can, while also scrounging for medical supplies. He befriends a Belgian nurse named Renée; she is later killed in a bombing raid. Easy and other American units are surrounded, but General McAuliffe, their commander, rejects a German surrender offer with the reply "Nuts!"

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Sioux Wars Jan 03, 2024

In this topical episode, commissioned by Early’s Raiders Major Alex Calabrese, James discusses the various Sioux Wars, including the Dakota War of 1862, Red Cloud’s War (1866-68), the Great Sioux War (1876-77), and the Ghost Dance War (1890). If you would like to commission an episode on a topic of your choosing, you can do so by joining Early’s Raiders at the Major level or higher. For more information, go to Patreon.com and search for Key Battles of American History.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Band of Brothers, Episode 5: Crossroads Dec 30, 2023

In this episode Sean and James discuss Band of Brothers Episode 5: Crossroads. Winters writes an after-action report on Easy's actions during a German counter offensive on the Nijmegen salient; he is troubled by the fact that he shot an unarmed, teenage Waffen-SS soldier during the battle. Winters is promoted to battalion executive officer, and command of Easy is given to "Moose" Heyliger. Winters, Nixon, Heyliger and Sink meet Lt. Col. David Dobie of the British Parachute Regiment and 1st Airborne Division, who enlists Easy's help in Operation Pegasus to rescue 140 of his comrades. The operation succeeds, and the rescued British Paras celebrate with Easy and toast them. Heyliger is badly wounded, and command of the company passes to Norman Dike before they are rushed to Bastogne when the Germans break out in the Battle of the Bulge.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Medical Care in World War II Dec 27, 2023

In this topical episode, commissioned by Early’s Raiders Major Ana Concepcion Castro, James discusses medical care in World War II, including the crucial role of combat medics, the various types of hospitals, and medical advances made during the war. If you would like to commission an episode on a topic of your choosing, you can do so by joining Early’s Raiders at the Major level or higher. For more information, go to Patreon.com and search for Key Battles of American History.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Band of Brothers, Episode 4: Replacements Dec 23, 2023

In this episode Sean and James discuss Band of Brothers Episode 4: Replacements. Replacements join Easy Company and struggle to be accepted by the veterans who fought at Normandy. Winters is promoted to captain, while Sobel becomes the regiment's new supply officer. The company parachutes into the Netherlands as part of Operation Market Garden and liberates Eindhoven. During combat in Nuenen, the replacements integrate themselves with the company, but Easy is forced to retreat. Denver "Bull" Randleman is left behind. Wounded, Randeman hides in a barn and engages in hand-to-hand combat with a German soldier. He is reunited with the rest of the company the following day.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

History of the Papacy Sample: The Septuagint Dec 20, 2023

The Septuagint is the most important Bible translation you’ve never heard of. In this episode of the 10th Anniversary of the History of the Papacy series, Steve Guerra and his special guest Garry Stevens lay out the basics of the Septuagint translation of the Old Testament. They talk about the issues of translation and the process of translation.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hang Tough with Jared Frederick Dec 20, 2023

In this episode, James interviews professor, reenactor, and YouTuber Jared Frederick about his 2020 book (co-authored with Erik Dorr) Hang Tough:
The WWII Letters and Artifacts of Major Dick Winters. Jared and James discuss the inspiring life and career of Dick Winters, a decorated officer in the 101st Airborne Division during World War II and the main character of the award-winning 2001 HBO miniseries Band of Brothers. Jared and James examine Winters’ life largely through a series of letters he wrote to a penpal in the U. S.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Band of Brothers, Episode 3: Carentan Dec 16, 2023

In this episode Sean and James discuss Band of Brothers Episode 3: Carentan. Easy fights in the Battle of Carentan and loses several men. Rumors begin to circulate that Ronald Speirs killed a group of German prisoners. Private Albert Blithe, who has been struggling with shell shock, is finally spurred into action by Winters during the Battle of Bloody Gulch. Several days later, Blithe is shot through the neck by a sniper while on patrol.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Revolutionary War Artillery Dec 13, 2023

In this topical episode, commissioned by Early’s Raiders Major Doug Pergram, James discusses Revolutionary War artillery, including types of artillery and shot, how artillery were fired, and how they were used by both sides during the war. If you would like to commission an episode on a topic of your choosing, you can do so by joining Early’s Raiders at the Major level or higher. For more information, go to Patreon.com and search for Key Battles of American History.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Band of Brothers, Episode 2: Day of Days Dec 09, 2023

In this episode Sean and James discuss Band of Brothers Episode 2: Day of Days. On June 6, 1944, Easy Company parachutes into Normandy but is scattered and many land miles away from their designated drop zones. Most of Easy reconnects, but its company commander, First Lieutenant Thomas Meehan, is missing and presumed dead, so Winters assumes command as its highest-ranking officer. He successfully leads a small group of men in destroying German artillery emplacements firing on Utah Beach from Brécourt Manor despite the German defending force being larger. Winters also captures a map of all German artillery emplacements in Normandy. Winters and several other Easy Company members earn combat decorations for their part in the attack.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Fighting Darlings - Prisoners in the Philippines Dec 06, 2023

After the fall of the Philippines to the Japanese in May 1942, many Allied servicemen became prisoners. Those who survived their captivity would remain prisoners of the Japanese for nearly three years. One of these prisoners, George Darling of Deming, New Mexico, went on to write a memoir of his and his brother Gerald’s captivity in the Philippines. In this episode, James is joined by Jay Robison, a retired Air Force colonel, surgeon, and history buff…as well as James’ first cousin and a first cousin once removed to the Darling brothers. You will be fascinated by the Darling brothers’ story as Jay and James tell it.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Band of Brothers, Episode 1: Currahee Dec 02, 2023

In this episode Sean and James introduce the award-winning Band of Brothers series and discuss Episode 1: Currahee. In 1942, Easy Company trains at Camp Toccoa, Georgia, under First Lieutenant Herbert Sobel, a strict disciplinarian who goes out of his way to find fault with his men. The company is shipped to England in September 1943, and as training progresses, Sobel's inadequacy as a leader in the field becomes evident. Now a captain, Sobel initiates a dispute with Lieutenant Richard "Dick" Winters, leading to Winters requesting a trial by court martial. These factors lead all of Easy's non-commissioned officers to resign en masse. Colonel Robert Sink, the regiment's commander, reassigns Sobel to command of a parachuting school for essential non-infantry personnel. With new leadership, Easy Company prepares for Operation Overlord. William Guarnere learns that his older brother Henry, a medic in the 1st Armored Division fighting in Italy, has been killed at Monte Cassino.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

James Longstreet with Elizabeth Varon Nov 29, 2023

In this episode, James interviews Elizabeth Varon, the Langbourne M. Williams Professor of American History and Associate Director of the John L. Nau III Center for Civil War History at the University of Virginia, about her new book Longstreet: The Confederate General Who Defied the South. One of the Confederate Army’s most talented commanders, Longstreet was called “my old war horse” by Robert E. Lee. But within a few years of the end of the war, Longstreet had become a Republican and fought against many of his former Confederates, thus becoming persona non grata in the South. You’ll find this discussion of what Dr. Varon calls “the most remarkable political about-face in American history” fascinating. Join us!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This American President - The JFK Assassination Nov 25, 2023

November 22 marks the 60th anniversary of the assassination of President John F. Kennedy. To commemorate this pivotal event in American history, learn more about Kennedy's 1963 Texas visit, reelection campaign, assassination, and legacy, with this excerpt from This American President.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

From Orphan to High Flyer with Philip Martin Nov 22, 2023

In this episode, James interviews Philip Martin, author of From Orphan to High Flyer. In this book, Philip tells the story of his late friend Denis Eliot. Denis rose from the horrors of a Victorian-style British orphanage and brutal foster parents to command and pilot American-built RAF B-24 Liberators against the Japanese in Asia, then to fly RAF aircraft into the late 1950s during the Cold War, and finally to live a fulfilling existence beyond his time in the military. In the RAF, he defied death many times and was privileged to see lands far from where he was raised in the UK. Join James and Philip as they discuss Denis’ fascinating life and career.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Stalag 17 Nov 18, 2023

In this episode, Sean and James review the 1953 film Stalag 17, which tells the story of a group of American airmen confined with 40,000 prisoners in a World War II German prisoner-of-war camp "somewhere on the Danube". The film focuses on one particular barracks, where the men come to suspect that one of their number is an informant.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Axis Prisoners of War in the U. S. Nov 15, 2023

The experiences of Allied prisoners of war in Germany are relatively well-known, thanks in part to movies and television shows that tell their story. However, few Americans know that over 400,000 Axis prisoners of war were held in hundreds of camps scattered around the United States. In this episode, Sean and James discuss what life was like for Axis prisoners of war held in the U. S.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Great Escape Nov 11, 2023

Join James and Sean as they discuss the 1963 classic The Great Escape, the thrilling story of the largest mass breakout from a POW camp ever in World War 2. Steve McQueen leads a truly all star cast with his iconic performance.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Allied Prisoners of War in Germany Nov 08, 2023

Over 300,000 western Allied servicemen were captured and imprisoned by Nazi Germany during World War 2. Join Sean and James as they tell about the experiences of British, American, French, and other western Allied prisoners of war, including capture, camp life, work programs, escape, and liberation.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Tuskegee Airmen Nov 04, 2023

In this episode, Sean and James discuss The Tuskegee Airmen, a 1995 HBO television movie based on the exploits of the first African-American combat pilots in the United States Army Air Corps who fought in World War II.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

African-Americans in World War 2 Nov 01, 2023

In this episode, James interviews Dartmouth College professor and best-selling author Matthew F. Delmont about his excellent book Half American: The Epic Story of African-Americans Fighting World War II at Home and Abroad. In the interview, Professor Delmont gives an excellent overview of the experience of Black Americans during the Second World War.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Judgment at Nuremberg Oct 28, 2023

One of the greatest films of all time, 1961’s Judgment at Nuremberg is a gripping courtroom drama about a small town American judge called to preside over the trial of German judges accused of crimes against humanity. Join Sean and James as they review this classic with one of the greatest ensemble casts ever.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Holocaust Oct 25, 2023

During the Second World War, the Germans murdered 6 million Jews and about 5 million other so-called “undesirables” in what became known as the Holocaust. In this episode, Sean and James discuss this difficult but crucial topic.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Train Oct 21, 2023

The Train narrates the gripping story of a German officer’s attempt to ship great masterpieces of art out of France by train ahead of the Allied advance and the efforts of the Resistance to prevent this from happening. Join James and Sean as they review John Frankenheimer’s taut 1960s war thriller, starring Burt Lancaster and Paul Schoefield.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Resistance Movements Oct 18, 2023

In every nation that the Germans occupied, resistance movements emerged. In this episode, Sean and James discuss anti-German guerilla movements, focusing primarily on the resistance efforts in four nations: Norway, France, Yugoslavia, and the Soviet Union.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

To Hell and Back Oct 14, 2023

America’s most decorated soldier of World War 2 was Texan Audie Murphy. When the time came for Hollywood to adapt his memoir into a film, there was no better star for the film than Murphy himself, who had become a matineé idol. Join Sean and James as they look at this surprisingly hard hitting and realistic 1955 film.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

