S8 Ep776: The Persistence of Iranian Proxies: Iran has not "turned off" proxies like Hezbollah and Hamas, despite ongoing ceasefire talks. Bill Roggio argues that assassinating leaders is ineffective, as Hezbollah maintains significant power and a plurality in the
The Persistence of Iranian Proxies: Iran has not "turned off" proxies like Hezbollah and Hamas, despite ongoing ceasefire talks. Bill Roggio argues that assassinating leaders is ineffective, as Hezbollah maintains significant power and a plurality in the Lebanese parliament. These groups continue to operate independently to provoke Israel and the surrounding neighborhood. Bill Roggio (2) 303-1453
3m Apr 21
3m
S8 Ep776: The Fog of Peace and the Strait of Hormuz: The US and Iran are currently in a "fog of peace," where a ceasefire is complicated by a US blockade of the Strait of Hormuz. Tensions escalated after the US seized an Iranian cargo ship attempting to run the blo
The Fog of Peace and the Strait of Hormuz: The US and Iran are currently in a "fog of peace," where a ceasefire is complicated by a US blockade of the Strait of Hormuz. Tensions escalated after the US seized an Iranian cargo ship attempting to run the blockade. Negotiations in Islamabad face a massive diplomatic chasm regarding nuclear and missile programs. Bill Roggio (1) 1519
14m Apr 21
14m
S8 Ep775: Preview for Later Today: Edmund Fitton-Brown compares the Strait of Hormuz and Bab el-Mandeb maritime choke points. He notes the Red Sea's accessibility via the Suez Canal and the varying capabilities of regional threats like the Houthis. (2)
Preview for Later Today: Edmund Fitton-Brown compares the Strait of Hormuz and Bab el-Mandeb maritime choke points. He notes the Red Sea's accessibility via the Suez Canal and the varying capabilities of regional threats like the Houthis. (2) 1869 SUEZ CANAL
2m Apr 20
2m
S8 Ep775: Preview for tomorrow: John Hardie discusses Ukraine's growing concerns that US attention and resources are shifting toward Middle East conflicts. Key worries include diminishing momentum for peace talks and the availability of critical air defense missile
Preview for tomorrow: John Hardie discusses Ukraine's growing concerns that US attention and resources are shifting toward Middle East conflicts. Key worries include diminishing momentum for peace talks and the availability of critical air defense missiles. (3) 1890 Ukraine
2m Apr 20
2m
S8 Ep774: Morris Tan expresses concern over the South Korean president, citing corruption and the consolidation of power. Tan warns that the leader is steering the nation toward a communist dictatorship and endangering the vital US alliance. (4)
Morris Tan expresses concern over the South Korean president, citing corruption and the consolidation of power. Tanwarns that the leader is steering the nation toward a communist dictatorship and endangering the vital US alliance. (4) 1950 KOREA WAR
1m Apr 20
1m
S8 Ep773: Henry Sokolski warns that the Bushehr nuclear reactor's spent rods could produce plutonium for weapons. He criticizes past negotiation failures and urges the current administration to establish stricter surveillance standards during all ongoing nuclear ta
Henry Sokolski warns that the Bushehr nuclear reactor's spent rods could produce plutonium for weapons. He criticizes past negotiation failures and urges the current administration to establish stricter surveillance standards during all ongoing nuclear talks. (3) 1721 PERSIA
2m Apr 20
2m
S8 Ep773: Charles Ortell analyzes Malaysia's positive international relations, highlighting historical ties with Australia and strong US investment. He describes the nation as a capitalism-friendly environment with amicable relations among its diverse Indian, Chine
Charles Ortell analyzes Malaysia's positive international relations, highlighting historical ties with Australia and strong US investment. He describes the nation as a capitalism-friendly environment with amicable relations among its diverse Indian, Chinese, and Malay populations. (2) MALAYSIA
2m Apr 20
2m
S8 Ep773: David Daoud discusses reports that the US administration pressured Israel to halt its offensive against Hezbollah to facilitate negotiations with Iran, preventing the Israeli military from establishing a new, favorable status quo in Lebanon. (1)
David Daoud discusses reports that the US administration pressured Israel to halt its offensive against Hezbollah to facilitate negotiations with Iran, preventing the Israeli military from establishing a new, favorable status quo in Lebanon. (1) 1969 LEBANON
2m Apr 20
2m
S8 Ep772: As the wine flows, we consider a "fairy tale" from the 21st century regarding a new tax on wealthy second homes in New York City. While the proposal to tax penthouses sounds witty to the masses, Germanicus warns it is mere "Kabuki smoke and mirrors"
As the wine flows, we consider a "fairy tale" from the 21st century regarding a new tax on wealthy second homes in New York City. While the proposal to tax penthouses sounds witty to the masses, Germanicus warns it is mere "Kabuki smoke and mirrors" that will drive the wealthy to flee, drawing parallels to programs that destroyed communities and hampered natural mobility. He argues that only th...
