Winston Churchill biography timeline

Birth of Winston Churchill, Blenheim Palace, family estate near Woodstock, Oxfordshire

Commissioned in the 4th Queens Own Hussars just after his fathers death

Does military service with the Malakand Field Force in Indias north-western frontier

Undertakes military service in the Sudan Campaign

Resigns his commission & leaves India

Fails in his first attempt to be elected to Parliament, defeated by 1,300

Leaves on the Dunnotar Castle for South Africa as a War Correspondent for the Daily Mail

Is captured after an armoured train is derailed.

Leaves Escourt in a train commanded by Captain Haldane to explore Boer positions

Arrested, asked to be released because he is a correspondent but refused

Makes a dramatic escape from the Boers which reaches the world's headlines

The Boers offer 25 pounds for Churchill dead or alive

The Boers offer 25 pounds for Churchill dead or alive

Escapes from Boer captivity and reaches safety.

Reaches Durban and describes his escape to an enthusiastic crowd

British defeats during Black Week expose early military failure.

Taken prisoner by the Boers after the derailment of his armoured train near Colenso

Takes part in the Battle of Spion Kop

Publication of "Savrola", serialised in "MacMilans Magazine" for a fee of 100 pounds

Appointed War correspondent in South Africa for The Morning Post

Publication of "Savrola", serialised in "MacMilans Magazine" for a fee of 100 pounds

Publication of "Savrola", serialised in "MacMilans Magazine" for a fee of 100 pounds

Takes part in operations around the siege and relief of Ladysmith.

Goes to South Africa as a military correspondent for the Daily Telegraph. Appointed War correspondent in South Africa for The Morning Post

Fights at the Battle of Tugela

Takes part in operations around the siege and relief of Ladysmith.

British troops enter Pretoria during Roberts's advance.

Elected Member of Parliament for Oldham

Churchill claims "a seat lost to the Government is a seat gained to the Boers"

Appointed Prospective Member of Parliament for Oldham

Informs his constituency he will not contest the next election. Churchill has decided to join the Liberal Party

Informs his constituency he will not contest the next election

Supports the prospective Liberal Party candidate at the Ludlow by-election

Supports the prospective Liberal Party candidate at the Ludlow by-election

Dines with Lloyd George to sound him out about joining the Liberal Party

At the Battle of Spion Kop

British forces occupy the Orange Free State and rename it the Orange River Colony.

Appointed Lieuetenant in the South African Light Horse

Appointed Lieutenant in the South African Light Horse

Lunches with Herbert Gladstone to discuss seats for himself as a Liberal MP

Churchill makes his maiden speech in the House of Commons

Resigns from the Conservatives & joins the Liberals on the issue of free trade

Begins work on the official biography of his father

Speaks in the Commons against the Governments proposed increase in military spending

Supports Free Trade in answer to Chamberlains speech in favour of Imperial Preference

Attacks his party's proposals to increase military expenditure

Rebukes Chamberlains speech on Imperial Preference in the Commons

Founds the Free Food League with Conservative MPs in favour of free trade

Founds the Free Food League with Conservative MPs in favour of free trade

Supports Free Trade & opposes Chamberlains policy of Imperial Preference

The Conservative whip is withdrawn because of his support Liberal support

Votes with the Liberals against his own party on a Free Trade motion

Adopted as a Liberal Candidate in Manchester North West

Crosses the House of Commons to become a Liberal

Sits on the opposition benches for the 1st time

Supports free trade with the Liberals as an independent MP

Defends his Jewish constituents in Manchester by objecting to the Aliens Bill

Describes the Conservative Party as a party of "great vested interests"

Supports Free Trade while speaking at a mass meeting in Manchester

Offerred the post of Financial Secretary at the Treasury, prefers a smaller department

Speaks against the persecution of Jews in Russia at the Palace Theatre Manchester

Appointed Spokesman for the Colonial Office because Lord Elgin is a peer

Elected Member of Parliament for Manchester North West, majority of 1,200

Publlication of, "Lord Randolph Churchill", official biography of his father

Appointed Privy Councillor

Appointed President of the Board of Trade

Appointed Member of Cabinet for the 1st time, age 33

Must be elected to Parliament since offerred a place in the Cabinet

Loses a bi-election in Manchester North West

Appointed President of the Board of Trade

Accepts an invitation to stand as prospective Liberal Member of Parliament for Dundee

Loses the North-West Manchester by-election by just 429 votes

Introduces a Bill to the House of Commons to set up Wage Boards

Elected Member of Parliament for Dundee with a Liberal majority 2,709

Introduces the 2nd reading of the Mines Eight Hour Bill

Churchill gets engaged to Clementine Hozier

Marries Clementine Hozier

A Parliamentary Committee publishes a report favorable to Wage Bords

Supports nationalization of the railways

A Parliamentary Committee publishes a report favorable to Wage Bords

Ridicules the idea of Anglo-German conflict & calls for a reduction of naval building

Helps settle the strike, accepting wage cuts & arbitration for the future

Visits the 1st 17 Labour Exchanges, all of which open this day

Churchills Bill has its 2nd reading in the House of Commons

Creates machinery matching unemployed workers with available jobs.

Introduces legislation establishing a national labour exchange system.

Introduces the Labour Exchanges Bill to the House of Commons

Persuades Parliament to accept plans for the introduction of Labour Exchanges

Birth of Diana Churchill, daughter of Winston & Clemantine Churchill

Targets exceptionally low pay in several poorly regulated trades.

Promotes wage-board legislation through the House of Commons.

Succeeds in arbitrating a threatened coal miners strke

Speaks against the Lords rejection of the Budget, refers to dangers of class warfare

Speaks against the Lords plan to vote against the Budget

Shakes hands with the Kaiser. A guest at military manoevres in Germany

Creates statutory machinery for fixing minimum rates in sweated industries.

Secures legislation establishing wage boards in selected low-paid trades.

Theresa Grant, a suffragette, attacks Winston Churchill at Bristol railway station

Theresa Grant attacks Churchill at Bristol railway station.

Defends free trade & attacks the Lords for rejecting the Finance Bill

Appointed President of the Budget League, defends Lloyd George

Appointed President of the Budget League, defends Lloyd George

Churchill proposes a National Insurance Bill but is turned down by Asquith

Plans a nationwide network of publicly operated labour exchanges.

Lays plans for the foundation of 200 Labour Exchanges

Visits the Labour Bureaux in Strasburg & Frankfurt am Main

Helps eliminate sweated labour. Gets the Trade Boards Bill passed. Gets the Labour Exchanges Bill passed. Establishes the principle of a minimum wage & breaks for meals & refreshment

Publication of "Liberalism & The Social Problem", an exposition of the New Liberalism

Publishes Liberalism and the Social Problem.

Publication of "Liberalism & The Social Problem", an exposition of the New Liberalism

Uses continental employment bureaux as models for British reform.

Collects speeches advocating social reform within a Liberal framework.

Churchill proposes a National Insurance Bill but is turned down by Asquith

Defends free trade & attacks the Lords for rejecting the Finance Bill

Calls the Lords an "anachronistc assembly" & wants to "finish it off for ever"

Calls the Lords an "anachronistc assembly"

Calls the Lords an "anachronistc assembly" & wants to "finish it off for ever"

Lords, "doddering peers, cute financial magnates, clever wire pullers"

The 1st of 80 Labour Exchanges are opened

Appointed Home Secretary

Assumes responsibility for prisons, policing and domestic administration.

Becomes Home Secretary after serving at the Board of Trade.

"The Crown & the Commons must act together against the encroachments of the Lords"

Supports abolition of the veto at the Free Trade Hall. Attempts to rally the Liberals to support reform of the Lords

Reduces maximum solitary confinement to 1 month. Plans a library system for prisoners. Creates a distinction betwen political & criminal prisoners, includes the suffragettes

Churchill wants strong measures against the Lords if they reject the Budget

Attends a meeting of the Privy Council to discuss the accession of George V

Supports alternatives for people unable to pay fines.

Presents a programme intended to reduce unnecessary imprisonment.

Presents prison reform plans to the House of Commons

Wants to reduce the prison population, concerned by high number who cannot pay fines. Proposals include abolition of automatic imprisonment for non-payment of fines. Introduces a Penal Code to Parliament

Retains his Dundee parliamentary seat in the December election.

Returns to Parliament as a Liberal member for Dundee.

Elected Member of Parliament for Dundee with an increased majority

On Churchills advice George Vs accession is marked by remission for 11,000 prisoners

Uses troops to maintain order during a Welsh miners strike

On Churchills advice George Vs accession is marked by remmission for 11,000

On Churchills advice George Vs accession is marked by remmission for 11,000

Advises Asquith to create 500 peers if necessary to pass the Parliament Act

Faces controversy over his visible involvement in the armed confrontation.

Attends the police operation during the Siege of Sidney Street.

Instructs the firebrigade to let the house burn, 1 is shot & another asphyxiated. Deploys Scots guards to cover an east London house when 2 anarchists fire on police. "better to let the house burn down than spend good British lives". 3 policemen are murderred by a gang & then trapped in Sydney St

Gives evidence at the Sydney St inquest

Accounts are published of police confrontation outside the Commons with Suffragettes

The WSPU claim police act under Churchills instructions during Black Friday. Accounts are published of police confrontation outside the Commons with Suffragettes

Proposes Britain be divided into 10 with a local administration & elected assembly

Birth of Randolph Churchill, Winston Churchills only son

Cabinet decides Germany should consult Britain over Morocco

Cabinet decides Germany should not influence Morocco without consulting Britain

Cabinet decides Germany should consult Britain over Morocco

Cabinet decides Germany should not influence Morocco without consulting Britain

In a letter to Grey proposes the British detach Spain from her pro-German position

Because of Germany's action at Agidir Churchill supports France & informs Lloyd-George

Forecasts the Germans will cross the Meuse on the Twentieth day of the invasion on France. Forecasts German military plans in an attack on France at the Comm of Imperial Defence

Forecasts the Germans will cross the Meuse on the Twentieth day of the invasion on France

Proposes to Grey France, Britain & Russia safeguard Belgium, Holland & Denmark

Becomes First Lord of the Admiralty in Asquith's government.

Appointed First Sea Lord of the Admiralty

Assumes political responsibility for British naval administration.

Completes a memorandum advocating the creation of a Naval War Staff

Launches the Centurion

Attends the launch of the HMS Centurion

Appointed Member of Irish Home Rule Committee

Favours an Imperial Parliament. Favors "Home Rule All Round", Parliaments for Ireland, Scotland, England & Wales

Appointed Member of Irish Home Rule Committee

Appointed Member of Irish Home Rule Committee

Churchill is responsible for Part II of Lloyd George's National Insurance Act

Improves centralized planning for intelligence, operations and mobilization.

Establishes a Naval War Staff within the Admiralty.

Cassel warns Churchill & Lloyd George about German naval expansion

Learns plans to deepen the Kiel Canal, Britain will need 40 battleships within 24 hrs

Circulates the new German Navy Law to the Cabinet

Announces in the Commons that for every German battleship built Britain should build 2

Proposes a "Naval holiday", a suspension of naval construction by Britain & Germany

Present for the King's inspection of the Fleet

Brings naval aviation into a formal military organization.

Supports creation of the Royal Flying Corps naval wing.

Takes libel action against Blackwoods magazine over his over his time as a prisoner in the Boer War

Proposes an Anglo-German "naval holiday" to reduce expenditure on armaments

The new Naval Law is passed by the Reichstag in order to expand the German navy

Presents a Cabinet memorandum arguing that the Royal Navy needs secure, controlled sources of fuel oil.

Draws up detailed plans to create a War Fleet of 79 battleships by 1920

Oversees the naval programme as HMS Queen Elizabeth is launched.

Advances construction of a new oil-fired battleship class.

Offers Germany a "naval holiday" & to halt naval armament, the Germans refuse

Churchills proposals to increase Naval expenditure split the cabinet

Churchills proposals to increase Naval expenditure split the cabinet

Churchills proposals in cabinet to increase Naval expenditure are accepted

Churchills proposals in cabinet to increase Naval expenditure are accepted

The Admiralty's Sopwith Sociable associated with Churchill makes its first flight at Brooklands.

