Based on a True Story18 Mar 2025

The Bridge on the River Kwai with Jon Parshall

BASED ON A TRUE STORY (BOATS EP. 364) — Acclaimed historian Jon Parshall separates fact from fiction in the classic film "The Bridge on the River Kwai" and the brutal realities of the Thai-Burma Railway during World War II, also known as the Death Railway. We'll contrast the film's fictional Colonel Nicholson with his real-life counterpart Lieutenant Colonel Philip Toosey, who sabotaged bridge construction when possible rather than cooperating with the Japanese.

Follow Jon's new book at 1942book.com

Jon Parshall is an award-winning author who has worked as a historical consultant on numerous TV shows, a tour guide, as well as a frequent lecturer at the U.S. Naval War College, the National World War II Museum, and the Nimitz Museum. As of this recording, Jon is working on a new book that will go into even more depth on all the topics we're learning about today and more.

Where to watch The Bridge on the River Kwai now

Also mentioned in this episode

Jonathan Parshall and Anthony Tully's Shattered Sword: The Untold Story of the Battle of Midway

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