History of the Second World War

• 242: North Africa 1940 Pt. 6 - Bardia

  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. Contact [email protected] to advertise on History of the Second World War. History of the Second World War is part of the Airwave Media podcast network. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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• 241: North Africa 1940 Pt. 5 - Operation Compass

  In Episode 241 of “History of the Second World War,” dive into the explosive opening of Operation Compass — Britain’s first major offensive in North Africa during WWII, launched in December 1940 against Italian fortified camps. Witness how British forces, including the 7th Armored and 4th Indian Divisions with their iconic Matilda tanks and devastating artillery, overwhelmed Italian defenses through clever flanking maneuvers and overwhelming firepower — even catching Italians off-guard during breakfast! The episode captures the rapid, almost unstoppable success of the attack, which far exceeded initial objectives, while also hinting at looming logistical challenges that would test British momentum. Contact [email protected] to advertise on History of the Second World War. History of the Second World War is part of the Airwave Media podcast network. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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• Interview 51: Pearl Harbor with Mark Stille

  For this interview I was joined by Mark Stille to discuss his latest book, Pearl Harbor: Japan's Greatest Disaster. https://www.ospreypublishing.com/us/pearl-harbor-9781472865311/ Contact [email protected] to advertise on History of the Second World War. History of the Second World War is part of the Airwave Media podcast network. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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• 240: North Africa 1940 Pt. 4 - British Build-Up

  As Italy advances into Egypt, Britain quietly prepares its first major offensive — Operation Compass — in this tense buildup episode. We explore the friction between Churchill’s impatient push for victory and General Wavell’s insistence on realistic desert readiness, while massive reinforcements arrive: Matilda tanks, armored regiments, artillery, and supplies all vital to a bold strike through the Enba Gap. You’ll also see how Italy’s disastrous invasion of Greece shifts British priorities — from Egypt to the Balkans — with far-reaching consequences. This is the quiet storm before Operation Compass, where logistics, terrain, and leadership clash in the desert — setting the stage for one of WWII’s most consequential early battles. Contact [email protected] to advertise on History of the Second World War. History of the Second World War is part of the Airwave Media podcast network. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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• Interview 50: Defenders of the Reich with Robert Forsyth

  This time I was joined by Robert Forsyth to discuss his new book Defenders of the Reich: The Luftwaffe's War Against America's Bombers which you can purchase from Osprey publishing here: https://www.ospreypublishing.com/us/defenders-of-the-reich-9781472862860/ Contact [email protected] to advertise on History of the Second World War. History of the Second World War is part of the Airwave Media podcast network. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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