Best Nick Shepley Podcasts (2023)

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Explaining History

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Discussing W.E.B. Du Bois with Chad Williams 34:54

18h ago34:54

34:54

In this episode of the Explaining History podcast, I'm joined by Professor Chad Williams to explore the life and thought of W.E.B. Du Bois, the foremost intellectual of the civil rights movement. We discuss his complex and often difficult relationship with the First World War and its aftermath and his unfinished work, African Americans and the Woun…

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Explaining History

1
The modern right in Spain, from the Partido Popular to Vox 32:28

5d ago32:28

32:28

In this episode, I've had the pleasure of talking with a good friend of the podcast, Alvaro Gomez Velasco, our eyewitness on contemporary politics in Spain. We explore the recent rise of right wing populism across Europe and the growth of the Vox movement in Spain. Examining the legacy of Franco, the suppression of the Catalan independence movement…

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Explaining History

1
The origins of global free markets 1840-2001 31:07

14d ago31:07

31:07

Description: In this episode of the Explaining History podcast, we embark on a journey through modern economic history, tracing the evolution of global free markets from the height of Victorian Britain to the transformative concepts of Francis Fukuyama's "End of History." Drawing insights from the seminal work "False Dawn: The Delusions of Global C…

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Explaining History

1
Eye Witness: The End of White Rule in Rhodesia 34:47

29d ago34:47

34:47

This episode takes our listeners on a remarkable journey into the tumultuous period of the 1970s in Rhodesia/Zimbabwe, as seen through the lens of James McManus, the former Africa correspondent for The Guardian. McManus was not just a journalist chronicling events from the periphery; he was in the thick of it, engaging with pivotal figures who woul…

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Explaining History

1
California: A Slave State - Part Two 46:14

29d ago46:14

46:14

**Explaining History Podcast Episode Description:** In the highly anticipated second installment of our conversations with the esteemed Professor Jean Phaelzer, author of the groundbreaking work, "California: A Slave State," we delve deeper into the interwoven tapestry of California's historical landscape. The Gold Rush, a period synonymous with op…

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Explaining History

1
Colonialism and Culture Wars - In conversation with Professor Alan Lester 33:59

2M ago33:59

33:59

In this episode, we navigate the contemporary debates around colonialism, empire and slavery and its resonating echoes in modern culture wars with the guidance of Professor Alan Lester. As an eminent historian, Alan brings profound insight into the intricate relationship between colonial legacies and the contemporary debates surrounding them. Toget…

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Explaining History

1
Slavery in California - In conversation with Jean Pfaelzer 31:24

2M ago31:24

31:24

n this eye-opening episode, we journey into the often-overlooked history of slavery in California, guided by the insights of Professor Jean Pfaelzer, author of the seminal book, "California: A Slave State." Pfaelzer's groundbreaking research uncovers a hidden chapter of California's past, where the institution of slavery played a significant, if cl…

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Explaining History

1
The Fear of War in 1930s Europe 26:13

2M ago26:13

26:13

In this episode of the Explaining History podcast, we delve into the intellectual climate of 1930s Europe, as detailed in Richard Overy's illuminating work, "The Morbid Age." The episode seeks to uncover the complex web of fears, anxieties, and escalating tensions that pervaded Britain and the broader European landscape, leading many to view the ou…

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Explaining History

1
Black Britain 1948-89 Part One 24:40

2M ago24:40

24:40

In the first episode of our exploration into "Roots and Culture" by Eddie Chambers, we delve into the history of Black Britain from 1948 to 1989. This period witnessed a profound shift in Britain's cultural, social, and racial landscape, marked by the arrival of the Windrush Generation in 1948 and culminating with the end of the 1980s. In this epis…

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Explaining History

1
German victories in the Caucasus: Spring - Summer 1942 (Part Two) 25:10

2M ago25:10

25:10

In the second episode of our deep dive into the months prior to Stalingrad, reading Max Hastings' "All Hell Let Loose," we shift our gaze to a pivotal moment in 1942. This was a year marked by startling contrasts between the strategic decision-making processes in the Kremlin and the Führerbunker. We explore how the relentless calamities faced by th…

