President of Switzerland
Begins a one-year term as President of the Swiss Confederation.
Historical events in 1940
1,840 historical records
January 194039 historical events
President of Panama
Appointed President of Panama
Iron Ore Debate
Halifax weighs diplomatic risks of violating Norwegian neutrality against the need to restrict German ore imports.
Iron Ore Debate
Pound advises on the naval risks of mining Norwegian waters and operating near Narvik.
Barttle of Narvik
Argues that control of Narvik is vital to disrupting German iron ore supplies.
Iron Ore Debate
Argues that German iron ore shipments through Narvik should be disrupted.
Iron Ore Debate
Churchill argues that mining Norwegian waters would disrupt German iron ore shipments through Narvik.
Narvik Landing Plan
Examines military requirements for an Allied expedition toward Narvik.
Iron Ore Debate
Ironside reviews the military implications of a possible Allied landing at Narvik to cut Germany's ore supply
Iron Ore Debate
Chatfield considers whether naval mining and a Narvik operation can be justified by Allied strategic needs.
Iron Ore Debate
The War Cabinet debates action against German iron ore supplies moving through Narvik.
Narvik Operation Plan
War Cabinet reviews possible action against German iron ore moving through Narvik.
Quantitative Neutron Moment Publication
Publishes the neutron magnetic-moment measurement obtained with Luis Alvarez.
Quantitative Neutron Moment Publication
Publishes a quantitative magnetic-resonance determination of the neutron magnetic moment with Felix Bloch.
Norwegian Waters Plan
Presses naval plans to mine Norwegian waters and interrupt ore traffic.
Invasion of Finland
Praises the Finns for "what fee men can do" in the defense of their country
Enigma Machine
The first operational break into Enigma when the team working under Dilly Knox, with the mathematicians John Jeffreys, Peter Twinn and Alan Turing, unravelled the German Army administrative key that became known at Bletchley Park as The Green, encouraged by this success, the codebreakers later crack the Red key used by the Luftwaffe
Luftwaffe
The first operational break into Enigma when the team working under Dilly Knox, with the mathematicians John Jeffreys, Peter Twinn and Alan Turing, unravelled the German Army administrative key that became known at Bletchley Park as The Green, encouraged by this success, the codebreakers later crack the Red key used by the Luftwaffe
Enigma Machine
The first operational break into Enigma when the team working under Dilly Knox, with the mathematicians John Jeffreys, Peter Twinn and Alan Turing, unravelled the German Army administrative key that became known at Bletchley Park as The Green, encouraged by this success, the codebreakers later crack the Red key used by the Luftwaffe
Luftwaffe
The first operational break into Enigma when the team working under Dilly Knox, with the mathematicians John Jeffreys, Peter Twinn and Alan Turing, unravelled the German Army administrative key that became known at Bletchley Park as The Green, encouraged by this success, the codebreakers later crack the Red key used by the Luftwaffe
Enigma Machine
The first operational break into Enigma when the team working under Dilly Knox, with the mathematicians John Jeffreys, Peter Twinn and Alan Turing, unravelled the German Army administrative key that became known at Bletchley Park as The Green, encouraged by this success, the codebreakers later crack the Red key used by the Luftwaffe
Luftwaffe
The first operational break into Enigma when the team working under Dilly Knox, with the mathematicians John Jeffreys, Peter Twinn and Alan Turing, unravelled the German Army administrative key that became known at Bletchley Park as The Green, encouraged by this success, the codebreakers later crack the Red key used by the Luftwaffe
Enigma Machine
The first operational break into Enigma when the team working under Dilly Knox, with the mathematicians John Jeffreys, Peter Twinn and Alan Turing, unravelled the German Army administrative key that became known at Bletchley Park as The Green, encouraged by this success, the codebreakers later crack the Red key used by the Luftwaffe
Luftwaffe
The first operational break into Enigma when the team working under Dilly Knox, with the mathematicians John Jeffreys, Peter Twinn and Alan Turing, unravelled the German Army administrative key that became known at Bletchley Park as The Green, encouraged by this success, the codebreakers later crack the Red key used by the Luftwaffe
Commander
Manstein is sacked as Chief of Staff of Army Group A and appointed Commander of an army corps in East Prussia
Commander
Manstein is sacked as Chief of Staff of Army Group A and appointed Commander of an army corps in East Prussia
Invasion of France
Manstein is sacked as Chief of Staff of Army Group A and appointed Commander of an army corps in East Prussia
Invasion of Norway
Hitler orders comprehenisive plans be made for the invasion of Norway
Death of Isaak Emmanuilovich Babel
Death of Isaak Emmanuilovich Babel
Execution
Executed for spying
Nationalist Party Reorganisation
Becomes a central leader of the reorganized Afrikaner nationalist opposition.
Reunited National Party
Helps establish the Reunited National Party after the wartime split.
Mobilization
Draws up a memo for armoured units to counter German invasion of Holland & Belgium
Western Offensive Postponement Orders Processed
Jodl signs or processes repeated postponement orders for the western offensive as weather and readiness delay the attack.
Enigma Machine
Meets Polish cryptanalysts in Paris and absorbs techniques that influence the British Bombe design.
Enigma Machine
Takes charge of Hut 6 as it develops industrial-scale attacks on Army and Luftwaffe Enigma.
Prime Minister of Japan
Appointed Prime Minister of Japan
Economy of Japan
Major shortage of foods & other goods, prices rising quickly
Enigma Machine
Meets Turing in France and discusses Polish Enigma methods after the Cipher Bureau's evacuation.
February 194045 historical events
Invasion of Finland
Launches a attacks against the Mannerheim Line, Finlands main line of defence
Mannerheim Line
Launches a attacks against the Mannerheim Line, Finlands main line of defence
Birth of David Jason
Birth of David Jason, born David John White
Invasion of France
Hitler orders Manstein's invasion plans to be carried out
Operation Fall Gelb
Hitler orders Manstein's invasion plans to be carried out
Invasion of France
Hitler orders Manstein's invasion plans to be carried out
Operation Fall Gelb
Hitler orders Manstein's invasion plans to be carried out
Supreme War Council
Presses for stronger Allied action in Scandinavia.
Narvik Expedition Plan
Supports wider Allied planning for intervention in Scandinavia.
Supreme War Council
Participates in discussions on Allied Scandinavian intervention.
Supreme War Council
Attends the council as Allied leaders discuss control of Swedish iron ore routes.
Supreme War Council
Attends the council meeting considering aid to Finland against Soviet Russia.
Supreme War Council
Supports measures affecting Norway and Swedish iron ore traffic.
Supreme War Council
Considers intervention in Scandinavia during the Winter War crisis.
Supreme War Council
The council considers intervention in Norway including a landing at Narvik
Barttle of Narvik
Supports Allied plans to intervene in Norway and threaten the Narvik ore route.
Supreme War Council
Supports Allied consideration of Norway and Swedish iron ore routes.
Norway Denmark Holland Planning Discussion
Jodl, Warlimont and Jeschonnek discuss operational possibilities involving Norway, Denmark and the Netherlands.