American Soldiers, Sailors, and Airmen Oct 11, 2023

Following another long-time KBAH tradition, Sean and James discuss the life and experience of the common soldier, sailor and air crewmen in the European Theater of Operations in World War II. For the sake of time, the discussion is limited to American servicemen.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Eyewitness History Podcast: Special Compilation Feed Drop Oct 07, 2023

In this special compilation episode, Josh Cohen of Eyewitness History shares his favorite interview moments and stories from people who witnessed some of history’s most extraordinary events.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The American Home Front Oct 04, 2023

The heroic efforts of American soldiers, sailors, airmen, and marines were made possible by millions of factory workers, farmers, fundraisers, government officials, and others who never left American soli. In this episode, Sean and James discuss the American home front, including the role played by women and African-Americans in supporting the war. They also discuss the U.S. government’s shameful decision to intern 120,000 Japanese and Japanese-Americans during the war.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Kelly’s Heroes Sep 30, 2023

In this episode, Sean and James review the 1970 World War II comedy-drama heist film Kelly’s Heroes which tells the story of a motley crew of American GIs who go AWOL in order to rob a French bank, located behind German lines, of its stored Nazi gold bars.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Epilogue 4: How Each Side Won the War When They Were Winning It Sep 27, 2023

In this episode, Sean and James examine the strategies, decisions, and conditions that dictated the course of the war, both from an overall perspective and through the different phases of the action.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Dirty Dozen Sep 23, 2023

The 1967 film The Dirty Dozen tells the story of a penal military unit of twelve convicts who are trained as commandos by the Allies for a suicide mission ahead of the Normandy landings. Join Sean and James as they discuss this fun and exciting classic film.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Epilogue 3: Key Technology of the War Sep 20, 2023

In this episode, Sean and James discuss some of the key weapons, technology, and innovations of the war for all the major powers, and how they impacted the course of the war.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Von Ryan’s Express Sep 16, 2023

In this episode, Sean and James discuss the 1965 classic film Von Ryan’s Express, starring Frank Sinatra, which depicts a group of Allied prisoners of war who conduct a daring escape by hijacking the freight train carrying the POWs and fleeing through German-occupied Italy to Switzerland.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Epilogue 2: Key Leaders in the War Sep 13, 2023

In this episode, Sean and James follow a long-established KBAH tradition by giving brief overviews of the postwar lives and careers of the major leaders, Axis and Allies, discussed in the series.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Best Years of Our Lives Sep 09, 2023

In this episode, Sean and James review the 1946 WIlliam Wyler epic drama film The Best Years of Our Lives, which tells the story of three U. S. servicemen’s struggle to re-adjust to civilian life after coming home from the war.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Epilogue 1: Europe in 1945 and the Postwar World Sep 06, 2023

The Second World War completely changed the world. In this episode, Sean and James discuss the human cost of the war, the rise and fall of empires, the beginning of the Cold War, and major changes within the United States. Also discussed is the crucial July-August Potsdam Conference.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Downfall Sep 02, 2023

In this episode, Sean and James discuss the 2004 German film Downfall, which gives an inside view of the final days of Hitler, his closest advisors, and the Third Reich itself.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Downfall: Over the Rhine and Oder and the Fall of Berlin Aug 30, 2023

By the early spring of 1945, the Third Reich was on its last legs. Forces of the Western Allies crossed into Germany and pushed eastward, while in eastern Germany, Soviet forces surrounded Berlin. On April 30, Hitler committed suicide, and a week later, Germany surrendered. Join Sean and James as they tell the gripping story of the last weeks of Nazi Germany and the end of the war in Europe.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Fury Aug 26, 2023

In this episode, Sean and James discuss the 2014 film Fury, which tells the story of an American tank crew fighting against stubborn German resistance during the final weeks of the European theater of World War II.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Collapse of the Reich: Soviet Campaigns in Poland, Hungary, and the Balkans Aug 23, 2023

Having destroyed the German Army Group Center and pushed back Army Group North and Army Group South, the Soviet Army in late 1944 and early 1945 swept through the Balkans and Poland, while thousands of German refugees fled westward. Join Sean and James as they discuss the westward drive of the Soviet juggernaut as well as the fateful February 1945 Yalta Conference.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

History Unplugged Preview Aug 21, 2023

Teddy Roosevelt faced many challenges at the end of his life. Racked by rheumatism, a ticking embolism, pathogens in his blood, a bad leg from an accident, and a bullet in his chest from an assassination attempt. But none of that stopped Roosevelt from attempting to reassemble the Rough Riders for a final charge against the Germans in World War One, pushing them into a likely suicide mission of a cavalry attack against 50 caliber machine guns.
Suffering from grief and guilt, marginalized by world events, the great glow that had been his life was now but a dimming lantern. But TR’s final years were productive ones as well: he churned out several “instant” books that promoted U.S. entry into the Great War, and he was making plans for another run at the Presidency in 1920 at the time of his death. Indeed, his political influence was so great that his opposition to the policies of Woodrow Wilson helped the Republican Party take back the Congress in 1918. To look at Roosevelt’s final years, Scott Rank, host of History Unplugged, speaks with Bill Hazelgrove, author of “The Last Charge of the Rough Rider.” It was Roosevelt’s quest for the “vigorous life” that, ironically, may have led to his early demise at the age of sixty. "The Old Lion is dead,” TR’s son Archie cabled his brother on January 6, 1919, and so, too, ended a historic era in American life and politics.
Subscribe to History Unplugged with Scott Rank:
Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3Ysc7Zg
Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3j0QRJy
Parthenon: https://www.parthenonpodcast.com/history-unplugged-podcast

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Battleground Aug 19, 2023

In this episode, Sean and James discuss the 1949 classic film Battleground, starring Van Johnson, which presents a surprisingly realistic depiction of the Battle of the Bulge through the lens of a single squad.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hitler’s Last Gambit: The Battle of the Bulge Aug 16, 2023

In the early hours of December 16, the pre-dawn stillness experienced by the thinly held American line at the eastern edge of the Ardennes Forest was shattered by a massive German offensive. After a summer of rapid advance, and a frustrating fall of dogged resistance to their advance towards the German border, American troops and leaders expected a period of winter quiet from an army that was thought to be nearly beaten. Instead, the German military offensive intended to turn the course of the war created a massive Bulge in the Allied line and became the largest, costliest land battle in American history. In this episode, Sean and James discuss the epic battle that came to be known as the Battle of the Bulge.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A Bridge Too Far Aug 12, 2023

In this episode, Sean and James discuss the 1977 epic film A Bridge Too Far, which dramatizes Operation Market Garden. The movie had a big budget and an all-star cast, but does it live up to the hype? Listen and find out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

To the Siegfried Line: The Western Allies’ Advance to Germany Aug 09, 2023

In the fall of 1944, the Allied push toward Germany began to slow down due to supply and logistical problems. The daring September offensive codenamed Operation Market Garden, designed to break the logjam, failed miserably. By the end of November, the Allied armies had settled in near the German border, hoping to soon resume offensive operations and drive into Germany. Join Sean and James as they discuss the Allies’ fall 1944 attempt to bring the war in Europe to a close.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Saving Private Ryan Aug 05, 2023

Generally considered the one of the greatest–if not THE greatest–war movies ever made, Steven Spielberg’s 1998 film Saving Private Ryan revolutionized the genre of war movies. In this episode, Sean and James present an in-depth discussion of this modern-day classic.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Breakout: From San Lo to the Seine Aug 02, 2023

After eight weeks of grinding, grueling combat that expanded the Normandy beachhead, the Allies conducted a remarkable series of offensives that led to one of the great breakthroughs of the war, carrying the Allies to Paris and beyond to the defenses of Germany itself. Join Sean and James as they discuss the critical Allied advances from July to September 1944.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

History of North America Feed Drop Jul 29, 2023

In The History of North America Podcast, historian Mark Vinet takes us on an exciting and fascinating journey through time, exploring and focusing on the interesting, compelling, wonderful, tragic, intriguing, and inspiring stories of North America. In this episode, Mark explores one of the most glorious Mesoamerican societies and encounters the Pre-Hispanic Mexico ancient culture & civilization that was the Aztec Empire.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We May Dominate the World with Sean Mirski Jul 26, 2023

In this episode, James interviews foreign policy expert Sean Mirski about his recently published book We May Dominate the World: Ambition, Anxiety, and the Rise of the American Colossus.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Longest Day Jul 22, 2023

The 1962 docudrama movie The Longest Day was a groundbreaking war film. Join Sean and James as they discuss this classic film, with its all-star cast and realistic depiction of the 1944 Normandy Invasion.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Longest Day: D-Day and the Normandy Campaign Jul 19, 2023

On June 6, 1944, a massive Allied land, sea, and air force crossed the English Channel and conducted the largest amphibious attack in world history, hitting Normandy at five different beaches. The German defenders were well-trained, well-armed, and dug in. Would the attack succeed? Join Sean and James as they discuss Operation Overlord, the invasion of Normandy, often popularly referred to as simply “D-Day.”

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Valkyrie Jul 15, 2023

In this episode, Sean and James discuss the 2007 film Valkyrie, which deals with the “July Plot,” an attempt to assassinate Adolf Hitler which came very close to succeeding. Tom Cruise stars as Klaus von Stauffenberg, the leader of the conspiracy.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Soviets Strike Back: The Destruction of Army Group Center and the March to the Gates of Warsaw Jul 12, 2023

On June 22, 1944–three years to the day after the German invasion of the Soviet Union began–the Soviets launched a massive offensive called Operation Bagration, which resulted in the destruction of the German Army Group Center and the opening of the way to Berlin. In this episode, Sean and James discuss Bagration, as well as Soviet advances in the north and south, the “July Plot” to assassinate Adolf Hitler, and the Warsaw Uprising of August-September 1944.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Organized Crime and Punishment Feed Drop Jul 08, 2023

In Organized Crime and Punishment: A History and Crime Podcast, historian Steve Guerra and his trusty sidekick “Mustache Chris'' explore the rise of organized crime in various regions of the world and delve into the lives of some of the most renowned criminals and notorious gangsters. Every week, you’ll hear historical recollections and exclusive interviews about everything organized crime, from the American Mafia to modern-day cartels!
Start listening now and take the journey through the shadowy world of organized crime, exploring its history, impact, and ongoing influence on our societies today!
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/organized-crime-and-punishment/id1690217862 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5peY6z7nFz8Q7tZNqK9JOc?si=70d9eb49cfd44c14

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

V For Victory - Franklin Roosevelt's War Leadership with Craig Nelson Jul 05, 2023

Under President Franklin Roosevelt’s resolute leadership, the United States rose from poverty and solitude to defeat the greatest evils of the twentieth century. Join James as he interviews historian Craig Nelson, author of the recently-released book V is for Victory: Franklin Roosevelt’s American Revolution and the Triumph of World War II. In the interview, Nelson explains how Roosevelt, assisted by thousands of unsung heroes, guided the U. S. out of the Great Depression and into superpower status, establishing the “Arsenal of Democracy.”

