Military History Plus

In the final episode of the series, Gary and Spencer examine Churchill’s leadership from the Blitz to 1945, assessing his wartime strategy across multiple fronts. They discuss his Mediterranean focus, from the failed Greek campaign (1941) to the humiliating fall of Tobruk (1942), his controversial replacement of Auchinleck with Montgomery, and Britain’s later role in Italy, Yugoslavia, and the Greek Civil War. The episode also covers the war against Japan, including the loss of HMS Prince of Wales and Repulse, the fall of Singapore, and the challenges of the Burma campaign. The hosts delve into Britain’s strategic bombing campaign, Commando raids, and the Battle of the Atlantic, before turning to Churchill’s uneasy relationship with Stalin and the fraught negotiations over the Second Front. They conclude by exploring why Churchill lost the 1945 election, despite his central role in Britain’s victory.

Gary and Spencer continue their exploration of Churchill’s transformational leadership, focusing on his pivotal decisions in 1940. They analyse his response to Operation Sealion, assessing how he strengthened Britain’s defences during the Battle of Britain and established himself as a wartime leader. The discussion explores his working methods, including a notable quote on his approach to leadership. They also examine Churchill’s morale-boosting speeches and his ability to unite the country during a period of immense uncertainty. A key focus is his broader strategic thinking—despite the looming invasion threat, he controversially sent British forces to the Middle East in August 1940, prioritising long-term imperial strategy. The episode also covers Churchill’s early efforts to bring the United States into the war, laying the groundwork for what would become a critical alliance.

In the fourth part of the series on Churchill and war, Gary and Spencer focus on Churchill’s dramatic return to government during the Phoney War. They analyse his role as First Lord of the Admiralty and his efforts to modernise the Royal Navy, ensuring Britain’s readiness for the looming conflict. The discussion explores Churchill’s complex relationship with Prime Minister Neville Chamberlain, highlighting their political disagreements and contrasting leadership styles. Gary and Spencer also examine the critical question of succession as Chamberlain’s premiership faltered. Who would take the helm: Churchill, with his unyielding defiance of fascism, or the more diplomatically inclined Lord Halifax? The hosts offer compelling insights into the political manoeuvring of this pivotal moment in history, setting the stage for Churchill’s ultimate rise to the role of wartime leader.

In this third instalment on Winston Churchill and war, Gary and Spencer delve into Churchill’s leadership style, analysing it through the lens of transformative leadership. They explore his approach to decision-making, crisis management and inspiring action during turbulent times. The episode also examines Churchill’s controversial attitude towards fascist leaders Adolf Hitler and Benito Mussolini, evaluating how his views shaped his policies and public stance. Gary and Spencer discuss Churchill’s reputation during the interwar years, a period marked by political exile and criticism. They assess his warnings about Nazi Germany in the 1930s and his efforts to rebuild his credibility as a statesman. The conversation is enriched by differing perspectives: Gary offers a more critical take on Churchill, while Spencer provides a defence of his legacy, drawing personal inspiration from the man he shares a name with. This episode provides a nuanced look at Churchill’s leadership qualities and their broader implications during a time of significant global upheaval.

Amid Britain's current general election, join Gary and Spencer as they delve into the compelling history of the UK's 'khaki' general elections. In this insightful podcast, they investigate four pivotal 20th-century elections that took place during or after major conflicts, shaping the nation's political landscape in profound ways. Discover how the 1900 general election was influenced by the fervour of the Second Boer War. This election saw the Conservative Party solidify its power, bolstered by a wave of imperialist sentiment and public support for the war effort. Next, they examine the 1918 general election, held in the aftermath of World War I. This election was marked by significant changes, including an expanded electorate due to new suffrage laws. The electorate, weary from the war and yearning for change, propelled Lloyd George's coalition to a decisive victory, reshaping the political scene. The 1945 general election is another focal point, occurring just after the end of World War II. Gary and Spencer explore how the Labour Party's promise of social reform and reconstruction led to a historic landslide victory, radically transforming British society and the welfare state.  Finally, they investigate the 1983 general election, set against the backdrop of the Falklands War.

