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The Phoney Victory

The World War II Illusion

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About this listen

Was World War II really the 'Good War'? In the years since the declaration of peace in 1945, many myths have sprung up around the conflict in the victorious nations. In this audiobook, Peter Hitchens deconstructs the many fables which have become associated with the narrative of the 'Good War'.

Whilst not criticising or doubting the need for war against Nazi Germany at some stage, Hitchens does query whether September 1939 was the right moment or the independence of Poland the right issue. He points out that in the summer of 1939 Britain and France were wholly unprepared for a major European war and that this quickly became apparent in the conflict that ensued. He also rejects the retroactive claim that Britain went to war in 1939 to save the Jewish population of Europe. On the contrary, the beginning and intensification of war made it easier for Germany to begin the policy of mass murder in secret as well as closing most escape routes.

In a provocative but deeply researched book, Hitchens questions the most common assumptions surrounding World War II, turning on its head the myth of Britain's role in a 'Good War'.

©2018 Peter Hitchens (P)2019 Audible, Ltd 20th Century Europe Great Britain Military Modern Politics & Government World War Royalty Imperialism Winston Churchill Mythology Interwar Period
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So interesting. Now I understand the American special relationship. Who could imagine this mighty nation defaulting on a loan to The US and being bankrupt?

The empire's distorted view of itself laid bare

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A thoughtful, uncompromising synthesis that is honest, sensitive and respectful in tone, yet unflinchingly confronts the reality of the UKs place in the wider conflict and historical context.

An outstanding book, a must listen.

Masterpiece

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An excellent book, outside of established myth. Cutting and informative, this excellent compilation of history will challenging and provoke.
Peter Hitchens reads his work well and is a pleasure to listen to even if his words a dark.
A must, not just for history lovers, but for every British citizen.

Deeply Unsettling, profoundly important.

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Hitchen's critique of the special relationship is a real gem of this essential de-glamorised perspective of WWII and the decline of empire.

Refreshing perspective on WWII

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It was high time that some of the naive myths about “the good war” were dispelled and the author does that convincingly. A shame that the narrator is hard to understand with the end of sentences often vanishing in a slur.

A fresh look at WW2

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