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Explaining History

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German victories in the Caucasus: Spring - Summer 1942 26:38

2M ago26:38

26:38

In this episode of Explaining History, we dive into the tumultuous events of World War II's Eastern Front, focusing on the German victories in the Caucasus region during the spring and summer of 1942. Drawing upon insights from Max Hastings's masterful book, "All Hell Let Loose," we present a comprehensive account of this critical phase of the war.…

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Explaining History

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The collapse of Mexican neoliberalism 1994-5 29:49

3M ago29:49

29:49

In this thought-provoking episode of Explaining History, we turn our focus to a pivotal period in Latin American economic history - the collapse of Mexican neoliberalism between 1994-5. Drawing from John Gray's incisive book "False Dawn," we delve into the intricacies of this economic implosion and its far-reaching implications. Our exploration tak…

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Explaining History

1
Maoism Explained Part One 33:39

3M ago33:39

33:39

In this compelling episode of Explaining History, we delve deep into the ideological and historical currents that gave rise to Maoism, the influential doctrine of China's revolutionary leader, Mao Zedong. Drawing from Julia Lovell's profound work, "Maoism: A Global History," we aim to demystify Mao's philosophy and its global impact. Our exploratio…

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Explaining History

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From the Pentagon Papers to Watergate 1971-74 33:39

3M ago33:39

33:39

Join us on this episode of Explaining History, where we journey back to one of the most politically turbulent eras in American history. We're privileged to have Mary McNeil, a renowned historian and scholar, as our guide through the labyrinth of events that transpired from the release of the Pentagon Papers to the fall of the Nixon administration i…

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Explaining History

1
Elton John VS the Sun Newspaper 1987-88 35:45

3M ago35:45

35:45

In this episode of Explaining History, we turn our focus from world events to a pivotal moment in pop culture history: the infamous legal battle between music superstar Elton John and the British tabloid, The Sun. Based on John Sweeney's insightful feature, "The Sun and the Star," from the "Faber Book of Pop" anthology, we unravel the intricate sto…

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Explaining History

1
Countdown to Surrender: The last days of World War Two 35:20

3M ago35:20

35:20

In this captivating episode of Explaining History, we delve into the profound historical moments leading to the end of World War II with our special guest, acclaimed writer and historian, Evan Thomas. As the author of numerous bestselling books and an expert in American history and foreign policy, Thomas guides us through the fraught final days of …

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Explaining History

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Post War British Society 1945-1990 26:45

3M ago26:45

26:45

In this episode, we delve deep into the dynamic period in British history spanning 1945 to 1990. Our exploration is based on "The People's Peace" by esteemed historian Kenneth O. Morgan, who masterfully encapsulates the cultural, social, and political transformation of post-war Britain. We open with the euphoria of victory in 1945 and the advent of…

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Explaining History

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War reporting in the USSR: 1941-45 25:54

3M ago25:54

25:54

In this thought-provoking episode of the Explaining History Podcast, historian we delve into the captivating world of war reporting during Operation Barbarossa, the German invasion of the Soviet Union in 1941. Drawing inspiration from the renowned book "The First Casualty" by Phillip Knightley, we explore the intricate landscape of journalism, cens…

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Explaining History

1
Scholar, Spy, Eyewitness: Winthrop Bell (Explaining History in Conversation with Jason Bell) 36:07

3M ago36:07

36:07

In today's podcast I chat with Jason Bell about his book Cracking the Nazi Code, the story of Winthrop Bell, a Canadian academic and MI6 agent who witnessed the rise of Nazism first hand. Become a member at https://plus.acast.com/s/explaininghistory. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.…

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Explaining History

1
Anglo American Liberalism and the Mandate System 1918-1919 25:07

3M ago25:07

25:07

Join historian us on a journey into the intricate world of international politics during the aftermath of World War I in the latest episode of the Explaining History Podcast. In this episode, titled "Anglo-American Liberalism and the Mandate System 1918-1919," we delve into the clash between imperial ambitions, paternalism, and the ideals of Wilson…

