Episodes

  • INTERVIEW: Austria-Hungary’s Downfall and The Eastern Front in WWI with Dr. Geoffrey Wawro
    Mar 4 2025

    Hey guys, welcome back to the Why Wars Happened History Podcast, where you learn about the causes of wars and things like, why did it happen? Was it inevitable? Who was involved?

    Sometimes I go back hundreds of years just so we can understand what happened in our narrative episodes covering the long course of a war and the background of the war.

    And if you want to talk more about war, we also have authors, historians, war generals, royalty, actors, filmmakers, a whole bunch of people come on as guests and we talk about everything about before, during, and after war. So let's go!

    The Why Wars Happened History Podcast covers The American Revolution, World War I, World War II, Medieval Wars in England, The Habsburg Empire, The War in Iraq, Scottish wars, The War of the Roses, The Cuban Missile Crisis, The Cold War, The Thirty Years War, The Hundred Years War, The American Civil War, and many others.

    -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    The Eastern Front Uncovered: Austria-Hungary’s WWI Struggles with Dr. Geoffrey Wawro

    In this episode of Why Wars Happened, Emily sits down with Dr. Geoffrey Wawro, military historian and author of A Mad Catastrophe, to unravel the chaos of the Eastern Front in World War I. They discuss the stark contrasts between the Eastern and Western fronts, Austria-Hungary’s disastrous military strategy, and how internal divisions sealed the fate of the Habsburg Empire.

    From the empire’s lack of preparation to its uneasy alliance with Germany, this conversation dives deep into one of WWI’s most overlooked theaters. If you're a fan of military history, strategy, or the fall of great empires, you won’t want to miss this one!

    Timestamps:

    00:00 Introduction to Why Wars Happened

    00:37 Meet Dr. Geoffrey Wawro

    01:37 The Eastern vs. Western Fronts: Key Differences

    03:24 How Railways Shaped WWI Strategy

    06:54 Nationalism and the Austro-Hungarian Empire’s Internal Conflicts

    11:05 Austria’s Military Failures and Unpreparedness

    22:41 Army Comparisons: Austria-Hungary vs. Russia

    30:21 The Austro-German Alliance: Strengths and Struggles

    33:46 Closing Thoughts & What’s Next

    #HistoryPodcast #WhyWarsHappened #WWI #WorldWarI #MilitaryHistory #NickLloyd #TheWesternFront #TrenchWarfare #WarToEndAllWars #Verdun #Somme #KaiserWilhelm #Ludendorff #ChemicalWarfare #MilitaryStrategy #WWIHistory #GreatWar #history #historypodcast #historyinterview #podcast #historyinterview #WhyWarsHappen #PodcastInterview #europeanhistory #militaryhistory #austrohungarian #austriahungary #austrianhungarian

    Show more Show less
    34 mins
  • Gas, The Somme, and the Depths of WWI with Experts Dan Hill and Dr. Spencer Jones
    Feb 11 2025

    Hey guys, welcome back to the Why Wars Happened History Podcast, where you learn about the causes of wars and things like, why did it happen? Was it inevitable? Who was involved?

    Sometimes I go back hundreds of years just so we can understand what happened in our narrative episodes covering the long course of a war and the background of the war.

    And if you want to talk more about war, we also have authors, historians, war generals, royalty, actors, filmmakers, a whole bunch of people come on as guests and we talk about everything about before, during, and after war. So let's go!

    The Why Wars Happened History Podcast covers The American Revolution, World War I, World War II, Medieval Wars in England, The Habsburg Empire, The War in Iraq, Scottish wars, The War of the Roses, The Cuban Missile Crisis, The Cold War, The Thirty Years War, The Hundred Years War, The American Civil War, and many others.

    ------------------------------------------------------------

    In this episode of the Why Wars Happened History Podcast, we down with two distinguished guests: Dan Hill, the founder of Battle Guide and co-host of the 'Not so Quiet on the Western Front' podcast, and Dr. Spencer Jones, an award-winning historian, author, and senior lecturer at the University of Wolverhampton. Join us as we discuss various aspects of World War I, including the Battle of the Somme, the evolution of trench warfare, the role of artillery and gases, and the complexities of German counteroffensives. Learn about the strategic decisions made by historical figures like General Haig, and discover how modern tours and digital content bring history to life. Tune in for a comprehensive and fascinating exploration of WWI history.

