History of the Second World War

In this episode of “History of the Second World War,” we explore Yugoslavia’s precarious position in the early years of WWII — a newly formed nation straddling ethnic diversity and geopolitical tension, created after WWI from the remnants of the Austro-Hungarian and Ottoman empires. As Germany surged into Poland and Italy sought to expand its influence in the Balkans, Yugoslavia found itself caught between competing powers: diplomatically aligned with France but economically entangled with Nazi Germany through vital resource trade. When Italy’s ill-fated invasion of Greece forced it to seek transit routes through Yugoslav territory — a move the neutral country refused — tensions escalated rapidly. This episode sets the stage for how Yugoslavia, despite its best efforts at neutrality, would soon become a focal point in Hitler’s broader Balkan strategy, setting the stage for one of WWII’s most dramatic and consequential invasions.

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History of the Second World War is part of the Airwave Media podcast network.
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Late last year I asked for listener questions, this is the result!

If you have First or Second World War Questions send them to [email protected].

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History of the Second World War is part of the Airwave Media podcast network.
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In this episode of “History of the Second World War,” we explore the often-overlooked but strategically significant campaign in East Africa during 1940–1941, where British and Italian forces clashed across rugged terrain. While the Western Desert dominated headlines, behind-the-scenes battles raged in Ethiopia and Somalia — fought not just by Britons and Italians, but by diverse colonial troops including Indian soldiers and African askaris serving under both empires. We’ll examine how logistical challenges, shifting alliances, and Churchill’s broader Balkan ambitions shaped British strategy in the region — even as General Wavell struggled to balance multiple fronts with limited resources.

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History of the Second World War is part of the Airwave Media podcast network.

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In Episode 243 of History of the Second World War, we explore the pivotal Battle of Beda Fomm in North Africa during January 1941 — the decisive follow-up to the British victory at Bardia that shattered Italian morale and control in Libya. With the Italian 10th Army decimated and retreating, British forces swiftly capitalized on their momentum, capturing thousands of prisoners and securing key Mediterranean territory. But this battlefield triumph had far-reaching consequences: it triggered Hitler’s decision to intervene by sending German reinforcements — including future legend Erwin Rommel — to bolster Italy, setting the stage for a new phase in North Africa that would reshape the war’s trajectory. Perfect for listeners who want to understand how one battle could ignite a global shift in strategy and leadership.

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History of the Second World War is part of the Airwave Media podcast network.
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In Episode 242 of History of the Second World War, we dive into Operation Compass, Britain’s first major offensive in North Africa in late 1940 — specifically focusing on the critical assault on Bardia, an Italian stronghold along the coast with formidable defenses. After initial successes capturing Sidi Barrani and forcing a chaotic Italian retreat, British forces now face the challenge of overcoming heavily fortified positions to continue their advance westward toward Tobruk and Benghazi. This episode explores how engineers, tanks like the Matilda, and coordinated infantry maneuvers broke through enemy lines — even as British planners gambled on outnumbered troops and unconventional tactics. You’ll also get a glimpse into the grim conditions inside Italian prisoner camps like Tobruk, where tens of thousands were crammed under brutal circumstances — setting the stage for what’s to come in the next episode: the final push to Beda Fomm.

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History of the Second World War is part of the Airwave Media podcast network.
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