Thoughtful Reflections on Faith and Life
In this episode of the podcast, I talk with Darrell Hillier, author of North Atlantic Crossroads, a story of the Second World War that many people have never heard of. Visit Darrell at https://crossroadsoftheworld.ca/ You can purchase his book from this Amazon affiliate link: https://link.amazon/B0d3L3Wmx Support this podcast through http://www.patreon.com/hopesreason Visit me at https://www.stephenjbedard.com/secondwordwar
When tanks first appeared on the battlefields of the First World War, they created a fundamental problem for military planners. How could one stop an armored vehicle that was protected against machine-gun fire and small arms? The answer initially seemed straightforward: build larger and more powerful anti-tank guns. But as tanks became faster, more heavily … Read More “The Rise of the Tank Destroyer in the Second World War” »
Among the most dramatic innovations of the Second World War was the use of airborne forces. Soldiers descending from the sky beneath colorful parachutes or arriving in silent gliders captured the imagination of the public and struck fear into the enemy. Airborne troops were considered elite soldiers, capable of seizing key objectives deep behind enemy … Read More “Airborne Warfare in the Second World War: The Rise, Successes, and Failures of the Paratroopers” »
In early 1942, where were attacks taking place? Africa and Asia? Yes, but how about just off the east coast of the United States? Operation Drumbeat was the German U-boat offensive against American shipping within sight of its shores. Perhaps the most effective German operation that you have never heard about. Support me at https://www.patreon.com/hopesreason … Read More “SWWP 54 – Operation Drumbeat: The U-Boats Come to America” »
The United States Marine Corps is one of the world’s most recognizable military organizations, known for its amphibious warfare capabilities, expeditionary mindset, and fierce esprit de corps. By the end of the Second World War, the Marines had become an elite force renowned for some of the most difficult campaigns in military history. Yet the … Read More “From Shipboard Guards to Pacific Shock Troops: The Origins and Evolution of the United States Marine Corps” »
When people think of tanks in the Second World War, iconic German vehicles such as the Tiger and Panther often come to mind. Yet it was the tanks of the Allied nations that ultimately rolled from the beaches of Normandy to the heart of Berlin and from the deserts of North Africa to the islands … Read More “Steel Victory: The Tanks of the Allied Powers During the Second World War” »
World War II marked a turning point in military firearms technology. The United States entered the war with a mixture of older bolt-action rifles, newer semi-automatic weapons, and specialized firearms designed for paratroopers, snipers, and support troops. By the end of the conflict, the U.S. military had helped revolutionize infantry combat through widespread use of … Read More “Rifles of the U.S. Military During World War II” »
The entry of Japan into the war in December 1941 set all sorts of other events in motion. One of these was the invasion of Burma as Japan eyes the valuable Burma Road. Support me at http://www.patreon.com/hopesreason My recommended book is Defeat Into Victory: Battling Japan in Burma and India, 1942-1945. Purchase it at this … Read More “SWWP 53 – Japan Invades Burma” »
Few firearms have achieved the cultural and historical recognition of the Thompson submachine gun. Known as the “Tommy Gun,” it became a symbol of both wartime innovation and Prohibition-era crime. But its story begins not in back alleys—but in the trenches of World War I. Origins: A Weapon for Trench Warfare The Thompson was the brainchild … Read More “The Thompson Submachine Gun: From Trench Concept to Iconic Firepower” »
Among the many armored vehicles of the Second World War, the M3 Stuart stands out as one of the most widely used and recognizable light tanks of the era. Known for its speed, reliability, and versatility, the Stuart played a crucial role in the early years of the war—even as it quickly became outmatched on the battlefield. … Read More “The M3 Stuart: America’s Fast and Reliable Light Tank of World War II” »
One of the first things to happen in 1942 of the Second World War was the fall of Manilla in the Philippines. Not even the great Douglas MacArthur could prevent that. The fall of Manilla was a devastating blow to the Allies and it was a sign of Japanese dominance in the Pacific… at least … Read More “SWWP 52 – The Fall of Manilla” »
During the global conflict of World War II, both Australia and New Zealand played crucial roles far beyond what their relatively small populations might suggest. From the deserts of North Africa to the jungles of the Pacific, their soldiers, sailors, and airmen made significant contributions to the Allied war effort. Mobilization and Military Strength Australia By the end of the … Read More “Australia and New Zealand in World War II: A Vital Contribution” »
1942 begins with one of the biggest turning points of the war, one that did not take place on a battlefield. On January 1, 1942, the United Nations was born. In this episode, we look at this alliance and what it meant, as well as how it connects with our modern United Nations. Please support … Read More “SWWP 51 – The War-time Birth of the United Nations” »
