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John Charmley

Professor of Modern History at the University of East Anglia, author of 'Splendid Isolation, Britain and the Balance of Power, 1874-1914'. Argued that it was not in Britain's interest to fight in World War I.

Top 5 podcasts with John Charmley

Ranked by the Snipd community
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14 snips
Apr 27, 2025 • 1h 38min

Britain Should Not Have Fought in the First World War

In a thought-provoking discussion, historians Dominic Sandbrook, Max Hastings, John Charmley, and Margaret MacMillan debate Britain's involvement in the First World War. Sandbrook and Charmley argue that staying neutral could have spared immense suffering, while Hastings counters, highlighting the moral imperative to resist German dominance. MacMillan emphasizes the ethical obligations that motivated Britain to fight. The conversation challenges traditional narratives about national identity and the moral justifications for war, inviting listeners to reevaluate historical perceptions.
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Jul 31, 2022 • 1h 36min

The Sunday Debate: Britain Should Not Have Fought in the First World War

Dominic Sandbrook, a historian and BBC broadcaster, joins renowned author Max Hastings, Professor John Charmley, and Margaret MacMillan, an expert in international history, for a riveting debate on Britain's involvement in the First World War. They delve into the moral and geopolitical motivations behind the war, questioning long-held narratives. The discussion tackles Britain's obligations towards Belgium, critiques the human cost of conflict, and examines the enduring impact on national identity. Audiences engage with shifting perspectives that challenge the justification for war.
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Jul 8, 2025 • 1h 7min

Classic Debate: Neville Chamberlain Did The Right Thing

Join historians John Charmley, Richard Evans, Glyn Stone, and Piers Brendan as they unpack the contentious legacy of Neville Chamberlain. They argue if his appeasement policy was a tragic misstep or a reasonable diplomatic strategy amidst the horrors of World War I memories. The debate dives into the Munich Agreement's implications, questioning whether alternatives might have changed history. With insights into public sentiment and military readiness, they present a compelling case to reconsider Chamberlain's decisions, challenging long-held historical narratives.
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Apr 2, 2023 • 1h 36min

Britain Should Not Have Fought in the First World War

In a riveting discussion, historians Dominic Sandbrook, Max Hastings, John Charmley, and Margaret MacMillan debate Britain's involvement in the First World War. Sandbrook critiques the emotional basis of war decisions while Hastings questions the portrayal of Germany as the sole aggressor. Charmley highlights the complex motivations behind intervention, and MacMillan warns against glorifying warfare. They explore the nuanced impacts of British actions, ponder alternative outcomes, and urge careful examination of historical narratives that shape modern foreign policy.
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Jan 23, 2022 • 1h 3min

The Sunday Debate: Neville Chamberlain Did The Right Thing

Join esteemed historians John Charmley, Sir Richard Evans, Glyn Stone, and Piers Brendan as they explore the contentious legacy of Neville Chamberlain's appeasement strategy before World War II. They delve into the intricate political dynamics of the era, questioning whether Chamberlain's decisions were a necessary gamble for peace or a missed opportunity for intervention. The discussion also highlights the complexities of forming alliances and the moral implications of national self-interest during a time of looming conflict, offering a fresh perspective on this pivotal moment in history.

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