This episode of "The Divided Dial" delves into the history of shortwave radio, tracing its evolution from a medium of global connection to a tool for propaganda. The episode explores how amateur radio operators discovered shortwave's long-distance capabilities, leading to its adoption by commercial broadcasters and governments alike. It highlights the role of shortwave radio during World War II, particularly the use of propaganda by Nazi Germany and the counter-efforts by the Allies, including the Voice of America. The episode further examines the Cold War era, where shortwave became a battleground for ideological warfare between the U.S. and the Soviet Union, with entities like Radio Free Europe and Radio Moscow vying for influence. The narrative sets the stage for the next episode, hinting at the rise of right-wing extremists and cults on shortwave radio after the Cold War.