World War II is often remembered in the context of Europe and the Pacific—but it also profoundly affected nations that initially tried to stay neutral. Iran is one of the clearest examples of how global conflict reshaped a country’s politics, society, and international position long after the final battles ended. Neutrality and Strategic Importance When … Read More “Iran During the Second World War: Neutrality, Invasion, and Lasting Consequences” »
When people think of British fighter aircraft in the Second World War, the elegant Spitfire often comes to mind first. Yet during the critical early years of the war—especially the Battle of Britain—it was the more workmanlike Hurricane that bore the greater burden. Though often paired together, the Supermarine Spitfire and the Hawker Hurricane were fundamentally different in design philosophy, performance characteristics, and … Read More “Spitfire vs. Hurricane: Britain’s Twin Pillars of Fighter Defense in WWII” »
This episode wraps up 1941 by summarizing where things were left by the end of December. The Second World War was much different that it had been 12 months before. We also look at which side had the advantage as we enter 1942. Support me at https://www.patreon.com/hopesreason Visit me at https://www.stephenjbedard.com/secondworldwar/ Follow me at https://x.com/WW2_Podcast
During the Second World War, Nazi Germany fielded two distinct military organizations that often fought side by side: the Wehrmacht and the Waffen-SS. While they are sometimes conflated in popular discussion, they differed significantly in origin, command structure, political role, and—over time—combat effectiveness. Understanding these differences is essential for an accurate assessment of how Germany waged war and … Read More “What Was the Difference Between the Wehrmacht and the Waffen-SS?” »
The Tank is a recent movie that offers the gritty story of a German Tiger Tank behind enemy lines on the Eastern Front. It is beautifully filmed and fantastically acted. It also has some of the best tank battle scenes in recent movie history. And yet many people did not like the movie. When I … Read More “Who Do Some People Not Like The Tank Movie?” »
The Second World War marked both the zenith and the twilight of the battleship era. These massive capital ships represented the pinnacle of naval engineering—floating fortresses combining firepower, armor, and prestige. Yet the war also demonstrated their vulnerability to air power and submarines. This post examines five of the largest battleships to see service during World War … Read More “The Giants of Steel: The Five Biggest Battleships of the Second World War” »
I’m always on the lookout for a good war movie. So when I saw an ad for The Tank (German: Der Tank), I was definitely interested. (Please note that the link is an Amazon affiliate link) So how was it? Let me begin by giving a short summary. It is the story of a German … Read More “The Tank – Review” »
The Second World War forced Allied militaries to confront operational problems that conventional forces were ill-suited to solve. Amphibious assaults, deep reconnaissance, sabotage, and irregular warfare required small, highly trained formations operating with speed, secrecy, and initiative. From this necessity emerged a range of special forces and elite units whose influence extended well beyond their … Read More “Special Forces in the Second World War” »
Much happened on December 7, 1941. One story is that of the USS Arizona and her captain, Franklin Van Valkenburgh. In this episode, we share their tragic story. Support me at http://www.patreon.com/hopesreason Visit me at https://www.stephenjbedard.com/secondworldwar Look for my other podcast “History of Christianity” on your favourite podcast provider.
Few naval vessels have undergone as dramatic a transformation as the destroyer. From its origins as a small, fast torpedo-boat killer in the late nineteenth century, the destroyer has grown into one of the most versatile and indispensable ships in modern fleets. Its story is one of changing threats, rapid technological development, and global wartime … Read More “The Evolution of the Destroyer: From Torpedo Boat Hunter to Modern Naval Workhorse” »
When Italy entered the Second World War in June 1940, Benito Mussolini hoped to seize quick victories and claim a place among the great European powers. On paper, Italy possessed one of the larger militaries in Europe, with substantial numbers of soldiers, aircraft, and warships. In reality, however, the Italian armed forces suffered from serious … Read More “The Strength of the Italian Military at the Beginning of the Second World War” »
The forcible removal and internment of people of Japanese ancestry in Canada and the United States during World War II remains one of the most consequential civil-liberties crises in North American history. Carried out in the name of “national security” after the attack on Pearl Harbor, these policies uprooted tens of thousands of citizens and … Read More “Injustice at Home: The Internment of People of Japanese Descent in Canada and the United States during World War II” »
When we think of Japan and December 1941, we think of Pearl Harbor. But Japan had much more up their sleeve than just one attack. That same day saw surprise attacks by Japanese forces on American, British, and Thai territories. In this episode, we look at those attacks. Please consider supporting me through Patreon.