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Memphis Belle Jul 01, 2023

In this episode, Sean and James discuss the 1990 film Memphis Belle, which narrates the harrowing story of the 25th and final mission of the most famous B-17 bomber of World War 2.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Masters of the Air - Strategic and Tactical Air Campaigns Over Europe Jun 28, 2023

The Allied strategic bombing campaign against Germany was long, difficult, costly, and still elicits controversy. The battle went through different phases, with constantly evolving tactics, objectives, and technology, but the end result was critical to the defeat of the German war effort. Join Sean and James in this topic episode that covers the crucial air war over Europe.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Operation Mincemeat Jun 24, 2023

In this episode, Sean and James discuss the 2021 Netflix film Operation Mincemeat, which tells the story of one of the most successful examples of military deception in history.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Soft Underbelly: The Invasion of Sicily and Italy to the Fall of Rome Jun 21, 2023

On July 9, 1943, Allied forces launched Operation Husky, the invasion of Sicily. 38 days later, the entire island was under Allied control. On September 3, British and American forces took the fight to the Italian peninsula, although this time, the going would be much slower and more difficult. Join Sean and James as they tell the story of the Allies’ effort to conquer the first fascist state in Europe.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Patton Jun 17, 2023

In this episode, Sean and James discuss the epic biographical 1970 classic film Patton, starring George C. Scott in the title role. Patton narrates the life and career of General George S. Patton, from his taking command of the American Second Corps in 1943 through the end of the war.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Operation Torch: The Allied Invasion of North Africa Jun 14, 2023

In the final days of the great defeat of Rommel’s Panzerarmee Afrika at El Alamein, a new enemy appeared to threaten the Axis position in North Africa. For the first time in the war, America took the field against the Nazis as they invaded the Vichy French territories of Morocco and Algeria. Join Sean and James as they discuss Operation Torch, the epic Allied invasion of North Africa.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Greyhound Jun 10, 2023

In this episode, Sean and James discuss the brief but gripping 2020 film Greyhound, starring Tom Hanks. Greyhound tells the story of a group of American, British, and Canadian destroyers that are trying to defend a supply convoy from a pack of German submarines during the Battle of the Atlantic.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Battle of the Atlantic Jun 07, 2023

The Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor and Germany’s declaration of war on the United States opened a new and more deadly chapter in the War at Sea in the Second World War. The fight for control of the vital sea lanes to and from Great Britain would rage from the Arctic Circle to the very shores of the Americas. In this episode, Sean and James discuss the naval war around Europe from 1942 to the end of the war.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Twelve O’Clock High Jun 03, 2023

World War II pilots were often pushed to the limit of human endurance, especially in the early years of the war. The classic 1948 film Twelve O’Clock High tells the story of a fictional air group based in the UK that conducted hundreds of daytime bombing raids over Germany. Even the tough, no-nonsense Group Commander (played by Gregory Peck) is not immune from the stress of combat. Join Sean and James as they discuss this fascinating and highly psychological film.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Desert Fox and the Desert Rats: North Africa 1941-1943 May 31, 2023

At the beginning of 1941, Italian forces had suffered a catastrophic defeat in North Africa at the hands of the British Army in Egypt. Il Duce’s fortunes were on the wane, but the arrival of a capable German commander and a small Panzer Korps would radically change the situation in North Africa. Join Sean and James as they tell about the epic battle between Field Marshal Erwin Rommel (the “Desert Fox”) and the British forces in North Africa (the “Desert Rats”).

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Stalingrad May 27, 2023

The epic Battle of Stalingrad was one of the most horrific and bloody battles of the Second World War. Several movies have tried to capture the horror of the war, but none does so better than the 1993 German-Russian production. Few, if any, movies in this series are more realistic and brutal than this one. In this episode, Sean and James break down the movie for you.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Soviets Stand Firm: Stalingrad and Kursk May 24, 2023

Before the German Army Group South could capture the oil fields of the Caucasus, it needed to secure the key city of Stalingrad. The fight for Stalingrad turned into one of the most brutal and nasty battles of the war. In this episode, Sean and James do their best to tell the story of Stalingrad, as well as to describe the Battle of Kursk, the largest tank battle in history.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Eyewitness History - Feed Drop (Nick Sanza) May 20, 2023

In this clip from the Eyewitness History Podcast, former Vietnam War veteran & "tunnel rat" Nick Sanza discusses his experience overseas, what it's like coming from a long lineage of military service, and what he learned from the tunnels in this interview from the Eyewitness History podcast.
Continue listening to Eyewitness History:
Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/44jShCi
Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3LPfaXd

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hitler Turns East: Operations Barbarossa and Typhoon May 17, 2023

In June 1941, Hitler launched Operation Barbarossa, the largest invasion in world history. Three massive German armies targeted Leningrad, Moscow, and the Caucasus oil fields. One army put Leningrad under siege, another swept through Ukraine, and the third another reached the outskirts of Moscow. The USSR appeared doomed. But was it? Listen,and you will find out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Big Red One May 13, 2023

The US First Infantry Division is one of the US Army’s most storied units, due largely to the crucial role it played in World War II. The 1980 film The Big Red One, Starring Lee Marvin and Mark Hamill, follows one squad of soldiers from the invasion of North Africa to the end of the war. Join Sean and James as they discuss this exciting and realistic film.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Securing Hitler's Flank: The Balkans, 1940-1941 May 10, 2023

Prior to launching his massive attack on the Soviet Union, Hitler wanted to make sure his flanks were secure. He secured his “left flank” (Finland) and part of his “right flank” (the Balkans) through a combination of threats and diplomacy. However, Yugoslavia and Greece refused to knuckle under, and so Hitler invaded them. In this episode, Sean and James discuss the status of Finland and the Balkans in 1940 and 1941 and Hitler’s efforts to bring them under Axis control.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Il Duce’s Gamble: Italy’s Struggles, 1938-1941 May 03, 2023

Italian dictator Benito Mussolini desired to create a “New Roman Empire.” In the 1920s, he strengthened Italy’s control over Libya, and in 1935, he ordered the invasion of Ethiopia, adding it to his empire the next year. Between 1939 and 1941, Italy conquered Albania and then tried to take over parts of France, Yugoslavia, and Greece. But did Mussolini bite off more than he could chew? Join Sean and James as they tell the story of Mussolini’s attempt to expand his empire.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sink the Bismarck! Apr 29, 2023

Naval combat played a major role throughout the European Theater of the Second World War. Without constant supply convoys from the United States to Great Britain and the Soviet Union, the Allies could not have defeated Hitler. But those convoys had to be protected from attacks by German U-boats and other warships. In this episode, Sean and James narrate the early years of the naval war around Europe, including the epic story of the search for and destruction of the massive German battleship Bismarck.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Command the Sea: The Naval War Through 1941 Apr 26, 2023

Naval combat played a major role throughout the European Theater of the Second World War. Without constant supply convoys from the United States to Great Britain and the Soviet Union, the Allies could not have defeated Hitler. But those convoys had to be protected from attacks by German U-boats and other warships. In this episode, Sean and James narrate the early years of the naval war around Europe, including the epic story of the search for and destruction of the massive German battleship Bismarck.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Battle of Britain Apr 22, 2023

In this episode, Sean and James discuss the 1969 movie Battle of Britain, which tells the gripping story of the fight for air supremacy over the United Kingdom.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Their Finest Hour: The Battle of Britain Apr 19, 2023

Having conquered most of Western Europe, Hitler was determined to invade the United Kingdom and bring it to its knees. But before the Germans could launch the invasion, they needed to crush the Royal Air Force. Accordingly, the Fuhrer ordered a bombing campaign on RAF bases throughout southern England, in a campaign that came to be known as the Battle of Britain. Join Sean and James as they narrate this pivotal battle of the early war.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dunkirk Apr 15, 2023

As German forces swept through the Low Countries and France, about half a million Allied soldiers became trapped near the port city of Dunkirk. Between May 26 and June 4, the overwhelming majority were evacuated to Britain by British military and civilian vessels. In this episode, Sean and James discuss the 2017 movie Dunkirk, which tells the amazing story of the “Miracle of Dunkirk.”

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Disaster in the West: The Fall of the Low Countries and France Apr 12, 2023

In May 1940, over three million German soldiers crossed Germany’s western border and quickly conquered the Netherlands, Belgium, and France. Germany implemented direct rule over part of France, while setting up the puppet regime of Vichy France to govern the rest. In the meantime, hundreds of British naval and civilian vessels evacuated over 300,000 trapped Allied soldiers to Britain, to fight another day. Britain was now the only nation left in the struggle against Germany. Join Sean and James as they narrate the fall of the Low Countries and France.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Das Boot Apr 08, 2023

The life of a German submarine crewman was filled with challenges, including cramped and dank quarters, poor food, and the constant threat of being spotted and attacked by Allied ships. 75% of German submarine crews eventually met their doom. The 1982 German film Das Boot takes you down under the water with one crew, providing a gripping account of the horrors of submarine warfare. Join Sean and James as they discuss this outstanding film.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Blitzkrieg, Sitzkrieg, and the Winter War Apr 05, 2023

In the fall of 1939, Germany and the Soviet Union signed the Molotov-Ribbentrop Pact, a peace treaty in which the two nations also agreed to divide Poland. Soon afterward, the German army invaded Poland, unveiling a new type of warfare that became known as “Blitzkrieg.” After the fall of Poland, Europe settled into an uneasy calm. Meanwhile, Soviet soldiers invaded Finland but met with fierce resistance. In this episode, Sean and James tell the story of Blitzkrieg, Sitzkrieg, and the Winter War between the USSR and Finland.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Darkest Hour Apr 01, 2023

Upon becoming Prime Minister of the UK in 1940, Winston Churchill’s first and greatest challenge was how to deal with the growing threat posed by Nazi Germany. Many key British leaders urged Churchill to make a peace deal with Germany, but Churchill refused. In this episode, Sean and James discuss the 2017 film Darkest Hour, starring Gary Oldman as Churchill, in an Academy-award winning performance.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Peace in Our Time: German Aggression and the Failure of Appeasement Mar 29, 2023

In March 1938, Germany declared its annexation of Austria. Soon after, Hitler demanded that the Sudetenland, an area of Czechoslovakia with a heavy German population, also be added to the Reich. On 15 September, Hitler met with the leaders of Great Britain and France, signing the Munich Agreement, in which the western Allies formally recognized Hitler’s territorial expansion. Hitler declared the Sudetenland to be "the last territorial demand I have to make in Europe." But was it? Join Sean and James and you will find out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Gathering Storm Mar 25, 2023

In this episode, Sean and James discuss the 2002 BBC made-for-TV movie The Gathering Storm, which tells the story of Winston Churchill’s return to power after several years in the political “wilderness” and his efforts to warn Parliament and the British government about the threat posed by Adolph Hitler. Albert Finney stars as Churchill.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Gathering Storm: The Rise of Fascism and Militarism in Europe Mar 22, 2023

In 1923, Benito Mussolini became Prime Minister of Italy and the first fascist leader in Europe. He would not be the last. In less than two decades, many more nations in Europe would be taken over by fascist or semi-fascist leaders, including the most notorious of them all: Adolf Hitler. In this episode, Sean and James narrate the rise of fascism and militarism and the continent’s accelerated march toward war.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Armageddon in the Arctic Ocean Mar 18, 2023

Paul Gill, Sr. was the Third Mate on the Liberty Ship SS Nathanael Greene which sailed to Archangel, Russia, with Convoy PQ18 in September 1942. Armageddon in the Arctic Ocean is Gill’s memoir chronicling his life from the Great Depression through his service in the US Navy during WWII and his later graduation from Harvard Business School. Along the way, readers will learn of Gill's enrollment in the Civilian Conservation Corps at age fifteen; how he joined the Merchant Marine and made eight passages to European ports as a sixteen-year-old; his riding the rails across the United States in search of work in 1938; his return to the Merchant Marine and ascension "up the hawse pipe" to become a licensed Merchant Marine officer; his participation in the biggest convoy battle of World War II; the destruction of the Nathanael Greene off the coast of North Africa by U-565; and more.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

