London Calling Italy: BBC Broadcasts During the Second World War

London Calling Italy is a book that explores BBC propaganda for Italy during the Second World War, analyzing how programs were put together and what listeners made of them. It will become a key work on the topic, based on unexplored archive material from Italy and the United Kingdom.

Format: Hardback
Length: 224 pages
Publication date: 02 August 2022
Publisher: Manchester University Press

London Calling Italy is a groundbreaking and meticulously researched work that delves into the intricate world of BBC propaganda for Italy during the Second World War. Authored by Simon Potter, a renowned Professor of Modern History at the University of Bristol, this book offers a profound analysis of how the BBC crafted its programs and the impact they had on the Italian audience.

London Calling Italy explores the BBC's development as a global broadcasting powerhouse, particularly in its Italian service, known as Radio Londra. The book uncovers previously unexplored archive material, collected in Italy and the United Kingdom, to understand how the BBC's programs engaged with ordinary Italians while also serving as a tool for political warfare against fascist Italy.

One of the key aspects of the book is its examination of the relationship between the BBC Italian anti-fascist broadcasters, the British Foreign Office, and the Labour Party. The author analyzes the Foreign Office's records, the programs broadcast by the BBC Italian Service during the Allied campaign, the memoirs of Italian anti-fascist broadcasters, and BBC surveys on the audience to shed light on the complex dynamics at play.

The book also delves into the content of the BBC's programs, exploring how they portrayed Italy and its people. It examines the use of language, music, and visual imagery to convey messages and influence public opinion. The author highlights the ways in which the BBC's propaganda aimed to undermine the fascist regime, promote democracy, and support the Allied cause.

London Calling Italy is a significant contribution to the field of history, particularly in the study of propaganda and media. It offers a detailed and nuanced understanding of the BBC's role in shaping public perception during a critical period of world history. The book's meticulous research, insightful analysis, and engaging writing style make it accessible to a wide audience, including scholars, students, and anyone interested in the history of the Second World War and its impact on Europe.

In conclusion, London Calling Italy is a must-read for anyone interested in the history of propaganda, media, and the Second World War. It provides a comprehensive and thought-provoking analysis of BBC propaganda for Italy, shedding light on the complex relationships between the BBC, the Italian government, and the Italian people. This book will undoubtedly become a key work on this topic, shaping our understanding of the role of media in shaping public opinion and political outcomes.

Weight: 484g
Dimension: 163 x 241 x 19 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781526164810