The History of the Twentieth Century 406 The Siege of Leningrad I
Jun 8, 2025
The podcast delves into the harrowing Siege of Leningrad, chronicling the experiences of a 15-year-old boy named Yuri. It captures the initial excitement of war that quickly fades into despair as food shortages take hold. Through Yuri's eyes, listeners witness the harsh realities of survival, including the emotional struggles faced by families. The exploration of Yuri's diary by his sister Irina adds a poignant layer, revealing the enduring impacts of war and the guilt that lingers long after the siege ends.
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Yuri's Childhood Challenges
- Yuri Ryabinkin was a sickly boy with pleurisy and poor eyesight, limiting physical activity.
- Instead, he used his time to read voraciously and play chess competitively.
Yuri Learns War Has Started
- On June 22, 1941, Yuri was playing chess when news of the German invasion arrived.
- Despite shock, he played and surprisingly won all three matches that day.
Civilian Resistance in Defense
- Civilians contributed directly to the war effort by digging trenches and volunteering.
- Women and workers showed spirited involvement despite the dire situation.
