Dan Snow's History Hit Stalin, Churchill and Roosevelt: The Impossible Alliance that Won WWII
May 13, 2024
Listen to bestselling historian Giles Milton discuss the unlikely alliance between Stalin, Churchill, and Roosevelt during WWII. Explore the pivotal role of diplomats in negotiating with Stalin and keeping the Allied victory in sight. Learn about the complex relationships and key meetings that shaped the outcome of the war.
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Churchill Embraces Stalin
- Winston Churchill was delighted by Hitler's invasion of the Soviet Union as it forced Germany to fight a two-front war.
- Despite his longstanding opposition, Churchill pragmatically allied with Stalin to strengthen the fight against Nazi Germany.
Stalin’s Breakdown After Invasion
- Stalin, shocked by the invasion, retreated to his dacha and nearly suffered a mental breakdown.
- Politburo members had to persuade him to return and lead the war effort despite his suspicions of their intentions.
Soviet Collapse Threatens Allies
- The Red Army nearly collapsed by end of 1941 with Germany close to Moscow.
- Soviet defeat then would have made Allied liberation of Europe nearly impossible.