Revisionist History
Hitler’s Olympics, Part 2: Pangloss, Polonius, Prufrock
Jul 4, 2024
Ben Nadav Haffrey, a key collaborator with Malcolm Gladwell on the series about the 1936 Olympics, brings sharp insights into the moral quandaries of that era. They dive into the complex legacy of Charles Hitchcock Sherrill, exploring his influence and the societal dynamics at play. The discussion also unfolds the clash between Olympic ideals and the exclusionary policies of Nazi Germany, scrutinizing the multifaceted moral dilemmas faced by American diplomats regarding Jewish athletes. Haffrey's commentary unveils the Olympics as a potent propaganda tool under Hitler's regime.
32:12
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Quick takeaways
- Charles Sherrill influenced American athletes' participation in the 1936 Olympics.
- Sherrill advocated for inclusion of Jewish athletes at the Berlin Games, challenging discriminatory practices.
Deep dives
Charles Hitchcock Sherrill's Influence and Legacy
Charles Hitchcock Sherrill, a prominent figure in the early 1930s, played a pivotal role in the debate over attending the Berlin Games and was a central character shaping the Olympic Games' history. Despite being largely forgotten today, Sherrill had significant influence, mingling with American presidents, crossing the Atlantic numerous times, and leaving a lasting impact on discussions surrounding the Olympics.
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