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WW2 Pod: We Have Ways of Making You Talk

163. Where the War was Won - Part 2

Jul 2, 2020
Historian Phillips O'Brien discusses Admiral William Leahy's views on atomic bombs in Japan with Al Murray and James Holland. They explore ethical dilemmas, Leahy's role in WWII, and debunk biases about German superiority. The conversation challenges historical narratives and sparks controversy.
33:33

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Quick takeaways

  • Admiral Leahy opposed the use of atom bombs in WWII, advocating for Japan's surrender through naval containment strategy.
  • Strategic bombing in WWII highlighted the evolution of warfare effectiveness, raising ethical concerns about atom bomb deployment.

Deep dives

The Strategic Bombing of Japanese Cities

The podcast discusses the strategic bombing of Japanese cities during World War II, particularly focusing on Tokyo. It mentions how the initial shock tactics led to Japanese adaptation, with the population's mobilization mitigating the impact on the Japanese economy. The effectiveness of bombing versus mining is highlighted, emphasizing the latter's significant impact despite being less glamorous. The discussion further delves into the role of strategic bombing and its evolving effectiveness, leading to considerations of the use of atom bombs.

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