The Secrets of Statecraft
Hoover Institution
Secrets of Statecraft is a bimonthly podcast hosted by Distinguished Visiting Fellow Andrew Roberts that explores the effect that the study of history has had on the careers and decision making of public figures. The podcast also features leading historians discussing the influence that the study of history had on their biographical subjects. The title is taken from Winston Churchill’s reply on Coronation Day 1953 to a young American who had asked him for life advice, to whom he said, “Study history, study history, for therein lie all the secrets of statecraft.”
Episodes
Mentioned books
8 snips
May 21, 2024 • 1h 7min
The State of Israel with Dan Senor | Secrets of Statecraft | Andrew Roberts | Hoover Institution
Dan Senor, host of the “Call Me Back” podcast, discusses the war in Gaza, Biden's potential arms embargo on Israel, the challenges of the two-state solution, and the interplay of anti-Israel sentiments in political movements. The podcast also explores historical perspectives on Jewish contributions in German society and reflects on Yitzhak Rabin's assassination and its impact on the peace process.
May 10, 2024 • 41min
The Mission of Tzipi Hotovely | Secrets of Statecraft | Andrew Roberts | Hoover Institution
Israeli Ambassador to London, Tzipi Hotovely, discusses the challenges of negotiating with Hamas, compares their atrocities to Nazis, emphasizes the importance of truth in reporting, criticizes UNRWA's role in perpetuating conflict, and highlights diplomatic efforts in the Middle East. The discussion also touches on the ICC's pursuit of Bibi Netanyahu and the Labour Party's stance on Israel.
Apr 12, 2024 • 42min
Toby Young Speaks Freely | Secrets of Statecraft | Andrew Roberts | Hoover Institution
Toby Young, director of the splendid Free Speech Union, discusses his campaign to defend freedom of expression.
Mar 27, 2024 • 43min
Conrad Black’s Extraordinary Magnum Opus | Secrets of Statecraft | Andrew Roberts | Hoover Institution
Conrad Black, author of a thousand-page history of the Ancient World, discusses the importance of studying ancient civilizations and historical figures in politics. He explores concepts like the great man theory of history, statesmanship, and the impact of philosophy on political leaders. The podcast also delves into 'what if' scenarios in history, including the consequences of an extended life for Alexander the Great.
6 snips
Mar 15, 2024 • 46min
The China threat: from TikTok to Taiwan | Secrets of Statecraft | Andrew Roberts | Hoover Institution
US Congressman Mike Gallagher discusses the threat of China from TikTok to Taiwan, highlighting the potential conflict scenarios, importance of maintaining American hard power, risks of TikTok propaganda, foreign ownership of media outlets, threats in the Middle East and Ukraine crisis, congressional reform, and post-political plans.
Feb 23, 2024 • 33min
The Sagacity of Elliott Abrams | Secrets of Statecraft | Andrew Roberts | Hoover Institution
Elliott Abrams has had the ear of Republican presidents from Reagan to Trump. Here is what he told them...
4 snips
Feb 3, 2024 • 1h 2min
Matt Pottinger Sounds the Alarm in Asia | Secrets of Statecraft | Andrew Roberts | Hoover Institution
Former Deputy National Security Adviser and China expert Matt Pottinger discusses China's shift towards authoritarianism, the lab leak theory of COVID-19, Taiwan's defense strategies, US deterrence, UK's challenges with China, and the implications of the Tiananmen Massacre counterfactuals.
Jan 24, 2024 • 1h 13min
The View From Inside Israel with Tom Gross | Secrets of Statecraft | Andrew Roberts | Hoover Institution
Tom Gross, a British journalist and Middle East commentator, shares his experiences in building connections with influential people. He discusses Israeli intelligence failures, bias against Israel in the media, ethical concerns surrounding GoPro footage, alleged anti-Israel bias of NGOs, impact of Israeli settlers on the conflict, consequences of backing the Shah, and Obama's approach towards Iran.
Nov 10, 2023 • 50min
Once More Unto the Breach, with Eliot Cohen | Secrets of Statecraft | Andrew Roberts | Hoover Institution
Former State Department Counsellor Eliot Cohen discusses the parallels between Shakespearean characters and real-life leaders. The podcast explores the influence of Shakespeare on politics, the role of counselors, and the comparison between Donald Trump and a Shakespearean character.
Aug 30, 2023 • 1h 5min
The varied career (but unvarying principles) of Robert O’Brien | Secrets of Statecraft | Andrew Roberts | Hoover Institution
Robert O'Brien, a former national security advisor to President Trump, discusses his diverse career and the importance of history. He shares his personal religious journey and reflections on world leaders and diplomacy. He emphasizes China as the biggest threat to the United States and explores strategies for ending the war between Russia and Ukraine.