In this second episode on Winston Churchill and War, Gary and Spencer discuss Churchill’s military experience and leadership during the Great War. They begin by reviewing historical and academic books on Churchill’s career and his time during the Great War. They then move on to explore Churchill’s initial role during the conflict as the First Lord of the Admiralty. However, his tenure was marred by the Gallipoli Campaign, a failed amphibious assault on the Ottoman Empire, for which he faced criticism . Later, he voluntarily resigned and joined the British Army, serving on the Western Front as a battalion commander. His hands-on experience in the trenches provided invaluable insight into the realities of combat and bolstered his political credibility, helping him rehabilitate his reputation and career damaged by the Gallipoli fiasco. After leaving the Western Front, Winston Churchill's role in the Great War shifted to the political arena. He returned to government service and held various ministerial positions, including Minister of Munitions and Secretary of State for War. In these roles, he focused on strengthening Britain's war effort by increasing arms production and coordinating military logistics. Churchill's leadership and administrative skills were instrumental in ensuring the efficient functioning of the war machine. Additionally, he continued to advocate for military strategy and provided strategic advice to senior commanders, contributing to the overall Allied war effort.

In this episode, Gary and Spencer delve deep into the early life, career, and complex character of Winston Churchill, an influential and often controversial figure in Britain's military, political and imperial history. This episode is the first of a short series and covers Churchills early life up to the end of the Second South African War (Boer War) in 1901/2. With a keen focus on Churchill's intricate relationship with war, they offer insightful perspectives on his roles as a man, politician, and military leader in his early life. They start out by considering books on Churchill that they feel give an insight to the man and his legacy. Born in 1874 at Blenheim Palace, he was the progeny of Lord Randolph Churchill, a prominent Conservative politician, and the American heiress Jennie Jerome. Churchill's formative years were marked by familial tension, with his parents often absorbed in their political endeavours. Largely raised by a nanny, he attended various schools before graduating from the Royal Military College, Sandhurst, in 1895, following the passing of his father. In the late 1890s, Churchill embarked on a series of adventurous military and journalistic ventures. Commissioned as a second lieutenant in the 4th Queen's Own Hussars, he actively sought engagement in conflicts, witnessing upheavals in Cuba and India. Concurrently, he pursued a path of self-education and literary exploration, laying the groundwork for his burgeoning writing career. His participation in military campaigns, coupled with his role as a journalist in the Sudan, provided invaluable insights that would shape his future political trajectory. Transitioning into the realms of politics and journalism, Churchill faced initial setbacks, notably in the 1899 Oldham by-election where he was unsuccessful as a Conservative candidate. Undeterred, he ventured to South Africa as a journalist to cover the Second Boer War. However, his journey took a dramatic turn when he was captured and briefly held as a prisoner of war before orchestrating a daring escape, capturing the attention of the public. Upon his return to Britain, he secured a seat as a Member of Parliament for Oldham in 1900. Continuing his journalistic pursuits, he penned compelling accounts of his experiences in South Africa and embarked on captivating lecture tours, solidifying his reputation as a multifaceted public figure with a profound interest in both politics and literature.

In the fifth episode, Gary and Spencer bring the two-part investigation on battlefield tours to a conclusion. They reflect on how visiting battlefield sites provides a tangible connection to military history, offering insights into the terrain, topography, and environmental conditions of past conflicts. The hosts contemplate the impact of monuments on these historic landscapes, exploring how these structures can both enhance and impede people's understanding of a battle's unfolding narrative. The episode concludes with thoughtful considerations of the dos and don'ts for aspiring battlefield guides, interwoven with the hosts' personal reflections on leading these immersive tours.

In the captivating fourth episode of this series, Gary and Spencer delve into the intriguing world of battlefield tours. Together, they unravel the essence, value, and evolution of these immersive experiences. Embarking on a journey through their initial battlefield tours in England, they dissect the various typologies that shape these historical expeditions. The episode distinguishes between the roles of battlefield guides and battlefield historians, emphasizing the vital insights both roles bring to comprehending military history. This episode serves as the commencement of a two-part investigation.

In the third episode of this series, Gary and Spencer turn the spotlight onto the audience as they respond to a myriad of listener questions spanning various facets of military history. Navigating through inquiries from their engaged audience, the hosts provide insightful and informative responses, creating a dynamic dialogue that adds an interactive and participatory dimension to the exploration of military history. From inquiries about the revolutionary nature of the French armies of the 1790s to favourite war films and other topics, the hosts offer a diverse range of topics.

