The History of the Twentieth Century

Discover the chaotic summer of 1943, where Mussolini's ousting ignited a public frenzy in Italy. Delve into the strange tale of Ezra Pound, a poet turned pro-fascist, alongside Mick Jagger's unexpected birth. Hear the harrowing survival account of Lieutenant Kennedy and his crew after the sinking of PT-109, while pivotal WWII events unfold, like the Red Army reclaiming Belgorod. Wrap up with the legacy of PT-109, exploring its influence on culture and politics, including John F. Kennedy's connection and the island's name change.

Dive into the fascinating history of Paramount Pictures, from its innovative beginnings under Adolf Zucor to its significant impact during Hollywood's Golden Age. Discover the legacy of director Ernst Lubitsch and the unique storytelling styles of Preston Sturges. Explore the struggles faced by filmmakers against the backdrop of classical music, and examine the film industry's cycle of remakes, showcasing how iconic stories have evolved through the decades. It's a captivating journey through cinema's past!

The Red Army continued its relentless advance after Kursk, intensifying the clash in the Donbass region. German forces, despite heavy losses, managed strategic victories that altered the Eastern Front. Tensions among the Allies grew at the Tehran Conference, as Stalin navigated wartime diplomacy. Discussions on pivotal issues like Poland and the future role of Turkey shaped post-war landscapes. Meanwhile, Stalin's reflections revealed his optimism, juxtaposed with emerging cultural ties to Hollywood.

The podcast delves into the resilience of Leningrad's citizens during the brutal winter of 1941-42. Dmitri Shostakovich's rise as a composer unfolds, showcasing his struggles with ideology and censorship under Stalin's regime. Amidst the siege, his Seventh Symphony emerges as a powerful patriotic anthem, capturing the spirit of hope and defiance. The emotional impact of this symphony resonates not just in the USSR but across the globe, sparking controversial debates among conductors and critics.

The podcast delves into the harrowing Siege of Leningrad, chronicling the experiences of a 15-year-old boy named Yuri. It captures the initial excitement of war that quickly fades into despair as food shortages take hold. Through Yuri's eyes, listeners witness the harsh realities of survival, including the emotional struggles faced by families. The exploration of Yuri's diary by his sister Irina adds a poignant layer, revealing the enduring impacts of war and the guilt that lingers long after the siege ends.

Explore the evolution of Twentieth Century-Fox and the influential role of Daryl F. Zanuck in Hollywood's golden age. Discover how iconic figures like John Ford shaped the transition from silent films to talkies, with stars like Shirley Temple rising to fame. Listen as Hitchcock's cinematic journey unfolds, from his hesitance to embrace Hollywood to his eventual triumphs. Furthermore, delve into Shirley Temple's legacy beyond the screen, including her impactful role as a political ambassador and her cultural significance.

Explore the diverse forms of resistance against the Nazis during World War II, with a focus on Luxembourg and Denmark. Discover how Luxembourg showcased cultural resilience while Denmark balanced collaboration with brave defiance to protect its Jewish community. Delve into the early life of Anne Frank, her reflections in hiding, and the profound impact of her diary that became a symbol of hope amidst tragedy. The podcast also honors the courage of the Danish resistance, recognizing their pivotal role in helping Jewish escapees.

Explore the fascinating dynamics of collaboration and resistance in Axis-occupied Europe during World War II. Discover the controversial transformation of the Waffen-SS and its notorious recruitment tactics. Dive into the courageous acts of defiance in Belgium and Norway, where resistance efforts thrived despite the challenges. Uncover Greece's struggle under occupation, showcasing the emergence of guerrilla warfare and the complexities within resistance movements. Each story reveals a unique facet of resilience and the fight against tyranny.

Explore the rise of resistance movements across Europe and Asia during World War II, focusing on the unification of French factions under Charles de Gaulle. Discover the brutal treatment of Slavic peoples and the irony of their involvement with the German military. Delve into the dynamics of collaboration and courage, as Soviet partisans disrupt Nazi operations in Eastern Europe. Lastly, uncover the dark legacy of Klaus Barbie, from his post-war escape to eventual justice for his war crimes.

The German U-boat campaign in the North Atlantic faced dramatic shifts by mid-1943. Technological advancements and leadership changes shaped naval strategies amid escalating electronic warfare. The role of escort carriers became crucial in countering U-boats, leading to significant tactical discussions at the Atlantic Convoy Conference. Leadership dynamics, particularly Dönitz's connection with his submarine crews, revealed a mix of respect and sacrifice. The heroic acts of four chaplains aboard the Dorchester highlight the profound human cost of war.