An Unsettled World: Germany and the Allies 1918-1930 Mar 15, 2023

The roots of the Second World War in Europe lie within the First World War. The 1919 Treaty of Versailles formally ended the war between Germany and the western Allies, but the geopolitical situation it created was far from stable. Ten years later, the Great Depression made things even worse. In this episode, Sean and James discuss the unsettled state of Europe between 1918 and 1930 and the gradual fracturing of the uneasy peace that it enjoyed.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Introduction to Key Battles of World War II in Europe Mar 08, 2023

In this episode, James and co-host Sean McIver introduce their massive new series, “Key Battles of World War II in Europe.” Get ready for a lot of massive battles!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

History of the Papacy Preview - The Italian Risorgimento Mar 04, 2023

The Risorgimento was a period of political and social upheaval in Italy that lasted from the early 19th century to the mid-20th century. The movement aimed to unite the various states and regions of Italy into one unified nation. Pinocchio, the beloved children's story written by Carlo Collodi, can be seen as a metaphor for Italian unification through the character's journey from a wooden puppet to a real boy. And last but not least, let's talk about pizza. Italy's most famous export, pizza, is a symbol of the country's rich cultural heritage and culinary traditions. Whether you're a fan of traditional Margherita or a more unconventional topping, there's a pizza for everyone.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Half American with Matthew Delmont Mar 01, 2023

In this episode, James interviews Dartmouth College professor and best-selling author Matthew F. Delmont about his recently-relased (and excellent) book Half American: The Epic Story of African-Americans Fighting World War II at Home and Abroad.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Legacy of the Mexican-American War Feb 22, 2023

In another venerable KBAH tradition, Sean and James reflect on the short-term and long-term impact of the Mexican-American War and tell “the rest of the story” about the key leaders of the war, both Mexican and American.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This American President Preview - Eisenhower Feb 18, 2023

Some remember Dwight D. Eisenhower’s presidency as a time of peace and prosperity, but in reality, it was an era of constant global crises. In this episode preview from This American President, host Richard Lim explores how Eisenhower skillfully navigated the perils of the Cold War.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Fall of Mexico City and the End of the War (1847-1848) Feb 15, 2023

After the fight at Churubusco, the two armies rested for a couple of weeks, after which the Americans resumed the attack at Molino del Rey and Chapultepec. Eventually, Scott and his army fought their way into Mexico City as Santa Anna and his army retreated. After several months of negotiations, the two sides signed the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo, a settlement that was highly costly for Mexico and highly beneficial to the United States. The war was over.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Winfield Scott’s War (1847) Feb 08, 2023

In March, 1847, an American army of 12,000 under the command of General Winfied Scott landed on the eastern coast of Mexico and laid siege to the city of Veracruz. After the city’s surrender, Scott marched his army westward toward Mexico City while Santa Anna used whatever troops he could find to try and stop the Americans. By September, Scott had reached the outskirts of the Mexican capital, where he and Santa Anna faced off at the bloody battle of Churubusco. If the Mexicans failed to halt the American advance there, the fall of the capital was sure to follow.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mexican and American Soldiers Feb 01, 2023

In a time-honored tradition in the Key Battles of American History Podcast, Sean and James push “pause” on the military and political narrative to give you a “ground up” view of the war. In this episode, you will find out what life was like for the common soldier (both regulars and volunteers) on both sides. What did soldiers eat? What did they wear? How did they cope with boredom, disease, and military discipline? What was combat like? Join us, and you will find out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Taking Berlin with Martin Dugard Jan 28, 2023

In this special episode, James interviews best-selling author Martin Dugard about his new book Taking Berlin, which tells the fascinating story of the 1944-45 Allied drive to destroy the Third Reich

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Buena Vista; New Mexico and California (1846-1847) Jan 25, 2023

After the Mexican loss at Monterrey, Santa Anna took command of the Mexican army and marched a large force north to get revenge against Taylor and his army. The result was the bloody and consequential Battle of Buena Vista, the last major engagement of the war in Northern Mexico. Meanwhile, north of the Rio Grande, American forces attempted to conquer the Mexican provinces of California and New Mexico, while political opposition to the war increased in the United States.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Zachary Taylor’s War (1845-1846) Jan 18, 2023

In April 1846, the army of General Zachary Taylor, which President Polk had sent to the Rio Grande River, clashed with a Mexican force sent to drive the Americans away. Soon after, Taylor fought two brief battles (Palo Alto and Resaca de la Palma) with the Mexicans, driving them across the Rio Grande. After a pause of a few months, the two armies clashed again at Monterrey. Meanwhile, an old “friend” re-entered the story.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Vlogging Through History Teaser - Executions During the Great War Jan 14, 2023

Over 300 men were executed by the British Army for desertion and cowardice during the First World War. In this episode preview from Vlogging Through History, host Chris Mowery explores the process for executions and the stories of the men involved.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Texas Annexation Crisis (1844-1845) Jan 11, 2023

By 1844, the United States government had resisted the urge to annex the Republic of Texas for several years, but in 1844 that changed as President John Tyler and his successor James K. Polk brought Texas into the U. S. as the 28th state in 1845. How would Mexico react to this? Join us, and you will see!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mexico and Texas (1836-1844) Jan 04, 2023

For the entire history of the Republic of Texas, relations between Mexico and Texas remained tense. Both sides raided the other’s territory. Comanches and other Native American tribes raided both republics. Both republics experienced political and financial instability. And both wondered if and when the United States might add Texas to its ever-expanding territory. In this episode, Sean and James discuss the fascinating and chaotic story of the Republic of Texas, with an emphasis on its relationship with Mexico.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Devil Dogs (with Saul David) Dec 28, 2022

In this episode, James interviews prolific author Saul David about his new book Devil Dogs: King Company, Third Battalion, 5th Marines: From Guadalcanal to the Shores of Japan.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bonus Episode - Alexander's Postwar Plans Dec 24, 2022

Alexander the Great’s death at 323 BC in Babylon marked the end of the most consequential military campaign in antiquity. He left behind an empire that stretched from Greece to India, planted the seeds of the Silk Road, and made Greek an international language across Eurasia, all in 13 short years. But what if he had not died as a young man? What if he had lived years or decades more? To explore this hypothetical scenario, host Scott Rank interviews Anthony Everitt, author of “Alexander the Great: His Life and Mysterious Death.” In this fascinating discussion, Scott and Anthony look at the life of the most influential person in the ancient world and explore the ramifications of his life having even more influence.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Alamo (2004) Dec 21, 2022

In this episode, Sean and James discuss the 2004 movie The Alamo, starring Dennis Quaid, Billy Bob Thornton, Jason Patric, and Patrick Wilson.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Who Is History's Most Underrated Figure? (Parthenon Roundtable) Dec 17, 2022

The history of the world is full of unsung heroes and misunderstood figures who have shaped our lives in profound ways. Their contributions to history are, simply put, underrated. Recently, four of the guys from the Parthenon Podcast Network (Josh Cohen from Eyewitness History, Richard Lim from This American President, Steve Guerra from History of the Papacy and Beyond the Big Screen, and Scott Rank from History Unplugged) discussed who they believe is the most underrated figure in US History (James was busy and sat this one out).

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Alamo (1960) Dec 14, 2022

In this episode, Sean and James discuss the classic 1960 movie The Alamo, directed by and starring John Wayne.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Legacy of the Texas Revolution Dec 07, 2022

The Texas Revolution cast a long shadow not just over Texas history, but over United States history. In this final episode of Key Battles of the Texas Revolution, Sean and James discuss the short- and long-term effects of the Texas Revolution. They also tell about the postwar lives and careers of the major players on both sides.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Goliad, the Runaway Scrape, and San Jacinto Nov 30, 2022

Two weeks after the fall of the Alamo, the Texian garrison at Goliad surrendered to another Mexican force, and a week after that, the garrison was executed on the orders of Santa Anna. Santa Anna and his army began marching east, toward the seat of the Texas government, while the Texas army retreated before him. On April 21, the two armies met at the brief but decisive Battle of San Jacinto, after which Santa Anna was captured. Santa Anna then signed the Treaty of Velasco, which ordered all Mexican armies in Texas back across the Rio Grande and which also acknowledged Texas’ independence. Join Sean and James as they tell the story of the final actions of the Texas Revolution.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bonus Episode - Eyewitness History - Feed Drop Nov 26, 2022

In this episode of the Eyewitness History Podcast, Host Josh Cohen speaks with the former principal of Columbine High School, Frank DeAngelis. Frank and Josh discuss the events of the tragic shooting, what the police were doing at the time of the shooting, as well as the potential motivations of the two shooters, Eric Harris and Dylan Klebold. They also discuss the infamous basement tapes, as well as seeing Klebold the previous week at prom, in addition to a lot more.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Alamo and Independence Nov 23, 2022

In early 1836, Santa Anna personally led an army into Texas to put down the rebellion. His first target was San Antonio, particularly the fortified mission called the Alamo, in which nearly 200 Texians and Tejanos were holding out. After a 13-day siege, Santa Anna’s army stormed the Alamo and captured or killed all its defenders. During the siege, the acting Texas government declared Texas to be an independent Republic. In this episode, Sean and James tell the fascinating but tragic story of the fall of the Alamo, as well as discuss the Texas Declaration of Independence.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bonus Episode - The New Mexico Campaign in the Civil War Nov 19, 2022

In early 1862, a Confederate force consisting mainly of Texans launched an invasion of the New Mexico territory. After a quick and largely unopposed march, they ran into a Union force defending the territory. Would the Confederates succeed in their quest to make New Mexico part of the Confederacy, or would the Union defenders drive them away? Listen to this special bonus episode, and you will find out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Revolution Begins Nov 16, 2022

Further restrictive measures passed by Santa Anna’s government motivated many Texians to mount a full-scale rebellion in October 1835 at the town of Gonzales. For some, the goal was statehood for Texas within the Mexican republic, but for others, the goal was full independence. A newly formed Texian army attacked Mexican positions at Goliad, Concepcion, and San Antonio, driving the Mexican army back across the Rio Grande. Some Texians believed the revolution was over and that they had won. But had they? “Come and take” in Sean and James’ narration of the beginning of the Texas Revolution.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Road to Revolution Nov 09, 2022

By 1830, immigration of Americans to Texas had become a flood, and the Mexican authorities became alarmed. To stop the rapid growth of Anglo settlers, the Mexican government passed a law that banned further Anglo immigration to Texas. Three years, later, Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna became President of Mexico and began stripping away the Mexican states’ rights. These measures motivated many Texians to engage in minor acts of rebellion, but for the time being, Texas remained part of Mexico. But would that last? In this episode, Sean and James discuss Texas’ gradual descent into revolution.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Spanish Texas, Mexican Independence, and American Settlement Nov 02, 2022

Long before Texas was a U. S. state, it was a part of Mexico, which in turn was part of the massive Spanish Empire. When Mexico gained its independence from Spain in 1821, it became the northeastern most province of the new nation. At about that same time, large numbers of Americans began settling in Mexico, both legally and illegally. Join Sean and James as they narrate these early years of Texas history, focusing on the challenges faced by both the Mexican government and the early Anglo settlers of Texas.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Introduction to the Texas Revolution Oct 26, 2022