Inspects Sopwith Aviation during his continuing effort to understand and encourage naval aviation.

Explains a supplementary naval estimate to the House of Commons and defends the additional expenditure.

Presents the Navy Estimates for 1914-15 and explains Admiralty policy and construction commitments.

Answers Commons questions on the number of completed British dreadnoughts.

Answers Commons questions about the disposition of Royal Navy forces.

Answers Commons questions concerning German naval estimates and comparative naval strength.

Answers Commons questions concerning HMS Iron Duke during discussion of the naval programme.

Answers parliamentary questions concerning the Royal Naval Museum at Greenwich.

Addresses Commons questions about Canadian ships and their relationship to Imperial naval policy.

Provides comparative information on British and foreign dreadnought strength.

Defends Admiralty policy concerning guns carried by merchant steamships.

Answers Commons questions concerning Royal Navy warship movements.

Takes part in Commons discussion concerning the relationship between civil authority and military forces.

Responds in the Commons during an inquiry into reported naval and military movements.

Answers Commons questions about piracy and British naval responsibilities in Chinese waters.

Answers parliamentary questions about the Royal Flying Corps and naval aviation responsibilities.

Answers Commons questions on the Admiralty's growing use of oil fuel.

Provides parliamentary information concerning wages paid within naval establishments.

Answers parliamentary questions concerning conditions affecting petty officers and seamen.

Answers parliamentary questions concerning submarine accidents and naval safety.

Answers parliamentary questions concerning HMS Chatham.

Answers Commons questions about the Austro-Hungarian naval programme.

Answers Commons questions concerning the Royal Navy engineering branch.

Addresses Commons questions concerning government dockyards and Admiralty administration.

Answers parliamentary questions concerning hospital-ship provision for the Royal Navy.

Answers parliamentary questions concerning naval materiel and Admiralty supply arrangements.

Answers Commons questions about British naval policy and commitments in the Pacific.

Provides a parliamentary answer concerning instructional allowances in naval service.

Answers a parliamentary question concerning the application of King's Regulations in the naval service.

Provides parliamentary information concerning battleships then under construction.

Answers questions concerning admirals superintendent serving at Royal Navy dockyards.

Argues for compromise over Irish Home Rule as the Liberal Government attempts to contain the constitutional crisis.

Provides parliamentary information concerning the Royal Navy's light-cruiser construction programme.

Explains that new government capital will finance wells, pipelines, refinery plant, storage, transit and other development.

Moves Commons authorization for up to two million two hundred thousand pounds to acquire company share or loan capital.

Helps secure a long-term Persian oil supply for the Royal Navy through government involvement in the Anglo-Persian Oil Company.

Confirms that the Government of India was consulted about the proposed controlling investment in Anglo-Persian.

Explains that Admiralty oil transport will use British-flag vessels under government freight arrangements.

Defends the Anglo-Persian oil contract in the House of Commons.

Explains Admiralty policy concerning the arming of British merchant ships.

Answers Commons questions concerning naval service in the Persian Gulf.

Answers parliamentary questions about securing oil fuel supplies within the United Kingdom.

Answers Commons questions concerning new Royal Navy construction.

Oversees creation of the Royal Naval Air Service as a distinct naval air organisation.

Provides parliamentary information concerning British naval missions connected with Greece and Turkey.

Answers Commons questions concerning coal and oil supplies for the Royal Navy.

Secures Commons approval for financing the government's acquisition of Anglo-Persian share and loan capital.

Defends government acquisition of a controlling financial interest in the Anglo-Persian Oil Company.

Refuses to disclose the maximum price payable under the Admiralty's Anglo-Persian oil supply arrangements.

Answers Commons questions comparing Admiralty policy for battleships, submarines and airships.

Answers Commons questions concerning appeals available to lower-deck naval ratings.

Answers Commons questions concerning the Fourth Battle Squadron.

Provides a written parliamentary answer concerning German naval policy.

Answers Commons questions concerning marriage regulations affecting petty officers and ratings.

Explains that Admiralty requirements in the Mediterranean depend on wider strategic and state-policy considerations.

Orders the Fleet to take up its War Stations in the North Sea

Orders completion and requisition of Ottoman battleships being built in British yards as the European crisis deepens.

Creates a small Admiralty War Group of senior naval leaders to direct major strategic decisions after war begins.

The Admiralty signals Royal Navy ships and establishments to commence hostilities against Germany.

British cable operations sever German transatlantic communications shortly after war begins.

Faces criticism after Goeben and Breslau reach Ottoman waters despite British attempts to intercept them.

Churchill records that Britain cannot command both the North Sea and Baltic before defeating Germany's main fleet.

Reports the destruction of German auxiliary cruiser Kaiser Wilhelm der Grosse by HMS Highflyer.

The Royal Navy wins an early North Sea action against German light forces off Heligoland.

Directs Admiralty efforts to locate and contain the German battlecruiser Goeben and light cruiser Breslau in the Mediterranean.

Supports the Royal Navy strategy of restricting German overseas trade and access to strategic imports.

Creates the Royal Naval Division from naval reservists and marines not immediately required for service at sea.

Churchill urges Kitchener to release additional trained artillery for the armies fighting in France.

The Admiralty reviews the first loss of a warship to a submarine-fired torpedo.

The Admiralty receives news that HMS Carmania has sunk the German auxiliary cruiser Cap Trafalgar.

The British naval mission withdraws from Ottoman service as relations deteriorate before Turkey enters the war.

Royal Naval Air Service aircraft attack Zeppelin sheds at Dusseldorf and Cologne from their Belgian base.

The sinking of three British cruisers by German submarine U-9 exposes the growing danger from submarines.

Churchill reviews protective measures after U-9 sinks three British armoured cruisers in rapid succession.

The Ottomans close the Dardanelles to Allied shipping after an incident when the British Dardanelles squadron had seized a Ottoman torpedo boat

Entertains plans of capturing the Dardanelles as early as September 1914

Supports deployment of Royal Naval Air Service aircraft to Belgium for reconnaissance and attacks against German airship bases.

Visits the Grand Fleet and meets senior officers while inspecting naval readiness at northern bases.

The Admiralty decides to mine the North Sea

The Belgians plan to evacuate Antwerp, Churchill visits it & rallies its defence

Churchill discusses the city's defence with Belgian and British authorities after arriving at Antwerp.

Birth of Sarah Churchill, Churcills 3rd child

The Admiralty helps coordinate withdrawal as the Belgian position becomes untenable.

Royal Naval Air Service aircraft destroy a German Zeppelin in its shed during a successful raid on Dusseldorf.

Naval Division units withdraw toward the coast as German forces complete the siege of Antwerp.

Royal Navy vessels bombard German forces on the Belgian coast while supporting the Allied flank.

Keeps the loss of HMS Audacious from immediate publication after the battleship strikes a mine off the Irish coast.

Accepts Prince Louis of Battenberg's resignation as First Sea Lord amid intense public hostility to his German background.

Appoints Admiral Lord Fisher as First Sea Lord following Prince Louis of Battenberg's resignation.

The loss of HMS Hermes to a German submarine highlights the danger facing ships supporting naval aviation operations.

The Admiralty establishes a seaplane base at Dunkirk to support coastal operations and anti-submarine patrols.

The Admiralty confronts a severe defeat after Admiral Cradock's squadron is destroyed by Admiral von Spee off Chile.

Churchill instructs Admiral Carden to conduct a limited bombardment against the outer Dardanelles forts.

The Admiralty declares the North Sea a military area and issues controlled routes for neutral shipping.

Churchill orders the first British attack on the Dardanelles following the opening of hostilities between Ottoman and Russian empires

The submarine HMS D5 strikes a British mine while responding to the German raid on Yarmouth.

British and French warships bombard Ottoman positions on the Asian side of the Dardanelles entrance.

The Allied bombardment detonates an Ottoman ammunition magazine at Sedd el Bahr.

The Admiralty reviews German battlecruiser operations off Yarmouth and Britain's attempted interception.

The Admiralty welcomes the destruction of the German cruiser Emden by HMAS Sydney.

"Business carried on as usual during alterations on the map of Europe"

The Admiralty sends Invincible and Inflexible south under Admiral Sturdee to hunt Admiral von Spee after Coronel.

Churchill answers questions about HMS Canopus following the defeat of Admiral Cradock's squadron.

Churchill answers Commons questions concerning the training and employment of naval cadets during wartime.

Churchill answers criticism concerning oilskins and equipment supplied to Royal Naval Division personnel.

Answers Commons questions concerning equipment and oilskins for men of the Royal Naval Division.

Churchill reports that roughly one thousand Royal Naval Division personnel remain listed as missing after Antwerp.

Provides the House of Commons with figures for Royal Navy killed, wounded and missing since the war began.

Royal Naval Air Service aircraft raid the Zeppelin base and hydrogen facilities at Friedrichshafen.

Churchill answers parliamentary questions concerning wartime commissions between the armed services.

Churchill addresses questions concerning the destruction of Cradock's squadron off the Chilean coast.

Answers Commons questions about the service and condition of Royal Naval and Marine brigades.

Answers parliamentary questions concerning the escape of the German battlecruiser Goeben.

The Admiralty reports the destruction of HMS Bulwark after an internal explosion at Sheerness.

Churchill defends the Navy's discipline, power and efficiency during a Commons debate.

Churchill argues that pressure at the Dardanelles could threaten Constantinople and relieve strategic pressure elsewhere.

Churchill revives consideration of attacking the Dardanelles as the Ottoman Empire moves closer to war.

The Admiralty develops the codebreaking organisation later known as Room 40 to exploit captured German naval signals material.

The Royal Navy destroys most of Admiral von Spee's East Asia Squadron, reversing the shock of the Coronel defeat.

Churchill reviews naval defensive arrangements after German battlecruisers bombard Hartlepool.

The Admiralty reviews the German bombardment of Scarborough and the failure to force a decisive interception.

Royal Naval Air Service seaplanes launched from converted ships raid German naval and Zeppelin facilities around Cuxhaven.

Churchill proposes opening new strategic pressure against Germany and considers the requirements for Baltic operations.

Churchill strengthens the Admiralty's wartime collection and distribution of naval intelligence.

Some retreating Royal Naval Division personnel cross into neutral Netherlands and are interned.

Royal Navy patrols help the Expeditionary Force cross the Channel without German naval interference.

Churchill wins his case to increase the budget on the Navy

The Admiralty increases minesweeping and patrol activity to protect troop and merchant routes.

The Admiralty organises naval protection for transports carrying the British Expeditionary Force to France.

Naval forces at Dover intensify patrol, escort and defensive duties protecting the Channel approaches.

Dunkirk becomes an important Admiralty base for coastal patrols, aviation and support operations.

The Admiralty directs action against German merchant vessels found within British-controlled waters.

Churchill sends additional Royal Naval Division troops to support the defence of Antwerp.

Admiralty cryptanalysts begin exploiting captured German naval codes to improve operational intelligence.

The Admiralty develops systematic interception of German naval wireless traffic for intelligence purposes.

Orders the creation of armored cars to protect naval installations at Dunkirk

France & Britain test the new tank which is introduced into combat in 1915. Caterpillar tracks are added to armoured cars which become tank prototypes

The Admiralty supports operations containing the German cruiser Königsberg in the Rufiji River.

Captured German naval code material reaches Britain and strengthens Admiralty signals intelligence.

Churchill supports deployment of armed naval vehicles to assist reconnaissance and communications in Belgium.

Merchant vessels are advised to use Admiralty-directed routes through the Channel and along Britain's east coast.

The Admiralty enlarges mine countermeasures after German mining and submarine operations threaten shipping.

The Admiralty strengthens cruiser patrols between Scotland and Iceland to intercept suspect shipping.

The Admiralty sends naval personnel and equipment to strengthen Allied activity around Ostend.

The Admiralty dispatches Royal Marines to reinforce the threatened Belgian fortress during the German advance.

The Admiralty expands RNAS armoured-car units for reconnaissance and mobile support on the Belgian coast.