13m Apr 20
13m
S8 Ep772: Continuing our discourse, Germanicus notes a profound shift: the citizen-militia that once defended the republic has been replaced by a professional force, decoupling the public from the costs of war. Modern "ceremonial war" relies on missiles or foreign
Continuing our discourse, Germanicus notes a profound shift: the citizen-militia that once defended the republic has been replaced by a professional force, decoupling the public from the costs of war. Modern "ceremonial war" relies on missiles or foreign proxies like Ukraine to do the dying, yet fails to reach strategic conclusions. The coming midterm elections represent a "body blow" that coul...
19m Apr 20
19m
S8 Ep772: Gaius & Germanicus debate in the Londinium wine bar, 92 AD. In our gathering, Gaius and Germanicus address the unfolding chaos of the 21st-century empire for you, veteran centurions. The Emperor is increasingly viewed as unfit by the global commentariat,
Gaius & Germanicus debate in the Londinium wine bar, 92 AD. In our gathering, Gaius and Germanicus address the unfolding chaos of the 21st-century empire for you, veteran centurions. The Emperor is increasingly viewed as unfit by the global commentariat, delivering contradictory messages that leave allies and adversaries confused. Germanicusargues the Emperor allowed himself to be led into a fa...
24m Apr 20
24m
S8 Ep771: Tamny critiques the federal government's "command economy" response, specifically the trillions of dollars in stimulus and the Payroll Protection Program. He argues that consumption does not drive growth — investment does — and that by "hoovering up"
Tamny critiques the federal government's "command economy" response, specifically the trillions of dollars in stimulus and the Payroll Protection Program. He argues that consumption does not drive growth — investment does — and that by "hoovering up" capital from those most capable of investing and redistributing it to consumers, the government delayed natural economic recovery. The PPP propped...
11m Apr 20
11m
S8 Ep771: Tamny explores the misplaced reliance on expert opinion, arguing that the crisis began when epidemiologists became the "leaders of the economy." Comparing this to the 1980s AIDS scare, he notes that early expert predictions are often "first drafts" that c
Tamny explores the misplaced reliance on expert opinion, arguing that the crisis began when epidemiologists became the "leaders of the economy." Comparing this to the 1980s AIDS scare, he notes that early expert predictions are often "first drafts" that can be incorrect. He contrasts 2020 with the 1968 "Hong Kong Flu," which resulted in 100,000 Americandeaths — the equivalent of 250,000 today —...
10m Apr 20
10m
S8 Ep771: Tamny argues that markets had already "priced in" the virus long before the lockdowns, pointing to major U.S. companies with significant exposure to China — such as Apple, Nike, and Starbucks — whose shares were hitting all-time highs while the virus spre
Tamny argues that markets had already "priced in" the virus long before the lockdowns, pointing to major U.S.companies with significant exposure to China — such as Apple, Nike, and Starbucks — whose shares were hitting all-time highs while the virus spread rampantly. To Tamny, this was a clear market signal that the virus, while serious, was not a "mass indiscriminate killer." The panic, he arg...
8m Apr 20
8m
S8 Ep771: John Tamny, editor of RealClearMarkets, argues that the global response to the COVID-19 pandemic represented a tragic lapse of reason where politicians panicked and replaced the collective wisdom of the marketplace with centralized planning. Tamny identif
John Tamny, editor of RealClearMarkets, argues that the global response to the COVID-19 pandemic represented a tragic lapse of reason where politicians panicked and replaced the collective wisdom of the marketplace with centralized planning. Tamny identifies March 20, 2020 — the day Governor Andrew Cuomo ordered a mandated "shelter in place" for New York — as a pivotal moment signaling a severe...
