This one is big, folks. I apologize for the delay, life has been giving me wonderful surprises, and I'm still smiling.

In this episode of "Imperialism and the Fringe," I dive deep into one of the most controversial and haunting operations of what we did in Vietnam: The Phoenix Program.

Conceived as a counterinsurgency initiative, this covert program aimed to dismantle the Viet Cong infrastructure (basically anyone) through a network of intelligence gathering, infiltration, and targeted eliminations. However, the methods employed and the brutal outcomes reveal a darker side of warfare. The reality is, that the United States backed a small pro-American oligarchy against a highly organized majority that had been in place for decades, with the hopes of eradicating an entire ideology from a foreign nation. This was an economic conflict that left a terrible path of destruction in its wake.

Join me as I unravel the details of how the United States executed this program, often blurring the lines between combat and atrocity. From indiscriminate arrests and torture to the extrajudicial killings of suspected Viet Cong operatives, I shed light on the moral and ethical dilemma that engulfed the participants and victims alike. Through firsthand accounts and historical analysis, I explore the profound impact and lasting legacy of the Phoenix Program, offering a sobering reflection on the human cost of violence.

Tune in to learn more about the Vietnam conflict, and the truths behind this infamous operation that would set the precedent for many destabilization programs moving forward around the world, and on our back doorstep.

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Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCU8fIl8XqLGgG3vXEFjNhJw

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Personal:

https://www.tiktok.com/@tytyx25?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc

Be sure to like, subscribe, & share with a friend if you enjoyed this episode. It is my biggest yet!

Sources:

The Phoenix Program, Douglas Valentine, 1990

The Devil’s Chessboard, David Talbot, 2015

The first unplanned episode of the show, spicing things up while I work on the much larger next episode. Life has thrown a few curveballs, and it's all amazing. I'm trying to learn acceptance. Good or bad, life is intense. I hope the pain is for something fulfilling in the end.

Film mentioned and credit:

"It's Such a Beautiful Day," Don Hertzfeldt, 2012, Bitter Films

Falconry, and all facets of hunting with birds of prey, has been a tradition dating back thousands of years. Join me tonight in discussing the origins and uses of falconry around the world. I talk about how it is done, what birds are utilized, and what the future looks like for today's Mongolian Eagle Hunters. With global warming on the rise, and most men opting for other lifestyles, an unexpected group has started to embrace the falconry community there: young women. They are defying cultural norms, and inspiring a new generation to continue this ancient art.

If you enjoy today's episode, please be sure to rate it 5 stars on Spotify or Apple Podcasts. Share the show on your instagram story, and send to a friend. I appreciate the support immensely.

-Tyler

Sources used:

https://iaf.org/a-history-of-falconry/

https://www.broadmooroutfitters.com/birds-used-in-falconry/

https://www.n-a-f-a.com/page/BecomingAFalconer#:~:text=New%20falconers%20are%20required%20to,require%20you%20to%20be%20older.

https://nhschooloffalconry.com/experiences/

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1fQFi3lzrGM

https://ich.unesco.org/en/RL/falconry-a-living-human-heritage-01708

https://en.unesco.org/silkroad/content/did-you-know-falconry-living-heritage-and-traditional-sport-along-silk-roads#:~:text=Whilst%20the%20exact%20origins%20of,the%20rest%20of%20the%20world.

Step back in time to explore a pivotal moment in Costa Rican history with the latest episode of Imperialism and the Fringe. In 1948, the idyllic landscapes of Costa Rica were rocked by a conflict that would shape the nation's future for decades to come: the Costa Rican Civil War. Join me as I delve into the complexities of this often-overlooked chapter in Central American history.

In this episode, I uncover the roots of the conflict, tracing its origins to the longstanding social and political tensions that simmered beneath the surface of Costa Rican society. From economic inequality to struggles over land ownership and political power, I unravel the intricate web of factors that ignited the flames of revolution and encouraged the United States' involvement and interference.

Through compelling narratives and insightful analysis, I bring to life the key players in this drama, from the charismatic leader José Figueres Ferrer to the ordinary citizens who found themselves caught up in the turmoil of war.

But beyond the battlefield, I also explore the profound impact of the civil war on Costa Rican society and identity. From the establishment of a new democratic government to the abolition of the military, I chart the course of post-war reconstruction and reflect on the enduring legacy of this turbulent period.

Join me as I journey back in time to witness the Costa Rican Civil War of 1948, a conflict that continues to resonate in the collective memory of a nation and offers valuable lessons for our understanding of revolution, resilience, and the quest for peace.

Sources for todays episode:

https://www.cia.gov/readingroom/docs/CIA-RDP78-01617A001700060001-6.pdf

https://www.cia.gov/readingroom/docs/CIA-RDP73B00296R000300010005-3.pdf

https://academic.oup.com/dh/article-abstract/18/1/1/359640

https://history.state.gov/historicaldocuments/frus1958-60v06/d266

https://www.nytimes.com/1990/06/09/obituaries/jose-figueres-ferrer-is-dead-at-83-led-costa-ricans-to-democracy.html

https://www.cia.gov/readingroom/docs/CIA-RDP78-01617A001700060001-6.pdf

https://elespiritudel48.org/costa-rica-the-revolution-of-1948-a-cause-and-effect-analysis/

https://www.cia.gov/readingroom/docs/DOC_0000916371.pdf

https://www.tiktok.com/@thisiscory/video/7037650615115320582

https://history.state.gov/historicaldocuments/frus1969-76ve10/d191

Born from Mark Twain's story of the celebrated jumping frog, thousands of people have gathered each year for almost a hundred years now at the International Jumping Frog Jubilee of Calaveras County California. I discuss the process of competing in this high-stakes event, and what it takes to be the best of the best. I also mention why I can particularly relate to these enthusiasts from my own childhood experiences.

If you enjoy the show, please like it/leave a review and share with a friend.

Sources:

We are the champions, Netflix

https://www.frogtown.org/frog-jump

https://www.gocalaveras.com/business/festivals-events/calaveras-county-fair-jumping-frog-jubilee/

https://journalism.berkeley.edu/projects/another-covid-19-loss-the-jumping-frog-jubilee/

https://www.calaverasenterprise.com/articles/news/angels-camp-jockey-wins-frog-jump-title-for-second-time-in-three-years/

In 1954, the United States embarked on a mission to overthrow democratically elected Guatemalan President Jacobo Arbenz in order to instill Juan Castillo Armas as a pro-U.S. military dictator. What resulted was decades of right-wing tyranny, and a 36 year long civil war.

If you like this episode, please like and leave a good rating. Send to a friend to encourage me to keep doing this and feel like I've achieved something.

Some sources/Resources:

https://history.state.gov/historicaldocuments/frus1952-54Guat/d27 

https://nsarchive2.gwu.edu/NSAEBB/NSAEBB4/

https://history.state.gov/historicaldocuments/frus1952-54Guat/d287

https://www.britannica.com/biography/Jacobo-Arbenz

https://worldwithoutgenocide.org/genocides-and-conflicts/guatemala

Here's a sneak peak at the new show I will be releasing over the next year so I can feel like I accomplished something. I need a job and I would love to pursue these interests full time. I am recovering from surgery and have nothing better to do besides new things. If you have any ideas for an episode or feedback, please leave a question or comment. Please follow the show so you can be notified when the first 2 episodes are out!

Link to Alex Green's music: https://on.soundcloud.com/fL282