Giles Milton

Join historian and author Giles Milton, known for his book on the Cold War, as he delves into life in post-WWII Berlin. Discover the chaotic aftermath of the Soviet advance and the hardships faced by civilians amidst rampant looting. Giles uncovers the moral complexities of survival in a devastated city and contrasts the lifestyles of Berlin residents with those of Allied soldiers. He also reveals the eccentric leaders navigating this turbulent time, and discusses the challenging process of denazification and the tensions of the Potsdam Conference.

Giles Milton, an author specializing in narrative history, joins the discussion. He sheds light on the Berlin Blockade and the Western Allies' airlift efforts, emphasizing the logistical hurdles they faced. The dire conditions in Berlin, including food shortages and the desperate measures residents took, paint a vivid picture of survival. Milton also highlights Ernst Reuter's pivotal role as a symbol of resistance. Lastly, the conversation touches on NATO's evolution, addressing its current relevance amid geopolitical tensions.

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.

Giles Milton, bestselling author of 'Paradise Lost: Smyrna 1922', joins to explore the tumultuous history of Smyrna and the rise of Mustafa Kemal, later known as Ataturk. The discussion covers the vibrant cultural tapestry of Smyrna before the Greek invasion, revealing the tensions that ignited violence at the end of World War I. Milton sheds light on Ataturk's strategic navigation through complex political landscapes, leading to his emergence as a national leader in a time of chaos and transformation.

Historian Giles Milton, known for his expertise on the Potsdam Conference and author of 'The Stalin Affair', joins James Holland and Al Murray for an insightful discussion. They dissect how President Truman positioned America as a global leader post-WWII and explore Stalin's manipulative tactics that ultimately catalyzed the Cold War. The transition of power from Churchill to Attlee at the conference and the fraught diplomatic landscapes amongst the superpowers emerge as pivotal themes, revealing the delicate alliances that shaped modern history.

Bestselling author and historian, Giles Milton, discusses the ground campaign on D-Day, exploring the experiences of British commandos and German tank commanders. The podcast delves into the aftermath of D-Day, challenges faced by Allied troops, camaraderie among soldiers, emotional experiences of soldiers during the invasion, and the human cost of D-Day.

Listen to bestselling historian Giles Milton discuss the unlikely alliance between Stalin, Churchill, and Roosevelt during WWII. Explore the pivotal role of diplomats in negotiating with Stalin and keeping the Allied victory in sight. Learn about the complex relationships and key meetings that shaped the outcome of the war.

Author Giles Milton discusses the complex wartime alliance between Stalin, Churchill, and Roosevelt, marked by spats, backstabbing, and critical to victory over the Nazis. The podcast explores the evolving relationship between Churchill and Stalin, the challenges in forming the alliance, Avril Harriman's role, a different side of Stalin in the Kremlin, and the disagreements on post-war foreign policy.

In this discussion, writer and historian Giles Milton, author of "Checkmate in Berlin," provides fascinating insights into the Yalta Conference of 1945. He details the political maneuvers of Roosevelt, Churchill, and Stalin, emphasizing how Stalin exploited his military advantages. Topics include the dramatic negotiations over Poland's fate, the complex division of Germany, and the lavish banquets that accompanied these high-stakes discussions. Milton also draws parallels between Yalta's geopolitical tensions and today's political landscape, especially regarding Ukraine.

Internationally bestselling historian Giles Milton discusses the complex character of Joseph Stalin in 'Battleground 44'. Topics include Stalin's leadership style, his paranoia, humorous wartime exchanges, and the evolving relationships between world leaders during WWII.