Commander of 7th Army
Appointed Commander of the 7th Panzer Division with the rank of Major General
Commander of 7th Panzer Division
Appointed Commander of the 7th Panzer Division with the rank of Major General
Major General
Appointed Commander of the 7th Panzer Division with the rank of Major General
Siege of Altmark
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
Altmark Incident
Supports naval action after German prisoners are found aboard Altmark.
Barttle of Narvik
Presses for mining Norwegian waters to force ore traffic away from Narvik.
Operation Wilfred
Advocates mining Norwegian waters to force a German response.
Operation Wilfred
Presses for mining Norwegian waters to disrupt the ore route from Narvik.
Speech
Speaks at the Guildhall praising the warships opposing the Graf Spee
Operation Weserubung
Receives command of the German invasion of Norway.
Operation Weserubung
Falkenhorst is given command of the ground forces for the planned invasion of Norway and Denmark.
Cavity Magnetron
Works with Randall on the Birmingham cavity magnetron for centimetric radar.
Cavity Magnetron
Works with Randall on the resonant cavity magnetron at Birmingham.
Cavity Magnetron
Builds a high-power cavity magnetron at Birmingham for centimetric radar.
Cavity Magnetron
Works on the high-power cavity magnetron for centimetric radar.
Enthronement
Tenzin Gyatso is enthroned as the 14th Dalai Lama at the Potala Palace.
Birth of Aberdeen Goalscorer
Denis Law was born in Aberdeen on 24 February and later became Scotland's only male Ballon d'Or winner.
Armament
Introduces the Navy estimates to Parliament for the 1st time since 1914
Budget
Introduces the Navy estimates to Parliament for the 1st time since 1914
Trotskys Testament
Trotsky wrote a document known as "Trotskys Testament", in which he expressed his final thoughts and feelings for posterity
Invasion of Norway
Calls off mining Norwegian waters, might effect neutrals such as the USA & Sweden
Mining
Calls off mining Norwegian waters, might effect neutrals such as the USA & Sweden
Neutrality
Calls off mining Norwegian waters, might effect neutrals such as the USA & Sweden
Joint Service Norway Planning Coordinated
Jodl coordinates army, navy and air-force planning for the Scandinavian operation.
Capture of Germany
The British destroyer Cossack seizes the Altmark off Norway. Increases Hitler's determination to capture Norway
Invasion of Norway
The Cossack seizes the Altmark off Norway, increases will to invade Norway
Uranium-235 Separation
Separates uranium-235 for early fission measurements.
March 194056 historical events
Invasion of Romania
Bulgaria joins the Tripartite Pact
Pact between Germany, Italy, Japan and Bulgaria
Bulgaria joins the Tripartite Pact
Spring Awakening
Issues an order to invade Norway
Tripartite Pact
Bulgaria joins the Tripartite Pact
Operation Weserubung Order
Orders preparation of the German invasion of Denmark and Norway.
Norway Strategy
Supports seizing Norwegian ports before the Allies can cut the ore route.
Academy Award
Wins an Oscar for, "Gone With The Wind"
Frisch-Peierls Memorandum
Calculates with Peierls that a compact uranium bomb may be practical.
Frisch-Peierls Memorandum
Calculates that a uranium-235 bomb may be practical.
Frisch-Peierls Memorandum
Co-authors the Birmingham memorandum estimating uranium-235 weapon feasibility.
Frisch-Peierls Memorandum
Co-authors memorandum estimating uranium-235 bomb feasibility.
Invasion of Finland
The Fins are forced out of the Karelian Isthmus
Second Roosevelt Letter
Writes again to President Roosevelt urging stronger attention to uranium research developments.
General Election - General Election
Penaranda wins the presidential election as candidate of the conservative alliance.
General Election Election Outcome
General election outcome recorded for Enrique Penaranda Castillo: Penaranda wins the presidential election as candidate of the conservative alliance.
General Election Government
Government context for this general election: Penaranda wins the presidential election as candidate of the conservative alliance.
General Election
Penaranda wins the presidential election as candidate of the conservative alliance.
Inside the Whale
Publishes Inside the Whale and Other Essays.
Barttle of Narvik
Continues pushing plans for a northern operation linked to Narvik.
Narvik Landing Plan
Continues planning for possible Allied landings linked to Narvik.
Narvik Landing Plan
The War Cabinet continues planning for a possible Allied landing at Narvik.
Standstill Order
Narvik plans pause after Finland accepts peace with the Soviet Union.
Standstill Order
Chamberlain's government pauses Narvik planning after Finland accepts peace with the Soviet Union.
Invasion of Finland
Finland surrenders large tracts of territory & fortifications to Russia
Enigma Machine
The first bombe is installed
Resignation of Edouard Daladier
Resigns after the Russian invasion of Finland
Resignation of Edouard Daladier
Daladier resigns after the Russian invasion of Finland. Daladier fails to unite Parliament or the people behind his mobilization for the "phony war"
Conference of Lahore
The Lahore Resolution is adopted, its principles form the foundation for Pakistans first constitution
Constitution of Pakistan
The Lahore Resolution is adopted, its principles form the foundation for Pakistans first constitution
Independence of Pakistan
The Lahore Resolution is adopted, its principles form the foundation for Pakistans first constitution
Lahore Resolution
The Lahore Resolution is adopted, its principles form the foundation for Pakistans first constitution
Conference of Lahore
The Lahore Resolution is adopted, its principles form the foundation for Pakistans first constitution
Constitution of Pakistan
The Lahore Resolution is adopted, its principles form the foundation for Pakistans first constitution
Independence of Pakistan
The Lahore Resolution is adopted, its principles form the foundation for Pakistans first constitution
Lahore Resolution
The Lahore Resolution is adopted, its principles form the foundation for Pakistans first constitution
Invasion of Norway
Wins support of the war Cabinet & the Allied supreme war Council to mine Norway
Mining
Wins support of the war Cabinet & the Allied supreme war Council to mine Norway
Government Ends
His government ends in Helsinki, concluding this term as Prime Minister of Finland.
Prime Minister
Takes office as Prime Minister of Finland and forms a government in Helsinki.
Supreme War Council
Takes part in Allied planning shortly after becoming premier.
Narvik Occupation Plan
Participates in Allied plans for Norway and Narvik after becoming premier.
Supreme War Council
Approves Operation Wilfred and related Norwegian planning.
Supreme War Council
The council agrees to mine Norwegian waters and prepare Narvik occupation plans.
Barttle of Narvik
Backs Supreme War Council approval of mining Norwegian waters and preparing Narvik occupation plans.
Operation Wilfred Approval
Backs approval to mine Norwegian waters and prepare Narvik operations.
Operation Wilfred Approval
Supreme War Council approves mining Norwegian waters and preparing Narvik occupation plans.
Wang Jingwei Regime
Rejects the Japanese-sponsored collaborationist government established at Nanjing under Wang Jingwei and continues resistance from Chongqing.
Minister Without Portfolio
Appointed Minister without portfolio
Minister of Interior
Appointed Minister of the Interior, March-July
Operation Weserubung
Raeder supports the plan to seize Norway before Allied forces can establish bases along the coast.