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Explaining History

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Mussolini's Mausoleum - 1957 25:36

3M ago25:36

25:36

Welcome to a captivating episode of the Explaining History Podcast, we take an insightful journey into the legacy of Mussolini's historical memory in Italy. In this episode, titled "Mussolini's Mausoleum," our focus centers on the site where his remains are interred, located in Predappio, Italy. We delve into the fascinating history surrounding the…

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Explaining History

1
Thatcherism's Contradictions 1975-2023 29:25

3M ago29:25

29:25

Episode Description: In the latest instalment of the Explaining History Podcast, join us as we delve into the multifaceted nature of Thatcherism, a political ideology that has left an indelible mark on British society. This episode, titled "Thatcherism's Contradictions, 1975-2023," explores the intricate relationship between social conservatism and…

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Explaining History

1
Paris 1870 siege and revolution - In conversation with David Lawday 37:50

3M ago37:50

37:50

In this episode of Explaining History, we are delighted to welcome renowned author and dedicated Francophile, David Lawday. With his extensive knowledge and passion for French history, David delves into the dramatic and impactful events of the Siege of Paris in 1870 and the subsequent Paris Commune. The year 1870 was a turning point for France, mar…

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Explaining History

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Agent Twister - The life and faked death of John Stonehouse 35:06

4M ago35:06

35:06

This week, we have an intriguing episode as we converse with acclaimed author Philip Augur, who brings to life the tale of John Stonehouse, the controversial Labour MP. We explore the remarkable and complex narrative depicted in the book 'Agent Twister', co-written with Keely Winstone. Discover Stonehouse's tumultuous journey from political promine…

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Explaining History

1
The SAS and World War Two: In conversation with Damien Lewis 37:08

4M ago37:08

37:08

Join us on an enthralling journey into the annals of history as we delve into the extraordinary exploits of the Special Air Service (SAS) during World War Two. In this captivating episode of Explaining History, host [Podcast Host's Name] sits down with acclaimed author and historian, Damien Lewis, to explore the gripping tales of war, trauma, and t…

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Explaining History

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Isaac Murphy and the Reconstruction Era (1861-96): Explaining History in conversation with Katherine Mooney 36:27

5M ago36:27

36:27

Join us in this captivating episode of Explaining History as we delve into the remarkable life of Isaac Murphy, a legendary African American jockey, and his experiences during the Reconstruction Era (1861-96). This week Nick is joined by esteemed historian and author Katherine Mooney, who provides an insightful look into the untold stories of this …

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Explaining History

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Los Angeles and Core - The Freedom Rides 1947-61 31:21

5M ago31:21

31:21

This podcast episode "Los Angeles and CORE - The Freedom Rides 1947-61" delves into the origins of the Congress of Racial Equality (CORE) and their pivotal role in the civil rights movement. The episode focuses on James Farmer, a civil rights activist and one of the founders of CORE, who was instrumental in organizing the Freedom Rides of 1961 in A…

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Explaining History

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Save the last bullet - stories of Hitler's child soldiers 1943-45 41:21

6M ago41:21

41:21

In this captivating episode of the Explaining History podcast, we sit down with Heidi Langbein Hall, author and daughter of World War II survivor Willi Langbein. Heidi shares the harrowing story of her father's life during the war and how his memoirs have been transformed into a powerful book. At just 13 years old, Willi was taken from his family b…

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Explaining History

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Asian Nationalism and the end of the British Empire - 1945 29:50

6M ago29:50

29:50

In this episode of the Explaining History podcast, we delve into the complex relationships between Asian nationalism and the British Empire in the aftermath of World War II. Focusing on India, Burma, and Malaya, we examine how the war had radicalized nationalist movements in these countries, leading to increasing demands for independence and the ev…

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Explaining History

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Habsburg Strategic Challenges - 1914 32:29

