How to Invent a Country

Misha Glenny asks how the losers of two world wars, which drastically reshaped Hungary's borders, tried to fight off Soviet tanks on Budapest's streets. Produced by Miles Warde

Misha Glenny and Miles Warde head to a rally in Budapest where Viktor Orban compares the EU to the Habsburgs, forgetting it was tsarist Russia that crushed the revolution of 1848

McMafia author Misha Glenny and Miles Warde travel from Vienna to Budapest to find out how Hungarian hardman Viktor Orban uses history beginning with the battle of Mohacs of 1526

Tensions escalate as China claims Taiwan should reunite with the mainland. Insights from experts reveal the evolution of Taiwanese identity amid these pressures. Culinary influences from Sichuan and Japan are intertwined with Taiwan's rich history. Emotional narratives highlight the collective grief over lost diplomatic recognition. Parallels with Ukraine illustrate how external challenges forge stronger national identities. The podcast dives deep into Taiwan's unique socio-political tapestry and resilience in the face of authoritative threats.

Dive into China's past with tales of the Long March and the tumult of the Cultural Revolution. Explore Mao's complex legacy, from early accomplishments to tragic famines. Learn about the fierce political battles during World War II and the impact of foreign invasions. Discover the haunting realities of the Nanjing Massacre and modern-day Sino-Japanese relations. Reflect on the challenges of historical revisionism and the resilient spirit of the Chinese people amidst repression and ongoing political strife.

Dr. Sun Yat-sen, a pivotal figure in China’s transition from imperial rule to a republic, shares riveting insights into the tumultuous early 20th century. He discusses the fragmentation of China in 1923, marked by warlord struggles and foreign influence. The conversation highlights the stark social divides between foreign traders and ordinary citizens, and reflects on the challenges he faced amidst chaos and intervention. Sun's revolutionary aspirations and his complex legacy reveal the profound impact he had on shaping modern China.

Find out how the world's greatest civilisation found itself dragged into two opium wars

Misha Glenny and Miles Warde head east to find out what is China and where it came from?

Hannah Lucinda Smith, an expert on Turkish politics, Christopher de Bellaigue, a historian of the Ottoman Empire, and journalist Misha Glenny delve into Turkey’s rich yet complicated history. They explore how the Ottoman legacy shapes modern Turkish identity and perceptions. The conversation shifts to Istanbul’s cultural diversity, the challenges of minority communities, and a witty misadventure in the city. They also discuss Suleiman the Magnificent’s historical impact, including the pivotal Battle of Mohács, and its influence on contemporary nationalist sentiments.

Ep 3 - How the republic of Turkey emerged from the ruins of World War One