271 - Feeding the Bear: Lend Lease to the USSR

In this episode, we're doing something a little different. I recently joined Scott Bury on his podcast Beyond Barbarossa, which takes a close look at the Eastern Front of the Second World War from a Soviet perspective. Together, we explored the topic of American aid to the USSR through the Lend-Lease program.

The usual narrative often paints Lend-Lease as the lifeline that saved the Soviet Union. But, as with most things in history, the reality is far more complex. While Lend-Lease undeniably made a difference—especially in the war's later stages—its impact, timing, and strategic value are worth examining more closely.

So, in this episode, we dig into what was actually sent, when it arrived, how it was used, and whether or not it really was decisive in turning the tide on the Eastern Front.

 

patreon.com/ww2podcast