In the concluding episode of their three-part series on the historiography of Britain and the Great War, Gary and Spencer explore the period leading up to the Great War Centenary in 2014. They delve into the impact of this commemorative milestone on public perceptions and historical narratives. The episode spotlights the significant contributions of historians Robin Prior and Trevor Wilson to our understanding of the Western Front, examining their methodologies and research. Additionally, the hosts discuss Tim Travers' insights at the intersection of politics and military history, the influential perspectives of Paddy Griffith on military tactics, and the nuanced contributions of Peter Simkins to the broader historiography of the Great War.

In this second installment of their three-part exploration of the historiography of the Great War, Gary and Spencer dedicate a significant portion of their discussion to the influential works and impact of historian John Terraine. Much like other notable figures such as David Lloyd George, Basil Liddel Hart, and Sir James Edmonds, Terraine's contributions have played a crucial role in shaping the understanding of this pivotal period in history.  Terraine departed from conventional narratives that often-painted military leadership during the conflict as inept. He, a proponent of strategic realism, argued that the challenges faced by commanders were unprecedented, marked by the complexities of trench warfare and technological advancements. His revisionist approach aimed to offer a nuanced understanding of the decision-making processes and strategic dilemmas confronted by military leaders. Notably, he staunchly defended General Douglas Haig, challenging prevailing negative assessments and contending that Haig's decisions were made under extraordinary circumstances.

In this special report, Gary and Spencer delve into the recent comments made by acclaimed filmmaker Ridley Scott concerning historians, historical accuracy, and his latest film, "Napoleon." Scott's candid remark, "Excuse me, mate, were you there? No? Well, shut the f*** up then," has sparked a conversation about the filmmaker's perspective on historical criticism. Scott dismisses historical critiques of "Napoleon" by urging detractors to "get a life." The podcast not only dissects Scott's response but also initiates a broader exploration into the realm of historical methodology. From Ridley Scott's outspoken stance, the discussion extends to the fundamental role of historians, their use of evidence, the pitfalls of misinterpretation, and the distinctions between amateur and scholarly historical perspectives. Join us as we navigate through the intriguing intersection of filmmaking, historical accuracy, and the intricate art of historical analysis.

In this bonus episode of the first season, historian and Western Front Association Trustee, Gerry White delves into Ireland's military history from 1912 to 1923. Gerry, who served forty-three years in the Irish Defence Forces and retired in 2017, brings his expertise and insights to the discussion. The talk begins with the formation of the Ulster Volunteer Force (UVF) and the Irish Volunteers. In 1912, the Ulster Volunteer Force was established by Unionists in Ulster to resist home rule for Ireland. In response, the Irish Volunteers were formed in 1913 by nationalists to support the cause of Irish independence. Gerry goes on to explore the impact of World War I (1914-1918) on these groups. As the war broke out, both the UVF and the Irish Volunteers split on their positions regarding the conflict. Many Irish Volunteers joined the British Army, forming regiments such as the Irish Guards and the Royal Dublin Fusiliers. During the discussion, Gerry White highlights the significant contribution of Irish divisions during the Battle of the Somme in World War I. He specifically mentions the 10th (Irish Division), the 16th Irish Division, and the 36th Ulster Division. These divisions, composed of Irish soldiers from various backgrounds, fought bravely in the grueling battles on the Somme, leaving a lasting impact on Irish military history. The discussion then moves to the significant event of the Easter Rising in 1916. Gerry highlights how the Irish Republican Brotherhood, alongside other nationalist groups, staged an armed rebellion in Dublin. Although the Rising initially failed, it had a profound influence on Irish public opinion and laid the groundwork for future independence movements. The focus then shifts to the Irish War of Independence (1919-1921), during which the Irish Republican Army (IRA) emerged as the military wing of Sinn Féin. Engaging in guerrilla warfare against British forces, the IRA targeted police, military installations, and British sympathizers. This conflict ultimately led to the signing of the Anglo-Irish Treaty in 1921, which resulted in the partition of Ireland into Northern Ireland (remaining part of the UK) and the Irish Free State. The final topic discussed is the Irish Civil War (1922-1923), which was triggered by the split within the nationalist movement following the Anglo-Irish Treaty. Gerry explains how those who supported the treaty, led by Michael Collins, formed the Provisional Government of the Irish Free State, while those opposed, led by Éamon de Valera, organized the anti-treaty forces. The ensuing civil war saw clashes between these factions, resulting in the defeat of the anti-treaty forces and the establishment of the Irish Free State. Aside from his extensive military service, Gerry has represented Ireland at the Centenary Commemoration of the Battle of the Somme at Thiepval in 2016. He has also authored several books and articles on aspects of Irish military history for the period 1913 to 1923 and frequently lectures on the subject. Currently, Gerry is actively involved in building the WFA organization on the island of Ireland.

