35. Gallipoli: Death at the Cliff Edge

This podcast episode explores the Gallipoli Campaign of World War I, emphasizing its strategic significance and the fierce battles between Allied and Ottoman forces. It kicks off with a poignant poem that captures the psychological impact of war, then delves into the campaign's origins and the disastrous naval attack that preceded the grueling land battles. The episode highlights the roles of prominent figures like Mustafa Kemal Ataturk and Winston Churchill, while also discussing the diverse makeup of Allied troops and the staggering casualty rates on both sides. The discussion wraps up by examining the campaign's political consequences and its profound effect on national identities, particularly in Australia and New Zealand. A striking point mentioned is the high casualty rate during the first day of the Anzac landings, where an estimated 2,000 men lost their lives.