Japan's Road To War: Empire Of The Rising Sun (Part 1)

Holland and Murray launch a new series on Japan's path to war, covering the China quagmire, economic deterioration, and the strategic logic (or lack thereof) that led to Pearl Harbor. It's grand strategic framing rather than battle-by-battle, but Holland keeps the military decision-making front and centre. A strong foundation episode — listen before Part 2.

The opening instalment of Holland and Murray's new series traces how Japan's China quagmire and deteriorating economy funnelled the empire toward Pearl Harbor. Holland lays out the strategic logic — and illogic — clearly, and the hour-long format gives enough room to breathe. Start here before jumping to Part 2.