Introduction During the latter half of World War II, Nazi Germany developed a set of “V-weapons” (Vergeltungswaffen — “Revenge Weapons”) aimed at turning the war’s tide or at least exacting terror and disruption behind Allied lines. These included the V-1 flying bomb, the V-2 ballistic missile, and the V-3 “supergun.” Though none changed the ultimate … Read More “Germany’s V-Weapons in WWII – Invention, Use, Impact” »
Hermann Göring (1893–1946) was one of the most powerful and controversial figures in Nazi Germany. A decorated fighter ace during the First World War, he later became Adolf Hitler’s closest ally and one of the architects of the Third Reich. His life is a study in ambition, corruption, and moral collapse—from heroism in the skies … Read More “Who Was Hermann Göring?” »
Introduction Although often overlooked in the broader narrative of the Second World War, Brazil played a significant and unique role in the Allied effort. From protecting vital shipping lanes in the Atlantic to sending troops to fight on European soil, Brazil’s contributions were both strategic and symbolic. Brazil’s Military at the Outset At the beginning … Read More “Brazil’s Involvement in the Second World War” »
When the Second World War began in September 1939, air power was still a relatively young branch of the military. Yet, it was already clear that air superiority would be critical in shaping the conflict. By this time, several nations had developed large, modernized air forces equipped with fighters, bombers, and reconnaissance planes. Below are … Read More “The Top Five Air Forces at the Beginning of the Second World War” »
The Luftwaffe, Germany’s air force during the Second World War, was at the forefront of aerial innovation and combat tactics in the early years of the conflict. From the rapid victories of 1939–1941 to the attrition of the later years, the aircraft of the Luftwaffe played a decisive role in both German successes and ultimate … Read More “Aircraft of the Luftwaffe in the Second World War” »
December 7, 1941. A day that will live in infamy. The Japanese attack Pearl Harbor in Hawaii. This would forever change the course of the Second World War. In this episode, we look at the broad strokes of what happened that day. Please visit me at https://www.stephenjbedard.com/secondworldwar and consider supporting me at http://www.patreon.com/hopesreason.
At the dawn of the Second World War in 1939, naval power was a key determinant of global influence. Nations with strong navies could project power across oceans, secure supply routes, and dominate in both defensive and offensive operations. The top five navies at the start of WWII were those of the United Kingdom, United States, Japan, France, and Italy. … Read More “The Top Five Most Powerful Navies at the Beginning of the Second World War” »
I am obviously interested in the Second World War, since I host a podcast on the subject. I also am an army chaplain in the Canadian Armed Forces and so am deeply interested in chaplaincy. It is only logical that I also be interested in chaplaincy during the Second World war. While I have some … Read More “German Military Chaplains in World War II – Review” »
China’s experience in World War II was one of immense suffering, resilience, and transformation. While much of the global focus is on Europe and the Pacific islands, China endured a brutal war against Japan that began before World War II officially started and continued until Japan’s surrender in 1945. This war not only shaped China’s … Read More “China in World War II: Invasion, Civil War, and Global Alliances” »
Introduction The tank, a formidable symbol of modern warfare, dramatically reshaped military strategy in the 20th century. From its origins in the muddy trenches of the First World War to the sweeping armored offensives of the Second World War, the tank evolved rapidly in design, doctrine, and deployment. Origins and Invention The tank was conceived … Read More “The Development of the Tank up to the End of the Second World War” »
On May 7, 1945, just hours before the official end of World War II in Europe, Private First Class Charley Havlat became the last American soldier killed in combat on the continent. His death occurred during a reconnaissance mission near Volary, Czechoslovakia (now the Czech Republic), when his patrol was ambushed by German forces unaware of … Read More “The Final Sacrifice: The Story of Charley Havlat, the Last American Killed in WWII Europe” »
I watched the second season of SAS: Rogue Heroes. I am still trying to figure out what I think of this series. It has both good and bad elements to it. First of all, the SAS pretty much demands a television or movie adaptation. Their role in the Second World War was both important and … Read More “SAS: Rogue Heroes – Season Two” »
In this episode of the podcast, I talk to Ronald Drabkin, the author of Beverly Hills Spy. In this excellent book, the author takes us through the story of Frederick Rutland, a man who was a British hero from the Great War, a companion of Hollywood stars, and a spy that gave the Japanese valuable … Read More “SWWP 44 – From War Hero to Spy: The Story of Frederick Rutland” »