    00:00 Intro

    00:45 Meet the Guests: Dan Hill and Dr. Spencer Jones

    01:50 Creating Battlefield Tours and Videos

    03:37 Deep Dive: The Battle of the Somme

    06:50 Challenges and Strategies of WWI

    10:29 Douglas Haig: A Controversial Figure

    17:12 The Impact of Weapon Quality in WWI

    19:18 Experiencing History: Battlefield Tours

    22:06 The Legacy of the Battle of the Somme

    24:42 The Reality of Life in 1914

    25:52 The Bravery of Endurance in War

    27:27 German Counteroffensives: A Tactical Analysis

    33:54 The Evolution of Trench Warfare

    45:08 The Role and Impact of Chemical Warfare

    50:49 Upcoming Tours and Final Thoughts

    Show more Show less
    54 mins
  • From Medieval Combat to the Rise of Professional Standing Armies
    Feb 4 2025

    Hey guys, welcome back to the Why Wars Happened History Podcast, where you learn about the causes of wars and things like, why did it happen? Was it inevitable? Who was involved?

    Sometimes I go back hundreds of years just so we can understand what happened in our narrative episodes covering the long course of a war and the background of the war.

    And if you want to talk more about war, we also have authors, historians, war generals, royalty, actors, filmmakers, a whole bunch of people come on as guests and we talk about everything about before, during, and after war. So let's go!

    The Why Wars Happened History Podcast covers The American Revolution, World War I, World War II, Medieval Wars in England, The Habsburg Empire, The War in Iraq, Scottish wars, The War of the Roses, The Cuban Missile Crisis, The Cold War, The Thirty Years War, The Hundred Years War, The American Civil War, and many others.

    ------------------------------------------------------------

    In this episode of Why Wars Happened History Podcast, we delve into the intricacies of 18th-century warfare with our special guest, Dr. Alexander S. Burns, an esteemed historian and author. Dr. Burns discusses his recent book 'Infantry in Battle, 1733 to 1783', which explores the experiences of ordinary soldiers during key historical battles such as the War of Polish Succession. We chat about the evolution from medieval combat techniques to the rise of professional standing armies, the role of muskets and bayonets, and the psychological toll on soldiers. We also touch on how modern historical writing can make the past more accessible and intriguing. Perfect for history buffs, military enthusiasts, and anyone fascinated by how warfare has evolved over time.

    00:00 Welcome to Why Wars Happen History Podcast

    00:37 Introducing Dr. Alexander S. Burns

    01:18 The Art of Writing History

    02:43 Mapping Historical Battles

    04:50 The War of the Polish Succession

    10:02 The Role of Bayonets and Close Combat

    17:24 Evolution of Military Tactics

    22:46 The Impact of Muskets on Warfare

    32:19 Comparing Arrows and Bullets in Battle

    37:16 Upcoming Projects and Farewell

    Show more Show less
    39 mins
  • The Lost Paratroopers of Normandy and Villagers Battle Nazis in WWII
    Jan 28 2025

    Hey guys, welcome back to the Why Wars Happened History Podcast, where you learn about the causes of wars and things like, why did it happen? Was it inevitable? Who was involved?

    Sometimes I go back hundreds of years just so we can understand what happened in our narrative episodes covering the long course of a war and the background of the war.

    And if you want to talk more about war, we also have authors, historians, war generals, royalty, actors, filmmakers, a whole bunch of people come on as guests and we talk about everything about before, during, and after war. So let's go!

    The Why Wars Happened History Podcast covers The American Revolution, World War I, World War II, Medieval Wars in England, The Habsburg Empire, The War in Iraq, Scottish wars, The War of the Roses, The Cuban Missile Crisis, The Cold War, The Thirty Years War, The Hundred Years War, The American Civil War, and many others.

    ------------------------------------------------------------

    In this episode of Why Wars Happened History Podcast, we go over the the fascinating and heroic story of the lost paratroopers of Normandy with special guest Stephen G. Rabe, decorated author and retired professor of history. Stephen discusses his book, 'The Lost Paratroopers of Normandy,' which recounts the tale of paratroopers from the 82nd and 101st Airborne Divisions who landed off target on D-Day, June 6, 1944.

    Experience the bravery, chaos, and solidarity that emerged between these soldiers and the inhabitants of the isolated French village, Graignes.

    Learn about the incredible efforts of villagers like the Rigault family, who risked everything to protect and aid the American paratroopers despite the grave dangers posed by the ruthless Nazi 17th Waffen SS Division.

    This episode is filled with historical insights, personal stories, and a deep look into the extraordinary courage displayed by ordinary people during one of history's most pivotal moments. Don't miss it!

    00:00 Introduction to Why Wars Happen History Podcast

    00:46 Interview with Stephen G. Rabe

    02:02 The Lost Paratroopers of Normandy

    02:45 The Chaotic Landing on D-Day

    06:43 Villagers' Encounter with Paratroopers

    10:07 Resistance and Solidarity in Graignes

    20:30 The Rigault Family's Heroic Efforts

    23:45 Honoring the Rago Family's Heroism.

