Alex von Tunzelmann joins Anita and William to discuss Lord Louis Mountbatten, the last Viceroy of India. Topics include: Mountbatten's superstar marriage, relationships with Nehru and Jinnah, role in the India partition, background and upbringing, grueling campaign in Burma during WW2, urgency and violence of power transfer in India, and the decision to partition India.

Join historian and author Alex von Tunzelmann as she dives into the high-stakes drama of U.S.-Cuba relations during the Cold War. Discover how Fidel Castro's evolving ideology drew the ire of the CIA, leading to the infamous Bay of Pigs invasion and bizarre assassination plots. Uncover the tension of the Cuban Missile Crisis as nuclear threats loomed dangerously close to home. Alex reveals how these events shaped not just Cuba's future, but also the geopolitical landscape, showcasing the play of desperate strategies and fervent ideals.

Guests Alex von Tunzelmann, a historian and author, and Rafael Behr, a Guardian columnist, join BBC veteran Gavin Esler to discuss the ten most influential figures of the 21st century. They explore the resurgence of the Great Man theory as individual leaders shape politics today. The conversation touches on Xi Jinping's distinct governance style, Trump's political comeback, and the rise of influencer culture with figures like Kim Kardashian. They also analyze the shifting American voter demographics and their effects on democracy.

Join historian Alex Von Tunzelmann, famed for her BBC work, and Guardian columnist Rafael Behr as they delve into the most influential figures of the 21st century. They dissect the profound effects of 9/11 on nationalism and public perception, and explore the urgent activism of Greta Thunberg alongside David Attenborough's seasoned efforts in environmental advocacy. The duo also navigates the complex legacy of Narendra Modi and the rise of global nationalism, blending political analysis with cultural commentary for a thought-provoking discussion.

Yasmin Abdul-Majid, a Sudanese-Australian writer and broadcaster, shares her insights on the tumultuous situation in Sudan. Alex von Tunzelman, a historian and author, provides a deep dive into Israel's expansion in the Golan Heights, questioning its motivations and implications. They also discuss Turkey's role as a mediator in the Sudan conflict and the shifting dynamics between Australia and Indonesia concerning drug policies. A light-hearted mention of a vicar revealing the truth about Santa Claus adds a humorous touch to the serious discourse.