Saddam Hussein, a global infamous leader who rose from a tough peasant background, discusses his early life, political history, rise to power, and the formation of Iraq. The podcast explores his childhood trauma, involvement in nationalist movements, removal of King Faisal II, and his ultimate rise as the vice chairman of the Revolutionary Command Council.
Saddam Hussein's difficult upbringing and troubled environment influenced his resilient and tough personality.
Saddam Hussein's unique blend of charm and violence enabled him to manipulate and control others, contributing to his ascent and prolonged reign as Iraq's leader.
Deep dives
Early Life and Background
Saddam Hussein was born in 1937 in Baghdad, Iraq. He grew up in a troubled environment, with his father gone, his brother passing away, and his mother struggling to make ends meet. Saddam's early experiences and the difficult circumstances of his upbringing shaped him to be a resilient and tough individual.
Rise to Power
After failed assassination attempts and a period of exile, Saddam returned to Iraq and joined the Bath Party. He quickly gained prominence and became a trusted enforcer within the party. In 1963, the Bath Party successfully overthrew Prime Minister Kasim, leading Saddam to further consolidate his power. He played a significant role in suppressing Communists and Kurds, promoting himself as a strong leader within the party.
Infighting and Leadership
While serving as Vice Chairman of the Revolutionary Command Council, Saddam effectively held great power within Iraq. Despite Hassan Al-Bakr's position as president, it was clear to many that Saddam was the one calling the shots. His ambition, strategic alliances, and ability to charm others played a role in his ascent to power.
Charm and Violence
Saddam Hussein possessed a unique combination of charm and violence that allowed him to manipulate and control those around him. He had the ability to make people believe he genuinely cared for them, only to ruthlessly order their execution if it served his interest. This capacity for charm, coupled with his strategic brutality, contributed to his rise and prolonged reign as the leader of Iraq.
In the spring of 1937, a child dies and his brother is born. Translated from Arabic, the newborn’s name - Saddam - means ‘one who confronts’. As his life will demonstrate, it couldn’t be more appropriate. So how does a boy from a tough peasant background go on to rise to the very top of Iraq’s leadership? How does his journey towards global infamy begin?
Narrated by Paul McGann. A Noiser production, written by Duncan Barrett.
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