15. The Last Viceroy of India

In this episode of the "Empire" podcast, Anita Arnon and William Dalrymple are joined by Alex von Tunzelmann to discuss Louis Mountbatten, the last Viceroy of India, and his role in the end of the British Raj. The discussion covers Mountbatten's marriage to Edwina Ashley, his personality, and his relationships with key Indian leaders such as Nehru and Jinnah. The podcast explores the complex political landscape of post-World War II India, the factors leading to the decision to grant India independence, and Mountbatten's controversial decision to expedite the transfer of power, ultimately leading to the partition of India and Pakistan. The episode also delves into the personal dynamics between Mountbatten, his wife Edwina, Nehru, and Jinnah, and how these relationships influenced the negotiations and decisions surrounding the partition.