Boys' Weeklies
Publishes Boys' Weeklies on popular children's papers.
Charles Dickens
Publishes a major essay on Charles Dickens.
Enigma Machine
Leads British Tabulating Machine engineering work that turns Turing's Bombe design into operational hardware.
Enigma Machine
Breaks several German Naval Enigma messages from late 1938 using the Fort crib method.
Rule of Nanking
A puupet Japanese Government is established in Japan
Uranium-235 Fission
Shows uranium-235 is responsible for slow-neutron fission.
April 1940151 historical events
Lieutenant General
Appointed Lieutenant General
Lieutenant General
Appointed Lieutenant General
Invasion of France
The British Expeditionar Force capitulates at Dunkirk
Mountain Troops Embark
Embarks mountain troops on destroyers bound for Narvik.
Destroyer Group Narvik
Commands the destroyer group carrying Dietl's troops to Narvik.
Operation Weserubung
Lutjens commands the distant cover force as German warships sail for Norway.
Admiral Hipper Action
Commands Admiral Hipper during actions linked to the Norway invasion.
Invasion of Norway
Soldiers in the British Army land at Namsos in Norway
HMS Glowworm Loss
His action warns the Royal Navy of German movement toward Norway.
Barttle of Narvik
Oversees naval preparations as Operation Wilfred begins before the German invasion.
Operation Wilfred Begins
Oversees the opening of mining operations off Norway.
Operation Wilfred
Churchill backs the Royal Navy mining operation intended to disrupt German access to Swedish iron ore.
Sinking of Pol III
Welding-Olsen is killed when the patrol boat Pol III challenges German invasion ships approaching Oslofjord.
Operation Weserรผbung Launch Coordinated
Jodl's OKW staff coordinates the opening of the invasions of Denmark and Norway.
Invasion of Denmark
With operation "Weserubung" Germany occupies Denmark and Norway
Invasion of Norway
With operation "Weserubung" Germany occupies Denmark and Norway
Operation Weserubung
With operation "Weserubung" Germany occupies Denmark and Norway
Sinking of Blucher
Woldag commands the cruiser Blucher when Norwegian guns and torpedoes sink the ship in Oslofjord.
Destroyer Georg Thiele
Commands a German destroyer in the Narvik invasion force.
Destroyer Hans Ludemann
Commands a German destroyer during the Narvik operation.
Invasion of Norway
Germany launches Operation Weserubung and German forces land at Narvik to secure the northern ore route.
Operation Weserubung
Hitler launches the invasion of Denmark and Norway to secure bases and protect the Swedish iron ore route.
Battle of Narvik
Lands mountain troops from German destroyers and seizes Narvik.
Capture of Narvik
Seizes Narvik with mountain troops landed from German destroyers.
Capture of Narvik
Dietl's mountain troops land from German destroyers and seize Narvik during the opening invasion.
Operation Weserubung
Dietl's mountain troops land at Narvik and seize the port during the opening German invasion.
Operation Weserubung
Kaupisch commands German forces in Denmark as the invasion quickly forces Danish surrender.
Operation Weserubung
Falkenhorst directs the wider Norwegian invasion as German forces attack Oslo, Bergen, Trondheim and Narvik.
Battle of Narvik
Commands the German destroyer force carrying Dietl's troops into Narvik.
Landing at Narvik
Brings the German naval force into Narvik during the invasion.
Landing at Narvik
Bonte commands the German destroyer force carrying mountain troops into Narvik at the start of Operation Weserubung.
Operation Weserubung
Bonte commands the destroyer group carrying Dietl's mountain troops to Narvik.
Battle of Drobak Sound
Kummetz leads the German naval force toward Oslo when Oscarsborg blocks the attack.
Invasion of Norway
Launches torpedoes at Admiral Hipper to protect Britsh troops
Invasion of Norway
The Germans invade Norway, British intervention is too late
Barttle of Narvik
Responds to the German landing at Narvik during Operation Weserubung.
Operation Weserubung
Responds to the German invasion of Norway and Denmark.
Government
Forms a new Government in Norway
Flight from Oslo
Haakon VII leaves Oslo with the government, preventing German forces from capturing the monarchy.
Government Evacuation
Nygaardsvold's government leaves Oslo as German forces advance on the capital.
Quisling Coup
Quisling announces a coup by radio while German forces are invading Norway.
Rule of Norway
Forms a pro-German Government after the Invasion of Norway
Rule of Norway
Forms a pro-German Government after the Invasion of Norway
Government
Forms a new Government in Norway
Battle of Narvik
Commands Eidsvold before the ship is sunk by German torpedoes.
Battle of Drobak Sound
Eriksen orders Oscarsborg Fortress to fire on Blucher and delays the German capture of Oslo.
Battle of Narvik
Commands Norwegian forces at Narvik when German troops arrive.
German Landing at Narvik
Commands Norwegian forces at Narvik as German troops arrive.
Battle of Narvik
Commands the coastal defence ship Norge during the German attack.
Northern Norway Command
Begins organising Norwegian resistance in northern Norway.
Invasion of Norway
Rejects a German ultimatum
Battle of Narvik, 1st
Berger brings German destroyers out of Ballangen Bay and joins the counterattack against Warburton-Lee's flotilla.
Battle of Narvik
Brings German destroyers out of Ballangen Bay for the counterattack.
Battle of Narvik, 1st
Bonte is killed when HMS Hardy's flotilla attacks the German destroyers in Narvik harbour.
Battle of Narvik
Is killed when HMS Hardy's force attacks German destroyers.
Death of Bonte
Is killed when Wilhelm Heidkamp is destroyed in Narvik harbour.
Battle of Narvik, 1st
Warburton-Lee leads the British destroyer attack into Ofotfjord and is killed after HMS Hardy is hit.
Battle of Narvik
Leads the British destroyer attack in the first naval battle.
First Battle of Narvik
Leads British destroyers in a surprise attack on German ships at Narvik.
Operation Weserubung
Warburton-Lee leads the Royal Navy destroyer attack against German forces at Narvik after the invasion begins.
Battle of Narvik, 1st
Layman commands HMS Hotspur during the destroyer action and withdraws after heavy damage.
Battle of Narvik
Commands HMS Hotspur during the first naval battle.
HMS Hotspur Damaged
Withdraws HMS Hotspur after heavy damage in the first naval battle.
Barttle of Narvik
Receives reports of Warburton-Lee's destroyer attack in the first naval battle.
Battle of Narvik, 1st
Receives reports of Warburton-Lee's destroyer attack at Narvik.
Battle of Narvik, 1st
The Royal Navy attacks German destroyers at Narvik during the first naval battle in Ofotfjord.
Battle of Narvik, 1st
Courage commands HMS Havock during the British destroyer attack on German ships at Narvik.
Battle of Narvik
Commands HMS Havock during the destroyer attack.
HMS Havock Attack
Commands HMS Havock in the destroyer attack at Narvik.
Commander in Chief
Ruge is appointed commander in chief and begins organising Norwegian resistance to the German invasion.