11m Apr 20
11m
S8 Ep770: Eric J. Dolan concludes as Barnard and his men were finally rescued after a grueling year and a half by two British whaling ships. Barnard returned to New York bankrupt, but a legal battle over the Nanina eventually resulted in American compensa
Eric J. Dolan concludes as Barnard and his men were finally rescued after a grueling year and a half by two Britishwhaling ships. Barnard returned to New York bankrupt, but a legal battle over the Nanina eventually resulted in American compensation while D'Aranda was left with nothing. Encouraged by friends, Barnard published his harrowing account in 1829. Dolan emphasizes the significance of f...
7m Apr 20
7m
S8 Ep770: Eric J. Dolan recounts how Charles Barnard offered the Isabella castaways a humanitarian deal — rescue in exchange for salvage rights — despite learning the War of 1812 had begun. However, the arrival of HMS Nancy, commanded by Lieutenant D'Aranda, transf
Eric J. Dolan recounts how Charles Barnard offered the Isabella castaways a humanitarian deal — rescue in exchange for salvage rights — despite learning the War of 1812 had begun. However, the arrival of HMS Nancy, commanded by Lieutenant D'Aranda, transformed the rescue into a military confrontation, as D'Aranda seized the Nanina as a prize of war and marooned Barnard and four others on the is...
12m Apr 20
12m
S8 Ep770: Eric J. Dolan describes the Falkland Islands as a barren, inhospitable archipelago of constant 18 mph winds and freezing temperatures, frequented by mariners hunting fur seals and elephant seals. The islands became the site of a major disaster when the sh
Eric J. Dolan describes the Falkland Islands as a barren, inhospitable archipelago of constant 18 mph winds and freezing temperatures, frequented by mariners hunting fur seals and elephant seals. The islands became the site of a major disaster when the ship Isabella — sailing from a penal colony in Australia with a volatile mix of crew, marines, and convicts — wrecked on Eagle Island due to the...
8m Apr 20
8m
S8 Ep770: Eric J. Dolan explores the lucrative sealing industry of the early 19th century, where millions of pelts were harvested for the Chinese market at five dollars each. Against the backdrop of the looming War of 1812, risk-taker Charles Barnard and his 63-yea
Eric J. Dolan explores the lucrative sealing industry of the early 19th century, where millions of pelts were harvested for the Chinese market at five dollars each. Against the backdrop of the looming War of 1812, risk-taker Charles Barnardand his 63-year-old father Valentine departed New York on the brig Nanina, timing their exit just as an embargo was being implemented. The presence of four d...
10m Apr 20
10m
S8 Ep769: Paul Halpern recounts how as the Big Bang theory gained acceptance, Gamow sought recognition for his 1940s predictions regarding cosmic radiation before his death in 1968. Conversely, Hoyle faced a controversial Nobel Prize exclusion for his work on stell
Paul Halpern recounts how as the Big Bang theory gained acceptance, Gamow sought recognition for his 1940s predictions regarding cosmic radiation before his death in 1968. Conversely, Hoyle faced a controversial Nobel Prize exclusion for his work on stellar elements, leading him toward increasingly eccentric theories — championing "panspermia," suggesting life and diseases arrived via comets, w...
7m Apr 20
7m
S8 Ep768: Paul Halpern describes how inspired by a horror movie's looped narrative, Hoyle developed the "Steady State" theory, proposing a "creation field" where matter continuously fills gaps as galaxies drift apart. A major breakthrough occurred when Hoyle predi
Paul Halpern describes how inspired by a horror movie's looped narrative, Hoyle developed the "Steady State" theory, proposing a "creation field" where matter continuously fills gaps as galaxies drift apart. A major breakthrough occurred when Hoyle predicted a specific energy state for carbon-12, explaining how life-essential elements form in dying stars. Gamow conceptualized "Ylem" as the univ...
13m Apr 20
13m
S8 Ep768: Paul Halpern recounts how as the Big Bang theory gained acceptance, Gamow sought recognition for his 1940s predictions regarding cosmic radiation before his death in 1968. Conversely, Hoyle faced a controversial Nobel Prize exclusion for his work on stell
Paul Halpern recounts how as the Big Bang theory gained acceptance, Gamow sought recognition for his 1940s predictions regarding cosmic radiation before his death in 1968. Conversely, Hoyle faced a controversial Nobel Prize exclusion for his work on stellar elements, leading him toward increasingly eccentric theories — championing "panspermia," suggesting life and diseases arrived via comets, w...