    25:32 The Courage of Ordinary People

    27:30 Nazi Atrocities and Village Resistance

    28:54 The Aftermath and Historical Documentation

    29:53 The Role of Women in Resistance

    31:57 The Paratroopers' Struggle and Survival

    41:18 The Legacy of the 101st Airborne

    43:58 Reflections and Future Projects

    Show more Show less
    47 mins
  • Time Travel, Buddy Comedy & The American Revolution with Sarah Peters
    Jan 21 2025

    Hey guys, welcome back to the Why Wars Happened History Podcast, where you learn about the causes of wars and things like, why did it happen? Was it inevitable? Who was involved?

    Sometimes I go back hundreds of years just so we can understand what happened in our narrative episodes covering the long course of a war and the background of the war.

    And if you want to talk more about war, we also have authors, historians, war generals, royalty, actors, filmmakers, a whole bunch of people come on as guests and we talk about everything about before, during, and after war. So let's go!

    The Why Wars Happened History Podcast covers The American Revolution, World War I, World War II, Medieval Wars in England, The Habsburg Empire, The War in Iraq, Scottish wars, The War of the Roses, The Cuban Missile Crisis, The Cold War, The Thirty Years War, The Hundred Years War, The American Civil War, and many others.

    ------------------------------------------------------------

    In this episode of the Why Wars Happened History Podcast, we converse with Sarah Peters, producer, writer, and showrunner of the TV series "Making History". The show is a comedy featuring time travel from the 21st century to the 18th century, right before the American Revolution. Sarah shares insights about the production, the hilarious writing process, and the fun challenges of combining history with modern humor. Fans of history, comedy, and time travel, as well as those interested in the American Revolution, will love this in-depth discussion about bringing "Making History" to life.

    00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Guest

    00:48 Discussing 'Making History' TV Series

    02:17 Behind the Scenes and Filming Locations

    03:24 Time Travel and Comedy Elements

    05:10 Character Dynamics and Writing Process

    07:16 Challenges and Adjustments in Production

    16:32 Sarah Peters' Career Journey

    23:08 Future Projects and Closing Remarks

    #history #war #behindthescenes #bts #theamericanrevolution #writingcomedy #comedytv #funnyhistory #timetravel #screenwriting #comedyproducer #historyproducer #harleyquinn #HistoryPodcast #AmericanRevolution #MakingHistory #TimeTravelshow #HistoryComedy #ComedyWriting #HistoryAndHumor #18thCentury #HistoricalProduction #TVShowWriter #WhyWarsHappen #RevolutionaryWar #tvshowrunner

    Show more Show less
    26 mins
  • WWII’s Secret Soldiers: The Forgotten British Spies of World War Two
    Dec 24 2024

    Hey guys, welcome back to the Why Wars Happened History Podcast, where you learn about the causes of wars and things like, why did it happen? Was it inevitable? Who was involved?

    Sometimes I go back hundreds of years just so we can understand what happened in our narrative episodes covering the long course of a war and the background of the war.

    And if you want to talk more about war, we also have authors, historians, war generals, royalty, actors, filmmakers, a whole bunch of people come on as guests and we talk about everything about before, during, and after war. So let's go!

    The Why Wars Happened History Podcast covers The American Revolution, World War I, World War II, Medieval Wars in England, The Habsburg Empire, The War in Iraq, Scottish wars, The War of the Roses, The Cuban Missile Crisis, The Cold War, The Thirty Years War, The Hundred Years War, The American Civil War, and many others.

    ------------------------------------------------------------

    In this episode of Why Wars Happened, we're joined by war historian and author Shannon Monaghan, whose work 'A Quiet Company of Dangerous Men' explores the covert operations and untold stories of British Special Operations Soldiers during World War II. Shannon discusses the clandestine world of the SOE (Special Operations Executive), a secret British agency tasked with espionage, sabotage, and resistance during the war. The discussion highlights the incredible exploits of figures like Peter Kemp, David Smiley, Billy McLean, and Julian Amery—men who operated behind enemy lines, gathered intelligence, and executed daring missions that were critical to the Allied war effort. From guerrilla warfare in occupied Europe to covert actions against totalitarian regimes, this episode uncovers the hidden heroes whose bravery and ingenuity made a significant impact during WWII.