Churchill supports wider RNAS reconnaissance from coastal stations as naval aviation enters wartime service.

Another naval brigade is committed as Britain attempts to prolong Antwerp's resistance.

The Admiralty assesses the loss of HMS Formidable after the battleship is torpedoed by U-24.

Churchill proposes forcing the Dardanelles with naval power to threaten Constantinople and assist Russia.

Suggests an attack on the Dardanelles at a War Council meeting

At Churchills request, the commander of the Royal Navys Mediterranean Squadron, Vice Admiral S.H. Carden proposed a plan for forcing the Dardanelles using battleships, submarines and minesweepers

The British War Council resolve that the Admiralty should prepare for a naval expedition in February against the Dardanelles

The British War Council approves the plan, and Carden is supplied with additional pre-Dreadnought battleships, the battleship HMS Queen Elizabeth and the battlecruiser HMS Inflexible. Churchill argues for just a naval attack at the War Council. Cabinet approves the attack with ships

The British War Council resolve that the Admiralty should prepare for a naval expedition in February against the Dardanelles

The War Council accepts Churchills idea for a naval expedition to the Dardanelles. A plan to create a supply link to the Russian front & secure the Balkan states

Churchill treats the destruction of Blücher as evidence of British battlecruiser superiority.

Churchill reports the battle to Kitchener and describes the pursuit and sinking of Blücher.

Admiralty intelligence helps British battlecruisers intercept Admiral Hipper's force at Dogger Bank.

Churchill reports that Beatty's flagship Lion is damaged but returning safely after Dogger Bank.

Churchill argues for just a naval attack at the War Council

An attack on the Dardanelles could give Russia a supply route and might encourage Bulgaria and Romania to join the allied side

In a new year review submitted to the Prime Minister, Herbert Asquith, outlines two possible new fronts against the Germans, intended to break the stalemate and accompanying enormous loss of life which had rapidly set in on the western front.

The Russian plea for assistance, coupled with a perception of the Ottoman Empire as a weak enemy ("the sick man of Europe"), made the prospect of a campaign in the Dardanelles seem appealing.

The Admiralty assesses Germany's declaration that waters around Britain will become a submarine war zone.

Churchill answers parliamentary questions concerning the sinking of HMS Formidable.

Churchill answers Commons questions concerning HMS Good Hope and the losses suffered at Coronel.

Churchill provides information on the Royal Naval Reserve during the expansion of wartime naval manpower.

Churchill provides Parliament with information concerning enemy vessels captured by British naval forces.

Churchill answers parliamentary questions about German submarines and British defensive measures.

Churchill answers questions concerning the loss of the armed merchant cruiser HMS Viknor.

Churchill reports on naval activity intended to suppress arms trafficking in the Persian Gulf.

Churchill confirms that the British naval mission left Ottoman service in September 1914.

Churchill explains the Admiralty's policy on judicial inquiries into major naval losses.

Churchill cites Dogger Bank as evidence of the range and power of British battlecruiser gunnery.

Churchill tells Parliament that the Navy entered the war fully mobilised, supplied and stationed for operations.

Churchill states that British naval strength retains a substantial numerical margin over Germany.

Churchill reports that wartime procedures are accelerating completion of new warships.

Churchill states that the fleet possesses adequate reserves of ammunition, torpedoes, coal and oil.

Churchill discusses tracked fighting machines with officers experienced in Royal Naval Air Service armoured cars.

What was to become the Battle of Gallipoli, a 10-month Battle of attrition, begins at 7.30am on February 19, 1915. The War Cabinet decides to send troops to the Dardanelles. Only 6 British ships are involved & 3/4 of the Turkish guns survive. Bombardment of the outer ports of the Dardenalles begins

What was to become the Battle of Gallipoli, a 10-month Battle of attrition, begins at 7.30am on February 19, 1915

Churchill creates the Admiralty Landships Committee to investigate armoured tracked vehicles for trench warfare.

George V & Churchill inspect the Royal Naval Div before it sails to the Dardanelles

The Allied fleet destroys outer forts of the Dardanelles

Demolition parties of Royal Marines raided the Sedd el Bahr and Kum Kale forts, meeting little opposition. Another attempt is made on February 25, this time the Ottomans evacuate the outer defences and the fleet enters the straits to engage the intermediate defences

The operation was originally intended to be purely naval due to a lack of available troops and the independence of Lord of the admiralty Winston Churchill but.

by early February, it was decided that more regular infantry was needed.

Churchill presses the Admiralty to begin systematic attacks on Ottoman forts and minefields.

Allied troops land at Kum-Kale, the Asiatic side of the Dardanelles

The event that decided the battle took place on the night of March 8 when the Ottoman minelayer Nusret laid a line of mines in Eren Key Bay, a wide bay along the Asian shore just inside the entrance to the straits

The operation went ahead without the British or French becoming aware of the recent additions to the Ottoman minefields

Churchill supplies parliamentary information concerning Royal Navy courts-martial during wartime.

Churchill provides information on British merchant ships detained, captured or destroyed during the war.

March 18 is a significant victory for the Ottoman Empire

A naval attack fails & the Inflexible & Irrepressible are lost

Churchill reviews the severe losses suffered during the main Allied attempt to force the Dardanelles.

Churchill continues pressing for renewed naval action despite the battleship losses.

Churchill answers parliamentary questions concerning the wartime employment of retired Royal Navy captains.

Churchill supplies information concerning attacks by submarines on British and neutral merchant ships.

Churchill answers questions concerning honours and promotion for Royal Navy engineer officers.

With the failure of the naval assault, the idea that land forces could advance around the backs of the Dardanelles forts and capture Istanbul gained support as an alternative, on 25 April, the Gallipoli Campaign is launched

Churchill gives Parliament a wide review of naval operations and Britain's command of the sea.

Churchill presents Admiral Sturdee's official dispatch describing the Falkland Islands victory.

Churchill explains the Admiralty's appointment of Admiral Reginald Bacon during parliamentary questioning.

Churchill rejects exaggerated press allegations concerning the conduct of the Dardanelles operation.

Churchill argues that criticism of the Dardanelles should not unfairly damage Admiral Fisher's reputation.

Churchill answers questions concerning the treatment of captured German submarine crews.

Churchill refuses to publish patrol dispositions around the British coast after the Lusitania sinking.

Churchill confirms that the Admiralty warned Lusitania using information about submarine activity.

Churchill states that available destroyers cannot escort the hundreds of merchant and passenger sailings each day.

Churchill answers parliamentary questions concerning British and Ottoman losses during Dardanelles operations.

Churchill and Fisher continually quarreled throughout the campaign, and Fisher finally resigned on 15 May 1915 after repeated threats to do so

Fishers resignation, on top of poor progress in the campaign, precipitated the fall of the Government and Churchills replacement as First Lord

Churchill provides information concerning wartime use of the Admiralty yacht Enchantress.

Dismissed by Asquith, Bonar Law wishes to form a coalition without Churchill

Churchill's responsibilities pass to Arthur Balfour as the coalition government reorganises naval leadership.

Churchill leaves the Admiralty when Asquith reconstructs the government after the political crisis over naval strategy.

Appointed Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster, stays in position for 5 months

Appointed Member of War Council

Watches a demonstration of a protype of the tank, a mechanical barbed wire cutter

Writes to Asquith, Kitchener & Balfour suggesting a naval attack, the plea is rejected

Despite heavy losses Churchill recommends troop reinforcements to the Dardanelles Comm

Proposes to the Dardanelles Committee Lloyd George replace Kitchener at the War Office. Proposes to the Dardanelles Committee French & Kitchener swap roles in Turkey & France

Proposes to the Dardanelles Committee French & Kitchener swap roles in Turkey & France

Threatens to resign from the cabient if Kitchener is not dismissed, Asquith refuses

The Dardanelles Committee decides to recall Hamilton

Writes to Asquith threatning to resign if Kitchener is not removed from the War Office

Threatens to resign if Asquith carries out his announcement to reduce the War Council

Churchill resigns from the Government

Churchill makes his resignation speech in Parliament

Arrives at Boulogne-sur-Mer to take up duties

Taken to General HQ at St Omer

Crosses the Channel to join his pre-1914 regiment of the Oxfordshire Hussars

At the outset of the operation, the expected role of the infantry was to be the occupation of Istanbul; the taking of the straits was to be accomplished by the Entente naval forces.

The British hope to turn the Balkans against the Axis. The British hope to capture Constantinople & force Turkey to surrender

The operation was originally intended to be purely naval due to a lack of available troops and the independence of Lord of the admiralty Winston Churchill but, by early February, it was decided that more regular infantry was needed.

The Admiralty reassesses the mine danger after battleships are sunk or damaged in the Narrows.

Churchill supports stronger minesweeping efforts as Ottoman minefields block progress through the straits.

The Admiralty increases naval gunfire against Ottoman forts while attempts continue to open the straits.

The Admiralty expands warnings and routing advice to merchant vessels facing the growing submarine threat.

The Admiralty commits the modern battleship HMS Queen Elizabeth to long-range bombardment at the Dardanelles.

Churchill considers arguments that determined minesweeping could still reopen the naval route through the Dardanelles.

Churchill authorises experimental work using heavy machinery to explore methods of crossing fortified trench systems.

Churchill places Director of Naval Construction Eustace Tennyson d'Eyncourt in charge of the landship project.

Churchill authorises practical experiments with tracked vehicles rather than relying only on paper designs.

Appointed Commander of the 6th Royal Scots Fusiliers, battalion of the 9th Division

Informed he will command the 6th Royal Scots Fusiliers

Appointed Commander with the rank of Lieutenant Colonel

Appointed Commander of the 6th Royal Scots Fusiliers

Appointed Lieutenant Colonel

Takes command the 6th Royal Scots Fusiliers

Takes the battalion of 6th Royal Scots Fusiliers across the Belgian border

Urges the First Lord of the Admiralty to recall Lord Fisher as First Sea Lord

The 6th Royal Scots merges with the 15th Division. Churchill does not seek another command & returns to Parliament

Gives his Officers a farewell lunch at Armentieres

Holds a farewell luncheon for the officers of his batallion

Returns to England, the end of his military career

Stands alone in criticizing the Government during the War Office vote

Learns Asquith witheld documents in the Dardanelles enquiry which would clear him

The formation of a Commission is announced to investigate the Dardanelles Campaign

Criticises the conduct of the Somme offensive while out of ministerial office.

Writes to Earl Cromer asking to present his own case without Counsel

Cromer informs Churchill the Commission will meet secretly & Churchill cannot examine

Says there was full authority & at the time there was a reasonable prospect of success. Appears at the enquiry to defend the Dardanelles Campaign

The findings are published but Churchills evidence is not. Churchill has his account of the Antwerp expedition published in the Sunday Pictoral

Excluded from Lloyd George's new 5 man War Cabinet

Appointed Minister of Munitions but is not appointed as a member of the War Cabinet

Reforms the Ministry of Munitions

Returns to Parliament after winning the Dundee election

Wins the election with a vote of 7,302. Must be elected to Parliament because of his Cabinet appointment

Presents the Munitions of War Bill to Parliament to reform munitions production

Announces plans to create a streamlined department composed of a council of 11 members

Churchill agrees with Louis Loucher to set up an Inter Allied Munitions Council

Meets the French to discuss munitions

Agrees to set up a munitions factory so arms can be repaired in France

Presses for the cavalry to man tanks

Cables all factories to requested increased output

Counters the Red Cross efforts to stop the French use of chemical weapons

Counters the Red Cross efforts to stop the French use of chemical weapons

Visits GHQ in Paris & the Front

Attends the BEF GHQ Shell Conference

Attends the BEF GHQ Shell Conference

Attends the Allied Munitions Council

Chairs the Gas Conference

Fights the election as a Coalition (Lloyd George) Liberal

Appointed Minister of Air

Appointed Minister of War

Attends the Paris Peace Conference, urges a military expedition against the Bolsheviks

Attends the Paris Peace Conference, urges a military expedition against the Bolsheviks

100 million pounds is sent in military supplies to the Whites but they are defeated. 100 million pounds is sent in military supplies but the anti-Bolsheviks are defeated

œ100 million is sent in military supplies but the anti-Bolsheviks are defeated

Supports the Protestants by vetoing proposal by the Ulster Government to introduce PR

Proclaims that he is in favour of a Jewish State

Proclaims that he is in favour of a Jewish State

Proclaims that he is in favour of a Jewish State

Separates Transjordan administration from Palestine mandate policy.