Capture of Oslo
The Germans occupy Oslo
Invasion of Norway
The Germans occupy Oslo
Siege of Oslo
The Germans occupy Oslo
Battle of Narvik, 2nd
Gadow's 3rd Destroyer Flotilla is destroyed or scuttled during the second naval battle at Narvik.
Battle of Narvik
His destroyer force is destroyed or scuttled after the British attack.
Destroyer Scuttled
His destroyer force is destroyed or scuttled after the second battle.
Battle of Narvik, 2nd
Bey commands surviving German destroyers as the Royal Navy destroys the remaining Narvik destroyer force.
Battle of Narvik
Commands surviving German destroyers during the second naval battle.
Destroyer Force Destroyed
Commands surviving German destroyers as the Royal Navy attacks.
Battle of Narvik, 2nd
Crutchley commands HMS Warspite as the battleship supports the second naval attack on Narvik.
Battle of Narvik
Commands HMS Warspite during the second naval attack.
HMS Warspite at Narvik
Commands HMS Warspite during the second naval battle.
Battle of Narvik, 2nd
Sherbrooke commands HMS Cossack during Whitworth's attack against the remaining German destroyers.
Battle of Narvik
Commands HMS Cossack during the attack on German destroyers.
HMS Cossack Attack
Commands HMS Cossack during Whitworth's attack on German destroyers.
Barttle of Narvik
Welcomes the second naval attack that destroys the remaining German destroyers.
Battle of Narvik, 2nd
Welcomes the destruction of German destroyers at Narvik.
Battle of Narvik, 2nd
British naval forces destroy or force the scuttling of the remaining German destroyers at Narvik.
Battle of Narvik, 2nd
Whitworth leads HMS Warspite and destroyers into Ofotfjord to destroy the remaining German destroyers.
Battle of Narvik
Leads HMS Warspite and destroyers in the second naval battle.
Operation Weserubung
Whitworth leads HMS Warspite and destroyers in the second naval attack on the German Narvik force.
Second Battle of Narvik
Leads HMS Warspite and destroyers into Ofotfjord.
Operation Yellow
Leads right hand column of the 7th, "Ghost Division"
Battle of Narvik
Commands Allied naval forces supporting the Narvik campaign.
Rupertforce Command
Commands naval and expeditionary forces assembling for operations near Narvik.
Namsos Campaign
Carton de Wiart commands British forces landed at Namsos to threaten German-held Trondheim.
President of Bolivia
Penaranda begins his constitutional presidency.
Dismissal
Dimissed by Hitler after he had declared himself head of the Norwegian Government
Battle of Narvik
Leads 24th Guards Brigade in the Allied Narvik force.
Guards Brigade Lands
Leads 24th Guards Brigade as Allied troops land near Narvik.
Narvik Land Campaign
Fraser's 24th Guards Brigade forms part of Rupertforce during the Allied build-up around Narvik.
Barttle of Narvik
Supports the Allied landing at Harstad for operations against Narvik.
Narvik Expedition
Supports the Allied expedition being assembled around Harstad.
Battle of Narvik
Commands British land forces sent against Narvik.
Narvik Expedition
Commands British land forces sent to invest Narvik.
Narvik Expedition
Mackesy leads the British force sent to invest Narvik after German troops seize the port.
Allied Landing
Allied troops begin landing in northern Norway to support operations against Narvik.
Dismissal
Dimissed by Hitler after he had declared himself head of the Norwegian Government
Council of Berggrav
Appointed Member of ruling administritive council by the Germans
Council of Berg
Appointed Member of ruling administritive council by the Germans
Council of Berggrav
Appointed Member of ruling administritive council by the Germans
Council of Berg
Appointed Member of ruling administritive council by the Germans
Dismissal
Dimissed by Hitler after he had declared himself head of the Norwegian Government
Battle of Hegra Fortress
Holtermann leads the defence of Hegra Fortress against German attacks in central Norway.
Invasion of Norway
The Allied Expeditionary Force lands at Namsos
Battle of Narvik
Directs Norwegian forces resisting the German occupation of northern Norway.
Northern Norway Command
Fleischer directs Norwegian forces in northern Norway while the Allied Narvik campaign develops.
Invasion of Norway
The Allied Expeditionary Force lands at Andalsnes
Andalsnes Campaign
Paget commands Sickleforce after British troops land at Andalsnes to support Norwegian resistance.
Norway Campaign
Defends naval operations as the Norway campaign develops.
Namsos Campaign
French troops deploy around Namsos as part of the Allied attempt to retake Trondheim.
Battle of Gratangen
Loken directs Norwegian forces in the first counterattack toward Narvik during the Gratangen fighting.
Battle of Narvik
Commands Norwegian troops in the counterattack near Gratangen.
Gratangen Counterattack
Directs Norwegian forces in the first counterattack toward Narvik.
Reich Commissioner
Appointed Reich Commissioner for Norway
Reich Commissioner
Appointed Reich Commissioner for Norway
Reich Commissioner
Appointed Reich Commissioner for Norway
Barttle of Narvik
Presses for stronger action while Allied commanders delay a frontal assault.
Delayed Assault
Faces frustration over delays in the Allied attack on Narvik.
Battle of Narvik
Delays a frontal assault because of terrain and troop readiness.
Delayed Assault
Resists an immediate frontal assault because of terrain and troop readiness.
Delayed Assault
Mackesy resists an immediate frontal assault on Narvik because of the risks to his troops.
Narvik Front
Coordinates Norwegian pressure on Dietl's isolated mountain troops.
Battle of Gratangen
Bockman's battalion suffers heavy losses after German troops counterattack the Norwegian advance at Gratangen.
Birth of Alfredo James Al Pacino
Birth of Alfredo James "Al" Pacino
Third Roosevelt Letter
Sends another letter to Roosevelt concerning the need for effective action on uranium research.
Invasion of Norway
General Mackesy is forced to call off the pincer assault on Trondheim
Siege of Trondheim
General Mackesy is forced to call off the pincer assault on Trondheim
Battle of Narvik
Commands French mountain troops deployed for the Narvik campaign.
French Expeditionary Force
Commands French mountain troops deployed for the Narvik campaign.
Battle of Narvik
Commands Chasseurs Alpins battalions during the Narvik campaign.
Chasseurs Alpins
Commands Chasseurs Alpins battalions operating near Narvik.
Narvik Land Campaign
Valentini commands Chasseurs Alpins battalions deployed with the French expeditionary force near Narvik.
Invasion of Norway
Taken aboard the Glasgow & conveyed to the new provisional capital at Tromso
Invasion of France
The French military attache warns that the centre of the German assault would come on the Meuse at Sedan, between 8 and 10 May
Constitution of China
Heads a Japanese puppet Government at Nanking
Head of State
Appointed Head of State for China
Head of State
Appointed Head of State for China
Norway Campaign Crisis Managed at OKW
Jodl participates in high-level decisions as German forces face uncertainty during the Norwegian campaign.
