History That Doesn't Suck Episode 182: A Prologue to World War II: US Army Interwar Preparation Release Date: June 30, 2025

Introduction

In Episode 182 of History That Doesn't Suck, host Prof. Greg Jackson delves into the critical interwar period of the 1930s, exploring how the United States Army prepared for the looming threat of World War II. This episode serves as a prologue to the transformative events that would catapult the U.S. Army from a modest 17th-ranked force globally to the preeminent military power it is recognized as today.

Historical Context: The U.S. Army in the Interwar Period

Prof. Jackson sets the stage by highlighting the stark contrast between the U.S. Army’s status post-World War I and the brink of World War II. He states:

"In the late 1930s, the US army is totally unprepared for what Winston Churchill will later call the Gathering Storm. When Nazi Germany invades Poland in 1939, the US army is ranked a lowly 17th in the world, behind much smaller nations like Portugal."
— [09:45]

This period was marked by significant budget cuts and a general lack of foresight regarding the impending global conflict.

The Story of Major Pete Hill and the B-17 Test Flight

Prof. Jackson narrates the story of Major Pete Hill and the experimental Boeing Model 299 (later designated the B-17 Flying Fortress). On October 30, 1935, Hill and his crew conducted a test flight that ended in tragedy when the aircraft crashed due to locked rudder and elevator controls, leading to a loss of aerodynamic lift. The incident underscored the challenges and risks associated with pioneering military aviation technology.

"The XB17 has been nothing but a success thus far, so Pete and the flight crew have every reason to relax. But just then, the plane lurches left... and then it plummets straight toward the earth."
— [10:45]

Despite the crash, investigations revealed no structural issues, attributing the accident to control malfunctions. This event highlighted the Army's commitment to advancing aviation capabilities despite setbacks.

The Influence of Billy Mitchell and the Army Air Corps

A significant portion of the episode focuses on Colonel Billy Mitchell's advocacy for an independent air force. Mitchell's demonstration in 1921, where his pilots successfully sank a captured German battleship, emphasized the strategic importance of air power.

"Billy was tenacious. Actually, he was downright belligerent, getting himself demoted and court-martialed despite many in Congress and the military being on his side."
— [12:30]

Mitchell's efforts ultimately led to the creation of the Army Air Corps in 1926, granting it autonomy akin to the Marine Corps within the Navy. This structural change was pivotal for future military aviation advancements.

Industrial Mobilization in the 1930s: The Arsenal of Democracy

Prof. Jackson discusses the critical role of American industry in preparing for war. He references the Boeing Company's development of the B-17 and other massive engineering projects like the Hoover Dam, illustrating how industrial capacity was repurposed for military needs.

"But the big thing to me is these companies that did that were not defense. They were the great companies, Ford Motor Company, GM, Goodyear. They just bent that capacity to a war footing."
— [35:01]

This mobilization laid the groundwork for the United States' rapid industrial response during World War II, embodying FDR's concept of the "Arsenal of Democracy."

Transformation Lessons for the Modern Army: Interview with General James E. Rainey

In a pivotal segment, Prof. Jackson interviews General James E. Rainey of the U.S. Army Futures Command. They discuss how historical insights from the interwar period inform current military transformation efforts.

"Army Futures Command is one of the major commands of the United States Army. And we are primarily charged with transforming the army to ensure war winning, future readiness."
— [16:00]

General Rainey emphasizes the importance of proactive modernization and the integration of cutting-edge technologies to address contemporary threats.

The Importance of History in Military Training

General Rainey underscores the Army's reliance on historical knowledge to prepare for future conflicts. He reflects on the significance of learning from past successes and failures to enhance strategic and tactical decision-making.

"If you're trying to figure out the future, it's almost impossible. It's really about not getting it really wrong more than trying to get it right."
— [20:46]

This philosophy drives the Army's commitment to comprehensive education and continuous learning among its ranks.

The Role of Army Futures Command

The episode delves into the mission of the Army Futures Command, highlighting its role in spearheading large-scale transformation initiatives aimed at maintaining the U.S. Army's superiority.

"Army Futures Command and Army Training and Doctrine Command will own the entirety of the process of manning, training, equipping soldiers from first handshake in the first unit to developing the future force."
— [17:13]

This consolidation ensures a unified approach to modernization, encompassing both current capabilities and future innovations.

Reflections on the 250th Anniversary of the U.S. Army

As the episode was released in June 2025, coinciding with the 250th anniversary of the U.S. Army, Prof. Jackson and General Rainey reflect on the legacy and enduring principles of the Army.

"We've been living free for 250 years, and that's underpinned by the idea that people should do something with their life that is of value beyond just them."
— [38:54]

They celebrate the Army's rich history while acknowledging the continuous need for vigilance and adaptation in the face of evolving threats.

Conclusion

Episode 182 of History That Doesn't Suck offers a comprehensive exploration of the U.S. Army's interwar preparations that set the stage for its pivotal role in World War II. By intertwining historical narratives with contemporary insights from military leadership, Prof. Greg Jackson provides listeners with a nuanced understanding of military transformation, the significance of industrial mobilization, and the timeless value of historical knowledge in shaping effective defense strategies.

Notable Quotes:

• Major Pete Hill's Test Flight:
  "But just then, the plane lurches left... and then it plummets straight toward the earth."
  — [10:45]

• Colonel Billy Mitchell's Tenacity:
  "Billy was tenacious. Actually, he was downright belligerent, getting himself demoted and court-martialed despite many in Congress and the military being on his side."
  — [12:30]

• Army Futures Command's Mission:
  "Army Futures Command is one of the major commands of the United States Army. And we are primarily charged with transforming the army to ensure war winning, future readiness."
  — [16:00]

• Importance of Not Getting It Wrong:
  "If you're trying to figure out the future, it's almost impossible. It's really about not getting it really wrong more than trying to get it right."
  — [20:46]

• Legacy of the U.S. Army:
  "We've been living free for 250 years, and that's underpinned by the idea that people should do something with their life that is of value beyond just them."
  — [38:54]

This episode is a must-listen for history enthusiasts and those interested in military strategy, offering valuable lessons from the past to inform present and future military readiness.