Wants to join the Conservatives to resist the rise of Socialism. Rejoins the Conservative Party declaring that the 3 Party system is at an end. Declares the Liberals are doomed & the Labour Government has to be brought down

Defeated in the election leaves the Liberal Party & rejoins the Conservative Party

Defeated in the election leaves the Liberal Party & rejoins the Conservative Party

Defeated at Leicester West

Publication of "The World Crisis", a prediction of impending war

Publication of "The World Crisis", a prediction of impending war

Will stand as "Independent anti-Socialist candidate" for the Abbey Div of Westminster

Defeated by 43 votes by the official Conservative candidate

Adopted "Constitutional & Anti-Socialist" candidate for Epping

Adopted "Constitutional & Anti-Socialist" candidate for Epping

Elected Member of Parliament for Epping, "Constitutional anti-Socialist"

Elected Member of Parliament for Epping, "Constitutional anti-Socialist"

Appointed Chancellor of the Exchequer, although not a member of the Conservative Party

Churchill begins preparing a return to gold at the pre-war sterling parity after becoming Chancellor.

Tries to reduce Germany's war debts to France & France's war debts to the US. Attends the Allied Financial Conference

Churchill presents his first budget and announces the Government's intention to restore sterling's gold parity.

The budget announces sterling's return at the pre-war rate of approximately 4.86 United States dollars per pound.

Churchill's budget combines the gold-standard announcement with reductions in the standard rate of income tax.

Churchill announces restoration of sterling's pre-war gold parity.

Organizes the printing of a Government newspaper, the "British Gazette". Advocates "no surrender" to the strikers

The Bank of England is required to sell gold bullion at the statutory pre-war price.

The Gold Standard Act receives royal assent and restores convertibility of sterling into gold bullion.

Praised by the Daily Mail for his handling of the General Strike

Praised by the Daily Mail for his handling of the General Strike

Rejoins the Conservative Party after 21 years absence

Returns to the Conservatives because the Liberal Party had supported Ramsay MacDonald

A subsidy of 10M is agreed by the Cabinet for 9 months to prepare for a coal strike

Reduces the Treasurys contribution to health & unemployment schemes by 11%. Intoduces a contributory old age pension scheme & reduces direct taxation by 4%

Visits Mussolini in Italy, 1st visit to Italy

Passes legislation which reduces rates for industry

Churchill makes his 4th budget speech

Resigns from the shadow Cabinet over Baldwins support for Indian self-Government

Says politics is entering a new era above party politics to face economic problems

Publication of "The World Crisis", 1923-31

Publication of "The World Crisis", 1923-31

Churchills first Speech in Parliament warning about German rearmament

Begins to advocate re-armament against Germany

Warns of growing German air strength

Advocates a the creation of a Ministry of Supply

Supports Edward VIII during the abdication, loses much political support

Joins an anti-nazi group, "The Focus" protesting against treatment of Jews in Germany. Founder Member of "The Focus" which comprises some left wing members

Warns the Commons about Hitler's plans following the German absorption of Austria

Derby, seconded by Churchill, proposes Chamberlain for Leadership

Rejects the recommendation of the Peel Commission that Palestine should be partitioned

Rejects the recommendation of the Peel Commission that Palestine should be partitioned

Calls for a Grand Alliance of Britain and France and the Covenant of the League of Nations

Calls for a Grand Alliance of Britain and France and the Covenant of the League of Nations

Holds cross party meeting of those opposed to Munich & what to do in an election

Holds cross party meeting of those opposed to Munich & what to do in an election

Calls for a group to oppose Chamberlain but finds few supporters

Makes a speech describing the Munich Agreement as "a disaster of the first magnitude"

Churchill condemned the agreement as a complete and unmitigated defeat for Britain and France.

Makes a speech describing the Munich Agreement as "a disaster of the first magnitude"

Abstains when the vote on the Munich Agreement is taken in the Commons

Abstains when the vote on the Munich Agreement is taken in the Commons

Publication of "Marlborough: His Life & Times", 1933-1938

Publication of "Marlborough: His Life & Times", 1933-1938

Abstains in the Commons when voting on the Munich Agreement

Abstains in the Commons when voting on the Munich Agreement

Visits Leon Blum

In the Commons Churchill calls for a Ministry of Supply

Defends his opposition to appeasement to his constituents

Campaigns with Eden for an immediate alliance with Russia & France

Campaigns with Eden for an immediate alliance with Russia & France

Leon Blum visits Churchill

Russia offers a tripartite alliance with France & Britain, Churchill urges acceptence

Russia offers a tripartite alliance with France & Britain, Churchill urges acceptence

Churchill urges Britain to form a military alliance with Russia

Churchill urges Britain to form a military alliance with Russia

Reviews the final day of the Air Defence Research Committee.

Twenty radar stations can detect aircraft above ten thousand feet.

A Ministry of Supply is created, 1st advocated by Churhill in 1936

A Ministry of Supply is created, 1st advocated by Churhill in 1936

Warns the House of Commons of an imminent German attack on Poland

Invited by Paul Reynaud to examine the defences of the Maginot Line

Appointed First Sea Lord of the Admiralty & Member of Cabinet

1st day at the Admiralty

The Corageous is sunk with the loss of over 500 lives

U-29 torpedoed HMS Courageous southwest of Ireland on 17 September 1939; the aircraft carrier sank in about seventeen minutes.

Proposes an invasion of Norway to intercept Germany's supply of iron-ore from Sweden

Argues that Narvik is vital because Swedish iron ore reaches Germany through the port in winter.

Churchill makes his 1st wartime broadcast, after the defeat of Poland

The Royal Oak is sunk in Scapa Flow

Royal Oak's loss inside Scapa Flow exposed weaknesses in the anchorage defences and prompted rapid strengthening of the naval base.

Visits the French Minister of Marine to discuss joint Anglo-French naval activity

A major propaganda victory for the British during the Phony War, Churchills reputation is enhanced

Argues that control of Narvik is vital to disrupting German iron ore supplies.

Argues that German iron ore shipments through Narvik should be disrupted.

Churchill argues that mining Norwegian waters would disrupt German iron ore shipments through Narvik.

Presses naval plans to mine Norwegian waters and interrupt ore traffic.

Praises the Finns for "what fee men can do" in the defense of their country

Supports Allied plans to intervene in Norway and threaten the Narvik ore route.

Attends the council as Allied leaders discuss control of Swedish iron ore routes.

Attends the council meeting considering aid to Finland against Soviet Russia.

Supports measures affecting Norway and Swedish iron ore traffic.

Supports Allied consideration of Norway and Swedish iron ore routes.

Supports naval action after German prisoners are found aboard Altmark.

Presses for mining Norwegian waters to force ore traffic away from Narvik.

Advocates mining Norwegian waters to force a German response.

Presses for mining Norwegian waters to disrupt the ore route from Narvik.

Orders the Cossack Captain to liberate Britsh prisoners from the Altmark off Norway. British prisoners are freed without loss of British life, the crew of the Altmark flee

Speaks at the Guildhall praising the warships opposing the Graf Spee

Introduces the Navy estimates to Parliament for the 1st time since 1914

Introduces the Navy estimates to Parliament for the 1st time since 1914

Continues pushing plans for a northern operation linked to Narvik.

Continues planning for possible Allied landings linked to Narvik.

Narvik plans pause after Finland accepts peace with the Soviet Union.

Wins support of the war Cabinet & the Allied supreme war Council to mine Norway

Wins support of the war Cabinet & the Allied supreme war Council to mine Norway

Backs Supreme War Council approval of mining Norwegian waters and preparing Narvik occupation plans.

Backs approval to mine Norwegian waters and prepare Narvik operations.

Oversees naval preparations as Operation Wilfred begins before the German invasion.

Soldiers in the British Army land at Namsos in Norway

Churchill backs the Royal Navy mining operation intended to disrupt German access to Swedish iron ore.

Oversees the opening of mining operations off Norway.

Responds to the German landing at Narvik during Operation Weserubung.

The Germans invade Norway, British intervention is too late

Responds to the German invasion of Norway and Denmark.

Receives reports of Warburton-Lee's destroyer attack in the first naval battle.

Receives reports of Warburton-Lee's destroyer attack at Narvik.

The Royal Navy attacks German destroyers at Narvik during the first naval battle in Ofotfjord.

Welcomes the second naval attack that destroys the remaining German destroyers.

Welcomes the destruction of German destroyers at Narvik.

British naval forces destroy or force the scuttling of the remaining German destroyers at Narvik.

Supports the Allied landing at Harstad for operations against Narvik.

Supports the Allied expedition being assembled around Harstad.

Defends naval operations as the Norway campaign develops.

Presses for stronger action while Allied commanders delay a frontal assault.

Faces frustration over delays in the Allied attack on Narvik.

Monitors Allied build-up as French and Polish troops join the Narvik campaign.

Appointed Chairman of the Miltary Co-ordinating Committee

Defends the Admiralty during parliamentary criticism of the Norway campaign.

Takes part in discussions as Chamberlain's government collapses.

Chamberlain prefers Halifax as PM but he cannot run the Government from the Lords

Becomes Prime Minister while the campaign around Narvik is still underway.

Becomes Prime Minister after Neville Chamberlain resigns.

Becomes Prime Minister and Minister of Defence as Germany attacks the west.

Appointed Prime Minister of Great Britain, 1st term

Appointed Minister of Defence

Forms a national coalition government to prosecute the war.

Creates a smaller War Cabinet for rapid wartime decision making.

Oversees the campaign as Allied troops capture Elvegardsmoen and advance toward Narvik.

Tells Parliament he can offer only blood toil tears and sweat.

In the Commons says "I have nothing to offer but blood, toil, tears & sweat"

Wins a unanimous vote of confidence from the Commons for the new administration

Appoints Beaverbrook to accelerate aircraft production.

Eden announces the formation of the Home Guard

Foundation of the Local Defence Volunteers, later Home Guard

Confronts the crisis created by the German breakthrough at Sedan.

Debates sending more RAF fighter squadrons to France.

Attends a crisis meeting after the German breakthrough at Sedan.

Flies to Paris to discuss the collapsing French front.

Orders urgent preparations against possible invasion of Britain.

Makes it known he would like communists & fascists detained but nothing comes of this

Makes it known he would like communists & fascists detained but nothing comes of this

Orders the Admiralty to round up shipping in order to evacuate the BEF

Secures emergency powers to mobilise national resources for war.

Parliament grants Winston Churchill and his Government wide emergency powers

Attends another crisis meeting as German forces reach the Channel.

Returns to Paris as German forces approach the Channel.

Authorises Operation Alphabet to evacuate Allied forces from northern Norway.

Orders Calais to hold out to aid the Dunkirk evacuation.

Churchill's government authorises the evacuation of Allied forces from Narvik.

Authorises evacuation of Allied forces from northern Norway as the battle in France worsens.

Authorises evacuation of Allied forces from northern Norway.

Authorises evacuation of the British Expeditionary Force from Dunkirk.

Meets Reynaud as Dunkirk and possible Italian mediation are discussed.

Rejects seeking peace terms through Italian mediation.

Balances Narvik operations against the worsening Allied crisis in France.

The last of the 338,000 British, French and Belgian forces evacuated from Dunkirk. Evacuation from Dunkirk begins

Receives news of the Allied recapture of Narvik.

Receives news that Allied forces have recaptured Narvik from Dietl's troops.

Monitors the evacuation as large numbers of troops are rescued.

Announces in Cabinet, "of course, whatever happens at Dunkirk, we shall fight on"

Persuades ministers to continue fighting rather than seek terms.

Receives news of Narvik's recapture while evacuation plans remain in force.