The Germans have been busy during 1941. Not only had they invaded the Soviet Union and continued the Battle of the Atlantic, they also had occupied several countries and were still trying to deal with Britain. This included a bombing campaign, as well as the war in North Africa. This episode brings us to the … Read More “SWWP 43 – Catching Up With the Germans on the Eve of Pearl Harbor” »
In the late 1930s, Czechoslovakia possessed one of the most formidable military forces in Central Europe. As tensions mounted with Nazi Germany following Adolf Hitler’s rise to power and the territorial demands on the Sudetenland, Czechoslovakia prepared for potential conflict. Despite these efforts, the country ultimately faced diplomatic isolation and political pressure, culminating in its … Read More “Czechoslovakia’s Military Strength Before the German Invasion” »
During the Second World War, Japan developed and deployed a wide array of aircraft to support its military objectives in the Pacific and Asian theaters. These aircraft were used for various purposes including fighter combat, bombing missions, reconnaissance, and training. Below is an overview of the primary types of Japanese aircraft, their production numbers, armament, … Read More “Japanese Aircraft of the Second World War” »
Special Operations Executive (SOE) Special Air Service (SAS) Key Differences Overlap and Collaboration While SOE and SAS were distinct entities, their missions occasionally intersected. For example: Ultimately, both organizations were vital to the Allied war effort, but they operated with different focuses and methods to achieve complementary goals.
The German Army of World War Two was renowned for its military innovations, strategic tactics, and advanced weaponry. Among its arsenal, rifles played a critical role in equipping soldiers for combat across Europe, North Africa, and the Eastern Front. This post examines the key rifles used by the Wehrmacht, exploring their design, capabilities, and impact … Read More “The Rifles of the German Army in World War Two” »
During the Second World War, intelligence agencies played a pivotal role in shaping the Allied forces’ strategies and ultimately contributed significantly to their victory. These agencies were involved in a wide range of activities, from gathering and analyzing enemy communications to conducting covert operations behind enemy lines. Each major Allied nation had its own intelligence … Read More “Spies, Codes, and Sabotage: The Role of Allied Intelligence in WWII and Beyond” »
The Nazi regime in Germany from 1933 to 1945 established an extensive and oppressive security apparatus to enforce its totalitarian rule. Two key organizations at the center of this apparatus were the Gestapo (Geheime Staatspolizei) and the SS (Schutzstaffel). While both were integral to maintaining Nazi control and perpetrating the Holocaust, they had distinct roles, … Read More “Understanding the Difference Between the Gestapo and the SS in Nazi Germany” »
The declarations of war during the Second World War involved many countries and occurred at different times throughout the conflict. Below is a list of countries and their respective declarations of war. Note that the dates refer to when countries declared war on another state, which may vary depending on alliances, invasions, and shifting allegiances … Read More “Timeline of Declarations of War During World War II” »
The Soviet Union’s armored forces were a crucial element in the defeat of Nazi Germany during the Second World War. From the vast plains of Russia to the streets of Berlin, Soviet tanks played a decisive role in the brutal combat that characterized the Eastern Front. Over the course of the war, the Red Army … Read More “The Tanks of the Soviet Union During the Second World War” »
It is October and November of 1941. The weather is getting colder and only so much can be done before General Winter makes his appearance. Can the Germans make it to Moscow? In this episode, we look at Operation Typhoon and Germany’s attempt to gain a major victory while they still have time. My recommended … Read More “SWWP 41 – Operation Barbarossa: Part Three” »
When we think of Adolf Hitler, we think of him as the monster responsible for the Holocaust and the dictator that almost destroyed Germany. But how often do we think of Hitler as a military leader? A leader of a nation does not necessarily have to give direct leadership to the military. In fact, in … Read More “The First Soldier: Hitler as Military Leader – Review” »
Some people are probably surprised that this question even gets asked. And when they see it asked, they might suspect an ulterior motive. Yet, it has come up as a conversation on social media. The reason is that a certain person was given a very significant platform to state that Winston Churchill, and not Hitler, … Read More “Who Were the Good Guys and Bad Guys in the Second World War?” »
In this episode, we look at the summer of 1941, specifically the battles for Smolensk, Leningrad, and Kiev. The Germans move forward and the Soviets attempt to push back. Discover the resources at Fiverr. Get Operation Barbarossa: Hitler’s Invasion of Russia 1941 (Amazon affiliate link) Support me through Patreon.