Invasion of Norway
Leads a German invasion force
Coup
Leads a right wing coup
May 1940398 historical events
Foreign Legion at Narvik
Leads legionnaires prepared for the assault north of Narvik.
Commandant
Appointed Commandant of Auschwitz concentration camp
Result of Surrender of Norway
Norwegian organised resistance ends and German occupation becomes established.
Surrender of Norway
Norway surrenders to Germany
Chairman
Appointed Chairman of the Miltary Co-ordinating Committee
Chairman
Appointed Chairman of the Miltary Co-ordinating Committee
Invasion of Norway
British Forces are withdrawn from Andalsnes
Barttle of Narvik
Monitors Allied build-up as French and Polish troops join the Narvik campaign.
Withdrawal from Andalsnes
Paget evacuates British forces from Andalsnes after German pressure and air attacks make the position untenable.
Invasion of Norway
British Forces are withdrawn from Namsos
Surrender of Hegra Fortress
Holtermann surrenders Hegra Fortress after southern Norway collapses and further resistance becomes impossible.
Battle of Narvik
Commands the Polish Highland Brigade in the Narvik campaign.
Polish Brigade Arrives
Commands the Polish Highland Brigade assigned to the Narvik campaign.
Conduct of the War
Participates in the Commons debate that helps bring down Neville Chamberlainโs government.
Norway Debate
Defends the Admiralty during parliamentary criticism of the Norway campaign.
Chief of Staff
Appointed Chief of Staff of XIX Corps
Chief of Staff
Appointed Commander of XIX Corps
XIX Corps
Composed of First, 2nd & 10th Panzer divisions & an elite regiment "Grossdeutschland"
Invasion of France
1st day of Fall Gelb, German forces occupy Luxembourg
Invasion of Luxembourg
1st day of Fall Gelb, German forces occupy Luxembourg
Operation Fall Gelb
1st day of Fall Gelb, German forces occupy Luxembourg
Resignation of Neville Chamberlain
Chamberlain prefers Halifax as PM but he cannot run the Government from the Lords
Chief Whip
Informs Chamberlain that the Commons favours Churchill as Chamberlains successor
Resignation of Neville Chamberlain
Sends a letter to Chamberlain saying Labour will not serve under Chamberlain
Government Crisis
Takes part in discussions as Chamberlain's government collapses.
Plan D
Orders Plan D in response to the German invasion of France
Commander of 4th Army
Appointed Commander of the 4th Army in France
Fall Gelb Launch Supported
Jodl works within OKW as Germany launches the western offensive against the Low Countries and France.
Commander of 4th Army
Appointed Commander of the 4th Army in France
Invasion of Belgium
The assault on the Maginot Line begins. Rommel crosses the border 30 miles south of Aachen
Maginot Line
The assault on the Maginot Line begins
Operation Yellow
1st day, takes the high ground at Maspelt before moving on to the Espeler-Dorner line
Invasion of France
Crosses the borders of Belgium & Holland towards France
Operation Yellow
The 6 Fliegerkorps of Luftflotte 2 & 3 begin the war in the west
Campaign in France
Witzleben commands First Army during the German offensive in the west
Diplomatic Mission at Berlin
Ambassadors of The Netherlands & Belgium are summoned & told troops will invade
Invasion of Belgium
An invasion is launched to "safeguard neutrality". Ambassadors of The Netherlands & Belgium are summoned & told troops will invade
Invasion of Netherlands, The
An invasion is launched to "safeguard neutrality". Ambassadors of The Netherlands & Belgium are summoned & told troops will invade
Neutrality
An invasion is launched to "safeguard neutrality"
Invasion of Belgium
Army Group B launches it's feint offensive during into The Netherlands and Belgium
Invasion of France
Hitler takes up his Battle HQ at Munstereifel on the Siegfried Line
Invasion of Netherlands, The
1st day of Operation Yellow, the military occupation of The Netherlands & Belgium
Invasion of Netherlands, The
Army Group B launches it's feint offensive during into The Netherlands and Belgium
Manstein Plan
Uses the Manstein Plan to enter the Ardennes, cross the Meuse & reach the Channel
Operation Fall Gelb
Army Group B launches it's feint offensive during into The Netherlands and Belgium
Sitzkrieg
After several months of "Drole de Guerre" (Phoney war, Sitzkrieg) the Germans finally attack in the west
Invasion of Maastricht
Commands the army group advancing through the Netherlands and Belgium.
Meuse Bridge Operations
Oversees operations seeking rapid control of Maastricht and nearby crossings.
Prime Minister of Great Britain
Appointed Prime Minister of Great Britain, 1st term
Secretary of State for Defence
Appointed Minister of Defence
Resignation of Neville Chamberlain
Labour will not serve in a Government with Chamberlain in. Attlee informs Chamberlain saying Labour will serve in the Government without him
Prime Minister
Becomes Prime Minister after Neville Chamberlain resigns.
Invasion of Belgium
Sent by Churchill to the Belgian King to "stiffen Belgiums resolve"
Resignation of Neville Chamberlain
After the failure of appeasement & there is a need for strong Government
Battle of France
despite the objections of its commander Hugh Dowding that this left home defences under-strength, Churchill sent fighter squadrons to support operations in France,where the RAF suffered heavy losses
Fighter Command
Despite the objections of its commander Hugh Dowding that this left home defences under-strength, Churchill sent fighter squadrons to support operations in France,where the RAF suffered heavy losses
Battle of Narvik
Becomes Prime Minister while the campaign around Narvik is still underway.
Prime Minister
Becomes Prime Minister and Minister of Defence as Germany attacks the west.
BEF Advance into Belgium
Leads 3rd Division into Belgium as the BEF moves forward after the German western offensive begins.
British Occupation of Iceland
Hermann Jonasson's government protests the British occupation while instructing Icelandic authorities to avoid armed resistance and maintain public order.
Defence of the Netherlands
Directs national resistance during the opening phase of the invasion.
German Invasion of Maastricht
Commands Dutch forces as Germany attacks Maastricht and the Meuse crossings.
Narvik Air Support
Supports northern operations through Norwegian air activity around Bardufoss.
Commander of 4th Arm Division
Appointed Commander of the 4th Armoured Division
Commander of 4th Arm Division
Appointed Commander of the 4th Armoured Division
Invasion of Netherlands, The
Begins the French advance into Holland as part of Gamelins Plan D
Operation Yellow
The 7th Division crosses the Ourthe River
Battle of River Meuse
Crosses the Borders of Belgium & Luxembourg towards France
Cabinet
Appointed Member of Coalition War Cabinet
Minister of Aircraft
Appointed Minister of Aircraft
First Lord of Admiralty
Appointed First Lord of the Admiralty, 2nd term
Lord President
Given 11 Downing St as part of his appointment as Lord President
War Cabinet
Appointed Member of War Cabinet
Minister of Labour
Appointed Minister of Labour & National Service
Minister of Supply
Appointed Minister of Supply
War Cabinet
Appointed Member of War Cabinet
Secretary of State
Appointed Secretary of State for Air
War Cabinet
Appointed Member of War Cabinet
War Office
Churchill appoints Eden Secretary of State for War in the new coalition government
Minister without Portfolio
Joins Churchillโs wartime coalition as Minister without Portfolio and a member of the War Cabinet.