Discusses Narvik and Dunkirk with French leaders at the Supreme War Council.

Discusses Narvik and Dunkirk with French leaders.

Attends the council as Allied strategy shifts during the Dunkirk evacuation.

Announces evacuation figures from Dunkirk during a Supreme War Council meeting.

Meets the Allied Supreme War Council and declares Britain will fight on.

Promises to fight on despite the worsening military position.

Attends as Allied leaders discuss evacuation from Norway and France.

Discusses Dunkirk and Norway with French leaders.

Discusses Narvik and Dunkirk with French leaders.

Clamps down on "the enemy within" & strongly supports the deportation of enemy aliens

Sets up raiding forces to keep German troops tied down in occupied countries

The Germans enter Dunkirk

"We shall fight on the beaches...... we shall never surrender"

"We shall fight on the beaches...... we shall never surrender"

Warns Parliament that Britain will fight on whatever happens.

Continues evacuation arrangements after the temporary Allied victory at Narvik.

Continues evacuation arrangements for Allied forces in northern Norway.

Allied withdrawal from Narvik is completed as Norway becomes untenable.

Allied evacuation from Narvik is completed despite the earlier victory.

British and Allied forces complete withdrawal from Narvik during Operation Alphabet.

Benito Mussolini declares war on the Allies

Responds as Mussolini brings Italy into the war.

Meets French leaders as the French front collapses.

Meets de Gaulle & greets him with the words "Lhomme du destin"

Britain refuses to support a separate French peace and commits to continuing the war.

The collapse of the French military position forces the government toward an armistice decision.

Urges Reynaud's government to continue fighting.

Promises the Allies will restore France after the war. Forbids France making a separate peace with Germany

Informed of the imminent collapse of France. Flies to Tours where the French Government is now based

Paris falls to the Germans. Churchill realises that Britain will be the next target for Hitler after France

Faces the strategic shock of Paris falling to Germany.

Offers a political union to encourage France to remain in the war.

Churchill uses his skilful rhetoric to harden public opinion against capitulation, and to prepare the British for a long war. In his "This was their finest hour" speech on 18 June 1940, he said "the Battle of France is over. I expect that the Battle of Britain is about to begin"

Tells Parliament the Battle of Britain is about to begin.

Declares that the Battle of France is over and the Battle of Britain is about to begin.

Uses the Finest Hour speech to prepare Britain for the coming air campaign.

Persuades the Home Office to intern 27,000 enemy aliens

Persuades the Home Office to intern 27,000 enemy aliens

Prepares Britain to continue alone after France seeks an armistice.

1st British Commando raid on occupied France at Boulogne-sur-Mer, attackers failed to achieve any of their objectives

1st British Commando raid on occupied France at Boulogne-sur-Mer, attackers failed to achieve any of their objectives

All French ships in British ports are seized by the royal Navy

Recognizes Charles de Gaulle as the leader of the Free French

Supports de Gaulle and the Free French movement in London.

Recognizes Charles de Gaulle as the leader of the Free French

The British, although besieged, had been spared from annihilation when Operation Dynamo evacuated 300,000 troops from Dunkirk

The Royal Navy destroys most of the French Navy at Mers-el-Kebir. Engagement off the coast of French Algeria where a British Royal Navy task force attacked and destroyed much of the French fleet stationed there, in an attempt to avoid its falling into the hands of the German Navy

Churchill says the sinking of the French Navy shows how serious Britain is. Britain sinks the French fleet which refuses to surrender

Orders action against French naval forces to deny them to Germany.

Explains the attack on the French fleet to Parliament.

Instructs the Ministry of Information to campaign against rumors which help the enemy

Ark Royal sinks Dunkerqueat at Mers-el-Kebir

Opening day of the Battle of Britain

Says, "there is a time to live & a time to die"

Oversees Britain's air defence as the Luftwaffe begins sustained attacks.

Encourages mobilisation of local defence volunteers against invasion.

Commando raid on the Channel island of Guernsey, failes to achieve its objective

Churchill invites Hugh Dalton to establish the Special Operations Executive

The US agrees to provide Britain with 50 ex-US Navy destroyers in return for access to British naval bases in the western hemisphere

Forms the Special Operations Executive, supports resistance in German occupied Europe

Approves creation of a body to support resistance in occupied Europe.

Winston Churchill ordered that the French Navy (Marine Nationale) should either join forces with the British Royal Navy or be neutralised in some way, to prevent the ships from falling into German or Italian hands

Winston Churchill ordered that the French Navy (Marine Nationale) should either join forces with the British Royal Navy or be neutralised in some way, to prevent the ships from falling into German or Italian hands

Orders continued preparations against a possible German landing.

"Never in the field of human conflict, was so much owed by so many to so few"

Germany has lost 1,733 planes compared to British loses of 915

Directs national resistance as the Luftwaffe launches Eagle Day.

Churchill sends reinforcements to Wavell in Egypt to be used against the Italians

Hitler declares a blockade of the British Isles

The German declaration presents waters around the British Isles as subject to wartime maritime restriction.

Praises Fighter Command pilots in his speech on the Few.

1st air raids take place on central London

Responds to German bombing raids on British cities and airfields.

Britain retaliates for attacks on London with a raid against Berlin.

The Berlin raid influences German decisions about subsequent bombing strategy.

The RAF makes its 1st bombing raid on Berlin

Welcomes the deal bringing American destroyers to Britain.

Possesses 8 of 50 destroyers from America agreed under the "Lend-Lease" scheme

The Luftwaffe begin to systematically bomb London, the blitz

The Luftwaffe begin to systematically bomb London, the blitz

Faces the start of sustained German bombing of London.

The Chancellor agrees with Churchill & air-raid damage is charged to the state

Rodolfo Graziani and the Italian Army make a rapid advance into Egypt

Oversees defence during the decisive daylight air battle.

Observes Fighter Command committing its available squadrons against the raids.

Visits No. 11 Group headquarters during the climactic daylight attacks.

Maintains invasion readiness while Germany threatens a cross-Channel landing.

Supports technological cooperation with the United States.

Authorises the failed Allied expedition against Dakar.

Accepts withdrawal from Dakar after Vichy resistance holds.

Churchill decides to abandon the attempt to capture the port of Dakar

Tells the country that invasion danger remains despite RAF success.

Praises Fighter Command while radar remains vital to defence.

Uses underground war rooms as the Blitz makes central London dangerous.

Churchill appoints Ernest Bevin as Minister of Labour

Adolf Hitler postpones Operation Sea Lion

Britain and France agree not to sign a separate peace with Germany

Promises support after Italy attacks Greece.

Continues invasion precautions as the immediate German landing threat declines.

Focuses on convoy protection as U-boat losses increase.

London is bombed by 170 aircraft

The British Mediterranean Fleet attacks the Italian base

Welcomes the Fleet Air Arm attack on the Italian fleet at Taranto.

British bombers conduct a night raid on Berlin

British bombers bomb the Italian naval base of Taranto

449 German planes bomb Coventry, killing 380 people and injuring 865

Responds to the severe German bombing of Coventry.

The Royal Air Force bomb Hamburg

British bombers conduct a raid on the Gelsenkirchen oil plant

150 German aitcraft bomb Southampton

Airborne radar is successfully used by the Royal Air Force.

A major German air raid causes extensive deaths and destruction across Birmingham.

Reviews British commitments in Egypt Greece and the Mediterranean.

German bombing causes severe damage across Bristol.

Reviews air defence shipping losses and imperial commitments.

Authorises offensive action against Italian forces in Egypt.

Receives news of early British success against Italian forces.

Presses Roosevelt for greater American material aid.

Appeals for American help as Britain's financial resources are strained.

Responds to the bombing of Manchester during the winter Blitz.

Addresses the Empire during the first wartime Christmas of his premiership.

Responds after heavy bombing and fires across the City of London.

Visits the ruins of Guildhall with his wife

Visits the ruins of Guildhall with his wife. Germany bombs Londo with 1,000 bombers

Churchill says Mussolini is "the one man" who brought Italy into the war

Supports continued expansion of aircraft output after the Battle of Britain.

Reviews a year in which Britain survived invasion threats and fought on.

In 5 months 22,000 are killed

Naval construction is top followed by production of fighters for the Battle of Britain

In 5 months 22,000 are killed. Opens up the tube stations to the public despite opposition from local officials. Churchill statys in London during the bombing of London

Opposes food rationing, encourages the Ministry of Food to increase imports

Appointed Leader of the House of Commons

Trafalgar remains a symbol of resistance during invasion fears.

The pact of the "United Nations" is signed in Washington by 26 nations, they commit themselve to not agree to any seperate peace with Germany or Japan

The pact of the "United Nations" is signed in Washington by 26 nations, they commit themselve to not agree to any seperate peace with Germany or Japan

The communist newspaper, "The Daily Worker" is banned in London

The British Army captures Tobruk

Leads to a US mission visiting Britain in March for possible military bases. Decision code named ABC1 is made that places Germany's defeat as the principle Allied aim in the event of the USA declaring war

Agreement ABC-1 accepts the War & Navy Depts for planning when the US enters the war

The US House of Representives passes the Lend-Lease Bill by 260 votes to 265, assisting Britain

Churchill says in a speech, "the Government and people of the United States intend to supply us with all that is necessary for victory". Churchill says in a speech, "Give us the tools and we will finish the job"

Churchill says in a speech, "Give us the tools and we will finish the job"

Britains 1st airborne attack of the war, 38 paratroopers are dropped on a railway viaduct at Trignano, Italy

Britain breaks off relations with Romania

The British & Norwegians raid the occupied Lofoten Islands destroying 11 German ships

Churchill launches Operation Claymore, a naval raid against the Lofoten Islands

A commando raid destroys fish oil processing plants in Lofoton, northern Norway

In Operation Lustre British forces are ferried to Greece to defeng it against the German invasion

In Operation Lustre British forces are ferried to Greece to defeng it against the German invasion

The British Army invades Italian-controlled Ethiopia

US Congress passes the Lend-Lease Act

Forms the Battle of Atlantic Committee

Forms the Battle of Atlantic Committee

Churchill warns Stalin the Germans have regrouped in Poland to invade Russia

General Cunningham, commander of allied forces in East Africa, enters Addis Ababa

Approves Operation Ironclad in Cabinet, invasion of Madagascar with the Free French. Agrees the invasion of Madagascar with the Free French

Approves Operation Ironclad in Cabinet, invasion of Madagascar with the Free French. Agrees the invasion of Madagascar with the Free French

Approves Operation Ironclad in Cabinet, invasion of Madagascar with the Free French

Bristol suffers further heavy bombing during the Blitz.

The 1st large amphibious assault made by British forces since the Dardanelles. An amphibious invasion of the Vichy French colony of Madagascar

An amphibious invasion of the Vichy French colony of Madagascar

Vichy forces surrender to the British in Madagascar

Vichy forces surrender to the British in Madagascar

The British march into Diego Suarez in Madagascar after just 2 days fighting

The British march into Diego Suarez in Madagascar after 2 days fighting

The British march into Diego Suarez in Madagascar after just 2 days fighting

The British march into Diego Suarez in Madagascar after 2 days fighting

The 1st British operation against the Afrika Korps, attempts to throw the Axis forces back from the Egyptian frontier

The 1st British operation against the Afrika Korps, attempts to throw the Axis forces back from the Egyptian frontier

His government faces severe bombing damage during the Liverpool Blitz.

British and Free French troops invade Syria

British and Free French troops invade Syria

Churchill & Roosevelt meet for the 1st of their wartime meetings in Newfoundland

Meets Roosevelt at the Atlantic Conference in Newfoundland.

Seeks closer American support while Britain remains at war with Germany.

Hosts Roosevelt at the joint Sunday service aboard Prince of Wales.

Uses the ceremony to emphasize shared Anglo-American values.

Accepts a common statement despite concerns about imperial implications.

Accepts disarmament of aggressor nations after the defeat of Nazi Germany.

Accepts economic cooperation as part of the proposed postwar settlement.

Accepts opposition to territorial changes made without popular consent.

Accepts the goal of freedom from fear and want after Nazi defeat.

