In this episode, we are honoured to speak with Dr Ian Isherwood, a historian, scholar, and author of the newly released book The Battalion: Citizen Soldiers at War on the Western Front. Dr Isherwood provides a deeply researched and heartfelt account of the 8th Battalion, The Queen’s (Royal West Surrey Regiment), during the First World War. Drawing from personal letters, memoirs, and diaries, this work sheds light on the emotional resilience, motivations, and lived experiences of these citizen soldiers as they faced some of the war’s most harrowing battles. Join us as we delve into the origins of this project, uncover the personal stories behind the battalion, and discuss the fresh perspectives this book offers on the Great War.

In this episode, we’re joined by Professor Gary Sheffield, President of the Western Front Association, to explore his latest research comparing the British retreats of 1914 and 1940. Drawing from his forthcoming book on the British Army in both World Wars, Professor Sheffield provides an in-depth analysis of these two critical moments in military history. He discusses the tactical, logistical and leadership challenges faced by the British Army in each retreat, offering a compelling comparison of the strategies and outcomes in these distinct periods.

In today’s episode, we have the pleasure of hosting Dr. Adam Prime, an independent scholar, to discuss the defence of the Suez Canal during the pivotal years of 1914 and 1915. Dr. Prime offers fascinating insights into the strategic importance of the canal during World War I, delving into the challenges faced by Allied forces in protecting this vital waterway. Speaking from his home in the NorthWest, Dr. Prime sheds light on lesser-known details of the conflict, making for a captivating conversation on military history and geopolitics.

Academic Dr Brian Hall talks to me about his research into the overlooked experiences of the 325th Field Signal Battalion, the first Black signal unit in the U.S. Army during the First World War. His work highlights the battalion's contributions and the challenges they faced within a racially prejudiced military environment, arguing that their technical proficiency and combat service challenged racial stereotypes and contributed to the broader struggle for civil rights. Dr Hall is a historian based at the University of Salford.

Author and former RAF navigator John Nichol talks about his latest book and theatre tour, The Unknown Warrior. This book is an exploration of the poignant history and enduring significance of the Unknown Warrior in Westminster Abbey, uncovering stories of sacrifice, remembrance, and the personal and collective impact of war. It is published by Simon & Schuster UK. Further info is here: www.JohnNicholLive.com. If you’re listening to this after 7 November 2024, the tour has ended.

In this episode, Timothy Halstead takes us on a journey through the involvement of public school boys in the Great War, challenging traditional perceptions and offering fresh insights into their role and experiences. Drawing from his ground-breaking work, "More Than Victims of Horace," Halstead unveils the complexities of this narrative, demonstrating that the reality was far more nuanced than previously believed.

Through meticulous research and analysis, Halstead explores the professionalization of the British Army in the years leading up to 1914 and its evolving relationship with public schools. He delves into the diverse educational approaches of these schools and how they prepared their boys for war, examining the range of skills needed for the army's rapid expansion and effectiveness on the battlefield.

Moreover, Halstead examines the contributions of public schools to the war effort on the home front, highlighting their role in supporting the nation in arms. Drawing from archival sources and the records of the Headmasters' Conference, "More Than Victims of Horace" offers the first scholarly analysis of public schools during 1914–1918, providing invaluable insights into this pivotal period of history.