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History Extra podcast
Books and war: from James Bond to leaflet bombing
Dec 8, 2023
Andrew Pettegree discusses the surprising ways in which the written word has shaped, and been shaped by, conflicts in the last few centuries. Topics include the role of books in war, leaflets in psychological warfare, the influence of literature on leaders during WWII, and the durability of books and history of libraries.
42:25
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Quick takeaways
- Books have been used as tools of propaganda during times of war, shaping ideologies and influencing people's perceptions.
- Books provided solace and comfort during wartime, with non-habitual readers turning to classics for solace.
Deep dives
Books as Resources in Wartime
Books have been essential resources in times of conflict and warfare throughout history. From ancient writings on the art of war to the mass literacy period in the 19th century onwards, nations recognized the importance of carrying their population with them through books on warfare and warlike values. Libraries, occupying prestigious locations, became targets during war, especially with the advent of bombing. However, books were deemed vital for morale and provided solace and relaxation for the general population amidst the horrors of war.
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