Agrees to principles supporting improved access to trade and raw materials.

Commits Britain to a principle of consent in territorial settlement.

Negotiates the wording of the joint declaration with Roosevelt.

Supports a peace allowing nations to live safely within their boundaries.

Supports reducing armaments under a wider system of security.

Cabinet acceptance allows the joint declaration to proceed.

Forwards the proposed declaration to the British War Cabinet.

Receives British Cabinet approval for the proposed charter.

Urges ministers not to raise unnecessary obstacles to the agreement.

US President Roosevelt and British Prime Minister Churchill sign the Atlantic Charter in Argentia Bay (Newfoundland), the charter establishes common wartime principals and emphasised the strength of Anglo-American alliance despite US neutrality

US President Roosevelt and British Prime Minister Churchill sign the Atlantic Charter in Argentia Bay (Newfoundland), the charter establishes common wartime principals and emphasised the strength of Anglo-American alliance despite US neutrality

US President Roosevelt and British Prime Minister Churchill sign the Atlantic Charter in Argentia Bay (Newfoundland), the charter establishes common wartime principals and emphasised the strength of Anglo-American alliance despite US neutrality

Concludes his Newfoundland meetings with Roosevelt.

Returns with a joint declaration linking Britain more closely to America.

US President Roosevelt and British Prime Minister Churchill sign the Atlantic Charter in Argentia Bay (Newfoundland), the charter establishes common wartime principals and emphasised the strength of Anglo-American alliance despite US neutrality

The Allies agree to set up the East Asia Command. The Allies agree to recognize de Gaulles Committee for National Liberation of France. 13 Aug-23 August, the Allies agree to mount an invasion called "Overlord" in May 44

13 Aug-23 August, the Allies agree to mount an invasion called "Overlord" in May 44

Issues the Atlantic Charter jointly with President Roosevelt.

Presents common Anglo-American principles for war aims and postwar peace.

Britain & the US state all countries occupied by Germany should become independent

Visits Roosevelt for the 1st time to ask for futher US support in the war. America refuses to join the war

Orders urgent priority for Bletchley Park resources after receiving the codebreakers' appeal for more support.

Britain declares war on Japan

Japanese troops begin to attack Hong Kong

Japanese troops begin to attack Hong Kong

Churchill travels to the US to discuss Anglo-American strategy and priorities with Roosevelt, the Arcadia conference formally endorses the Allies Germany First policy

Churchill travels to the US to discuss Anglo-American strategy and priorities with Roosevelt, the Arcadia conference formally endorses the Allies Germany First policy

Japan accepts the surrender of Hong Kong

Britain launches Operation Archery, a commando attack against the Lofoten Island off Norway

Britain launches Operation Archery, a commando attack against the Lofoten Island off Norway

A 2nd landing on Lofoten Island reinforces Hitler's belief that Britain is planning to invade Norway

A 2nd landing on Lofoten Island reinforces Hitler's belief that Britain is planning to invade Norway

The Japanese bomg Hong Kong

Germany declares war on the US & the US enters the war

The Japanese bomg Singapore

Churchill has a heart attack just after the US enters the war, it is kept a secret

Pays a visit to Canada

Agreement ABC-1 accepts the War & Navy Depts for planning when the US enters the war. Proclaims in a radio broadcast that Stalins Russia will be a full Allied partner

The British & US agree to co-ordinate military missions & set up a Joint Staff Mission

The British & US agree to co-ordinate military missions & set up a Joint Staff Mission

Reaffirms the Atlantic Charter and a pledge against separate peace.

Signs the Declaration by United Nations in Washington.

Declaration 26 not to conclude a separate armistice, becomes the basis for the foundation of the United Nations

Declaration 26 not to conclude a separate armistice, becomes the basis for the foundation of the United Nations. 26 Allied countries sign the United Nations Declaration following the principles of the Atlantic Charter

Britain, the USA, China & 22 Allies agree not to make a separate peace with Germany

The Alliance is confirmed, British Chiefs of Staff confirm their role

Churchill goes on the air to rally morale & reorganises his Cabinet

Singapore surrenders to the Japanese

The Bruneval raid brings Wurzburg radar parts back to Britain.

British paratroops seize components from a German Wurzburg radar.

US and Britain agree to cooperate in strategic planning in the event the US enters the war, during the ABC-1 talks, the US agree in principal that the defeat of Germany would be the first priority in the event of a two-theatre conflict

A naval and commando raid on the St Nazaire (Operation Chariot) succeeds at badly damaging the ports dry dock and denying it German navy capital ships

A naval and commando raid on the St Nazaire (Operation Chariot) succeeds at badly damaging the ports dry dock and denying it German navy capital ships

US and British military commanders discuss the build-up of US forces in the UK for an eventual invasion of German-occupied Europe, the build-up phase is codenamed Bolero

An Anglo-Soviet Treaty of alliance is signed in London

An allied pact becomes the United Nations

Molotov receives military assistance & economic aid. A second front is established & atomic research is intensified. An allied pact becomes the United Nations

Churchill and Roosevelt meet and agree to attack German forces in North Africa (Operation Torch) before launching invasion of Continental Europe, Torch serves to stall Bolero troop build-up in UK

Churchill and Roosevelt meet and agree to attack German forces in North Africa (Operation Torch) before launching invasion of Continental Europe, Torch serves to stall Bolero troop build-up in UK

Opinion polls show half the population is dissatisfied with the conduct of the war

Opinion polls show half the population is dissatisfied with the conduct of the war. Churchill wins a resounding victory of 476 votes to 25 on the conduct of the War

The raid on Dieppe is postponed because of bad weather

The British propose "Operation Gymnast," the invasion of French North Africa

The Americans wish to launch Operation Sledgehammer in France directly against Germany. Sledgehammer is dropped in favour of Operation Torch, preferred by the British. General Marshall, Admiral King & Harry Hopkins discuss "Sledgehammer" at Chequers. Churchill refuses to co-operate & inisists on an invasion of North Africa instead

Stalin informs Churchill he cannot agree to the postponement of a 2nd front until 1943

Churchill visits Auchinleck at the Eighth Army HQ in the Egyptian desert

Advises the War Cabinet to split-off Persia & Irak from the Middle East Command. Advises the War Cabinet to replace Auchinleck by Alexander. Advises the War Cabinet to appoint Gott as the Commander of the Eighth Army

Churchill visits Moscow to discuss second front issues with Stalin, Soviets suspicious over Allied strategy in Mediterranean, demand action in NW Europe

New weapons & methods of amphibious assault are tested which are used during D-Day. Much is learnt for Normandy landings in 1944. Ends in disaster with over 3,000 killed & 2,000 captured out of 6,000

Visits the Eighth Army in north Africa. Auchenlick is dismissed & replaced by Montgomery

Churchill meets Stalin at the Kremlin

Churchill agrees to send Stalin Arctic convoys

Germany bombs Canterbury in the biggest daylight raid since the Battle of Britain

Churchill broadcasts to Italy appealing to them to oust their leaders

Allied forces land in Morocco and Algeria (Operation Torch)

Describes El Alamein as a turning point after news of the Axis retreat reaches Britain.

"it is not even the beginning of the end, but it is perhaps the end of the beginning"

Orders Church bells to be rung throughout England after the capture of Tobruk

Herbert Morrison replaces Sir Stafford Cripps

The Beveridge scheme for compulsory social insurance is announced

The Beveridge scheme for compulsory social insurance is announced

The Beveridge scheme for compulsory social insurance is announced

Launches an operation to mislead the Germans about the Allied Invasion Plans

Agrees with Roosevelt that it will be impossible to open a 2nd Front in Europe in 1943

Japanese invasion, "The greatest disaster in the history of the British Empire"

Agrees with Roosevelt, it will be impossible to open a 2nd Front in Europe in 1943

Churchill unofficially informs the Soviets in a memorandum handed to Soviet Foreign Secretary Vyacheslav Molotov that the resources necessary for an invasion were lacking in 1942

In a joint statement with Soviet Union Communist Party General Secretary Joseph Stalin and United States President Franklin D. Roosevelt, Churchill had announces a "full understanding" with regard to the urgent tasks of creating a Second Front in Europe.

The planning process was started in earnest after the Casablanca and Tehran Conferences with the appointment of British Lieutenant General Frederick E. Morgan as Chief of Staff to the Supreme Allied Commander.

Two preliminary proposals were drawn up: Operation Sledgehammer, for an invasion in 1942, and Operation Roundup, for a larger attack in 1943, which was adopted and became Operation Overlord, although it was delayed until 1944.

Two preliminary proposals were drawn up: Operation Sledgehammer, for an invasion in 1942, and Operation Roundup, for a larger attack in 1943, which was adopted and became Operation Overlord, although it was delayed until 1944

Two preliminary proposals were drawn up: Operation Sledgehammer, for an invasion in 1942, and Operation Roundup, for a larger attack in 1943, which was adopted and became Operation Overlord, although it was delayed until 1944

Persuades Roosevelt to invade North Africa rather than France. Informs Stalin there will be no 2nd front in Europe this year. Informs Stalin that there should be an attack in South East Europe in 1943

The Combined Chiefs of Staff use diplomacy to persuade Turkey to join the Allies. Arrives to discuss the blueprint for military victory with President Roosevelt

Churchill and Roosevelt discuss next phase of war, a decision is made to attack Sicily and Italy in bid to divert German military resources and make good pledge to Stalin for a second front in Europe

Britain captures Tripoli

Agrees to end the war unconditionally, Germany will be defeated then Japan

The Casablanca Conference agrees Sicily will be invaded in July & in August

Visits Turkey to get it to join the Allies, Turkey refuses because it distrusts Russia

Makes a public broadcast outlining plans for a post-war Britain

Churchill attends the Third Washington Conference, code named Trident, to discuss Allied strategy with Roosevelt

The Allies agree to the completion of "Roundup" by 1st May 1944

The Allies agree to invade Sicily to knock Italy out of the War

The Allies agree at Trident to proceed with the invasion of Sicily as part of the Mediterranean strategy

The Allies agree to the completion of "Roundup" by 1st May 1944

The Allies agree to develop the atomic bomb, operation "Tube Alloys"

The Dambusters breach the Eder dam by "bouncing bombs"

The Dambusters breach the Mohne dam by "bouncing bombs"

The Dambusters breach the Sorpe dam by "bouncing bombs"

Addresses Congress regarding the Allied war aims

Churchill & Roosevelt meet in Washington where they agree a cross-Channel invasion (Operation Overlord) to be provisionally be launched on 1 May 1944

Churchill & Roosevelt meet in Washington where they agree a cross-Channel invasion (Operation Overlord) to be provisionally be launched on 1 May 1944

Japanese troops cross into India

Allied forces land on the Italian mainland at Salerno, almost 400 landing craft and supply ships involved in landings

Allies land on Sicily (Operation Husky): almost 3,000 landing craft, and supply ships involved in landings

Allies land on Sicily (Operation Husky): almost 3,000 landing craft, and supply ships involved in landings

Proposes an Allied Conference. Convinced Italy must be invaded & Rome captured. Concerned the US will turn its attention toward the Pacific at the expense of Europe

Proposes an Allied Conference

Assures the Chinese & Dutch at the Pacific War Council Britain will open the Burma Rd

Leaves Britain on board the Queen Mary bound for Halifax, Canada

The Allies occupy all of Siciliy

Churchill & Roosevelt meet in Quebec, Canada to further discuss Overlord timetable, planning

Churchill & Roosevelt meet in Quebec, Canada to further discuss Overlord timetable, planning

Roosevelt and Winston Churchill sign Quebec Agreement & a team of British scientists join the Manhattan Project as a result, including Klaus Fuchs

Roosevelt & Churchill agree to defeat Japan within 12 months of Germany's defeat

The initial draft of the COSSAC plan for Operation Overlord is accepted at the Quebec Conference in August 1943, but no supreme commander was appointed for several months

The initial draft of the COSSAC plan for Operation Overlord is accepted at the Quebec Conference in August 1943, but no supreme commander was appointed for several months

The Italian government accepts Allied armistice terms and prepares to leave the Axis war effort.