7M ago32:29

32:29

In this episode, we dive into the strategic challenges faced by the Austro-Hungarian Army in 1914 as they mobilized for World War One. As the empire faced threats from multiple directions, including Serbia, Russia, and Italy, the army struggled to coordinate its response and maintain supply lines to its troops. We explore the political and logistic…

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Explaining History

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The Life of John Burgoyne - In conversation with Norman Poser 35:08

7M ago35:08

35:08

In this special episode of the Explaining History Podcast we hear from biographer Norman Poser, whose new book From the Battlefield to the Stage: The Many Lives of John Burgoyne tells the story of Burgoyne, who famously surrendered to the American armies at Saratoga in 1777. In this fascinating interview we explore the story of Burgoyne himself, th…

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Explaining History

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The American neoliberal counter revolution 1971-80 32:20

7M ago32:20

32:20

Welcome to the Explaining History Podcast. In this episode, we dive into the American neoliberal counter revolution of the 1970s, a period of profound political and economic change that continues to shape the world we live in today. During this decade, a new political and economic philosophy emerged, driven by figures like Milton Friedman and the C…

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Explaining History

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The post war women's movement: a global perspective - 1945 29:48

8M ago29:48

29:48

In this episode, we are exploring the post-war women's movement from a global perspective, focusing on the years 1945 and beyond. The end of World War II marked a turning point for women's rights and activism, as women from all over the world banded together to demand equal treatment and opportunities. We'll be discussing the key players and events…

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Explaining History

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Dramatising the Diary of Anne Frank - In conversation with Adam Langer 36:42

8M ago36:42

36:42

In this episode of the Explaining History podcast we sit down with Adam Langer, Editor of the Forward podcast, to discuss their latest show "Playing Anne Frank". We delve into the history of the dramatization of Anne Frank's diary and explore the complex politics of the Holocaust on either side of the Iron Curtain during the Cold War. This episode …

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Explaining History

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The Dulles Brothers and Eisenhower - 1954 29:25

9M ago29:25

29:25

In this episode of the Explaining History Podcast, we dive into the story of the Dulles brothers and their impact on the Eisenhower administration in 1954. We explore the backgrounds of John Foster Dulles and Allen Dulles, their rise to power, and the key events of their tenure as Secretary of State and Director of the CIA, respectively. We discuss…

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Explaining History

1
American Empire and the framework of modern capitalism 29:43

9M ago29:43

29:43

In this episode of the Explaining History podcast, we explore the concept of American empire and its role in the framework of modern capitalism, exploring the Making of Modern Capitalism by Leo Panitch and Sam Gindin. The book discusses key points such as the role of the state in modern capitalism, the global power dynamics at play, and the ways in…

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Explaining History

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Soviet Society and the Great Terror: 1937 26:32

9M ago26:32

26:32

During the 1930s, the Soviet Union, under the leadership of Joseph Stalin, experienced a wave of repression and terror that came to be known as the Great Terror. This period saw the widespread use of secret police, forced labor camps, and executions to suppress perceived threats to the regime. We'll be examining the causes and consequences of the G…

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Explaining History

1
A revisionist approach to the U-Boat War 1939-45 26:48

10M ago26:48

26:48

A popular view of the war at sea is that of Britain pushed right to the edge, mounting shipping losses leading to fears of starvation in Britain and possible capitulation. Military historian Max Hastings suggests otherwise, pointing to the shortcomings and failings of Germany's U-Boat fleet and the growing expertise and technological superiority of…

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Explaining History

1
Nationalism and identity in the Austro Hungarian Army 1914 28:29

10M ago28:29

28:29

Why did the patchwork Habsburg empire collapse in 1918? The pressures of war and the competing identities and loyalties of the men that fought in the Austo Hungarian armies both have a significant part to play. This podcast explores the overlapping national, regional and ethnic identities, loyalties and ambitions. Become a member at https://plus.ac…

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Explaining History

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The afterlife of Leon Trotsky's politics 1940-1982 31:51

10M ago31:51

31:51

When Leon Trotsky was murdered by NKVD agent Ramon Mercader in 1940, his ideas lived on. The Trotskyist Fourth International and the American Socialist Workers Party in particular claimed (though this was disputed by his widow Natalia) to be the inheritors of his beliefs. Trotsky's critique of the USSR and its capitalist enemies stated that the Rus…

