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Empire

82. Crimea: The War on Repeat

Sep 21, 2023
In this engaging discussion, historian Orlando Figes shares insights on the Crimean War and its striking parallels with today's Ukraine conflict. He highlights key battles like Sevastopol and Odessa, emphasizing the ongoing geopolitical struggles. Figes explores the historical impact of the war, the role of Russian identity, and past imperial ambitions. With a mix of historical narrative and contemporary relevance, he sheds light on the complexities of war reporting and the socio-political dynamics shaping military strategies. A thought-provoking reflection on history's echoes in modern warfare!
58:32

Episode guests

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • The Crimean War was sparked by rival interpretations of history, with Russia claiming a religious mission to defend Orthodoxy and the West defending their geopolitical interests and supporting Ottoman reforms.
  • Crimea holds significance as a strategic port and a favored holiday destination for Russians, contributing to the formation of Russian national identity and echoing historical tensions and rivalries in the region.

Deep dives

The Battle of Alma and the Siege of Sevastopol

The Allied expedition lands in Crimea and engages in the Battle of Alma, where the Russians are overpowered. The focus then shifts to the siege of Sevastopol, with trench warfare becoming prominent. The Russians, although having fortified positions and a unified spirit, face logistical challenges due to the lack of railways and blockaded supply routes. The Allies, equipped with better weapons and supplies, continue their siege, with the Russians holding out in the heavily defended Sevastopol.

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