#001 - Rethinking the History of World War II with Michael David Fox

In this episode, we sit down with historian Michael David-Fox to discuss Crucibles of Power: Smolensk Under Stalinist and Nazi Rule. The conversation goes deep into the historical significance of Smolensk, unpacking how this city became a unique lens for understanding life under two brutal regimes. We explore the complexities of archival research, the experiences of ordinary people during WWII, and the difficult but essential debates around collaboration, survival, and resistance.

The dialogue bridges past and present, showing how power, memory, and contested narratives still shape our world today. By drawing on diverse sources and perspectives, this episode highlights why understanding Smolensk’s story is crucial for interpreting both history and contemporary geopolitics.