7m Apr 20
7m
S8 Ep768: Paul Halpern introduces the contrasting early lives of George Gamow and Fred Hoyle. Born in Odessa, Gamow studied under Alexander Friedmann, whose work on expanding universe models influenced Gamow's shift toward nuclear physic
Paul Halpern introduces the contrasting early lives of George Gamow and Fred Hoyle. Born in Odessa, Gamowstudied under Alexander Friedmann, whose work on expanding universe models influenced Gamow's shift toward nuclear physics and quantum tunneling. After a dramatic attempted escape from the Soviet Union via a rubber kayak and later a successful departure through a scientific conference, Gamow...
12m Apr 20
12m
S8 Ep767: Eleanor Barraclough offers a poignant look at the Norse settlement of Greenland, founded by Eric the Red in 985 AD. At the Herjolfsness graveyard, well-preserved organic material reveals the coarse, patched clothing of 15th-century inhabitants, indicat
Eleanor Barraclough offers a poignant look at the Norse settlement of Greenland, founded by Eric the Red in 985 AD. At the Herjolfsness graveyard, well-preserved organic material reveals the coarse, patched clothing of 15th-century inhabitants, indicating their isolation and decline. As the climate cooled, the Norse struggled while the Inuit thrived, with the final records including a witch bur...
9m Apr 20
9m
S8 Ep767: Eleanor Barraclough notes the Viking Age is often said to end in 1066 with the death of Harald Hardrada at the Battle of Stamford Bridge — a legendary figure who served as an imperial bodyguard in Constantinople before returning to Norway to claim the Eng
Eleanor Barraclough notes the Viking Age is often said to end in 1066 with the death of Harald Hardrada at the Battle of Stamford Bridge — a legendary figure who served as an imperial bodyguard in Constantinople before returning to Norway to claim the English throne. Barraclough argues this date is Anglo-centric, noting Norse influence continued elsewhere, with another symbolic conclusion occur...
11m Apr 20
11m
S8 Ep767: Eleanor Barraclough recounts archaeological discoveries in the Surtshellir lava cave in Iceland, revealing it as a site for ritual offerings to the fire giant Surtr. Deep inside, researchers found a stone boat outline containing jasper fire-starters and a
Eleanor Barraclough recounts archaeological discoveries in the Surtshellir lava cave in Iceland, revealing it as a site for ritual offerings to the fire giant Surtr. Deep inside, researchers found a stone boat outline containing jasper fire-starters and animal bones intended to placate volcanic forces. Remarkably, the final offering left after Christian conversion was a metal cross — a ritualiz...
9m Apr 20
9m
S8 Ep767: century Christian authors like Snorri Sturluson, requiring historians to be cautious when interpreting pagan beliefs. These stories describe the world's creation from fire and ice and its eventual destruction at Ragnarok, including the ship Naglfar constr
century Christian authors like Snorri Sturluson, requiring historians to be cautious when interpreting pagan beliefs. These stories describe the world's creation from fire and ice and its eventual destruction at Ragnarok, including the ship Naglfar constructed from the nails of the dead. Snorri, a powerful politician and poet, was eventually murdered in his basement during a violent Icelandic c...
9m Apr 20
9m
S8 Ep767: Eleanor Barraclough explores how reliquaries — holy Christian containers — were stolen during raids and repurposed as jewelry for Norse women, suggesting early raids were driven by young men seeking wealth and status to establish households. Barraclough a
Eleanor Barraclough explores how reliquaries — holy Christian containers — were stolen during raids and repurposed as jewelry for Norse women, suggesting early raids were driven by young men seeking wealth and status to establish households. Barraclough also addresses the theory of female infanticide as a potential driver for these male-dominated expeditions, alongside a human skull fragment ca...
8m Apr 20
8m
S8 Ep767: Eleanor Barraclough discusses the Kievan Rus, where Norse leaders eventually assimilated into Slavic populations, changing names like Helga to Olga. A significant archaeological mystery is the Salme ships in Estonia, dated to 750 AD — decades before t
Eleanor Barraclough discusses the Kievan Rus, where Norse leaders eventually assimilated into Slavic populations, changing names like Helga to Olga. A significant archaeological mystery is the Salme ships in Estonia, dated to 750 AD — decades before the Lindisfarne raid — containing high-status Swedes with gaming pieces, hunting dogs, and falcons, suggesting a failed diplomatic mission rather t...