I have blogged previously on The Devil’s Brigade as an actual unit in the Second World War. In that post, I commented on a movie made of the same name but at that time I had not seen it. I just recently watched the 1968 The Devil’s Brigade movie. I have a soft spot for … Read More “The Devil’s Brigade Movie (1968)” »
I can tell you two things about my childhood. One is that I grew up with a great interest in the Second World War. The other is that I grew up in a part of St. Catharines, Ontario known as Merritton, a community that was separate before being absorbed by St. Catharines. I only recently … Read More “The HMCS Merrittonia” »
We have had Band of Brothers and the Pacific, now we have Masters of the Air. Like the previous two series, this was based on a book, Masters of the Air, and reflects actual events and individuals. Masters of the Air follows the trials and tribulations of the American 100th Bomb Group. You might think … Read More “Masters of the Air – Review” »
One of my favourite series about the Second World War is the Band of Brothers and so when I heard that some of those who made that series, also made The Pacific, I was very interested. For some reason I was delayed in watching it until recently. What did I think of The Pacific? It … Read More “The Pacific – Review” »
One of the major turning points of the war was Operation Barbarossa, the German invasion of the Soviet Union in June 1941. This had long been Hitler’s plan and now it was time to put those plans into action. The first few weeks included tremendous German success. But could they maintain that momentum? Support me … Read More “SWWP 35 – Operation Barbarossa: Part One” »
I have watched Band of Brothers a number of times but I just recently rewatched the series after a number of years. You never know how a series will hold up. Considering that series came out back in 2001, Band of Brothers stands up very well compared to other movies and series about the Second … Read More “Band of Brothers – Revisited” »
We rightfully condemn the action of Adolf Hitler but we can at the same time acknowledge that he at comprehensive plan that was effective in many ways. There is a reason why many Germans followed Hitler while many Italians failed to give their allegiance to Mussolini. Hitler had a focus on the young and he … Read More “A Glimpse of the Hitler Youth” »
I blog on military history, particularly the Second World War, in support of my podcast on the Second World War. When it comes to WW2, we often think of Europe, Africa, or the Pacific. But the war affected and helped shape Palestine, including what would become Israel. Israel became a country in 1948, just three … Read More “Palestine and the Second World War” »
When we think of a war effort, we think of combat troops and the production of equipment. But what about morale? One of the most beloved English entertainers during the Second World War was Vera Lynn. She had a huge impact on the British war effort by encouraging the troops and improving, what we now … Read More “We’ll Meet Again by Vera Lynn” »
One of the most infamous Nazi collaborators was American born William Joyce, better known by his nickname “Lord Haw-Haw.” Joyce moved from America to Ireland and then to England, before moving to Germany in 1940, becoming a German citizen. Joyce, before arriving in Germany, had already joined the British Union of Fascists. It was no … Read More “William Joyce – Lord Haw-Haw” »
When we think of areas of operations during the Second World War, we often do not think of the Middle East. But in the summer of 1941, there was indeed some significant combat in Syria and Lebanon. Unfortunately, it was between Britain and her Dominions and Vichy France. Support me through Patreon. If you are interested … Read More “SWWP 34 – Operation Exporter: Britain vs France” »
One of the things that I am drawn to when it comes to the Second World War is the aesthetic of some of the equipment. I totally understand that these machines were built to kill and I take that seriously. But the physical design of some of the vehicles are still attractive. When it comes … Read More “The Stuart Tank” »
One of the series that I was interested in watching was SAS Rogue Heroes, the show based upon the book Rogue Heroes. I was a bit nervous because television series based on historical events can vary widely in value and reliability. I am glad that I gave this series a try. The series is about … Read More “SAS Rogue Heroes: Season One – Review” »
When battles take place today, we can easily watch it. Everyone has a phone and if that doesn’t get it, a satellite will. The Second World War was a much different story. But, some film footage does exist, including a tank battle that took place in 1945. If you want to find out more about … Read More “The Cologne Tank Battle Caught on Film” »