Invasion of Norway
Commander of British forces during the Norwegian campaign
Coalition Government
Forms a national coalition government to prosecute the war.
War Cabinet
Creates a smaller War Cabinet for rapid wartime decision making.
Invasion of France
Agrees to let Billote take command of the Allied Armies in Belgium
Invasion of France
Attends an inter-allied conference in the Chateau at Casteau near Mons
British Expeditionary Force (BEF)
Appointed to co-ordinate the operations of the BEF & Belgian Army
Mobilization
Appointed to co-ordinate the operations of the BEF & Belgian Army
Invasion of France
Attends an inter-allied conference in the Chateau at Casteau near Mons
Battle of River Meuse
From Dinant to Sedan the Germans are within reach of the River Meuse
Battle of River Meuse
Reaches Sedan
Board of Trade
Appointed President of the Board of Trade, 1st term
President of Board of Trade
Appointed President of the Board of Trade, 1st term
Lord Chancellor
Appointed Lord Chancellor
Invasion of France
Attends an inter-allied conference in the Chateau at Casteau near Mons
Advance toward Narvik
Fleischer's forces continue pressure on Dietl's mountain troops as Allied units prepare the final Narvik assault.
Battle of Narvik
Directs French forces in the amphibious landing at Bjerkvik.
Bjerkvik Landing
French forces conduct an amphibious landing north of Narvik.
Bjerkvik Landing
Bethouart commands the French expeditionary troops in the amphibious landing behind German lines at Bjerkvik.
Battle of Narvik
Leads legionnaires in the Bjerkvik operation north of Narvik.
Bjerkvik Landing
Magrin-Vernerey's Foreign Legion battalions land at Bjerkvik and force German troops to retreat.
Capture of Elvegardsmoen
Legionnaires recapture Elvegardsmoen during the Bjerkvik operation.
Capture of Elvegardsmoen
Magrin-Vernerey's legionnaires recapture Elvegardsmoen during the Bjerkvik operation north of Narvik.
Battle of River Meuse
Crosses the River Meuse
Battle of River Meuse
Crosses the River Meuse
Operation Yellow
The 7th Rifle Regiment crosses the Maas between Houx & Dinant
Battle of River Meuse
Present at the German attack on Sedan
Battle of River Meuse
Guderian crosses the River Meuse
Capture of Germany
Germany completes the capture of Holland
Capture of Rotterdam
The 9th Panzer Division reaches Rotterdam
Manstein Plan
Adopts the Manstein Plan under which Army Group A crosses the Meuse
Capture of Rotterdam
Receives the surrender of Belgium
Speech
In the Commons says "I have nothing to offer but blood, toil, tears & sweat"
Vote of Confidence
Wins a unanimous vote of confidence from the Commons for the new administration
Battle of Narvik
Takes command of reorganised British land forces in northern Norway.
Narvik Command
Takes command of reorganised British land forces in northern Norway.
Narvik Command
Auchinleck takes command of reorganised British land forces in the Narvik area.
Battle of Narvik
Oversees the campaign as Allied troops capture Elvegardsmoen and advance toward Narvik.
Blood Toil Tears and Sweat
Tells Parliament he can offer only blood toil tears and sweat.
Alliance Italy and Germany
Tells Ciano Italy will enter the war on the German side
Capture of Amsterdam
Germany completes the capture of Holland
Exile of Wilhelmina I
The British send a destroyer to help Wilhelmina to leave Holland
Invasion of Netherlands, The
Leaves the Hague-Amsterdam redoubt. Asks the British to send extra fighters to defend Holland but is turned down
Battle of River Meuse
Decides to abandon the Meuse north of Sedan & make a stand from Rocroi to Omont
Invasion of France
The Germans breakthrough at Sedan
Battle of River Meuse
Reaches Anthee in Belgium
Battle of River Meuse
Reaches Revin in Belgium
Battle of River Meuse
Strikes out towards the Channel ports via Peronne & Cambrai
Battle of River Meuse
Begins the "German pocket" which will cut the Allied forces in two
Invasion of Belgium
Rommel arrives at the River Meuse near Dinant
Invasion of Belgium
The 7th Div is the 1st German unit to cross the River Meuse
Capture of Sedan
Breaks through Sedan & reaches the Channel coast within 1 week
Bombing of Rotterdam
The Dutch Army surrenders after the Bombing of Rotterdam by the Luftwaffe
Capture of Rotterdam
The Dutch Army surrenders after the Bombing of Rotterdam by the Luftwaffe
Battle of Narvik
Withdraws toward mountain positions as Allied pressure increases.
German Defensive Line
Withdraws toward mountain positions as Allied pressure increases.
Minister of Shipping
Appointed Minister for Shipping
Minister of Transport
Appointed Minister for Transport
Home Guard
Eden announces the formation of the Home Guard
Secretary of State for Agriculture
Appointed Minister for Agriculture
Secretary of State
Appointed Secretary of State for Scotland
Minister of Economic Warfare
Appointed Minister for Economic Warfare
Local Defence Volunteers (LDV)
Foundation of the Local Defence Volunteers, later Home Guard
Local Defence Volunteers (LDV)
Calls for volunteers to form the LDV, within 24 hours 250,000 enrol
Local Defence Volunteers
Broadcasts the appeal for volunteers to form the Local Defence Volunteers
Beaverbrook Appointment
Appoints Beaverbrook to accelerate aircraft production.
Siege of Paris
Informed Touchon will try to create a defensive line outside Paris
Battle of River Meuse
Suports the German 6th Army in Flanders
Sixth Army
Suports the German 6th Army in Flanders
Capture of Netherlands, The
The Dutch sign the document of capitulation
Invasion of Netherlands, The
The Dutch sign the document of capitulation
Result of Surrender of Netherlands
The Netherlands ends organised military resistance to Germany.
Surrender of Netherlands
Holland surrenders to Germany
Attorney General
Appointed Attorney General
Solicitor General
Appointed Solicitor General
Battle of France
Confronts the crisis created by the German breakthrough at Sedan.
Invasion of Netherlands, The
General Winckelmann capitulates
Capture of Netherlands, The
The Dutch sign the document of capitulation
Invasion of Netherlands, The
The Dutch sign the document of capitulation
Invasion of France
Joined by an embryo staff & remants of General Petiets Cavalry at Laon
Supreme War Council
Warns Churchill that the French front is collapsing.
Supreme War Council
Explains the German breakthrough and the failure of French defences.
Invasion of France
Writes in his diary, "the breakthrough is developing along completely classical lines"
Capture of Ribemount
The XIX Corps captures Ribemount in Northern France on its way to the Channel Coast
Battle of River Meuse
Advances as far as Avesnes
Capture of Clairfay
Rommel captures Clairfay on the Maginot Line
Supreme War Council
Attends a crisis meeting after the German breakthrough at Sedan.
Supreme War Council
Attends as air reinforcements for France are debated.
