Episode 14: The Iron Curtain Speech

Today we're exploring one of the most iconic speeches of the Cold War period delivered by none other than former British Prime Minister, Winston Churchill. Churchill's 'iron Curtain' speech marked the beginning of the Cold War. Churchill, defeated for re-election as Prime Minister in 1945, stood before a captivated audience that included President Harry S. Truman. In his speech, Churchill warned against the expansionist policies of the Soviet Union. Churchill spoke of the "iron curtain" that had fallen over Eastern Europe and emphasised the importance of strength in dealing with the Soviets.