In this thought-provoking episode, Dr. Jonathan Krause and Professor William Philpott illuminate the lives and leadership of the senior French generals who shaped the course of the First World War based on their recent book. Despite commanding the largest force on the Western Front and ultimately achieving victory, these generals remain largely obscured in historical accounts. Drawing from a wealth of primary source material housed in France's military archives, this episode offers fresh insights into their strategies, successes, and challenges. Dr. Krause's expertise in French colonial history during WWI and Professor Philpott's research in 20th-century warfare provide a comprehensive understanding of the political, strategic, and personal dimensions of these generals' roles. From international acclaim to internal mutinies, their stories reveal the complexities of wartime leadership and the enduring legacy of the Great War.

In this riveting episode, former GP and author Colin Hutchinson takes us on a compelling journey through the history of the Royal Field Artillery during World War I, as depicted in his book, "The Young Gunner." Drawing from the letters and journals of Second Lieutenant Colin Hutchinson, David’s relative, the narrative unfolds the gripping tales of front-line action across thirteen battles on the Western Front, including pivotal engagements such as Mons 1914, Ypres 1915, The Somme 1916, Passchendaele 1917, and Ypres 1918. Through Hutchinson's vivid accounts, listeners gain profound insights into the realities of life on the front line and the tactical intricacies of artillery deployment in battle. Moreover, Hutchinson's perspective offers valuable reflections on the reasons behind the staggering casualties of the war and the slow adoption of necessary tactical changes. With copious factual footnotes and detailed maps, "The Young Gunner" emerges as an indispensable resource for military history enthusiasts, shedding new light on the experiences of the 140,000 men who served in the Royal Field Artillery during the First World War.