

252. Iwo Jima: Eight Square Miles of Hell
Feb 12, 2025
American historian Jonathan Parshall joins the conversation to shed light on Iwo Jima's critical role in World War II. He unpacks the brutal realities faced by U.S. Marines, the cunning Japanese defense strategies, and the intense combat conditions. The iconic flag-raising moment on Mount Suribachi is explored, revealing its deeper historical complexities. Parshall also reflects on the haunting legacy of the battle, showcasing contrasting perceptions of victory and loss, and the psychological toll on soldiers, both American and Japanese.
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
1 2 3 4 5 6 7
Intro
00:00 • 3min
The Battle for Iwo Jima: Strategy and Struggle
02:41 • 11min
Pre-Bombardment Decisions and Combat Realities at Iwo Jima
14:03 • 8min
Mount Suribachi: The Iconic Flag Raising and Its Controversies
21:51 • 6min
The Haunting Legacy of Iwo Jima
27:33 • 26min
Navigating the Journey to Peleliu: Tours and Logistics
53:49 • 2min
Reflecting on the Grim Heroism of Iwo Jima
55:41 • 2min