Thant Myint-U

Thant Myint-U, a historian and author, sheds light on his grandfather U Thant's crucial diplomatic role as the first Asian UN Secretary General during the turbulent 1960s. He discusses U Thant's impact in averting global crises like the Cuban Missile Crisis through skilled diplomacy. The conversation reveals the mystery behind his predecessor’s death and the Congo crisis, as well as the rise of non-aligned nations at the Bandung Conference, highlighting how these events shaped the UN's future in a post-colonial world.

Thant Myint-U, a historian and the grandson of former UN Secretary General U Thant, dives deep into a pivotal 'what if' scenario regarding the Vietnam War. He discusses how close U Thant came to facilitating peace talks between LBJ and the Vietcong in 1964. The conversation explores the implications of a possible early end to the war, the personal dynamics of Cold War diplomacy, and the larger geopolitical landscape that might have shifted dramatically. A fascinating look at missed opportunities and their cascading effects on history!

Thant Myint-U, an award-winning writer and historian, discusses Myanmar's intricate history and the vicissitudes of its democracy. He highlights the painful transition from military rule to intercommunal violence, leading to the Rohingya refugee crisis. The conversation dives into the historical significance of the country's name change, pivotal protests in 1988, and the ongoing humanitarian challenges. Thant stresses the role of foreign investment and social media, illustrating how these factors intertwine with the struggles for identity and freedom in Myanmar.