12m Apr 20
12m
S8 Ep767: Eleanor Barraclough details the evolution of the Vikings from raiders to conquerors and settlers who established vast territories. Following a massive raid on Paris that yielded 7,000 pounds of gold, the "Great Heathen Army" invaded England in 865 AD, cre
Eleanor Barraclough details the evolution of the Vikings from raiders to conquerors and settlers who established vast territories. Following a massive raid on Paris that yielded 7,000 pounds of gold, the "Great Heathen Army" invaded England in 865 AD, creating the Danelaw where Norse law and place names left a permanent linguistic imprint. Simultaneously, the "Rus" expanded eastward, navigating...
7m Apr 20
7m
S8 Ep767: Eleanor Barraclough explores the real lives of the Norse people through everyday objects, focusing on private communication rather than myth. She highlights a 1200 AD runic message from a woman named Gytha ordering her husband home from a tavern. The book
Eleanor Barraclough explores the real lives of the Norse people through everyday objects, focusing on private communication rather than myth. She highlights a 1200 AD runic message from a woman named Gytha ordering her husband home from a tavern. The book's title, Embers of the Hands, is a poetic kenning for gold representing precious, personal stories. The 793 AD Lindisfarne raid is identified...
11m Apr 20
11m
S8 Ep766: Zakis reports that Dallas, his elderly dog, has formed a surprising alliance with local minor birds, allowing them to share his backyard and seeds — diplomatically separating them from their "villainous" cockatoo associates who typically vandalize the nei
Zakis reports that Dallas, his elderly dog, has formed a surprising alliance with local minor birds, allowing them to share his backyard and seeds — diplomatically separating them from their "villainous" cockatoo associates who typically vandalize the neighborhood. As winter approaches the cockatoos retreat to bushlands, while Dallas remains brave on dark morning walks, tolerant of wombats thou...
10m Apr 19
10m
S8 Ep766: The International Cricket Council is investigating allegations that Canada's cricket team fixed a T20 match against New Zealand, with investigators noting suspiciously slow bowling and "sandbagging" during batting to suppress run rates. Zakis discusse
The International Cricket Council is investigating allegations that Canada's cricket team fixed a T20 match against New Zealand, with investigators noting suspiciously slow bowling and "sandbagging" during batting to suppress run rates. Zakis discusses how the online betting community likely motivated the scheme, drawing parallels to the infamous 1919 Black Sox scandal and highlighting corrupti...
8m Apr 19
8m
S8 Ep766: Australia is experiencing an unprecedented snake invasion as the El Niño cycle upends traditional hibernation patterns, driving snakes from bushlands into urban coastal areas seeking the heat retained by concrete and steel structures. Some suburbs report
Australia is experiencing an unprecedented snake invasion as the El Niño cycle upends traditional hibernation patterns, driving snakes from bushlands into urban coastal areas seeking the heat retained by concrete and steel structures. Some suburbs report up to 300 calls weekly for snake removals, as species like Eastern Browns and Coastal Taipans pursue urban food sources. Zakis notes that expe...
8m Apr 19
8m
S8 Ep766: Jeremy Zakis reports on the early onset of a dry El Niño cycle in Australia, causing unusually cold temperatures and preventing typical fall storms. This dry air dissipated a potential cyclone but raised concerns about a catastrophic summer and early bush
Jeremy Zakis reports on the early onset of a dry El Niño cycle in Australia, causing unusually cold temperatures and preventing typical fall storms. This dry air dissipated a potential cyclone but raised concerns about a catastrophic summer and early bushfire risks, prompting preemptive back-burning. Meanwhile, the Middle East crisis has spiked petrol prices to record highs, with Australian cos...
15m Apr 19
15m
S8 Ep765: The construction of the Wuhan BSL4 lab proceeded despite French intelligence warnings that the facility would be used for military bioweapon production. Weichert notes the lab suffered from poor security protocols known to US intelligence and Xi Jinpin
The construction of the Wuhan BSL4 lab proceeded despite French intelligence warnings that the facility would be used for military bioweapon production. Weichert notes the lab suffered from poor security protocols known to USintelligence and Xi Jinping prior to the pandemic, links Chinese researchers in Canada to Major General Chen Wei — the "Goddess of War" who oversaw the Wuhan lab's COVID-19...