In this episode, cohost Sean McIver and James introduce the upcoming mini-series on the Texas Revolution. Sean and James make the case that all Americans, not just Texans, should study the Texas Revolution. Why, you ask? Listen and find out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bonus Episode - Sam Houston and Texas Secession Oct 22, 2022

In 1860 and early 1861, desire for secession grew to a fever pitch in Texas. But there was one man who tried to stop it...Governor Sam Houston. Join James as he tells the story of Houston's heroic but ultimately unsuccessful efforts to keep Texas in the Union.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Buccaneer Oct 19, 2022

In this joint Beyond the Big Screen and Key Battles of American History episode, Steve and James discuss the 1958 movie The Buccaneer, a highly fictionalized telling of the role of the pirate Jean Lafitte and his men in the Battle of New Orleans. The film stars Yul Brynner as Lafitte and Charlton Heston as Andrew Jackson. As always, Steve and James do much more than just talk about the movie; they also do a fairly deep dive into the real story behind the film's events.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Epilogue to the War of 1812 Oct 12, 2022

Many of the key figures of the War of 1812 went on to have long and distinguished careers, with no fewer than four becoming President of the United States. Others went into retirement, while still others’ lives were tragically cut short by disease or dueling. In this final episode of the series, Steve and James discuss the post-war lives and careers of the top political and military leaders of the War of 1812.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Treaty of Ghent and the War's Legacy Oct 05, 2022

From the very beginning of the war, both sides expressed a desire to end it. Soon, each side reached out to the other to discuss terms of peace. But the British were in no hurry, and as a result, serious negotiations did not begin until 1814. After several months of haggling, the British and American peace delegations finally produced the Treaty of Ghent, which formally ended the war. But what exactly changed as a result of the treaty? Also, what was the war’s legacy? We’re glad you asked! Join us, and you will find out.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

1814: The Gulf Coast Campaign Sep 28, 2022

Wanting to bring the war to parts of the U. S. that had not yet experienced it, the British in late 1814 opened up a campaign against the Gulf Coast. This campaign culminated in the British attack on the major port city of New Orleans. The British force, consisting of 5300 crack soldiers, faced a hodge-podge group of 4700 defenders, including regular Army soldiers, militia, volunteers, African-Americans (both free and slave), Indians, and even pirates. Would the British prevail? Join Steve and James as they discuss the leadup to the epic Battle of New Orleans, the battle itself, and the battle’s aftermath.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Crisis of 1814 and the Hartford Convention Sep 24, 2022

In 1814, the United States faced increasing hostility to the war in New England as well as near economic collapse. In this mini-episode, Steve and James discuss the so-called “Crisis of 1814” and the Hartford Convention, a meeting among delegates from several New England states who wanted the Madison administration to address their grievances.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

1814: The Empire Strikes Back Sep 21, 2022

In 1814, the British decided that the best defense is a good offense. Accordingly, they launched a series of attacks on various parts of the American northeast while also returning to the Chesapeake region. This time, however, the British planned to do more in the Chesapeake than simply conduct raids. Instead, they set their sights on two of the most important American cities: Baltimore and Washington, DC. Would the British succeed in capturing a great deal of American territory? Would they force the Americans to capitulate? Listen, and you shall see!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bonus Episode - Popes and Freemasonry History of the Papacy Feed Drop Sep 17, 2022

Steve Guerra on Freemasonry, The Catholic Church, and the Modern World
This is a sample of a recent episode of Steve Guerra's History of the Papacy Podcast (https://www.parthenonpodcast.com/history-of-the-papacy-podcast/) about Freemasonry, the Catholic Church, and the modern world.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

1814: The Third Time's the Charm? Sep 14, 2022

In 1814, American forces, believing in the saying “If at first you don’t succeed, try and try again”, launched yet another invasion of Canada. The American army in early 1814 was much better fed, equipped, trained, and motivated than it had been in 1812 or 1813. But their British foe had been reinforced by battle-hardened, albeit exhausted redcoats fresh from the Napoleonic Wars. Would the third time be the charm for the Americans? Join us and find out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Common Soldier Sep 07, 2022

Even when they were not fighting, soldiers in the War of 1812 suffered great hardships. These included poor pay, harsh discipline, extreme temperatures, rampant disease, and inadequate food, clothing, housing, and equipment. And if they were captured by the enemy, things often grew even worse. In this episode, Steve and James push “Pause” on the narrative of battles and put you in the boots of a common soldier. What did soldiers eat and drink? What kind of equipment did they have? What did they do when not in combat? What was War of 1812 combat like? What would happen if they became prisoners? We will answer these and many more questions.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

1813: The War in the South Aug 31, 2022

In 1813, the War of 1812 spread to the American South, as an American army led by General Andrew Jackson attempted to suppress the Red Sticks, a faction of the Creek Nation that rebelled against White authority. Also in 1813, British forces began raiding American settlements along the Chesapeake Bay. Join Steve and James as they narrate the story of the beginnings of the war in the South.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Old Hickory Aug 27, 2022

In this special bonus episode, James again joins forces with Jerry Landry, host of the Presidencies of the United States Podcast. This time, Jerry leads the discussion, which concerns one of the most controversial figures in American history: Andrew Jackson. Much of the controversy that swirls around Jackson comes from actions he took long after the War of 1812, when he was President of the United States. In this discussion, however, Jerry and James focus on Jackson’s military career. Does Jackson deserve to be counted as one of America’s greatest generals? James and Jerry will lay out the evidence to help you decide.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

1813: More Naval Warfare, Politics and Economics Aug 24, 2022

In this episode, Steve and James go back out on the water, including both the open ocean and the Great Lakes to follow the actions of the US Navy in 1813. The Navy ranged far and wide, enjoying a few victories while also suffering significant losses. Steve and James also discuss key political and economic events of 1813.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

1813: The Americans Try Again Aug 17, 2022

In 1813, the American ground forces in the north launched a second series of attacks against British forces in Canada. This time the Americans were more experienced, better equipped, and were led by much better officers. In this episode, Steve and James discuss the second American offensive against Canada. Join us to see if it succeeded.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Old Tippecanoe Aug 13, 2022

In this special bonus episode, James is joined by special guest Jerry Landry, host of the Presidencies of the United States Podcast. Jerry and James discuss the early career and life of William Henry Harrison, who enjoyed a long military and political career and who led the US Army to victory at the battles of Tippecanoe and the Thames. Jerry has long been a fan of Harrison, so much so that his first podcast was all about “Old Tippecanoe.” You’ll love Jerry’s narration of the life and career of one of early America’s most important leaders.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

1812: Victory at Sea Aug 10, 2022

The War of 1812 was not fought merely on land, but also on the sea. To anyone at the time, it would have seemed that the tiny American navy, with only 16 ships at the start of the war, would be crushed by the Royal Navy, which had over 500 ships in service. But what the Americans lacked in numbers, they made up for in seamanship and determination. Would this be enough? Steve and James will let you know if the American “David” was able to overcome the British “Goliath.”

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

1812: Disaster in Canada Aug 03, 2022

Soon after war was declared, U. S. President Madison and Secretary of War Eustis decided to launch a three-pronged assault on Canada. American forces would cross the Detroit, Niagara, and St. Lawrence Rivers and attack much smaller British and Canadian forces in three strategic locations. The plan seemed solid…but would it work? Join Steve and James as they discuss the 1812 American invasion of Canada.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

1812: Riots, War Aims, and Politics Jul 30, 2022

At the time of the War of 1812, the United States was deeply divided between Republicans, most of whom supported the war, and Federalists, who opposed the war. This division broke out into violence in the Baltimore Riots of the summer of 1812. In this mini-episode, Steve and James discuss the Baltimore Riots, the war aims of the British and the Americans, the war aims of each side, and the critical US presidential election of 1812, which served as a sort of referendum on the war.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

1783-1812: The Road to War Jul 27, 2022

The 1783 Treaty of Paris formally ended the American War for Independence, but it left many issues between the United States and Great Britain unresolved. In addition, Britain’s war with Napoleon and his allies motivated the British Navy to increasingly interfere with American shipping and even to impress American sailors into the British Navy. This, plus British support for Indian attacks in the American northwest, led many Americans to demand war with Britain.
In this episode, Steve and James discuss the long series of events that led to the War of 1812.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Introduction to the War of 1812 Jul 20, 2022

In this episode, James kicks off Season 4 of Key Battles of American History. This new season will include discussions of the United States’ three most significant wars between the Revolutionary War and the Civil War: The War of 1812, the Texas Revolution, and the Mexican-American War. Over the next few weeks, James and new cohost Steve Guerra (host of the History of the Papacy and Beyond the Big Screen podcasts) will discuss the events leading to the War of 1812, the war itself, and the war’s aftermath and impact on American history.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bonus Episode - Interview with Chris Mowery of Vlogging Through History Jul 16, 2022

In this special bonus episode, James interviews Chris Mowery, host of the Vlogging Through History YouTube channel and the podcast of the same name, which is the newest podcast in the Parthenon Podcast Network.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Fat Man and Little Boy Jul 13, 2022

In 1942, the United States government launched the Manhattan Project, a top-secret effort to build an atomic bomb for use against the Axis powers. In this episode, James and Sean discuss the 1989 film Fat Man and Little Boy, a fictionalized version of the attempt to build the bombs that focuses on the relationship between the project’s director General Leslie Groves and its lead scientist Robert Oppenheimer.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Empire of the Sun Jul 06, 2022

By the late 1930s, Shanghai had a large international settlement that included a significant British community. During the city’s capture by Japanese forces in 1937, many British civilians became prisoners of war. Steven Speilberg’s Empire of the Sun, based on the semi-autobiographical novel of the same name by J. G. Ballard, tells the story of a young boy who becomes separated from his parents. The boy (Jamie, or “Jim”) befriends an American merchant ship captain who helps him to survive the camp and to reunite with his parents after the war ends. In this episode, James and Sean discuss this inspiring story, one of Sean’s favorites.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bonus Episode - VTH York Podcast Segment Jul 03, 2022

Many people learn about history as a collection of names, dates, and places. History is so much more interesting than that. It is the stories of the men and women who made those places and events matter. It is the story of the private soldier as much as it is the story of the great general. It is the story of the farmer in the field as much as it is the story of the man in the Oval office. Join our newest Parthenon Podcast Network member, Chris Lowery, as he leads you on a dive deeper into the forgotten stories of our past, and into the details of the stories we thought we already knew.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Bridge on the River Kwai Jun 29, 2022

One of the most critically acclaimed films of all time, The Bridge on the River Kwai tells a fictionalized account of the building of part of the Burma-Siam railroad by Allied prisoners of war. Join Sean and James as they tell the fascinating “story behind the story” as well as discuss the film’s background and the relationship of the story told in the film to the real events.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hacksaw Ridge Jun 22, 2022

Born in Virginia, Desmond Doss was a devout Christian and a pacifist who wanted to serve in the war as a combat medic but refused to touch a weapon. After suffering much shame and ill-treatment from his fellow soldiers, Doss proved his heroism in several engagements, most notably in the Battle of Okinawa, in which he saved around 75 wounded American soldiers from being executed by the Japanese. In this episode, James and Sean discuss the 2016 film Hacksaw Ridge, which tells the story of Doss’s life and service in the war.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Parthenon Round Table - What Event Do You Eliminate from History Jun 18, 2022

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Letters From Iwo Jima Jun 15, 2022

