Supernova in the East VI Description: When do spirit, tenacity, resilience and bravery cross into madness? When cities are incinerated? When suicide attacks become the norm? When atomic weapons are used? Japan’s leaders test the limits of national endurance in the war’s last year.
In “Hardcore History” journalist and broadcaster Dan Carlin takes his “Martian”, unorthodox way of thinking and applies it to the past. Was Alexander the Great as bad a person as Adolf Hitler? What would Apaches with modern weapons be like? Will our modern civilization ever fall like civilizations from past eras? This isn’t academic history (and Carlin isn’t a historian) but the podcast’s unique blend of high drama, masterful narration and Twilight Zone-style twists has entertained millions of listeners
Books Mentioned in this Podcast - Supernova in the East VI:
Book Title: How War Ends
Author: Gideon Rose
Book Title: The War of the World
Author: Niall Ferguson
Book Title: Memoirs of the Second World War
Author: Winston Churchill
Book Title: Downfall
Author: Richard B. Frank
The Wars for Asia 1911 – 1949
Author: S.C.M Paine
The Pacific War
A Dictionary of Battles (1715-1815)
Book Title: Hirohito’s War
Author: Francis Pike
Book Title: India At War
Author: Yasmin Khan
Book Title: Touched With Fire
Book Title: Japan’s Last Bid for Victory
Author: Robert Lyman
Book Title: The Rising Sun
Author: John Tolland
Book Title: American Warlords
Author: Jonathan W. Jordan
Book Title: Eagle Against the Sun
Author: Ronald H. Spector
Book Title: The Things our Fathers Saw
Author: Matthew A. Rozell
Wartime
LIFE Goes to War
With the Old Breed
Book Title: The Storm of Steel
Author: Ernst Junger
End of the Japanese Imperial Navy
The Encyclopedia of Military History
Kamikaze, Cherry Blossoms, and Nationalism
Twilight of the Gods
Rampage
Embracing Defeat
Into the Rising Sun
A Tomb Called Iwo Jima
Implacable Foes
War
Choice Under Fire
Bombs, Cities & Civilians
The Night Tokyo Burned
The Battle of Okinawa
The Mammoth Book of Eyewitness World War II
Hibakusha
Summary of In Hardcore History Show 67 - Supernova in the East VI
In Hardcore History Show 67 – Supernova in the East VI, Dan Carlin continues his exploration of Japan’s role in World War II. He delves deeper into the motivations and actions of Japanese leaders and soldiers, revealing a complex and tragic picture of a nation that was both victim and aggressor.
Background
Carlin begins by discussing the Japanese concept of “kokutai,” or national essence, which was used to justify Japan’s imperial ambitions. He also explores the influence of the samurai tradition on Japanese culture and society, and how this contributed to a culture of honor and loyalty that pervaded the military.
Japanese Strategy
Carlin then turns his attention to Japan’s strategy in the war, which was heavily influenced by the belief that Japan was fighting a holy war against the West. He discusses the Battle of Midway, where Japan suffered a major defeat, and how this forced Japanese leaders to rethink their strategy.
The Battle of Guadalcanal
Carlin then focuses on the Battle of Guadalcanal, which took place in 1942 and was a major turning point in the Pacific theater of the war. He discusses the brutal fighting that took place on the island, and how both sides suffered heavy losses. Carlin also explores the role of individual soldiers in the battle, highlighting the bravery and sacrifice of ordinary men who were caught up in a larger conflict.
The Fall of Singapore
Dan Carlin then discusses the fall of Singapore, which was a major defeat for the British and a significant victory for Japan. He explores the reasons for Japan’s success, including their superior tactics and the incompetence of the British leadership.
Japanese Atrocities
Carlin then delves into the darker side of Japan’s war effort, discussing the atrocities committed by Japanese soldiers against civilians and prisoners of war. He explores the mindset that led to these brutal acts, and how this was connected to the samurai tradition of honor and loyalty.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Hardcore History Show 67 – Supernova in the East VI provides a detailed and nuanced look at Japan’s role in World War II. It explores the motivations and actions of Japanese leaders and soldiers, and reveals the complex and tragic picture of a nation that was both victim and aggressor. The podcast is a must-listen for anyone interested in the history of World War II, and offers valuable insights into the psychology and culture of war.