The Italian Government agrees to the Allied terms of surrender

Italy's surrender removes a major Axis partner from active war against the Allies.

Italy surrenders to the Allies

Receives an honarary degree from Harvard University

Italy signs an armistice with the Allies in secret

Wants operations in the eastern Mediterranean to tempt Turkey into joining the Allies

British forces enter Naples

The RAF launch a 25 minute bombing raid on Munich

The RAF bomb Stuttgart

Operation Rankin could win the war ahead of Operation Overlord

Allied agreement to set up United Nations Commission on War Crimes

Allied agreement to set up United Nations Commission on War Crimes

Agrees to the European Advisery Commission to divide Germany into military zones

Declaration to create an international organisation for peace & security. Annexation imposed on Austria by Germany on March 15, 1938, is null and void

Agrees to form the European Advisery Commission to divide Germany into military zones

Agrees to form the European Advisery Commission to divide Germany into military zones

Agrees to the European Advisery Commission to divide Germany into military zones

The British attempt to capture the Dodecanese after the surrender of Italy. The British are driven out of the Dodecanese & lose 5,000

The 1st Arctic convoy since February sets sail

An Allied Expeditionary force is formed for the invasion of Europe

1st day of the "battle of Berlin", 700 tons dropped by the RAF

Confirms British committment to Overlord at the Cairo Conference

Japan will lose Pacific Islands seized since the beginning of World War I

Operation Buccaner is agreed at the Cairo Conference

Stalin turns down the invitation to appear at the Cairo Conference

An attack on the Andaman Islands to coincide with a Chinese attack on Burma is agreed

An attack on the Andaman Islands to coincide with a Chinese attack on Burma is agreed

Operation Buccaner is agreed at the Cairo Conference. An attack on the Andaman Islands to coincide with a Chinese attack on Burma is agreed

Confirms British committment to Overlord at the Cairo Conference

British Chiefs of Staff propose guerilla war in Yugoslavia, Greece & Albania

British Chiefs of Staff propose opening the Dardanelles to Russia

British Chiefs of Staff propose pushing the offensive in Italy to the Pisa-Rimini line

Efforts are made to bring Turkey into the war on the side of the Allies & discussions at Tehran with Russia

Churchill and the Anglo-American staffs review European strategy at Cairo before the forthcoming meeting with Stalin in Tehran.

Churchill arrives in Tehran with the British delegation for the first wartime meeting of the three principal Allied leaders.

Churchill argues that Mediterranean opportunities should not be discarded while the Allies prepare Overlord.

Churchill joins Roosevelt and Stalin for their first formal three-power plenary meeting.

Churchill completes the first day of discussions with the central issue of future operations in Europe still under debate.

Churchill joins Roosevelt and Stalin at the first plenary meeting of the Tehran Conference.

Churchill tells Stalin he has no attachment to a precise Polish-Soviet frontier but regards Soviet security and a strong independent Poland as essential.

Churchill accepts a southern France operation provided available landing craft and wider strategy permit it.

Churchill continues the strategic debate over Overlord, Mediterranean operations and supporting offensives.

Churchill presents Stalin with the Sword of Stalingrad on behalf of King George VI and the British people.

Churchill takes part in the third plenary as the leaders narrow their remaining strategic differences.

Churchill receives Shah Mohammad Reza Pahlavi while the Allied leaders are gathered in Tehran.

Churchill celebrates his sixty-ninth birthday at a dinner attended by Roosevelt, Stalin and senior Allied leaders.

Agreed to mount Overlord & send a diversionary force to the south of France in May 1944

Agrees to mount Overlord & send a diversionary force to the south of France in May 1944

Presents Stalin with a commemorative sword in honour of those who defended Stalingrad

Presents Stalin with a commemorative sword in honour of those who defended Stalingrad

Churchill commits Britain to respect Iran's political independence and territorial integrity after wartime cooperation.

Churchill joins prolonged final discussions covering military conclusions and political declarations.

Churchill accepts the agreed plan for Overlord in 1944 together with a supporting operation against southern France.

Churchill asks Stalin for a workable frontier formula that Britain could take back to the Polish Government in London.

Churchill accepts a supporting operation against southern France, subject to the availability of landing craft.

Churchill leaves the summit with agreement on coordinated 1944 operations and continued three-power cooperation.

Churchill signs the declaration stating that the Allies have concerted their plans for the destruction of German forces.

Churchill joins the conclusion that Allied strategy would benefit if Turkey entered the war before the end of 1943.

Churchill proposes shifting Poland westward, compensating eastern territorial losses with German lands including parts of East Prussia and territory toward the Oder.

Churchill & Roosevelt agree Gen Eisenhower will command Allied forces for the planned invasion of Europe, Eisenhowers appointment as Supreme Commander, Allied Expeditionary Force, publicly announced by Roosevelt

Churchill & Roosevelt agree Gen Eisenhower will command Allied forces for the planned invasion of Europe, Eisenhowers appointment as Supreme Commander, Allied Expeditionary Force, publicly announced by Roosevelt

Churchill & Roosevelt agree Gen Eisenhower will command Allied forces for the planned invasion of Europe, Eisenhowers appointment as Supreme Commander, Allied Expeditionary Force, publicly announced by Roosevelt

The British Air Ministry announces that Hamburg lies in ruins

Eisenhower & Montgomerry insist that the scale of the invasion be expanded, to prevent the invaders being restricted to a narrow beachhead, with insufficient room to land follow-up formations, delaying Overlord to June. Eisenhower & Montgomerry both first see the COSSAC plan on 31 December 1943 at Marrakech in Morroco, in a conference with Winston Churchill

Proposes sending 2 Divisions to south France as a diversion to Overlord

Proposes sending 2 Divisions to south France as a diversion to Overlord

Gets some LCTs from Burma against the Japanese for use in Operation Overlord

Gets some LCTs from Burma against the Japanese for use in Operation Overlord

A joint offensive will be launched on the Contentin Peninsula. A joint Allied staff COSSAC is set up for invasion of Europe in the Summer of 1944

The future of Austria as an independent state is assured. Promises retribution for the Nazis "abominal deeds" against the Jews

A joint Allied staff COSSAC is set up for invasion of Europe in the Summer of 1944

Wants Eisenhower to follow up the invasion of Sicily with an invasion of Italy

Wants Eisenhower to follow up the invasion of Sicily with an invasion of Italy

The Allied landings in Anzio begin

36,000 Allied roops sucessfuly land with the loss of only 13 lives

Churchill tells Polish ministers that Britain considers the Curzon Line a realistic basis for negotiations linked to territorial compensation in the north and west.

Churchill informs Roosevelt that he has advised the Polish Government to examine the Curzon Line as part of a wider territorial settlement.

In 2000 it is revealed that the operation had been supervised by Edwin Hardy Amies, at the time head of SOEs Belgian Section

Assassination offensive against Nazi security forces in Occupied Europe by the SOE, to create confusion and trepidation at the same time as the Allies increase preparations for the Resistances contribution to the Normandy Landings

Churchill presses Mikolajczyk at Chequers to recognize that the Riga frontier must change and that the Curzon Line should guide negotiations.

Churchill tells Stalin that Poland could accept administration west of a Curzon-based demarcation line while reserving formal rights pending final negotiations.

Churchill reports that the Polish Government is prepared to acknowledge that the 1921 Riga frontier no longer corresponds to wartime realities.

Montgomerry presents Overlord plans to senior commanders, the King, Smuts & Churchill

In the Spring 1944, Churchill had commissioned a contingency military enforcement operation plan (war on the Soviet Union) to obtain "square deal for Poland" (Operation Unthinkable), which resulted in a May 22 report stating unfavorable success odds. The reports arguments included geostrategic issues (possible Soviet-Japanese alliance resulting in moving of Japanese troops from continent to Home Islands, threat to Iran/Iraq) and uncertainties concerning land battles in Europe

Subordinate commanders are informed D-Day will be 5th June

The highest tonnage of bombs in one night during the war is dropped by Britain

Announces the Allied liberation of Rome in the Commons

Announces the Allied liberation of Rome in the Commons

Announces an imminent Allied assault on the coast of France in the Commons

The highest tonnage of bombs in one night during the war is dropped by Britain. Dummy parachutists are dropped just east of the intended landing area. 176,000 men & 20,000 vehicles are to be landed in 2 days. 1,000 British bombers strike 10 German gun batteries, 5,000 tons of bombs are dropped

1st day of the bombing of Caen

The marshalling yards of Trappes are bombed to disrupt German suppllies to Normandy

1st day of the bombing of Caen

To the east, Rommels nightmare had been realised, a continuous British-Canadian beachhead, 20km (12 miles) across and up to 10km (six miles) deep. By midnight neither Bayeux nor Port-en-Bessin had been taken, the depleted American force was several kilometres short of Port-en-Bessin but the French Resistance had taken over Bayeux

By midnight neither Bayeux nor Port-en-Bessin had been taken, the depleted American force was several kilometres short of Port-en-Bessin but the French Resistance had taken over Bayeux

V-1 missiles 1st land on London

At Churchills request Stalin agrees to a Russian offensive during D-Day

Marshalling yards are bombed to disrupt German suppllies to Normandy. 717 French are killed

A seabourne assault on southern France at the same time as Overlord

An oil pipeline is laid beneath the English Channel from Britain toward Normandy as part of Operation PLUTO.

Before the Normandy landings it is planned to take Caen within 24 hrs

Churchill asks Eisenhower to cancel Dragoon in order to break the deadllock at Caen

Churchill asks Eisenhower to cancel Dragoon in order to break the deadllock at Caen

Churchill criticizes Montgomery at a Chiefs of Staffs meeting for being too catious

1st day of the operation launched by Montgomery to capture Caen

1st day of the operation launched by Montgomery to capture Caen

Churchill visited Caen with Montgomery and Dempsey and inspected Bailey bridges across the Orne basin.

Operation Anvil, which is renamed Operation Dragoon, the liberation of south east France by US, Free French and British troops

Operation Anvil, which is renamed Operation Dragoon, the liberation of south east France by US, Free French and British troops

Wants Eisenhower to transfer "D-Day" from Marsailles to Brest, Eisenhower refuses

Fails to persuade Eisenhower to transfer D-Day from Marsailles to Brest

Watches the D-Day landings & wires Eisenhower saying how succesful they are

130,000 men and 18,000 vehicles had landed

The US, Britain, Russia and China open the Dumbarton Oaks Conference in Washington, DC, laying the foundation for the establishment of the UN

The US, Britain, Russia and China open the Dumbarton Oaks Conference in Washington, DC, laying the foundation for the establishment of the UN

Toulon and Marseille are liberated during Operation Dragoon

Toulon and Marseille are liberated during Operation Dragoon

Toulon and Marseille are liberated during Operation Dragoon

RAF & Yugoslav partisans attack roads & railways to prevent Germans escape Yugoslavia. A series of coordinated attacks launched on by Yugoslav partisans and the Balkan Air Force against German forces retreating from the Soviets

British troops occupy Brussels

London is hit by V-2 rockets for first time, missiles falling on Epping and Chiswick

Approves a plan to shoot Nazi leaders without trial

Approves a plan to shoot Nazi leaders without trial

In a bid to open the Belgian port of Antwerp to facilitate the shipment of supplies to Allied armies in France and cross the Lower Rhine river, American, British and Polish forces launch Operation Market Garden

Churchill and Roosevelt sign the Hyde Park aide-memoire pledging continued Anglo-American cooperation on atomic technology.

The failure of Operation Market Garden and an acute supply problem brought about by the long distances involved in the quick Allied advance through France brought to an end the advance towards the city of Berlin

Churchill links acceptance of the Curzon Line to Allied support for Polish territorial gains in East Prussia and toward the Oder.

Churchill unequivocally supports using the Curzon Line as the basis of the Polish-Soviet territorial settlement during talks with Stalin and Mikolajczyk.

Churchill confirms with Stalin that they will support Polish claims to compensating territory in the north and west if the eastern frontier follows the Curzon basis.

Agrees with Roosevelt that Stalin's proposed Black Sea area can serve as the conference location.

