The Rest Is History 399. The Savage Storm: World War II and The Battle for Italy
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Dec 14, 2023 
Historian James Holland, author of "The Savage Storm" and host of "We Have Ways of Making You Talk," dives into the brutal Battle for Italy during World War II. He discusses the miscalculations that led Allies into a fierce struggle, challenged by severe weather and supply shortages. Holland sheds light on the strategic setbacks faced by German command and reveals the often overlooked stories of resilience among women during this tumultuous time. The conversation provides a gripping exploration of the human cost in the chaos of war.
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Italian Campaign Overview
- The invasion of Italy in 1943, intended to be a quick operation, became a brutal slog.
- The Allies lacked sufficient troops and resources, prioritizing Operation Overlord.
Churchill's Support for Invasion
- Churchill, despite his disastrous Gallipoli campaign in WWI, enthusiastically supported the Italian invasion.
- He advocated for a bolder strategy, targeting the "knee" of Italy rather than a slow advance from the "toe".
German Strategy in Italy
- Upon Mussolini's overthrow, Germans outwardly supported their Italian allies while secretly plotting a takeover.
- This German preoccupation with controlling Italian forces heavily influenced their strategy.
