

#510: The Greatest Battle of the Korean War
May 22, 2019
Hampton Sides, an expert in military history and author of "On Desperate Ground," dives deep into the Korean War's overlooked significance. He discusses the ambitious yet flawed strategies of General Douglas MacArthur that trapped U.S. troops in extreme conditions. Highlighting the incredible bravery of 20,000 Marines during the Battle of the Chosin Reservoir, Sides paints a vivid picture of their desperate fight against 300,000 Chinese soldiers amidst frigid temperatures. The conversation also reflects on the lasting impact of these events on modern geopolitics.
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Forgotten War
- The Korean War is often overlooked because it's perceived as an extension of WWII or not a real war.
- The stalemate ending and the ongoing armistice also contribute to its obscurity.
US Involvement
- After WWII, Korea was divided along the 38th parallel, with the intention of reunification through elections.
- The US intervened when North Korea invaded South Korea in 1950.
MacArthur's Influence
- General MacArthur's significant power and influence went largely unchecked.
- His ambition and outdated command style contributed to the Korean War's escalation.