The companion film to Flags of Our Fathers, Clint Eastwood’s Letters from Iwo Jima narrates the story of the Battle of Iwo Jima from the Japanese perspective. In this episode, you will join James and Sean as they walk the beaches of Iwo Jima and go deep into the caves and tunnels of Mt. Suribachi with the Japanese defenders as they await the American onslaught and struggle with the decision of whether to fight to the death or surrender at the risk of being hated (or worse) by their colleagues and their families back home.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Flags of Our Fathers Jun 08, 2022

One of the most iconic photographs of all time is the famous Joe Rosenthal photo of the raising of the American flag on Mount Suribachi in the southwest corner of Iwo Jima. In Flags of Our Fathers, director Clint Eastwood weaves together the story of the American invasion of Iwo Jima and the struggle to capture Suribachi with the subsequent tale of three of the flag raisers who were sent back to the States to raise money for the war. The movie, while inspiring, can be a bit hard to follow, but James and Sean will guide you through it and help you sort out fact from fiction.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sands of Iwo Jima Jun 01, 2022

The Battle of Iwo Jima was one of the bloodiest battles of the Pacific Theater for both the Japanese and the Americans. James and Sean will be discussing three movies about Iwo Jima, the first of which is the classic 1949 John Wayne action film Sands of Iwo Jima. Despite its title, Sands of Iwo Jima only devotes 30 minutes to the battle; the rest of the movie shows the Battle of Tarawa, as well as scenes of the Marines training and enjoying liberty. Is Sands of Iwo Jima accurate, or is it just patriotic Hollywood propaganda? James and Sean will let you know!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bonus Episode - History Unplugged May 28, 2022

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Grave of the Fireflies May 25, 2022

In this episode, James and Sean completely change gears, discussing the 1988 Japanese animated Studio Ghibli film Grave of the Fireflies, which tells the story of a young boy and his little sister who struggle to stay alive during the Allied firebombings of Japan that occurred in the last few months of the war. Grave of the Fireflies is a sad, hard-to-watch movie, but it is a must see for those who want to know what life was like for Japanese civilians in the final stages of World War II.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Windtalkers May 18, 2022

In early 1942, the US Marine Corps began recruiting young Navajo men to serve as “codetalkers” who would transmit orders via radio using a code based on the Navajo language. The code was inscrutable to the Japanese, who were never able to crack it. John Woo’s 2002 film Windtalkers tells a slightly fictionalized version of their story. As usual, James and Sean attempt to sort through the Hollywood embellishments to tell the history behind the movie.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Run Silent, Run Deep May 11, 2022

Based loosely on the 1955 novel of the same name, Run Silent, Run Deep tells the story of a submarine captain who disobeys orders in an attempt to get revenge against a Japanese destroyer that sank his previous command. In this episode, James and Sean share their thoughts about this exciting action film.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mister Roberts May 04, 2022

Not all World War II American naval personnel saw combat. Many spent the entire war in non-combat roles, including serving on the thousands of supply ships that were essential to the war effort. The classic 1955 drama/comedy Mister Roberts tells the story of one such supply ship and its crew, which is led by an eccentric captain but inspired by the executive officer Mister Roberts, who wants more than anything else to fight. Join James and Sean as they discuss this sometimes funny, sometimes gut-wrenching, but always enjoyable film.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Caine Mutiny Apr 27, 2022

Typhoons and other storms were a real danger for naval vessels during the Pacific War, and many ships were lost to them. The Caine Mutiny, based on the novel of the same name by Herman Wouk, tells the story of a tyrannical destroyer captain whose decision to sail right through a typhoon motivates his executive officer to relieve him of command, leading to a court martial. In this episode, James and Sean discuss this exciting film which is part war story and part courtroom drama.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Thin Red Line Apr 20, 2022

During a war, combatants often ponder the deep existential questions of life. These questions form the basis of Terence Malick’s 1998 war drama The Thin Red Line. On one level, The Thin Red Line is about a U. S. Army division’s attempt to take a hill on the island of Guadalcanal; however, the film also explores many age-old questions, including “How did evil enter the world?”, “Why are humans at war with nature?”, “Why do humans fight and kill each other?”, and “Given all the evil and suffering in the world, how can there be a loving creator?” Join James and Sean as they discuss this intellectually and emotionally deep film.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Midway (2019) Apr 13, 2022

On June 4, 1942, a Japanese naval task force launched an attack on the American naval and air base at Midway Island. The task force then encountered an American carrier fleet, leading to an epic naval battle that changed the course of the war in the Pacific. The 2019 action-war film Midway tells the story of the leadup to the battle, the battle itself, and the aftermath. Is it historically accurate? Is it a quality film? In this episode, James and Sean answer these and other questions.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Special Episode: Eyewitness History Preview Apr 12, 2022

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Thirty Seconds Over Tokyo Apr 06, 2022

In April 1942, sixteen American B-25B bombers took off from the carrier USS Hornet and conducted a bombing raid over Japan that is known to posterity as the Doolittle Raid. After bombing Japan, the pilots’ intent was to land their planes in China…but things did not go as planned for many. In this episode, James and Sean discuss the 1944 film Thirty Seconds Over Tokyo, which dramatizes the preparation for the Doolittle Raid, the raid itself, and the aftermath.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

They Were Expendable Mar 30, 2022

Patrol Torpedo (PT) Boats, while not as famous as battleships, aircraft carriers, destroyers, and other large ships, nevertheless played a crucial role in the Pacific War. In 1942, author W. L. White wrote They Were Expendable, a book that tells the story of the work of PT boats in the American defense of the Philippines in 1941 and 1942. Three years later, MGM released the movie version directed by the legendary director John Ford. In this episode, James and Sean discuss this classic John Wayne film.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tora! Tora! Tora! Mar 23, 2022

In the late 1960s, a Japanese film production team joined forces with an American team in an effort to produce a balanced and accurate retelling of the December 7, 1941 Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor. The result is the classic 1970 film Tora! Tora! Tora!, which after more than 50 years still remains the definitive Pearl Harbor film. Join James and Sean as they discuss the film’s story, its historical accuracy, its quality, and its legacy.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Introduction to Season 3: The Pacific War on Film Mar 16, 2022

In this episode, James kicks off a new season of Key Battles of American History: “The Pacific War on Film.” In this season, James and returning co-host Sean McIver will discuss 17 specially selected films that deal with different aspects of the Pacific Theater of WW2. We will discuss the films themselves, including their background, themes, quality, and historical accuracy, as well as the historical events behind the films. Pull up a virtual chair and join us!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bonus Episode - Gung Ho! (with Steve Guerra) Mar 09, 2022

James and Steve Guerra, host of the Beyond the Big Screen Podcast, discuss the 1943 war propaganda movie Gung Ho!, which is loosely based on the formation and first combat action of the elite World War 2 Marine unit called Carlson’s Raiders.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bonus Episode - Truman and the Atomic Bomb (with Richard Lim) Mar 02, 2022

Was President Harry Truman’s decision to use atomic bombs on Hiroshima and Nagasaki necessary and justified? In this episode, James is joined by Richard Lim, host of the This American President podcast. James and Richard break down the various factors that figured into Truman’s decision in an attempt to answer this important question.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bonus Episode - CVE Carriers Feb 23, 2022

In this episode (written by Sean McIver), James tells the story of the small but important CVE (or “Jeep”) aircraft carriers, which played an outside role in the Pacific Theater of World War II. This episode was commissioned by Major Bob McCullough of Early’s Raiders. For more information on supporting the podcast by becoming an officer in Early’s Raiders, visit https://www.patreon.com/user?u=11973085&fan_landing=true.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bonus Episode - Who Would You Save? Feb 19, 2022

In this episode, James, Scott Rank (host of History Unplugged), Steve Guerra (host of Beyond the Big Screen and History of the Papacy) and Richard Lim (host of "This American President") discuss the following question: "If you could go back in time and save one person who died prematurely, who would you save?

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bonus Episode - Nathan Gorenstein-John Moses Browning Feb 16, 2022

In this episode James interviews Nathan Gorenstein, author of The Guns of John Moses Browning: The Remarkable Story of the Inventor Whose Firearms Changed the World. Nathan explains how Browning, son of a gun repairman in small-town Utah in the mid-nineteenth century, went on to design many of the most popular and widely used firearms in world history, including the Browning Automatic Rifle and the M1911 Colt pistol.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bonus Episode - Col. Cleland Early on Tarawa Feb 09, 2022

In this episode (James’ favorite), James and fellow podcaster Steve Guerra recreate an interview given in 1989 by James’ father Col. Cleland Early about his experiences as a young Marine who fought in the Battle of Tarawa. Listen all the way to the end for a special treat!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bonus Episode - Beyond the Big Screen Feb 08, 2022

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bonus Episode - Geography and the Battle of Okinawa Feb 02, 2022

In this episode, James again interviews Air Force historian Evan Muxen. This time, we discuss how the geography of Okinawa influenced the battle that occurred there. While on active duty with the US Army, Evan lived on Okinawa and spent much time investigating sites critical to the battle. Evan’s personal knowledge of the terrain on which the bloodiest battle of the Pacific Theater was fought provides invaluable perspective on the battle.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bonus Episode - Geography and the Battle of Iwo Jima Jan 26, 2022

In this episode, James interviews Air Force historian Evan Muxen about how the geography of Iwo Jima influenced the battle that occurred there. Evan has visited Iwo Jima multiple times and even led tours there, and his expert knowledge of the terrain, as well as of the battle itself, provides invaluable perspective on the battle.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bonus Episode - Interview with Greg Jackson Jan 19, 2022

In this episode, James interviews Gregory Jackson, Professor of Integrated Studies at Utah Valley University, host of the outstanding History That Doesn’t Suck Podcast, and the voice who introduces this podcast! James and Greg discuss Greg’s podcast, the disconnect between academia and history podcasting, and the state of history podcasting.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bonus Episode - US Presidents in WW2 (Part 2) Jan 12, 2022

In this episode, James concludes his two-part series about United States presidents who served in World War 2. In Part Two, James discusses the wartime service of Gerald Ford, Ronald Reagan, and George H. W. Bush, as well as the near service of Jimmy Carter.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bonus Episode - US Presidents in WW2 (Part 1) Jan 05, 2022

In this episode, James begins a two-part series about United States presidents who served in World War 2. In Part One, James tells the amazing story of John F. Kennedy’s service in the Pacific. James also discusses the wartime service of Lyndon Johnson and Richard Nixon.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bonus Episode - Parthenon Round Table Who Do You Kill Jan 01, 2022

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bonus Episode - Marine Raiders Dec 29, 2021

In this episode, James tells the fascinating history of America’s first Special Forces unit: the Marine Raiders. Formed in 1942, the Raiders played a key role in several Pacific Theater battles, including Guadalcanal, New Georgia, and Bougainville. In 1944, the Raider battalions were disbanded, and their members were reassigned to regular Marine units. Why, you ask? Listen and find out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Legacy of World War II Dec 22, 2021

The Second World War deeply and permanently changed the world. In this final episode of the series, James and Scott discuss just a few of the many changes wrought by the war. After discussing casualties of the Pacific War, we discuss the rise and fall of empires, the ushering in of the Cold War and the Nuclear Age, and changes specific to the United States. James and Scott thank you for listening to the series, and we hope you enjoyed it.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Epilogue, Part Two Dec 15, 2021

In this second installment of the “story after the story” miniseries, James and Scott discuss the postwar careers of key US Army Air Force and Marine leaders, as well as Japanese political leaders. Persons mentioned in the episode include Generals Curtis LeMay and Holland Smith, Col. Chesty Puller, and Major Cleland E. Early, plus Japanese Emperor Hirohito, Prime Ministers Fumimaro Konoe, Hideki Tojo, Kuniaki Koiso, and Kantaro Suzuki; Admirals Soemu Toyoda, Jisaburo Ozawa and Takeo Kurita; General Yoshijiro Umezu; Ambassador Kichisaburo Nomura; and Commander Minoru Genda.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bonus Episode - Interview with Jared Frederick Dec 11, 2021

"In this episode, James chats with author, history professor, and host of the Reel History YouTube Channel Jared Frederick. James and Jared discuss Jared's background, how he got into doing a YouTube channel, and the current state of history YouTubing and podcasting."

