
Sinclair McKay
Author of 'Saint Petersburg: Sacrifice and Redemption in the City That Defied Hitler'. He is a historian specializing in the history of Saint Petersburg and the Second World War.
Top 3 podcasts with Sinclair McKay
Ranked by the Snipd community

9 snips
Feb 14, 2025 • 52min
The Bombing of Dresden
Sinclair McKay, a best-selling author known for his works on historical subjects, examines the controversial bombing of Dresden in February 1945. He delves into the military strategies behind the attack and the devastating firestorm that reduced the city to ruins. Through survivor accounts, he highlights the emotional trauma and moral dilemmas faced by civilians and military leaders alike. The discussion raises pivotal questions about the justification of such destruction and the lasting impact on both the city's culture and its people.

7 snips
Feb 5, 2025 • 45min
249. The Bombing of Dresden, strategically justified or an Allied war crime?
Sinclair McKay, a historian and author of "The Fire and the Darkness: The Bombing of Dresden, 1945," joins the discussion on the controversial bombing of Dresden during WWII. He delves into the moral complexities surrounding the event, contrasting the city’s pre-war beauty with its embrace of Nazism. McKay highlights the devastation and civilian casualties, exploring the psychological impact on residents. The conversation also addresses the subsequent moral questions and the city’s journey of remembrance and reconciliation following the tragedy.

6 snips
Apr 6, 2025 • 50min
Saint Petersburg: Putin's Hometown
Sinclair McKay, a historian and author of 'Saint Petersburg: Sacrifice and Redemption in the City That Defied Hitler', shares the fascinating history of Saint Petersburg, from its founding by Peter the Great to its role in modern Russia. He discusses the city's dramatic transformation into a cultural capital and its pivotal role during the Russian Revolution. The brutal Siege of Leningrad is examined, highlighting the resilience of its citizens amid starvation and despair, ultimately leading to the emergence of influential figures, including Vladimir Putin.