    00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Guest

    00:32 The Story Behind the Book Title

    01:47 Discovering the SOE

    04:59 Peter Kemp: The Real-Life Action Figure

    13:37 David Smiley: The Soldier's Soldier

    18:07 Billy McLean: The Born Guerrilla Leader

    27:59 Julian Amery: The Intellectual Politician

    32:00 Conclusion and Upcoming Projects

    #WWIIHistory #SpecialOperations #Britain #British #WWIIallies #SOE #SpyStories #WWIIHeroes #Historypodcast #CovertOps #WarPodcast #BritishHistory #WWIISecrets #WWII #WorldWar2 #Espionage #MilitaryHistory #BehindEnemyLines #HistoryPodcast #WarStories #BritishSpies #podcastinterviews #spies #wwiispies #worldwar2spies #HistoryInterviews #GuerrillaWarfare #WWIIHeroes #WarHistory #HistoryBuffs

    Show more Show less
    33 mins
  • Jon Cryer Reveals Dark WWII Secrets in New Podcast - The Man Who Calculated Death
    Dec 17 2024

    Hey guys, welcome back to the Why Wars Happened History Podcast, where you learn about the causes of wars and things like, why did it happen? Was it inevitable? Who was involved?

    Sometimes I go back hundreds of years just so we can understand what happened in our narrative episodes covering the long course of a war and the background of the war.

    And if you want to talk more about war, we also have authors, historians, war generals, royalty, actors, filmmakers, a whole bunch of people come on as guests and we talk about everything about before, during, and after war. So let's go!

    The Why Wars Happened History Podcast covers The American Revolution, World War I, World War II, Medieval Wars in England, The Habsburg Empire, The War in Iraq, Scottish wars, The War of the Roses, The Cuban Missile Crisis, The Cold War, The Thirty Years War, The Hundred Years War, The American Civil War, and many others.

    ------------------------------------------------------------

    In this episode of the Why Wars Happened History Podcast, we sit down with Hollywood actor and producer Jon Cryer to discuss his new podcast series, 'The Man Who Calculated Death.' We discuss the compelling story behind the series, which explores the life of journalist Suzanne Rico's grandfather, Robert Lusser, an engineer whose work included creating the V1 – the world’s first cruise missile – during World War II. We cover Lusser's legacy, his contributions to Germany's wartime efforts, and the personal and emotional journey of protecting his family through it all.

    00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

    00:51 The Man Who Calculated Death: Origin of the Title

    01:58 Suzanne Rico's Family Revelation

    03:28 Facing the Dark Past: Suzanne's Journey

    05:33 Historical Context and Moral Dilemmas

    08:19 Robert Lusser's Life and Motivations

    13:32 Podcast Production Insights

    15:48 The Impact of Lusser's Work

    29:10 Future Projects and Final Thoughts

    #WWIIHistory #WorldWar2 #WWII #HistoryBuff #WarHistory #MilitaryHistory #HistoryPodcast #HistoricalInterviews #JonCryer #WWIImissiles #Podcastinterviews #V1Rocket #WWIIFacts #HistoryFans #WWIIStories #WarStories #WWIIepisodes #WWIIinterviews #warhistory #WWIIsecrets

    Show more Show less
    36 mins
  • Military History with Dr. Chris Newton: From Old Wars to Modern Conflicts
    Nov 26 2024

    Hey guys, welcome back to the Why Wars Happened History Podcast, where you learn about the causes of wars and things like, why did it happen? Was it inevitable? Who was involved?

    Sometimes I go back hundreds of years just so we can understand what happened in our narrative episodes covering the long course of a war and the background of the war.

    And if you want to talk more about war, we also have authors, historians, war generals, royalty, actors, filmmakers, a whole bunch of people come on as guests and we talk about everything about before, during, and after war. So let's go!

    The Why Wars Happened History Podcast covers The American Revolution, World War I, World War II, Medieval Wars in England, The Habsburg Empire, The War in Iraq, Scottish wars, The War of the Roses, The Cuban Missile Crisis, The Cold War, The Thirty Years War, The Hundred Years War, The American Civil War, and many others.

    ------------------------------------------------------------

    In this episode of Why Wars Happened History Podcast, join us in an insightful conversation with Dr. Chris Newton, a renowned war historian and teaching fellow at King's Institute for Applied Security Studies. With a PhD in war studies and a background as a defense policy advisor, Dr. Newton delves into the intricacies of military history, the potential for World War III, and the contemporary security landscape. Explore his journey into history, the impact of current geopolitical tensions, and his analysis of the American Revolution. If you're passionate about history, warfare, and global security, this episode is a must-watch!

    00:00 Introduction to Dr. Chris Newton

    00:22 King's Institute for Applied Security Studies

    01:47 Chris's Journey into Military History

    04:18 Contemporary Global Conflicts and World War III

    08:31 Modern Parallels to Historical Conflicts

    09:16 Polarization in Politics and Society

    20:53 Historical Debates in Modern Politics

    22:42 The Evolution of Soldiers and Warfare

    33:24 Prisoners of War: Then and Now

    37:55 Personal Reflections and Future Projects

    42:58 Conclusion and Farewell

    #MilitaryHistory #AmericanRevolution #RussiaUkraineConflict #Warfare #HistoryBuffs #Kingscollege

    Show more Show less
    43 mins