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Epilogue, Part One Dec 08, 2021

This is the first part of a two-episode series in which James and Scott discuss the “story after the story” of the top Japanese and American political and military leaders. In this episode, we discuss the postwar careers of President Truman, Secretary of State Cordell Hull, and Secretary of War Henry Stimson. We also talk about US Admirals Husband Kimmel, William Leahy, Ernest King, Chester Nimitz, William Halsey, and (Scott’s favorite admiral) Raymond Spruance, as well as US Army Generals Walter Short, George Marshall, Douglas MacArthur, and Jonathan Wainwright.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hiroshima, Nagasaki and the End of the War Dec 01, 2021

Between December 1942 and July 1945, a team of scientists, working in secret facilities in various parts of the U. S., researched, built, and tested the world’s first atomic bomb. Japan’s failure to surrender, together with the possibility of hundreds of thousands of casualties, motivated President Truman to drop an atomic bomb on the Japanese city of Hiroshima. Despite the bomb’s destruction of the city, including the immediate deaths of up to 80,000 people, Japan’s leaders still refused to surrender. Three days later, an American bomber dropped a second bomb on Nagasaki, leveling that city and killing nearly as many people as had perished at Hiroshima. Soon after, the Emperor led Japan to surrender. In this episode, James and Scott discuss the Manhattan Project, the dropping of the two atomic bombs, the Japanese surrender, and the end of the Second World War.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Plug for This American President Nov 28, 2021

This is an excerpt from an episode of This American President, a great history podcast that is the newest member of the Parthenon Podcast Network. You can find it at www.spreaker.com/show/this-american-president or wherever you listen to podcasts.
George Washington: The First American Action Hero
He might look like an old man on the one-dollar bill, but George Washington was once a bona fide action hero. This episode explores our first president’s legendary exploits during the French and Indian War and the American Revolution.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Beginning of the End Nov 24, 2021

By the summer of 1945, it was clear that Japan was defeated. Historian Craig Symonds writes that Japan was “stripped of her conquests, bombed incessantly from the air by American B-29s, her imports cut to a trickle by American submarines, her navy destroyed, and her industries idle for lack of raw materials and oil. Her allies were gone, too…Japan was alone, starving, all but defenseless, a passive target, absorbing punishment and unable to strike back.” In addition, Allied leaders issued the Potsdam Declaration, which warned Japan of “prompt and utter destruction” if they did not surrender. Despite all this, Japan’s leaders vowed to fight to the death. In this episode, James and Scott discuss Allied efforts to persuade Japan to surrender, along with Operation Downfall, the planned invasion of the Japanese home islands.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Prisoners of War Nov 17, 2021

During the Pacific War, the Japanese took over 130,000 Allied prisoners of war and held them in camps spread all over the Japanese Empire. Nearly all Allied prisoners were deprived of food and medical care, were regularly beaten, and were worked past the point of exhaustion. Nearly 40,000 died, representing about 27% (compared to only 4% in German camps). In this episode, James and Scott tell the tragic story of Allied prisoners of war in Japanese internment camps. They also briefly discuss the much happier story of Navajo Code Talkers, who helped win the war for the United States.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Kamikazes Nov 10, 2021

Once again, James and Scott are taking a break from the narrative of key battles to discuss two more important topics. In this episode, we will tell the story of kamikazes, including the origin of the tactic, its expansion into a full-fledged program, and its increasingly devastating effect, most notably at the Battle of Okinawa.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Okinawa (KB 9), Part Two Nov 03, 2021

As was the case with previous island battles, the American conquest of Okinawa was slow and bloody. In addition to their network of caves and tunnels, the Japanese possessed a strong fortress called Shuri Castle. But if the Americans could overcome the seemingly impregnable Japanese defenses, they could establish a powerful naval and air base from which to stage the seemingly inevitable invasion of the Japanese home islands. Would they succeed? Tune in and find out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Okinawa (KB 9), Part One Oct 27, 2021

After the successful capture of Iwo Jima, the Americans’ next objective was Okinawa, which was only 330 miles from the Japanese home islands. Possessing Okinawa would cut Japan’s supply line from southeast Asia and would provide an excellent staging point for an eventual invasion. As in many previous battles, the Japanese were dug into an extensive network of caves and tunnels. To complicate things further, there were about 400,000 Okinawan civilians on the island. Capturing Okinawa would be the Americans’ greatest challenge to date. Join James and Scott as they discuss the lead up to the invasion and narrate its initial stage.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Iwo Jima (KB 8), Part Two Oct 20, 2021

On February 19, 1945, 40,000 Marines landed on Iwo Jima, and many more would follow. Within four days, they had taken the summit of Mt. Suribachi, a key position that commanded the entire island, and had raised an enormous flag (an event made famous in the iconic photo by Joe Rosenthal). But the battle was far from over. The Japanese defenders were determined to exact as heavy a toll as possible, while kamikazes wreaked havoc on the US Navy off the shore. Join James and Scott as they conclude their discussion of the key battle of Iwo Jima.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Iwo Jima (KB 8), Part One Oct 13, 2021

In order to make the strategic bombing runs over Japan more effective, General Curtis LeMay and other USAAF leaders wanted the B-29s to be escorted by fighters. In order for this to happen, the US needed a base much closer to Japan, because no fighter at the time could make it from Saipan or Guam to Japan and back. To meet this need, American military planners decided to launch an invasion of Iwo Jima, which is only 750 miles from Japan. Iwo Jima was only 8 square miles in size and was covered with black volcanic ash rather than sand. More significantly for the American invaders, the Japanese defenders had dug deep into a network of underground caves and tunnels that were impervious to American bombs and shells. The fight would be slow and bloody. Would the Americans be able to root out the Japanese and take the island? Join us and see!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

American Bombers in the Pacific Theater Oct 06, 2021

In May 1944, the US unveiled a new weapon, the Boeing B-29 Superfortress bomber. It was bigger and faster than the B-17, it had a greater range, and it could carry a heavier bomb load (8-10 tons). Despite many early problems, by early 1945, B-29s were causing heavy damage on Japanese cities in the firebombing campaign led by General Curtis LeMay. In this episode, James and Scott discuss the controversial policy of firebombing, including its background, its execution, and its results.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

American Submarines in the Pacific Sep 29, 2021

In this episode, James and Scott take a break from the narrative of battles to take a deep dive (pun intended!) into the topic of American submarines in the Pacific War. Due to technical problems, early submarine torpedoes seldom destroyed their targets. By mid-1944, however, these problems had largely been solved, with devastating results for Japanese merchant vessels. From then on, US submarines destroyed 200,000 tons of Japanese shipping per month and were threatening Japan’s war industries. According to historian Max Hastings, “No other combatant force as small as the U. S. Navy’s submarine flotillas and their 16,000 men achieved a comparable impact upon the war anywhere in the world.” Join James and Scott as they discuss the fascinating world of submarines.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Leyte Gulf (Key Battle 7), Part Two Sep 22, 2021

In the last episode, we saw that the Japanese fleet, despite suffering some initial setbacks at the hands of the Americans, were still pressing hard toward the American invasion fleet in Leyte Gulf. Due to a major communication breakdown, the US Navy had left the San Bernardino Strait unguarded, so the way to the American invasion fleet was wide open. Would the Japanese fleet be able to capitalize on the American mistake? In this episode, James and Scott discuss the final stages of the battle of Leyte Gulf, as well as the American effort to recapture Leyte, Luzon, and the other Philippine Islands.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Leyte Gulf (Key Battle 7), Part One Sep 15, 2021

After their overwhelming victories at the Philippine Sea and the Mariana Islands, American military leaders faced several options for their next target. Due in large part to lobbying by General MacArthur, they chose the Philippines. Japan’s leadership knew that losing the Philippines would mean the severing of the supply line from the Dutch East Indies to the home islands, so they were determined to stop the American invasion. Join James and Scott as they discuss the Japanese navy’s attempt to destroy the American invasion fleet in a “decisive battle.”

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Philippine Sea (Key Battle 6) Sep 08, 2021

While the American attack on Saipan was still in progress, the Japanese Pacific fleet launched an attack on the American fleet, hoping to halt the invasion and to destroy the American fleet in a final, decisive battle. The Japanese fleet was powerful, but it was no match for Admiral Raymond Spruance’s Fifth Fleet, which destroyed so many Japanese planes and ships that the battle became known as the “Great Marianas Turkey Shoot.” In this episode, James and Scott discuss this dramatic and epic battle, along with the subsequent American capture of the islands of Guam and Tinian.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Saipan (Key Battle 5) Sep 01, 2021

In June 1944, the U. S. launched its Marianas campaign, beginning with an amphibious assault on the key island of Saipan. After more than three bloody weeks of fighting, culminating in a massive banzai charge and the horrific suicides of thousands of civilians, the Americans controlled the island. Join James and Scott as they discuss the bloodiest battle of the Pacific Theater up to that point, a battle which gave the U. S. an air base within bombing range of the Japanese home islands.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

America Moves Closer to Japan Aug 25, 2021

In the fall of 1943, top Japanese leaders decided to pull Japan’s defensive perimeter back closer to Japan, in an effort to stop the American juggernaut. American and other Allied forces continued to press forward, taking Biak in the southwestern Pacific and the Caroline Islands (including the key Japanese air/naval base of Truk) in the central Pacific. After these victories, American planners set their sights on a key target even closer to Japan: The Mariana island chain. In this episode, James and Scott discuss Japan’s “New Operational Policy” and the allied conquests of Truk and the Caroline Islands. They conclude with a comparison of the main American and Japanese fleets that would be facing off in the next campaign.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Solomons, the Gilberts, and the Marshalls Aug 18, 2021

In June 1943, American forces kicked off Operation Cartwheel, an attack on additional islands in the Solomons chain and parts of New Britain and New Guinea, under the command of General Douglas MacArthur. At the same time, Admiral Ernest King decided to launch a second major offensive under Admiral Nimitz’ command that would work its way across the Central Pacific. This new invasion force would be supported by the Third Fleet, the most powerful naval force ever assembled at the time. Join James and Scott as they discuss Operation Cartwheel, the invasion of the Gilbert Islands (most notably the bloody Battle of Tarawa), and the attack on the Marshall Islands.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Tide Turns: July 1942 - August 1943 Aug 11, 2021

