Empire

42. The Fiery End of the Ottoman Empire

Apr 6, 2023

Giles Milton, a historian specializing in the Ottoman Empire, dives into the chaotic final days of Smyrna during the 1922 catastrophe. He reveals the panic of fleeing communities and the indifference of elites as the Greek retreat unfolds. The discussion sheds light on the grim realities of violence, including ethnic cleansing and sexual violence as warfare tactics. Milton also highlights the tragic global inaction during the humanitarian crisis, showcasing the heroic efforts of Asa Jennings to save victims amidst the devastation.

50:49

Episode guests

Giles Milton

Highlights

AI Chapters

Episode notes

Eyewitness Accounts of Atrocities in Smirna During the Armenian Genocide

01:12

Discipline Lacking in Ataturk's Force during Cleansing of a City

01:26

Intro

2min

Unraveling Cold War Mysteries: The Diver's Disappearance

2min

The Fall of Smyrna: Chaos and Despair

18min

The Horrors of War: Sexual Violence and Ethnic Cleansing

3min

Desperation at the Quayside: The Silent Witness of Allied Warships

5min

The Tragedy of Smyrna and the Silent Witnesses

5min

Chaos and Resilience: The Smyrna Crisis

15min

The Greeks are retreating to Smyrna in the face of Ataturk’s victory. The city, once one of the jewels of the Ottoman kingdom, is set to face devastation hitherto unknown. William and Anita are once again joined by Giles Milton as they discuss the catastrophe that occurred in Smyrna in 1922 and the central role this played in the collapse of the Ottoman Empire.

To hear Giles' podcast - Cover Up: Ministry of Secrets - on the great unsolved Cold War mystery of Lionel 'Buster' Crabb, follow this link: https://listen.sonymusic-podcasts.link/p-nDsNzN

LRB Empire offer: lrb.me/empir e

This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/empirepod.

Twitter: @Empirepoduk

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Producer: Callum Hill

Exec Producer: Jack Davenport

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