Supreme War Council
Accompanies Churchill and records strategic discussions.
Supreme War Council
Accompanies Churchill during the crisis meeting in Paris.
Air Reinforcement Debate
Debates sending more RAF fighter squadrons to France.
Supreme War Council
Flies to Paris to discuss the collapsing French front.
Battle of Abbeville
Launches a counterattack in the region of Laon with 80 tanks to destroy the communication of the German armoured troops
Invasion of France
Launches an attack on the "Bulge" from the north & sth
Battle of Montcornet
Prepares to sever Guderians supply lines at Montcornet but is beaten back
Invasion of France
Prepares to sever Guderians supply lines at Montcornet but is beaten back
Siege of Montcornet
Prepares to sever Guderians supply lines at Montcornet but is beaten back
Invasion of France
Wishes to reduce the 2 operational phases to 1. Claims there is little danger of an Allied attack on the northern flank of the "Bulge". Believes France can be broken in a single sweep to the south west
Battle of River Meuse
Advances as far as Le Cateau
Capture of Landrecies
Captures the Landrecies bridge, a crossing point acros the River Sambre into France
Invasion of France
Moves westward in the direction of the River Sambre
Battle of Montcornet
Manages to fend off de Gaulles attempt to break off his supply lines
Battle of River Meuse
Ordered by Rundstedt to launch a "reconnaissance in force", undermines Hitler
Home Defence
Orders urgent preparations against possible invasion of Britain.
Vice President
Appointed Vice President of the Council
Arrest of Winston Leonard Spencer Churchill
Makes it known he would like communists & fascists detained but nothing comes of this
Enemy Aliens
Makes it known he would like communists & fascists detained but nothing comes of this
Commission on General List
Receives an emergency commission as a second lieutenant on the General List after completing officer training.
Dismissal
Dismissed by the French Prime Minister, Weygand
Operation Yellow
Captures the Sambre Bridge at Berlimont & joins the 7th & 5th Panzers
Invasion of France
Advances as far as the Channel Coast
Operation Dynamo
Operational control is delegated to Ramsay
Commander in Chief
Appointed Commander of the French forces during the retreat
Commander of Allied Armis
Appointed Commander of the Allied Armies in France
Commander in Chief
Appointed Commander of France
Commander of Allied Armis
Appointed Commander of the Allied Armies in France
Chief of Staff
Appointed Chief of Staff of the Panzer Group comprising XIX, XXXIX & XLI Corps
Chief of Staff
Appointed Chief of Staff of the Panzer Group comprising XIX, XXXIX & XLI Corps
Capture of Cambrai
Rommel captures Cambrai, 12,000 enemy troops are taken
Battle of Dunkirk
Reaches the Channel Coast
Capture of Abbeville
Guderains tanks break through to Abbeville
Manstein Plan
Leading panzer divisions reach the Channel near Abbeville
Operation Dynamo
Orders the Admiralty to round up shipping in order to evacuate the BEF
Admiral
Appointedmand the evacuation from Dunkirk, operates from Dover
Evacuation
It is planned to evacuate 10,000 from Calais, Boulogne-sur-Mer & Dunkirk every 24 hrs
Operation Dynamo
It is planned to evacuate 10,000 from Calais, Boulogne-sur-Mer & Dunkirk every 24 hrs
Operation Dynamo
Commands the evacuation from Dunkirk, operates from Dover. A conference considers "emergency evacuation across the Channel of very large forces"
Battle of Narvik
Plans the final Allied attack while evacuation planning begins.
Narvik Assault Planning
Plans the final Allied attack while evacuation orders are kept secret.
Battle of Narvik
Maintains Norwegian pressure on isolated German mountain troops.
Battle of Arras
Rommel engages the British with 88-mm anti-tank guns. 5 British Brigades stop the SS Totenkopf & manage to create a retreat to Dunkirk
Battle of Dunkirk
An Allied counter-attack briefly stops the Germans
Battle of Abbeville
Races to the coast of the English Channel at Abbeville isolating the British Expeditionary Force, Belgian Army, and the French Army
British Expeditionary Force (BEF)
Races to the coast of the English Channel at Abbeville isolating the British Expeditionary Force, Belgian Army, and the French Army
Invasion of France
Races to the coast of the English Channel at Abbeville isolating the British Expeditionary Force, Belgian Army, and the French Army
Supreme War Council
Presents plans after replacing Gamelin as commander in chief.
Supreme War Council
Participates in crisis discussions as the French position worsens.
Operation Yellow
Rommel reaches La Basee Canal but Hitler halts the Panzers advance on Dunkirk
State of Emergency
Parliament grants Winston Churchill and his Government wide emergency powers
Supreme War Council
Attends another crisis meeting as German forces reach the Channel.
Supreme War Council
His army's situation drives urgent Allied discussions.
Emergency Powers
Secures emergency powers to mobilise national resources for war.
Supreme War Council
Returns to Paris as German forces approach the Channel.
Invasion of France
Rommel crosses the River Scarpe
Battle of Dunkirk
Drafts a "halt order" after concerns about the Allied counter-attack at Arras
Operation Alphabet
Receives notice that French troops will withdraw after the planned Narvik attack.
Battle of Dunkirk
1st Panzer Division breaches the Aa Canal, 15 kilometers from Dunkirk
Battle of Dunkirk
Hitler orders the left wing to stop, it is forbidden to cross the Aa
Capture of Boulogne-sur-Mer
Ordered to halt by the German High Command & not to advance on Dunkirk. Guderains tanks capture Boulogne-sur-Mer
Battle of Dunkirk
"Dunkirk is to be left to the Luftwaffe". A "Fuhrer order" is issued from Rundstedts HQ forbidding the left to cross the Aa
Evacuation
Orders Guderains tanks to make no further advance, allowing the evacuation of the BEF
Invasion of France
Times the 2nd phase of the invasion of France for 31st May at a Council of War
Luftwaffe
"Dunkirk is to be left to the Luftwaffe"
Manstein Plan
The Panzer Divisions halt on Hitler's orders enabling British troops to escape to Dunkirk
Operation Dynamo
Orders Guderains tanks to make no further advance, allowing the evacuation of the BEF
Siege of Charleville
A "Fuhrer order" is issued from Rundstedts HQ forbidding the left to cross the Aa
Battle of Dunkirk
Explains to Hitler his concerns about the Allied counter-attack at Arras. A "Fuhrer order" is issued from Rundstedts HQ forbidding the left to cross the Aa
Battle of Dunkirk
Halts his forces behind Dunkirk to allow the Luftwaffe the finishing blow
Luftwaffe
Halts his forces behind Dunkirk to allow the Luftwaffe the finishing blow
Operation Alphabet
Receives orders to prepare evacuation while the Allied attack on Narvik continues.
Narvik Evacuation Planning
Works on evacuation planning after the campaign in France worsens.
Operation Alphabet
Works on the military implications of evacuating Allied forces from Narvik.
Operation Alphabet
Prepares British land forces for withdrawal from the Narvik area.
Battle of Narvik
Authorises Operation Alphabet to evacuate Allied forces from northern Norway.