13m Apr 19
13m
S8 Ep765: Weichert advocates for aggressive policies to counter China, including classifying tech transfers as bribes and empowering the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS) to block strategic acquisitions. He argues that Washington's respon
Weichert advocates for aggressive policies to counter China, including classifying tech transfers as bribes and empowering the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS) to block strategic acquisitions. He argues that Washington's response is hampered by special interest groups and political elites compromised by Chineseconnections, and proposes an international treaty to regu...
6m Apr 19
6m
S8 Ep765: Weichert details the downfall of Charles Lieber, a Harvard scientist and DARPA researcher recruited by the Thousand Talents Program to mirror his nanotechnology work in Wuhan, later convicted for making false statements and hiding Chinese bank accounts. T
Weichert details the downfall of Charles Lieber, a Harvard scientist and DARPA researcher recruited by the Thousand Talents Program to mirror his nanotechnology work in Wuhan, later convicted for making false statements and hiding Chinese bank accounts. The discussion shifts to CRISPR technology and He Jiankui's controversial genetic splicing on human twins, which reportedly resulted in uninten...
8m Apr 19
8m
S8 Ep765: Brandon Weichert discusses his book Biohacked, explaining China's "Field of Dreams" strategy to dominate high-tech sectors by attracting Western talent and investors to their innovation hubs. This approach stems from Mao Zedong's goal to catch up to and e
Brandon Weichert discusses his book Biohacked, explaining China's "Field of Dreams" strategy to dominate high-tech sectors by attracting Western talent and investors to their innovation hubs. This approach stems from Mao Zedong's goal to catch up to and eventually defeat the United States using its own technological expertise. Central to this effort is the Thousand Talents Program, which identi...
9m Apr 19
9m
S8 Ep764: H.W. Brands concludes as the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor and Hitler's subsequent declaration of war unify the global conflicts into World War II. Lindbergh immediately declares his loyalty, yet FDR blocks his return to the military to prevent hi
H.W. Brands concludes as the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor and Hitler's subsequent declaration of war unify the global conflicts into World War II. Lindbergh immediately declares his loyalty, yet FDR blocks his return to the military to prevent him from becoming a hero. Labeled a "Nazi fellow traveler," Lindbergh instead serves as a civilian consultant, surreptitiously traveling to the Pacifi...
7m Apr 19
7m
S8 Ep764: H.W. Brands describes FDR declaring an "unlimited national emergency" in May 1941, labeling Lindbergh and the America First Committee as "copperheads" and "fifth columnists." Following a misrepresented incident involving the USS Greer, Lindbergh's reputat
H.W. Brands describes FDR declaring an "unlimited national emergency" in May 1941, labeling Lindbergh and the America First Committee as "copperheads" and "fifth columnists." Following a misrepresented incident involving the USS Greer, Lindbergh's reputation collapses after a Des Moines speech blaming the British, the Jews, and the Rooseveltadministration for pushing the U.S. toward war — brand...
13m Apr 19
13m
S8 Ep764: H.W. Brands examines Lindbergh's 1941 congressional testimony challenging the administration's narrative, arguing that air power actually strengthens hemispheric defense, allowing America to intercept invading armadas 300 miles offshore. Rejecting the "is
H.W. Brands examines Lindbergh's 1941 congressional testimony challenging the administration's narrative, arguing that air power actually strengthens hemispheric defense, allowing America to intercept invading armadas 300 miles offshore. Rejecting the "isolationist" label, Lindbergh proposes a robust defense of the Western Hemisphere rather than the Rhine, drawing thousands to rallies while ado...
7m Apr 19
7m
S8 Ep764: H.W. Brands details how the Lend-Lease Act in 1941 effectively marries America's future to Britain's, while Roosevelt covertly supports British propaganda efforts led by William Stephenson to manipulate American sentiment — even utilizing a likely forged
H.W. Brands details how the Lend-Lease Act in 1941 effectively marries America's future to Britain's, while Rooseveltcovertly supports British propaganda efforts led by William Stephenson to manipulate American sentiment — even utilizing a likely forged map of German designs on Latin America to stoke fear. Lindbergh counters that the U.S. is not aiding democracy but rather British imperialism, ...
