In this episode, we review The Cold War: A New History by John Lewis Gaddis, examining how the author interprets the global conflict that defined the second half of the twentieth century. We discuss Gaddis’s analysis of key events, superpower rivalry, and the ideological, political, and economic forces that shaped the Cold War era.
How did World War One push Russia toward the breaking point in February 1917? In this episode, we analyse the war’s effects on the economy, the military, social cohesion, and the legitimacy of the Tsarist government to understand how wartime pressures produced a revolutionary crisis.
How crucial was World War One in bringing about the Russian Revolution of October 1917? In this episode, we analyse the war’s impact on Russia’s economy, society, military, and political legitimacy to assess whether it acted as the decisive trigger or merely intensified long-standing tensions.
Journey into one of history’s greatest Arctic mysteries: the rise, resilience, and disappearance of the Norse settlements in Greenland. In this episode, we uncover the real story behind Viking expansion westward—from Erik the Red’s exile-driven voyage to the fleeting outpost at L’Anse aux Meadows and the final, haunting traces of a vanished colony.
Blending saga literature, archaeology, climate science, and Inuit perspectives, we explore why these tough, sea-faring settlers succeeded for centuries in one of the world’s harshest environments—and why they ultimately failed to survive. Was it climate change? Trade collapse? Cultural rigidity? Conflict? Or all of the above?
Perfect for IB History students and curious listeners alike, this episode reveals how historians piece together evidence to solve a thousand-year-old puzzle. A gripping investigation of adaptation, identity, and what happens when a society pushes the limits of its world.
How did the Aztec Empire rise to dominance in central Mexico during the early 15th century? In this episode, we explore the political structures, military strategies, economic systems, and cultural achievements that defined the empire between 1428 and 1469. A rigorous, evidence-based examination of one of Mesoamerica’s most influential civilizations.
Unlock the secrets of top-level history analysis with this deep-dive masterclass on IB History source skills. In this episode, we break down exactly how to tackle every question on Paper 1—from crafting sharp inferences and decoding an author’s message to mastering OPVL, comparison, and the final mini-essay. Using rich historical examples, including apartheid South Africa and the Sophiatown removals, we explore how to read sources like a historian, integrate your own knowledge, and avoid the common traps that hold students back.
Whether you're preparing for exams or just want to think more critically about the world around you, this episode gives you the tools to analyse evidence, question biases, and build powerful arguments. Perfect for IB History students, teachers, and anyone who wants to level up their historical thinking.
This episode examines the extent to which World War One contributed to Stalin’s rise to power. We explore the war’s role in weakening the Tsarist regime, accelerating revolutionary movements, and reshaping the political landscape Stalin would eventually master. A thoughtful analysis for students, history fans, and anyone curious about the origins of Soviet leadership.
How resilient was the Tsarist regime as Europe stood on the brink of World War One? In this episode, we analyse Russia’s political structures, social tensions, economic pressures, and the strength of opposition groups to assess the true stability of Nicholas II’s rule in 1914. A concise yet rigorous exploration for students and history enthusiasts.
This podcast considers the complex history of the Vietnam War, exploring its origins in Vietnamese nationalism and French colonialism, and its escalation through the Cold War rivalry between the United States and communist powers. The hosts analyse the differing motivations and policies of US presidents from Truman to Nixon regarding involvement, highlighting the internal political and social factors within both Vietnam and the United States that influenced the conflict's trajectory. Furthermore, the sources discuss the reasons for the US's failure to achieve its objectives and the eventual withdrawal, alongside the war's significant impact on international relations and domestic American society. The historiography of the war is also touched upon, noting the ongoing debates and varying interpretations of its causes and consequences.
The podcast examines the multifaceted reasons behind the US failure in the Vietnam War and its wide-ranging consequences. They analyse the impact of guerrilla warfare, the ideological commitment of the Vietnamese, and the social and political missteps of the American forces within Vietnam. Furthermore, the sources explore the significant domestic pressures in the United States, including the anti-war movement, economic strains, and political miscalculations, which undermined the war effort. Finally, the texts discuss how the Vietnam War influenced the Cold War, US foreign policy, and American society, leaving a lasting and divisive legacy.