Between August 1942 and June 1944, no “Key Battles” (at least in James’ reckoning!) occurred...but that of course does not mean that nothing happened! During the time between the Guadalcanal and Saipan campaigns, the U. S. and its allies launched a series of smaller campaigns to gradually push back the Japanese. In this episode, James and Scott discuss several key Allied efforts that occurred between July 1942 and August 1943, including the Kokoda Track Campaign, the Makin Raid, and the attack on the Aleutian islands of Attu and Kiska. Also discussed are the Battle of the Bismarck Sea and the American attempt to kill Admiral Yamamoto.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Japanese and American Sailors Aug 04, 2021

The Pacific War was dominated by the navy. Without the hundreds of thousands of sailors who manned the thousands of ships on both sides, there would have been no land battles. In this episode, written mostly by Sean McIver, James and Scott discuss the life of a common sailor on both the Japanese and the American side. Pacific Theater sailors endured cramped quarters, hot temperatures, and extended periods of mind-numbing boredom, punctuated by brief periods of terror. Climb aboard a ship with your James and Scott and enjoy the ride. Anchors aweigh!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Soldiers, Marines and Aviators Jul 28, 2021

In this and the next episode, James and Scott take a break from the military narrative to zoom in and take a look at the lives and experiences of common soldiers, marines, and pilots on both the Japanese and American sides. What backgrounds did they come from? What was their training like? What did they wear, carry, and eat? James and Scott discuss these and other questions to help you understand what it was like to be on the front lines and in the air over them.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Guadalcanal (Key Battle 4), Part 4 Jul 21, 2021

After the failed October Japanese attack on Henderson Field and the American fleet’s repeated prevention of Japanese efforts to reinforce and resupply the island, the Japanese army on Guadalcanal became increasingly hungry, disease-ridden, and depleted in numbers. After successful American attacks on the eastern part of the island (the “Long Patrol”) and the key position of Mt. Austen in the center of the island, the Japanese commander faced two alternatives: evacuate, or be wiped out. What would he choose, and how would it work out? In this episode, James and Scott answer this question and many others as they wrap up the epic Guadalcanal campaign.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Guadalcanal (Key Battle 4), Part 3 Jul 14, 2021

In October and November of 1942, the Japanese fleet near Guadalcanal kept trying to bring supplies and reinforcements to the island, while the American navy tried to stop this. As a result, no fewer than three naval engagements occurred in these two months: the Battle of Cape Esperance, the Battle of the Santa Cruz Islands, and the epic Naval Battle of Guadalcanal. Also, in late October, two Japanese forces launched another attack on Henderson Field, the American airfield. Would the attack succeed? Listen and find out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Guadalcanal (Key Battle 4), Part 2 Jul 07, 2021

In the first week after their landing, the Americans seized the Japanese airstrip and constructed a perimeter around it. But in the next month, the Japanese launched two attacks to try to regain it. The second one nearly succeeded. In this episode, James and Scott narrate these two attacks (known, respectively, as the Battle of the Tenaru and the Battle of Bloody Ridge (or Edson’s Ridge) as well as the continuing naval battle around the island, especially the Battle of the Eastern Solomons.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Guadalcanal (Key Battle 4), Part 1 Jun 30, 2021

After overwhelmingly defeating the Japanese fleet at Midway, American military leaders decided to go on the offensive. The first major target would be a group of islands in the eastern part of the Solomon Islands, the most prominent of which was Guadalcanal. Japanese forces had begun constructing an airfield on Guadalcanal, and the Americans hoped to seize the airfield, convert it into an American one, and expel the Japanese from the island. The Japanese, however, refused to play along. In this episode, James and Scott discuss the planning and buildup toward the Guadalcanal campaign, the initial American landing, and the disastrous (for the Allies) naval Battle of Savo Island.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT- Beyond the Big Screen Jun 25, 2021

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Midway (Key Battle 3) Jun 23, 2021

Thanks to the American code breakers at “Station Hypo” on Oahu, led by the brilliant and quirky Joe Rochefort, American naval leaders knew of Yamamoto’s plan to attack Midway. This knowledge turned hunter into prey and prey into hunter. When Fleet Commander Chuichi Nagumo and the Japanese attack fleet arrived, they discovered they had sailed into an ambush. The result was the crucial Battle of Midway, in which it could be argued that the direction of the Pacific War changed in just five minutes. Join James and Scott as they narrate the exciting and decisive Battle of Midway.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Yamamoto Rolls the Dice Jun 16, 2021

The Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941 inflicted great damage on the American Pacific Fleet, but it left one group of American ships untouched: the aircraft carriers. In early 1942, Japanese Admiral Yamamoto decided to finish the job that his fleet had begun the previous December. Yamamoto authored a plan to send his fleet toward Midway Island. There, he hoped to lure the American carriers to their destruction and to capture Midway, establishing a powerful Japanese air and naval base only 1100 miles from Midway. This would force the Americans to the negotiating table...or would it? In this episode, James and Scott discuss the details of Yamamoto’s bold but risky plan to project Japanese power further westward. They also discuss the major types of ships and planes used by both navies in early 1942.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Coral Sea (Key Battle 2) Jun 09, 2021

Following up on their stunning military successes of late 1941 and early 1942, Japan’s leaders decided to capture the key Allied port of Port Moresby on the southern coast of New Guinea. They also hoped to cut off the critical American supply line from Hawaii to Australia. Unbeknownst to the Japanese, however, American codebreakers had broken enough of the Japanese naval code to realize the Imperial Navy’s plans. As a result, when the Japanese fleet arrived at the Coral Sea, an American squadron was there to meet them. Listen as James and Scott discuss the key battle that resulted: The Battle of the Coral Sea.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Japanese Blitzkrieg Jun 02, 2021

When Japan attacked Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941, they were just getting started. Over the next 5 months, Japan rapidly and overwhelmingly conquered several European and colonial possessions in southeast Asia, including Guam, Malaya, Wake Island, Hong Kong, Burma, Singapore, the Dutch East Indies, and the Philippines. At the same time, they inflicted several defeats on Allied naval forces. They were then faced with several alternatives for their next move. In this episode, James and Scott narrate this period of rapid Japanese expansion, including the famous “Doolittle Raid” and the infamous “Bataan Death March.”

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT - The History of the Papacy May 29, 2021

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

America Gears Up for War May 26, 2021

Between 1939 and 1941, the United States began increasing the size of its military forces while it ramped up war production. After Pearl Harbor, these processes went into overdrive, with the result that several million Americans served in uniform in the war years, while America quickly became the world’s greatest industrial and military power. In the US, unemployment nearly disappeared, while African-Americans, Latinos, and women found unprecedented employment opportunities. At the same time, the US government interned thousands of Japanese-Americans for no reason other than their ancestry. In this episode, James and Scott describe how the US went from being a relatively isolationist power to the world’s “Arsenal of Democracy.” They also give an overview of life on the home front during the war.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Pearl Harbor (Key Battle 1) May 19, 2021

On December 7, 1941, Japanese air and naval forces launched a surprise attack on the American naval and air base at Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, killing 2400 Americans and heavily damaging the US Pacific Fleet. How did this happen? In this episode, James and Scott tell the gripping story of how Japan managed to keep the attack a secret, despite having to traverse several thousand miles of ocean. They also discuss the multiple American intelligence failures and the aftermath of the attack.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Road to Pearl Harbor May 12, 2021

Japan’s complicated relationship with the United States stretches back much further than 1940. The relationship, which began nearly a century prior to World War II, was often fraught with tension. Things reached a breaking point in 1941, when the US began to push back against Japanese expansion. In this episode, James and Scott give a brief history of Japanese-American relations from 1853 to 1941, and they chronicle the Japanese decision to launch a surprise attack on the American naval and air base at Pearl Harbor, Hawaii.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Japan’s Strategy; Relations with the US May 05, 2021

In order to meet the needs of its expanding population and empire, Japan’s leaders began looking hungrily to the south and east. Three years after invading China, Japanese military forces occupied French Indochina. This, combined with American support for China, put Japan on a collision course with the US. Would the two powers be able to avoid war? In this episode, James and Scott tell the story of the dangerous “dance” between imperial Japan and the United States in 1940 and 1941.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Rise of Imperial Japan Apr 28, 2021

As late as the 1860s, Japan was a semi-feudal nation, largely cut off from the rest of the world. But within a few decades, the nation had transformed itself into a major industrial power with one of the world’s most well-trained, well-equipped, and well-led militaries. Between 1905 and 1941, Japan defeated Russia, gained several former German colonies in the Pacific, seized Manchuria, and invaded and conquered much of coastal China. How did Japan accomplish all this? In this episode, James and Scott explain Japan’s meteoric rise to world power status.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Intro to Key Battles of the Pacific War Apr 21, 2021

In this episode, James introduces the second season of Key Battles of American History. The topic will be Key Battles of the Pacific Theater (WW2). Returning as James' co-host is Scott Rank. Enjoy!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Lost Battalion Apr 07, 2021

James and Sean discuss the 2001 made-for-television movie The Lost Battalion, in which an American battalion becomes isolated and surrounded by German forces during the Meuse-Argonne Offensive of 1918.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Lawrence of Arabia Mar 31, 2021

James and Sean discuss the epic, multi award-winning 1962 film Lawrence of Arabia, based on British Colonel T. E. Lawrence’s autobiographical book The Seven Pillars of Wisdom. Lawrence assists a group of Arab tribesmen in their effort to break free of Ottoman rule.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

War Horse Mar 24, 2021

James and Sean discuss the 2011 film War Horse, in which a young Englishman struggles to be reunited with his beloved horse, who has been sent to the Western Front and has experienced several trying experiences there.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

James Patreon Announcement Mar 22, 2021

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sergeant York Mar 17, 2021

James and Sean discuss the classic 1941 film Sergeant York, which tells the fascinating story of Alvin York, one of the most decorated American soldiers of the First World War.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

1917 Mar 10, 2021

James and Sean discuss the award-winning 2019 film 1917, in which two British soldiers are sent on a dangerous mission to save another unit from disaster.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Beneath Hill 60 Mar 03, 2021

James and Sean discuss the 2010 Australian film Beneath Hill 60, which tells the fascinating story of an Australian tunneling company trying to undermine the German position at the Ypres Salient in the Western Front.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

They Shall Not Grow Old Feb 24, 2021

James and Sean discuss the outstanding 2018 Peter Jackson documentary They Shall Not Grow Old, which combines interviews with British World War I veterans with colorized and slowed-down footage from the war.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Paths of Glory Feb 17, 2021

James and Sean discuss the classic 1957 anti-war film Paths of Glory, starring Kirk Douglas. In this film, a French colonel tries to save three of his men who are sentenced to be executed for cowardice.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Gallipoli Feb 17, 2021

James and Sean discuss the 1981 Australian film Gallipoli, which tells the story of a group of Australian young men who are introduced to the horrors of war at the 1915 Battle of Gallipoli.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

All Quiet on the Western Front Feb 17, 2021

In this episode, James and special guest Sean McIver discuss the classic 1930 anti-war film All Quiet on the Western Front. Based on the novel of the same name, All Quiet on the Western Front set the standard for all future war movies, especially those which present war in a negative light.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Season 1 Introduction Feb 17, 2021

In Season 1 of "Key Battles of American History," James is joined with special guest Sean McIver to discuss their favorite WW1 films.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Intro to Key Battles of American History Feb 08, 2021

In this episode, host James Early introduces the series, discussing the format, the topics to be discussed in future episodes, and everything else you need to know.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Our TOPPODCAST Picks

Follow Us

Stay Connected

Key Battles of American History – Key Battles of American History

Related Podcasts

Links

Stay Connected