11m Apr 19
11m
S8 Ep764: H.W. Brands recounts how amid the 1940 Battle of Britain, FDR breaks tradition by seeking a third term, prompting Lindbergh to warn of a "presidency for life" as he becomes the star speaker for the newly formed America First Committee. Lindbergh draws mas
H.W. Brands recounts how amid the 1940 Battle of Britain, FDR breaks tradition by seeking a third term, prompting Lindbergh to warn of a "presidency for life" as he becomes the star speaker for the newly formed America First Committee. Lindbergh draws massive crowds arguing that America's two oceans ensure security, while FDR masters press conferences to influence media coverage and both sides ...
9m Apr 19
9m
S8 Ep764: H.W. Brands explains how FDR seeks to modify the Neutrality Acts as war intensifies, while Lindbergh and several senators distrust the president's incremental march toward war. FDR counters by labeling critics "isolationists" and "ignorant," while careful
H.W. Brands explains how FDR seeks to modify the Neutrality Acts as war intensifies, while Lindbergh and several senators distrust the president's incremental march toward war. FDR counters by labeling critics "isolationists" and "ignorant," while carefully shaping public opinion. The rapid fall of France in 1940 vindicates Lindbergh's stance for some, though it leads FDR to initiate the destro...
11m Apr 19
11m
S8 Ep764: H.W. Brands describes how Germany's invasion of Poland by summer 1939 prompts Lindbergh to utilize his fame to oppose American intervention. Influenced by his father's persecution for opposing World War I, Lindbergh begins broadcasting radio speeches argu
H.W. Brands describes how Germany's invasion of Poland by summer 1939 prompts Lindbergh to utilize his fame to oppose American intervention. Influenced by his father's persecution for opposing World War I, Lindbergh begins broadcasting radio speeches arguing that Britain and France launched a war they cannot win, maintaining that Americaninterests are distinct from the preservation of the Briti...
7m Apr 19
7m
S8 Ep764: H.W. Brands recounts how world-famous aviator Charles Lindbergh returns to America in April 1939 amidst global tension. Known for his 1927 flight and the tragic "trial of the century," he arrives with deep skepticism of European colonial wars. Franklin Ro
H.W. Brands recounts how world-famous aviator Charles Lindbergh returns to America in April 1939 amidst global tension. Known for his 1927 flight and the tragic "trial of the century," he arrives with deep skepticism of Europeancolonial wars. Franklin Roosevelt attempts to co-opt Lindbergh into his administration, recognizing the pilot's immense public influence, but Lindbergh values his indepe...
11m Apr 19
11m
S8 Ep763: In 2019, the Tishreen uprising saw a young, trans-sectarian generation denounce the "kleptocratic elite" and government corruption. Despite brutal state violence that killed hundreds, the protests represented a rare moment of unity as Shia youth challen
In 2019, the Tishreen uprising saw a young, trans-sectarian generation denounce the "kleptocratic elite" and government corruption. Despite brutal state violence that killed hundreds, the protests represented a rare moment of unity as Shia youth challenged their own religious and political leaders, with women playing an unprecedented role. Abdul-Ahadconcludes that while major violence has subsi...
8m Apr 19
8m
S8 Ep763: The Battle for Mosul in 2017 was a grueling, house-to-house urban war inflicting massive psychological trauma on a new generation of Iraqis. ISIS was revealed as a "melange" of local villagers and international volunteers who alienated the population thro
The Battle for Mosul in 2017 was a grueling, house-to-house urban war inflicting massive psychological trauma on a new generation of Iraqis. ISIS was revealed as a "melange" of local villagers and international volunteers who alienated the population through extreme brutality. Although the caliphate was militarily defeated, thousands remain radicalized in desert camps, and Mosul's recovery is h...
7m Apr 19
7m
S8 Ep763: The "tragedy of the Sunnis" stemmed from their lack of a monolithic political project and internal tribal infighting. In cities like Ramadi, total chaos left civilians caught in the crossfire as ISIS capitalized on fragmentation by providing a sense of "o
The "tragedy of the Sunnis" stemmed from their lack of a monolithic political project and internal tribal infighting. In cities like Ramadi, total chaos left civilians caught in the crossfire as ISIS capitalized on fragmentation by providing a sense of "order" for young men. Meanwhile, Iranian intelligence had been quietly building influence since 2003, integrating their trainees into the backb...
7m Apr 19
7m