February marks the 80th anniversary of the Battle of Iwo Jima, one of the most iconic battles of the Pacific War. But why is the battle so iconic, when so many other Pacific actions have fallen through the cracks of history. Mat is joined by US historian John McManus to find out!

Topics include the pivotal role of the USA in WW2; the strategic importance of Iwo Jima as part of the bombing campaign against Japan; the plans to capture the island; the bloody fighting on the landing beaches, the airfields and Mount Suribachi; the outcomes of the battle and the assessment of whether it was all worth it; and the enduring cultural significance of Iwo Jima.

Presenter: Mat McLachlan

Guest: John McManus

Producer: Jess Stebnicki

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