Welcome to It Was What It Was, the football history podcast. This week co-hosts Jonathan Wilson and Rob Draper delve into George Orwell's infamous essay on sport, specifically focusing on Dinamo Moscow's 1945 tour of Britain. They explore Orwell's controversial viewpoint that serious sport is akin to 'war minus the shooting,' and delve into the historical and political context of this post-WWII football tour. The discussion covers the tactical innovations introduced by the Soviet team, the media and public's reaction, and the broader implications for international sport and politics. This episode provides an in-depth look at how football can both unite and divide, reflecting on Orwell's critique and its relevance to today's sports culture.
Introduction: The Dark Side of Sports
George Orwell's Influence on Sports
The Political Context of the 1945 Moscow Tour
The Goodwill Tour: Ideals vs. Reality
The Soviet Union's Football Strategy
The Arrival of Dinamo Moscow
The First Match: Dinamo Moscow vs Chelsea
The Political Showdown: Arsenal vs Dinamo Moscow
The Final Game in Scotland
Soviet Propaganda and the Legacy of the Tour
Tactical Innovations and English Football's Response
George Orwell's Critique of Sport
Football's Role in Nationalism and International Relations
Concluding Thoughts on Orwell and Football
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