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Explaining History

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Explaining History Study Extra: Lenin's Death and its consequences 20:36

11M ago20:36

20:36

In this episode of the Explaining History Study Extra, we explore Lenin's death and the consequences for the power struggle to succeed him. We examine the legacy of the New Economic Policy and War Communism and the divisions in the party they led to. Become a member at https://plus.acast.com/s/explaininghistory. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/priva…

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Explaining History

1
Churchill, Asquith and Lloyd George - 1916 28:13

11M ago28:13

28:13

By 1916 Winston Churchill's wartime reputation was in tatters after the disaster of the Dardanelles Campaign. His self belief was his most powerful asset, particularly as so many of his parliamentary colleagues mistrusted him. He was brought back into David Lloyd George's war cabinet, though even the new prime minster was wary of him. Lloyd George,…

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Explaining History

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Explaining History Study Extra: Social division and the origins of Italian fascism 16:37

11M ago16:37

16:37

This is the first Explaining History study extra recording for students. In this podcast we hear about the origins of Italian fascism and the experience of striking workers and returning soldiers after 1918. The desire for national unity and social order that had motivated many Italians to fight hardened into violent anti communism when they witnes…

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Explaining History

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Sir Mark Sykes and the Eastern Question - 1915 31:24

11M ago31:24

31:24

In the second year of the Great War, the British began to consider the future of the Middle East once the Ottoman Empire had been defeated. The Ottomans were proving to be far more effective fighters than the British had anticipated, but the discovery of oil at Mosul had made the control of the Middle East a priority. Prime Minister David Lloyd Geo…

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Explaining History

1
Reflections on Neoliberalism in Britain 36:40

12M ago36:40

36:40

Neoliberalism in Britain has shaped the political, economic and social fabric of the nation in its entirety for almost half a century. As a cluster of ideological positions which evolved from the interwar years onwards, it existed as a fringe doctrine. Britain's current economic and political chaos suggests that the ideology has finally reached its…

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Explaining History

1
Revolutionary Violence in Madrid in 1936 24:43

12M ago24:43

24:43

After the first attempt at a national uprising by the fascist generals in Spain ended in failure, Madrid became a dangerous and violent city dominated by anarchist militias. Many had no trust for the Republican government and their ranks were bolstered by murderers and other violent prisoners let loose from the city's jails. In 1936 many of the Mad…

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Explaining History

1
East German anti Semitism 25:01

1y ago25:01

25:01

The surviving Jews who became citizens of East Germany faced a precarious existence when the GDR was established. Not only was Stalin, the Soviet dictator, becoming ever more anti Semitic in the final years of his life, but the establishment of the state of Israel and its ties to the Western allies made Jews in Eastern Europe suspect in the eyes of…

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Explaining History

1
Britain's post war strategic questions 25:24

1y ago25:24

25:24

In the aftermath of the Second World War, the economic strains on Britain after six years of conflict were immense, but Britain's international commitments were if anything even greater than during the war. Imperial overstretch, the temporary re-conquest of other European colonies like French Indochina and the Dutch East Indies, the occupation of G…

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Explaining History

1
Tenth Anniversary Special - Myths of the Blitz 25:57

1y ago25:57

25:57

This is the tenth anniversary episode of the Explaining History Podcast, thankyou to everyone who has listened to my lo-fi ramblings over the years, I hope you've found it interesting. This week, we explore the complex social relations at the heart of Britain's blitz experience and challenge the myth of a united and stoic people pulling together, t…

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Explaining History

1
The Croat Spring 1971 26:25

1y ago26:25

26:25

Yugoslavia, a state created in 1919 and recreated from the ashes of war once again in 1945 was a federation of balkan nationalities held together after World War Two by the totalitarian Leninist Josep Tito. The fact that Yugoslavia under his leadership had liberated itself and was not dominated like the rest of Eastern Europe by the Red Army, meant…

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