In this first chapter of the Battle of the Atlantic, we catch up with what was happening in the Atlantic Ocean. Germany was trying to cut off Britain from all outside support by targeting shipping lanes. The Allies struggled to get the convoys to their destination from German ships, planes, and especially the dreaded U-Boats. … Read More “SWWP 33 – The Battle of the Atlantic: Chapter One” »
When we think of Allied cooperation during the Second World War, we often think of the Americans and the British. We might even think about the Soviets. But what about the Canadians? The United States and Canada have the longest undefended border in the world. There is a natural opportunity for cooperation and today the … Read More “The Devil’s Brigade” »
The Soviets had been putting a lot of pressure on the Allies to open up another front in Europe to help with their fight against the Nazis. The Allies were not ready for a full invasion but perhaps there was something that could be done. A raid was planned for Dieppe and the responsibility for … Read More “The Dieppe Raid” »
Imagine living through a Soviet occupation. And then having the Nazis replace the Soviets. And then having the Soviets return and eject the Nazis. And all this while only a child. John Livens shares about his experience as a boy in Latvia during the Second World War plus much more in his book An Unexpected Journey. … Read More “SWWP 31 – An Unexpected Journey: A Conversation With John Livens” »
In April of 1941, Germany, along with Italian and Hungarian allies, invaded Yugoslavia. This was part of German’s actions in the Balkans that would include the invasion of Greece. In this episode, we look at how that invasion went and what happened after. Make sure to go back to SWWP 4 – The War That … Read More “SWWP 30 – The April War: The Invasion of Yugoslavia” »
The Italians failed to take Malta. Could the Germans do better? They needed to neutralize this island to allow supplies to reach North Africa. However, the British stubbornly held onto Malta and frustrated the plans of the Axis. This episode is brought to you by Athletic Greens. Support this podcast through Patreon.
In a previous episode, we saw Italy struggle in its ambitions in North Africa. Could Germany succeed where Italy failed? In this episode, we look at the arrival of General Erwin Rommel and his activity with the Afrika Korps during 1941. This episode is brought to by Athletic Greens. Please support this podcast through Patreon.
Many people tend to assume that the Second World War, at least in the west, was pretty much over after D-Day. Germany was on the run and it was just a matter of the Allies mopping up a defeated enemy. The truth is that there was a lot that happened between D-Day and VE Day. … Read More “Forgotten Victory – Review” »
We have been focusing on Germany and Italy but what has Japan been up to? While technically not yet involved in the Second World War, they are in a fierce battle to dominate China. However, it is not going as well as they had hoped. In this episode, we catch up with Japan and what … Read More “SWWP 27 – Catching Up With Japan: China Strikes Back” »
Italy attempts to match their German partners by attacking in numerous places in the Mediterranean area. This includes Egypt, Malta, and Greece. While they have high hopes, each of these campaigns will leave them requiring the help of the Germans. For more on military history, visit me here. Support this podcast through Patreon. I recommend this book. … Read More “SWWP 26 – Italy Swings… And Misses” »
No foot soldier wants to come up against a tank. But during the Second World War, it was likely to happen. What do they do? The army produced this restricted training film called “Crack That Tank.” It is an interesting video to watch. Not only does it teach strategy, it is also about psychology. It … Read More “Infantry vs Tank – Training Film” »
Pope Pius XII was the pope during the Second World War. There is controversy over how he responded to the crisis. Should he have openly opposed Nazism or should he have positioned himself strategically for later negotiations? This is a special crossover episode between the Second World War Podcast and the History of Christianity Podcast. If you have … Read More “SWWP 25 – A Pope in Wartime: Pius XII” »
When many people think of the Axis powers of the Second World War, they often think of Germany and Japan. But the Axis began between Germany and Italy and Benito Mussolini played a major role in that. What kind of leader was Mussolini? Christopher Hibbert goes into great detail in his biography, Mussolini: The Rise … Read More “Mussolini: The Rise and Fall of Il Duce – Review” »
Italy was able to take British Somaliland. Could they duplicate that success with Egypt? They would soon find that Britain was much more motivated to hold onto Egypt. This episode is brought to you by Pair. If you have a business, you need a website. What’s the best way to get a website up and … Read More “SWWP 24 – Italy Goes For Egypt” »
