Join esteemed historians Margaret MacMillan, Sir Max Hastings, and Peter Frankopan as they delve into the implications of the war in Ukraine. They discuss how historical narratives shape modern geopolitics, questioning Putin's invocation of the past. The trio analyzes the logistical blunders behind the Russian invasion and the critical role of U.S. support for Ukraine. They also explore the emotional dimensions of leadership in conflict and the need for cautious, informed responses to today's global tensions.
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insights INSIGHT
Not World War III (Yet)
The war in Ukraine is a state-to-state conflict, not yet a world war.
It has the potential to escalate, but comparing it to World Wars I and II is inaccurate and alarmist.
insights INSIGHT
Nuclear Age Reminder
The Ukraine conflict highlights the ever-present danger of nuclear weapons.
The US demonstrates a good balance of resolve and caution, vital in the nuclear age.
insights INSIGHT
War's Origins
Defining the war's start is complex, potentially tracing back to 2014, 2008, or even the Cold War's end.
Russia frames the conflict as rooted in its post-Cold War treatment.
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In this book, Peter Frankopan challenges the traditional Western-centric view of history by arguing that the Persian Empire and the Silk Roads were pivotal in shaping global civilization. The book explores the network of trade routes that connected Europe, Asia, and the Far East, facilitating the exchange of goods, ideas, religions, and cultures. It covers the rise and fall of empires, the spread of Buddhism, Christianity, and Islam, and the modern geopolitical significance of the region, including the impact of China's Belt and Road Initiative. Frankopan emphasizes the interconnectedness of the world and how events in the Silk Roads region have influenced global history from ancient times to the present day.
Abyss, the Cuban Missile Crisis
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Max Hastings
War
Bob Woodward
In this book, Bob Woodward provides an intimate and sweeping account of one of the most tumultuous periods in presidential politics and American history. The narrative centers on President Joe Biden’s approach to managing the war in Ukraine and the Middle East conflict between Israel and Hamas, as well as Donald Trump’s efforts to regain political power. Woodward reveals the complexity and consequences of wartime back-channel diplomacy and decision-making, highlighting efforts to deter the use of nuclear weapons and prevent a rapid slide into World War III.
The Story of Russia
Orlando Figes
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What are the lessons that history can teach us about the Russian war in Ukraine? Recently three of Britain’s most distinguished and bestselling historians – Peter Frankopan, Sir Max Hastings and Margaret MacMillan – came to the Intelligence Squared stage in London to share their insights into the conflict. In conversation with BBC news presenter Jonny Dymond, they examined how politicians and commentators have been using and abusing history to justify their positions on the conflict. How has President Putin been invoking the past to rally support among the Russian people for his actions? Is Putin a 21st-century Hitler who should be defeated at all costs? And as he threatens to use nuclear weapons to defend Russian territory, what lessons can we learn from brinkmanship during the Cold War?
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