Episode Details

Alan Philps profiles Alice Moats, a wealthy American socialite who reinvented herself as a war correspondent during the siege of Moscow. Known for her book No Nice Girl Swears, "Mozy" was often viewed as light entertainment, yet she was a persistent and effective reporter. She famously defied the British ambassador's attempts to evacuate her, hiding in embassy annexes to remain in the city. Philps likens her to the "fool in a Shakespeare tragedy" who exposes the follies of more serious figures. Despite her socialite background, Moats connected with General Anders and was part of the early conversations regarding the Katyn Forest massacre of Polish officers. Her reporting provided a unique window into how the Soviets attempted to manipulate the very people they had oppressed, and Philps credits her for highlighting one of the great tragedies of the 20th century. (6)
1920