Suggests Jerusalem or Alexandria after raising objections to several other possible conference sites.

Warns Roosevelt that Black Sea ports may be unsuitable for a major conference during winter.

Churchill publicly defends the Curzon Line as the basis for Poland's eastern frontier while arguing that Poland should receive substantial compensation from Germany.

Supports Roosevelt's proposal that Stalin postpone a decision on Poland until the three leaders meet.

Restores Greek confidence in Britain after demonstrations by the Nat Libreration Front

The Cabinet agrees to partition Palestine & create a Jewish state after the war

The Cabinet agrees to partition Palestine & create a Jewish state after the war

The Cabinet agrees to partition Palestine & create a Jewish state after the war

Suggests an advance meeting of the three foreign ministers before the Big Three conference.

Emphasizes the importance of Combined Chiefs of Staff discussions at Malta before travelling to Yalta.

Proposes short talks between Anthony Eden and Edward Stettinius during the Malta preparations.

Raises practical questions about Allied ships passing through the Turkish Straits on the journey toward Crimea.

Confirms expected arrival dates for the preliminary Malta talks and the subsequent Crimea conference.

Proposes excluding the press from the conference to protect secrecy and reduce logistical pressure.

Suggests that Generals Eisenhower and Alexander attend Yalta as well as the Malta military discussions.

Reviews Allied military planning with Roosevelt and the Combined Chiefs of Staff before Yalta.

Joins Franklin D. Roosevelt and Joseph Stalin as the Yalta Conference opens in Crimea.

Discusses how smaller states should be represented in the postwar international organization during the evening dinner.

Supports a significant French role in postwar German occupation and control arrangements.

Churchill states that Britain has consistently supported the Curzon Line, including leaving Lwow to the Soviet Union, while requesting a gesture toward Poland.

Participates in renewed debate over the composition and frontiers of postwar Poland.

Agrees that the three foreign ministers should meet periodically after the conference.

Supports British amendments concerning the proposed Yugoslav political settlement.

Takes part in an evening reconsideration of German reparations with Roosevelt and Stalin.

Supports French participation in the Allied Control Council and a French occupation zone in Germany.

Agrees to send a joint message to Tito and Subasic concerning the formation of a Yugoslav government.

Approves inviting France to occupy a German zone and join the Allied Control Council.

Signs the tripartite protocol governing the initial Allied approach to German reparations.

Joins Roosevelt and Stalin in approving the secret Far Eastern agreement on Soviet entry against Japan.

Proposes wording changes to the final conference communiqué during the eighth plenary meeting.

Allied bombing of Dresden leaves 25,000 dead

Reports to the British Cabinet on the principal agreements reached at the Big Three conference in Crimea.

Defends the Yalta agreements during a House of Commons debate that ends with a vote of confidence.

Writes Roosevelt expressing alarm about Soviet actions in Poland and urging a firm interpretation of the Yalta settlement.

Britsh, American & Canadian troops capture Cologne

Watches the Allies cross the Rhine

A conference on the proposed world organisation will be summoned for 25th April

This record states: Churchill argued to Roosevelt that it was "as plain as a pike staff" that Moscows tactics were to drag out the period for holding free elections "while the Lublin Committee consolidate their power."

This record states: The Soviet Peoples Commissariat for Internal Affairs (NKVD) arrested 16 Polish opposition political leaders that had been invited to participate in provisional Government negotiations.

This record states: The arrests were part of a trick employed by the NKVD, which flew the leaders to Moscow for a later show trial followed by sentencing to a gulag.

Asks Eisenhower why the Americans are leaving Berlin to the Russians

The Allies liberate Bergen-Belsen

The US liberate Nuremberg & Churchill delivers a tribute to Roosevelt in the Commons

Arranges for photograps of Buchenwald camp victims to be circulated around the Cabinet

Himmler's approach reveals fragmentation inside the Nazi leadership but does not produce a separate peace.

Informed Heinrich Himmler wishes to open his own peace negotiations with the Allies

Churchill appeals to Stalin not to unilaterally impose Russian rule on Yugoslavia. Churchill appeals to Stalin not to unilaterally impose Russian rule on Poland

The Allies liberate Dachau

German forces in multiple western and southern theatres stop fighting and enter Allied custody.

German troops in Italy, Austria, Holland & Norway surrender

German forces in northwest Europe surrender to Montgomery, ending organised resistance across a large northern theatre.

In Europe, the 2First Army Group made its way across The Netherlands, Denmark and Northwest Germany, until on 5 May 1945 its commander, Field Marshal Bernard Montgomery, accepts the German surrender of all German forces

The unconditional capitulation ends organised German military resistance.

Unconditional surrender of all German forces to the Allies

Victory in Europe Day publicly marks the end of the European war.

Announces "Victory in Europe Day"

Makes the announcement of Allied victory over the Axis powers in Europe at 3 p.m

Asks Attlee and Sinclair to remain in the Coalition until the defeat of Japan; the offer is rejected

Appointed Prime Minister of Great Britain, 2nd term

Opening day of the Allied Control Commission for German administration

Opening of the Allied Control Commission by Churchill, Roosevelt & Stalin

USA., Britain, Russia & France declare supreme authority over Germany

The Allies prepare for the land invasion of Japan, the plan is scrapped

The Allies prepare for the land invasion of Japan, the plan is scrapped

With Allied leaders in Potsdam when he hears news of the succesful test explosion. Sees the atomic bomb as a means of delivering peace to the world

The US, Britain & Nationalist China calls for unconditional Japanese surrender

The international military tribunal charter lists 24 suspected war criminals

The international military tribunal charter is drawn up with 24 suspect war criminals

Japan's decision to surrender brings the Pacific War toward its conclusion.

Hirohito announces the surrender of Japan

VJ Day celebrations mark the practical end of the war against Japan.

The Allies celebrate 15th August as VJ Day

The signed surrender document formally ends Japan's war with the Allied powers.

The surrender of Japan is signed

The Conservative Party wins 39.6% of votes cast & 210 MPs, Labour win 393 seats. Forms a "caretaker Government" until the election. Churchill broadcasts from Chequers denouncing Socialism as "some form of Gestapo"

Family Allowances Act 1945 provides cash allowances for families with children after the first child

Forms a "caretaker Government" until the election

Elected Member of Parliament for Woodford & Wanstead

Makes his famous "iron curtain" speech at Fulton, Missouri, USA

Gives a speech at the University of Zurich calling for a "United States of Europe", similar to the United States of America

Gives a speech at the University of Zurich calling for a "United States of Europe", similar to the United States of America

Calls for a United States of Europe and helps shape postwar debate on European unity.

Calls for a United States of Europe which leads to the Council of Europe

Launches the United Europe Movement

Attends the Congress of Europe at the Hague, Churchill becomes its central figure

Churchill warns that the confrontation over Berlin poses a grave international danger comparable with earlier European crises.

Makes a speech saying the crisis is potentially as serious as the Munich conference

Advocates recognizing the state of Israel

The Statute of the Council of Europe is signed in London by ten founding states, advancing the European cooperation Churchill had publicly advocated after the war.

Welcomes the creation of a Council of Europe consistent with his postwar campaign for closer European cooperation.

Sees ten European governments sign the London Statute establishing the Council of Europe with a Committee of Ministers and Consultative Assembly.

Churchill suffers from a major stroke

The Labour Party wins 48.8% of votes cast, a record, & 315 MPs

The Conservative Party wins 43.4% of votes cast & 298 MPs

At Strasburg proposes a European Army under unified command, the motion is passed

Proposes a European Army at the Consultative Assembly of the Council of Europe. Churchills proposal is accepted by 89 votes to 5

The Conservatives win 321 seats, Labour 295, Liberals 6 & United Ireland 3

Returns as Prime Minister after the Conservative election victory.

Churchill accepts George VIs commission to form a Government

Egypt breaks off the 1936 Treaty of alliance with Britain & the 1899 Sudan agreement

Egypt breaks off the 1936 Treaty of alliance with Britain & the 1899 Sudan agreement

Appointed Prime Minister of Great Britain, 3rd term

Appointed Minister of Defence

Egypt breaks off the 1936 Treaty of alliance & the 1899 agreement over Sudan

The US, France & Britain produce a disarmament plan to introduce to the United Nations Assembly

France, Britain, USA & Turkey announce a security programme for the Near East

Egypt offers to let the future of Sudan be decided by plebiscite under United Nations supervision

Uses the phrase, Before Alamein we never had a victory. After Alamein we never had a defeat.

Churchill & Eden decide to stay out of the European Defence Community

After a report by Norman Brook is passed from the PM to the Home Office

Attempts to appoint Eden as Deputy PM but George VI refuses due to Churchills age, 77

After a report by Norman Brook is passed from the PM to the Home Office

Restores the Home Guard, founded in 1940, for possible use against Stalin

Publication of "The Hinge of Fate"

While in Washington Churchill allows US bases on British soil

Attends the Accession Council which proclaims Queen Elizabeth II

Attends the Accession Council which proclaims Queen Elizabeth II

Identity cards are abolished

Churchill has a small arterial spasm

The 1st British nuclear bomb is exploded

The first British nuclear bomb is exploded

Britain explodes its first atomic bomb off Australia and becomes the third member of the nuclear club

Britain tests its atom bomb in the Monte Bello Islands off nth-west Australia

The Bill for the denationalzation of steel is introduced into the House of Commons

Sterling is floated by Rab Butler prior to his 1952 Buget

Death of Joseph Stalin, Churchill is the last survivor of the war time triumvirate

Churchill is knighted

The Bill for the denationalization of steel is given the Royal Assent

Suffers a stroke & for a few days his life is in the balance. Spends the next 3 months in convalescence

Diplomatic relations with Iran are restored

The Transport Act breaks up the British Transport Commissions monopoly on haulage

The Transport Act breaks up the British Transport Commissions monopoly on haulage

Operation Anvil leads to the detention of over 16,000 Mau Mau suspects in Kenya

The Defence Policy Committee outlines the production of the British H-bomb

Food rationing ends

Cabinet agrees to produce the British H-bomb in Britain

The dockers go on unofficial strike

Feels he can lead another election but Woolton, the Party Chairman, disagrees. Churchill says he can lead another election but Woolton, the Party Chairman, disagrees

Publication of "The Second World War", 1948-54. Publication of "A History of the English Speaking Peoples", 1956-1958

Publication of "The Second World War", 1948-54. Publication of "A History of the English Speaking Peoples", 1956-1958

Agrees with the USA that Germany should be able to rearm

Agrees with the USA that the Allies should allow Germany to rearm

Britain agrees to keep 4 Divisions on the Continent & the French agree to German rearmament

The Ministry of Food is merged with the Ministry of Agriculture & Fisheries

The Turkish want Cyprus returned or partioned, Britain refuses its independence

Publication of "The Second World War", 1948-54. Publication of "A History of the English Speaking Peoples", 1956-1958

Publication of "The Second World War", 1948-54. Publication of "A History of the English Speaking Peoples", 1956-1958

The "Western European Union" will co-ordinate European armies, including Britain

MacMillan advises Churchill to retire

Turkey & Iraq sign a Treaty of alliance, Parliament votes to support it

Churchills budget includes expenditure on the hydrogen bomb

Churchills budget includes expenditure on the hydrogen bomb

Opens the debate in Parliament in favour of investing in a British hydrogen bomb

Print Workers go on strike

Resigns due to ill health

Resigns due to ill health. Chairs the Cabinet for the last time & announces his resignation

Conferment of honorary us citizenship by Congress

On the 70th anniversary of the death of his Father, Lord Randolph Churchill. Death of Winston Leonard Spencer Churchill, exactly 70 yrs after his father,. Death of Winston Leonard Spencer Churchill

Death of Winston Churchill

The lying-in-state commences 9:00am, Wednesday, January 27th for 3 days

9:35am the bearer party of Grenadier Guards removes the coffin from the Catafalque

Given a state funeral & buried less than 1 mile from his place of birth

Churhills body lies in state at Westminster Hall. 350,000 people queued, most for three or four hours, to pay homage

Churchill celebrates his 90th birthday