I’m always on the lookout for good movies or series based on the Second World War, especially if they are based on real persons and events. One that I recently watched was The Liberator, a four episode mini-series. At first I was not sure what to make of it. In some ways, it is both … Read More “The Liberator – Review” »
In this episode, I talk to Rainy Horvath, who published the memoirs of her father who was a “hump pilot” during the Second World War. In this episode, you will hear about a theatre of the war and a type of mission that does not get talked about enough. Make sure to visit Rainy at … Read More “SWWP 23 – The Able Queen: A Conversation With Rainy Horvath” »
So far we have been focusing on Germany but what about Italy? Mussolini still intended to build his empire. A logical place to start was British Somaliland, especially with the defeat of Britain’s allies, the French. If you expect the Italians to always lose, you may be surprised as to how it turned out. This … Read More “SWWP 22 – Italy Gets in the Game” »
France has fallen. Is it Britain’s turn next? Germany plans Operation Sea Lion, the invasion of Britain. But to be successful, the Luftwaffe will need to eliminate the RAF. This is the Battle of Britain. Today’s podcast is presented by PODGO. PODGO is the easiest way for you to monetize your podcast. Providing podcasters with a … Read More “SWWP 21 – The Battle of Britain” »
The French had fought valiantly but how how long could they resist. The Germans were using innovative tactics that the French had never conceived of. Between the panzers and the Luftwaffe, they could not catch a break. In this episode, we look at how the Battle of France ends. This episode is brought to you … Read More “SWWP 20 – The Battle of France is Over…” »
With almost a quarter of a million British troops stranded at Dunkirk, the majority of Britain’s land forces, it looked like there was no hope. But then something happened. In this episode, we look at the miracle of Dunkirk, the amazing rescue that was both terrifying and inspiring. This episode is brought to you by Hello … Read More “SWWP 19 – The Miracle of Dunkirk” »
One of the most dramatic events of the Second World War was the evacuation of Dunkirk. Everything pointed toward this being one of greatest defeats for Britain, the destruction of most of its land forces. But things did not turn out as expected. Norman Gelb, in book Dunkirk, takes us through the events from the … Read More “Dunkirk (Book) – Review” »
Previously, the Germans had attacked through Holland and Belgium, exactly what the Allies expected. Now, the Germans turn to their unexpected real plan, a thrust through the Ardennes Forest. This episode is brought to you by Omio. Use the code OMIO5 for 5% off before July 31, 2021. You can support this podcast through Patreon or by download … Read More “SWWP 18 – The Fall of France” »
The conflict in Norway between the Axis and Allies was only a taste of what was to come. France must fall. But how? The first (but not only) part of the invasion would come through the low countries of the Netherlands and Belgium. The French and British came to their aid but things didn’t go … Read More “SWWP 16 – Low Blow: The Invasion of the Netherlands and Belgium” »
Writing a full length book on even just one battle requires an author to pick and choose what details they will include. How can you cover the entire Second World War in just one book? That is just what John Keegan does in his Second World War. I have read a number of books by … Read More “The Second World War by John Keegan” »
Everyone knows that the D-Day landings at Normandy in the Second World War had five beaches: Utah, Omaha, Gold, Juno and Sword. What about the sixth beach? What about Band Beach? Never heard of it? Neither had I until recently. I found this video from Mark Felton to be very interesting. He explains what the … Read More “D-Day’s Forgotten Beach” »
There are certain events that forever change to direction of human society. One was the bombing of Hiroshima on August 6, 1945, followed by the bombing of Nagasaki three days later. Was this bombing justified? As a member of the military, I appreciate the desire to save lives of soldiers who would be forced to … Read More “The Bombing of Hiroshima” »
A.J.P. Taylor’s account of The Origins of the Second World War is an older work (first published in 1961) and yet is still an intriguing read. It is also a controversial interpretation of the events. The main issue is that Taylor doesn’t accept the simple explanation that the war started because Hitler was a monster … Read More “The Origins of the Second World War – Review” »
As I am posting this, it is the 75th anniversary of V-E Day, Victory in Europe Day. It is important for us to remember that for much of the Second World War, it was uncertain who would win. During the Battle of Britain, the hope for many was to just survive, with victory only a … Read More “Winston Churchill Announces Germany’s Surrender” »