In their comprehensive exploration of the historiography of the Great War from the end of the First World War up until the early 1960s, Gary and Spencer delve into the insights provided by several influential figures. Among them is David Lloyd George, the British Prime Minister during the Great War, whose memoirs and writings shed light on the political decision-making and strategies employed during the war. Basil Liddel Hart, a renowned military historian and strategist and Sir James Edmonds' who wrote the official British history of World War One, based on official documents. Additionally, the works of Charles Robert Mowbray Fraser Cruttwell, Alan Clark and Cyril Falls are covered. Throughout their in-depth analysis, Gary and Spencer explore how these historians' work shaped the understanding of the Great War and influenced subsequent generations of scholars.

Gary interviews Spencer in a deep dive into the first Battle of Bull Run or Manassas. This was the first land engagement of the US Civil War was fought on 21 July, just 30 miles south of Washington—close enough for U.S. senators to witness the battle in person. Confederates called it the Battle of Manassas, after the closest town. Union soldiers called it Bull Run, after a stream running through the battlefield.

Gary interviews Spencer on one of Spencer’s favourite military history books, Paddy Griffith’s Battle Tactics of the American Civil War.  Published in the 1980s, this volume reappraises the events, the weapons used, the men of the novice armies, their leaders and the strategies employed in the Civil War - which was fought with a new generation of weapons and trench systems similar to those of World War I. Spencer considers how the author argues that the conditions of combat were little changed from those of earlier times and far from being the birthplace of modern battlefield tactics, the Civil War was in reality the last Napoleonic-style war. He also talks about how the book influenced him as a military historian and his thoughts on where it has flaws.

Spencer interviews Gary about one of his favourite books, John Keegan’s Face of Battle. Published in 1976, it deals first with the structure of historical writing about battles, the strengths and weaknesses of the "battle piece," and then with the structure of warfare in three time periods—medieval Europe, the Napoleonic Era, and World War I - by analysing three battles: Agincourt, Waterloo, and the Somme, all of which involved English soldiers and occurred in approximately the same geographical area. Gary talks about how he came to purchase this book in the late 1970s and how he worked with Keegan in the 1990s. Finally, Gary considers some of the weaknesses of the book in the light of nearly half a decade of histography.

Gary and Spencer speak to the podcast producer and editor Dr Tom Thorpe about his research and interest into combat motivation and resilience. They discuss what is meant by combat motivation and what factors are most dominant in driving soldiers to fight and persevere on military service. A range of drivers are considered from small group cohesion, ideology and coercion. Tom is an independent scholar, tour guide, communications professional and podcaster. Tom holds a PhD from King’s College London that explored the extent, nature and impact of small group cohesion in British infantry units during the First World War. He is also a public historian and being involved in a range of local social and medical history projects such as the Ulster University’s Belfast Epidemic medical history learning resource, the Queen’s University Belfast Living Legacies programme and the Men Behind the Glass Project at Campbell College Belfast. He has been a Honorary Research Associate at both Ulster University and Queen University Belfast (QUB) and a Tutor on the QUB Open Learning programme. He is also a Trustee of the First World War history society The Western Front Association and am Secretary its Antrim and Down branch. Added to this, he is an avid podcaster, hosting and producing three history podcasts. These are the Western Front Association’s weekly Mentioned in Dispatches Podcast, the Epidemic Belfast podcast, and Combat Morale podcast.

Spencer and Gary talk about their recommendations for summer beech reading over the holiday period. Gary recommends the Flashman novels by George MacDonald Fraser, Wellington's Waterloo Allies: How Soldiers from Brunswick, Hanover, Nassau and the Netherlands Contributed to the Victory of 1815 by  Andrew W. Field and The First Day on the Somme by Martin Middlebrook. Spencer on the other hand suggests Hero: The Life & Legend of Lawrence of Arabia by Michael Korda, The Fall of Robespierre: 24 Hours in Revolutionary Paris by Colin Jones and The Armchair General: Can You Defeat the Nazis? (The Armchair General) by John Buckley.