The Rest Is History 247. Monty & Patton vs. the Nazis
Oct 27, 2022
Al Murray, a comedian and author known for his book on Allied strategies in WWII, joins the discussion to delve into military leadership. They explore whether British generals were effective or merely eccentric, and how the Allies transformed their fortunes after initial defeats. The conversation highlights General Patton's inspiring style, Montgomery's unexpected humor, and the pivotal role of leaders like General Slim in the Burma campaign. They also draw parallels between WWII morale and the current conflict in Ukraine, revealing timeless lessons in resilience.
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Patton's Speech
- Tom Holland and Dominic Sandbrook open the podcast with a clip from the movie Patton.
- This sets the stage for their discussion on the role of military commanders in World War II.
Do Commanders Matter?
- The hosts debate the importance of individual leaders in history, citing examples like Nelson, Alexander, and Caesar.
- They discuss different styles of warfare, one prioritizing speed and tactics, the other emphasizing attrition and resilience.
Montgomery's Beetroot Memo
- Al Murray discusses Montgomery's focus on troop morale, including addressing venereal disease.
- He recounts an anecdote from Montgomery's memo about a soldier's encounter in a beetroot field, highlighting his impish humor.
