A Black US Basketball  Virtuoso in Cold War Poland (396)

A Black US Basketball Virtuoso in Cold War Poland (396)

The Communist Polish press called it "Kentomania!"—the excitement surrounding a 23 year old, called Kent Washington who made history as the first American—and the first Black American—to sign a professional sports contract behind the Iron Curtain. Stepping off the plane in Poland, Kent was immediately struck by how different everything felt. Yet, it was on the basketball court where he found common ground with the Polish people. His creative and electrifying gameplay won over audiences, earning him admiration and respect. But beyond basketball, the warmth and hospitality of the Polish people left a lasting impression, making him a beloved figure in the country’s sports history. As a result, Kent was inspired to write a memoir, ‘Kentomania: A Black Basketball Virtuoso in Communist Poland’. BUY THE BOOK HERE Episode extras https://coldwarconversations.com/episode396/ The fight to keep Cold War history alive continues, and with your support, I can ensure these incredible stories are never forgotten. A simple monthly or annual donation gives me the resources to continue uncovering and sharing the untold history of this fascinating era. As a valued supporter, you’ll become part of our exclusive community, enjoy ad-free episodes, and receive the coveted CWC coaster as a token of my appreciation. Plus, you'll have the satisfaction of knowing you're playing a vital role in preserving Cold War history for future generations. Join us now at: https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/ Prefer a one-time contribution? Every bit helps! You can make a one-off donation at the same link. Thank you for keeping Cold War history alive! Find the ideal gift for the Cold War enthusiast in your life! Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/store/ Follow us on BlueSky https://bsky.app/profile/coldwarpod.bsky.social Follow us on Threads https://www.threads.net/@coldwarconversations Follow us on Twitter https://twitter.com/ColdWarPod Facebook https://www.facebook.com/groups/coldwarpod/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/coldwarconversations/ Youtube https://youtube.com/@ColdWarConversations Love history? Join Intohistory https://intohistory.com/coldwarpod Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Episoder(447)

Doped, Abused and Abandoned: Growing Up in East Germany’s Sports System (400)

Doped, Abused and Abandoned: Growing Up in East Germany’s Sports System (400)

This episode covers themes of physical and emotional abuse as well as suicide. If you need support please follow the links below. UK https://www.samaritans.org/how-we-can-help/contact-samaritan/ ...

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Whispers of Freedom: Portraying the Story of the last person shot at the Berlin Wall (399)

Whispers of Freedom: Portraying the Story of the last person shot at the Berlin Wall (399)

Chris Gueffroy, was the last person to be shot dead at the Berlin Wall and a new short film called “Whispers of Freedom” portrays his story. I speak with the film’s director Brandon Ashplant who sha...

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 Submerged: Life on a Fast Attack Submarine in the Last Days of the Cold War (398)

Submerged: Life on a Fast Attack Submarine in the Last Days of the Cold War (398)

Former US Navy Commander Henry Rausch is the author of Submerged: Life on a Fast Attack Submarine in the Last Days of the Cold War. Henry shares his experiences from training to life aboard a submari...

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Deep Cover Cold War Spies: How Russia’s Illegal Agents Penetrated the West (397)

Deep Cover Cold War Spies: How Russia’s Illegal Agents Penetrated the West (397)

In 2010, two decades after the Cold War had ended, ten Russian spies were arrested in America, having hidden their true identities from their friends, neighbours and even their children. They were p...

11 Apr 20251h 9min

Agent Zo - From War Hero to Enemy:  When Cold War Poland  Turned on Its Own (395)

Agent Zo - From War Hero to Enemy: When Cold War Poland Turned on Its Own (395)

In a world where history often overlooks the contributions of women, ​the story of ​Agent ​Zo stands out as a beacon of bravery and resilience. ​I spoke with ​Claire ​Mulley about her book ​Agent ​Zo:...

29 Mar 20251h

In Conversation with Margot Honecker (394)

In Conversation with Margot Honecker (394)

I speak with Jon Benjamin who recounts his meetings with Margot Honecker, the unrepentant architect of East Germany’s education system and widow of GDR leader Erich Honecker then living in exile in Ch...

26 Mar 202530min

The Cuban Missile Crisis Suicide Missions (393)

The Cuban Missile Crisis Suicide Missions (393)

Richard F Kaufman is the author of A One-Way Trip to Death A Survivor’s View of Cruise Missiles in the Cuban Missile Crisis In the 1950s he served in the Korean War, where he was shot down and provid...

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