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

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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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Rebel Queen: The Cold War, Misogyny, and the Making of a Chess Grandmaster (392)

Rebel Queen: The Cold War, Misogyny, and the Making of a Chess Grandmaster (392)

Susan Polgar is the author of Rebel Queen: The Cold War, Misogyny, and the Making of a Grandmaster. Born to a poor Jewish family in Cold War Budapest, Susan Polgar had the odds stacked against her g...

15 Mar 202553min

The Keys to Armageddon: A Cold War Nuclear Missile Officer's Story (391)

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Jim is a former Minuteman nuclear missile officer who served in the US Air Force. Throughout the episode, Jim shares first-hand accounts of life in the launch control centre. From evaluations to the...

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The Secret History of Britain's Cold War Nuclear Experiments (390)

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The race to build a British nuclear bomb sucked thousands into its vortex, who are still dealing with the effects of radiation today: veterans, widows, children, scientists and indigenous people, all ...

1 Mar 20251h 8min

Surviving the Fastnet Sailing Disaster with a British Prime Minister (389)

Surviving the Fastnet Sailing Disaster with a British Prime Minister (389)

David recounts his experiences sailing with former British Prime Minister Edward Heath, offering a unique glimpse into the life of a man who once led a nation. From the camaraderie on board to the c...

22 Feb 202540min

From the Merchant Navy to Covert Hunter Killer Nuclear Submarine Missions (388)

From the Merchant Navy to Covert Hunter Killer Nuclear Submarine Missions (388)

David Arnold joined the merchant navy at just 14. His tales offer a glimpse into the rigorous and sometimes harsh realities of naval training in the 1950s. His story takes us through his progression ...

15 Feb 20251h 14min

Frozen in Time  - the Cold War Nottingham War Rooms (387)

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Last year I was given the unique opportunity to visit the Nottingham War Rooms. The site is about to be re-developed so it was a rare chance to see a British Regional Seat of Government bunker that h...

8 Feb 202550min

Defending Baltic Skies : A Swedish Air Force Pilot's Cold War (386)

Defending Baltic Skies : A Swedish Air Force Pilot's Cold War (386)

During the Cold War Sweden outwardly maintained its neutrality, however from the 1960s the U.S. secretly promised to provide military force in aid of Sweden in case of Soviet aggression. As part of th...

1 Feb 20251h 31min

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