Beyond VE Day: The Unfinished Story of World War II and Its Aftermath with Keith Lowe

History Rage

This week on History Rage, host Paul Bavill is joined by historian and author Keith Lowe to explore the tumultuous aftermath of the Second World War, focusing on the liberation of Naples in 1944 and the chaos that followed. Keith, known for his insightful works including Naples 1944, shares his perspective on the misconceptions surrounding the war and its consequences.

The Myth of Liberation

• Self-Liberation: Keith discusses how Naples liberated itself from German occupation, challenging the narrative that the Allies were the sole saviours of the city.
• Destruction and Chaos: The aftermath of the liberation revealed a city in ruins, with essential services devastated, leading to a struggle for survival among the residents.

Allies vs. Civilians

• Contrasting Experiences: Explore the vastly different experiences of Allied soldiers and Neapolitan civilians as they navigated the shifting power dynamics post-liberation.
• Reality of Occupation: Keith sheds light on the initial enthusiasm for the Allies, which soon faded as the harsh realities of occupation set in.

Rebuilding a Nation

• Engineers as Heroes: Discover the vital role of engineers in restoring Naples’ infrastructure, highlighting their often-overlooked contributions to the war effort.
• Economic Mismanagement: Keith critiques the Allies' failure to utilise local resources effectively, leading to unnecessary suffering among the population.

The Lingering Effects of War

• Generational Trauma: The discussion delves into the concept of 'replacement children' and how the legacy of loss continues to impact societies long after the fighting ends.
• Post-War Violence: Keith highlights the ongoing conflicts in Europe post-1945, including civil wars and the brutal realities of power vacuums left by the war.

Guest Information:

• Keith Lowe's book: https://uk.bookshop.org/a/10120/9780008339593
• Follow Keith on Twitter and Instagram @keithloweauthor for more insights and updates.

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