This podcast explores the transformation of the Civil Rights Movement after 1965, examining the shift from integration and nonviolence towards Black Nationalism and militant self-defence. They investigate the reasons for these changes, including disillusionment with the pace of progress, socio-economic disparities in the urban North, and the growing influence of figures like Malcolm X. Furthermore, the sources analyse the results of this radicalisation, such as the emergence of the Black Panther Party, the rise of black cultural pride, and the increased focus on issues of economic inequality, alongside the tragic assassinations of key leaders like Martin Luther King Jr.
This podcast offers an analysis of Richard Nixon's domestic policies, evaluating both their successes and failures. They explore various policy areas, including economy, environment, youth, women's rights, civil rights, and welfare, with some discussion of the complexities of his economic management. Additionally, it presents a debate regarding whether Nixon's foreign policy methods undermined democratic principles through secrecy and clandestine operations, considering arguments both for and against this viewpoint. Collectively, the podcast provides a framework for understanding the impact and controversies of the Nixon administration on the United States.
This podcast analyses Richard Nixon's foreign policy during his presidency, focusing on his key initiatives and their outcomes. It examines his efforts to end the Vietnam War, his groundbreaking détente strategy with the Soviet Union and China through "Triangular Diplomacy," and his administration's actions in Chile and the Middle East. While highlighting successes like normalising relations with China and achieving arms control treaties, the podcast also discusses controversial aspects, including the escalation of the Vietnam War, interventions in other nations' affairs, and the economic repercussions of Middle East policy. Ultimately, it suggests that the evaluation of Nixon's foreign policy depends on the criteria used to measure success and the extent to which the administration as a whole is considered, rather than just Nixon himself.
Focuses on the reasons for US involvement in Chile, and its effects. Assesses in particular the degree to which the overthrow of Allende was the result of US involvement rather than domestic factors.
This episode considers the Alliance for Progress, a significant initiative of the Kennedy administration aimed at fostering economic and social development in Latin America during the Cold War. It provides a comprehensive overview of the programme's establishment, objectives as outlined in the Charter of Punta del Este, and its implementation, examining the roles of various actors like the US government, Latin American nations, and international organisations. Additionally, ir critically assess the successes and failures of the Alliance, considering factors such as political will, economic structures, and social reforms, alongside the ever-present context of US foreign policy and the threat of communism.
Considers the reasons for, and features of, Eisenhower's "New Look" in foreign policy. It then proceeds to consider successes and failures, with a particular focus on countries in the Americas (e.g. Guatemala, Cuba, Dominican Republic, Nixon's visit to Latin America).
This podcast analyses the impact of Truman's containment policies on Latin America between 1947 and 1953. It argues that Truman, preoccupied with communism in Europe and Asia, prioritised military solutions and regional stability over economic aid and democratic progress in Latin America, fostering resentment. Initial positive sentiment following the Act of Chapultepec, which promised sovereignty, was soon undermined by interventions and the Rio Pact, pushing Latin American nations into an anti-communist stance without reciprocal benefits. The establishment of the OAS and the School of the Americas further solidified this approach, often supporting autocratic regimes. Despite a brief acknowledgement of socio-economic needs with the Point Four program, military aid remained the focus, leading to rising anti-Americanism and strained relationships by the end of Truman's presidency.
This episode examines Fidel Castro's rule in Cuba, exploring his rise to power, the consolidation and maintenance of his authority, and the aims and impacts of his domestic and foreign policies from the revolution in 1959 into the post-Soviet era. They analyse the interplay of ideology, political control, economic strategies, social reforms (particularly in areas like health, education, and women's rights), cultural influence, and the treatment of opposition and minorities. Furthermore, the texts discuss Cuba's relationship with the United States and the Soviet Union, its role in international affairs, and the long-term consequences of Castro's leadership on Cuban society.
Compares and contrasts the methods and conditions which led to the rise to power of Mao in China (1949) and Castro in Cuba (1959), focusing on such themes as:
Conditions > economic factors
Conditions > social division
Conditions > impact of war
Conditions > weakness of political system
Methods > persuasion and propaganda
Methods > coercion and force
Methods > the role of leaders
Methods > Ideology
Focuses on comparing and contrasting SEVEN Cold War policies of each of the Presidents (Truman, Eisenhower, Kennedy, Johnson, Nixon).
This podcast is designed to accompany the decision-making simulation at ActiveHistory entitled "Which US President are YOU?" (activehistory.co.uk/presidents).
This provides a great way to draw together key points for the "Cold War" section of Paper 2 IBDP History, as well as Paper 3 Americas for Higher Level.