Calais Decision
Orders Calais to hold out to aid the Dunkirk evacuation.
Operation Alphabet Authorised
Authorises evacuation of Allied forces from northern Norway.
Operation Alphabet
Churchill's government authorises the evacuation of Allied forces from Narvik.
Operation Alphabet
Authorises evacuation of Allied forces from northern Norway as the battle in France worsens.
Operation Alphabet
Continues the Narvik offensive despite Allied plans to evacuate northern Norway.
Operation Alphabet
Prepares the Polish Highland Brigade for evacuation after operations around Narvik.
Assassination of Leon Trotsky
Trotsky survived a raid on his home by Stalinist assassins led by GPU agent Iosif Grigulevich, Mexican painter and Stalinist David Alfaro Siqueiros, and Vittorio Vidale
Plot
Trotsky survived a raid on his home by Stalinist assassins led by GPU agent Iosif Grigulevich, Mexican painter and Stalinist David Alfaro Siqueiros, and Vittorio Vidale
Plot
A failed assassination attempt on Trotsky when gunmen fire on his villa
Operation Yellow
Goering holds back the Army outside Dunkirk, Kesselring objects to this strategy
Supreme War Council
Warns Britain of French pressure for an armistice.
Battle of Dunkirk
The "halt order" is lifted & the Panzers resume their advance
Battle of Dunkirk
The "halt order" is lifted & the Panzers resume their advance
Evacuation
The evacuation of Allied troops from Dunkirk begins
Operation Dynamo
The evacuation of Allied troops from Dunkirk begins
British Expeditionary Force (BEF)
Puts evacuation of the British Expeditionary Force from North West France into action
Operation Dynamo
Puts evacuation of the British Expeditionary Force from North West France into action
Supreme War Council
Takes part in cabinet discussions connected with the council meeting.
Supreme War Council
Meets Reynaud as Dunkirk and possible Italian mediation are discussed.
Supreme War Council
Participates in British deliberations on France and Italy.
Operation Dynamo
Authorises evacuation of the British Expeditionary Force from Dunkirk.
War Cabinet Crisis
Rejects seeking peace terms through Italian mediation.
British Expeditionary Force (BEF)
Receives orders to withdraw the BEF to Dunkirk
Operation Dynamo
Receives orders to withdraw the BEF to Dunkirk
Supreme War Council
Discusses possible Italian mediation during the Dunkirk crisis.
Invasion of Belgium
The Belgian Army capitulates
Battle of Narvik
French troops cross Rombaksfjord during the final assault.
Final Assault on Narvik
Bethouart's French troops cross Rombaksfjord during the final Allied assault that leads to Narvik's recapture.
Rombaksfjord Crossing
French troops cross Rombaksfjord during the final assault.
Commander of 5th Panzer Division
Appointed Commander of the 5th Panzer Division
Medal
Awarded the Knights Cross of the Iron Cross, 1st divisional commander so honoured
Operation Dynamo
Secrecy is lifted when submission for large numbers of private vessels are allowed
Evacuation
The last of the 338,000 British, French and Belgian forces evacuated from Dunkirk. Evacuation from Dunkirk begins
Battle of Narvik
Balances Narvik operations against the worsening Allied crisis in France.
Ankenes Advance
Polish troops advance across Ankenes toward Narvik.
Battle of Narvik
Polish forces advance across Ankenes toward Narvik.
Belgian Surrender Ends Organised Flanders Defence
Belgium's surrender ends organised Belgian resistance in Flanders while British and French forces continue withdrawing.
Capture of Belgium
Surrenders Belgium to the Germans
General
Appointed temporary general
Battle of Abbeville
The Germans had massed the bulk of their armoured force in Panzer Group von Kleist, which attacked through the comparatively unguarded sector of the Ardennes and achieved a breakthrough at Sedan with air support. Holds the Germans up at Abbeville. Appointed temporary general
General
Appointed temporary general
Battle of Narvik
French mountain troops help capture Narvik after the final assault.
Capture of Narvik
French mountain troops help capture the town after the final assault.
Operation Alphabet
French mountain troops help recapture Narvik before withdrawal begins.
Operation Yellow
The Battle for Flanders is successfully concluded
Operation Yellow
The 7th cuts the main Lille-Armentieres Road
Result of Surrender of Belgian Army
The Belgian Army lays down its arms, forcing Allied forces in Belgium to withdraw.
Surrender of Belgian Army
The King of the Belgians surrenders the Belgian Army to the Germans
Battle of Narvik
Withdraws German troops after Allied forces retake the town.
Operation Alphabet
Withdraws from Narvik as Allied troops take the town.
Withdrawal from Narvik
Withdraws German mountain troops from the town after Allied attack.
Withdrawal from Narvik
Dietl withdraws German mountain troops from Narvik after Allied forces retake the town.
Evacuation
Announces in Cabinet, "of course, whatever happens at Dunkirk, we shall fight on"
Battle of Narvik
Allied command supports the successful recapture of the town.
Capture of Narvik
Allied command supports the successful recapture of Narvik.
Capture of Narvik
Auchinleck's Allied command supports the successful recapture of Narvik before the wider Allied evacuation.
Battle of Narvik
Receives news of the Allied recapture of Narvik.
Battle of Narvik
Receives news that Allied forces have recaptured Narvik from Dietl's troops.
Dunkirk Evacuation
Monitors the evacuation as large numbers of troops are rescued.
No Negotiated Peace
Persuades ministers to continue fighting rather than seek terms.
Operation Alphabet
Receives news of Narvik's recapture while evacuation plans remain in force.
Result of Surrender of Belgian Army
Belgium's capitulation exposes Montgomery's division and other Allied troops to further German pressure and retreat.
Surrender of Belgian Army
After Belgium surrenders the 3rd Division is forced to retreat from Belgium
Battle of Narvik
Coordinates Norwegian forces during the recapture of Narvik.
Operation Alphabet
Norwegian forces enter Narvik before Allied evacuation removes their support.
Recapture of Narvik
Norwegian forces join Allied troops in retaking Narvik.
Recapture of Narvik
Fleischer coordinates Norwegian, French, Polish and British troops that recapture Narvik from Dietl's force.
Ankenes Advance
Bohusz-Szyszko's Polish Highland Brigade advances across Ankenes to encircle Narvik from the south.
Battle of Narvik
Polish troops help close the Allied ring around Narvik.
Capture of Ankenes
Polish forces help close the ring around Narvik from the south.
Capture of Ankenes
Polish troops under Bohusz-Szyszko capture Ankenes and help close the Allied ring around Narvik.
British Expeditionary Force (BEF)
Allied craft are hit but 47,300 of the BEF are evacuated
Evacuation
Allied craft are hit but 47,300 of the BEF are evacuated
Abdication
Says Leopolds reasons for staying are "mad, stupid, worse still criminal"
Abdication
The Senate makes demandis Leopolds dethronement on "moral" & "juridicial" grounds
Invasion of France
The Leader of the Belgian Chamber charges Leopold with surrendering to Germany
Invasion of France
Realizes that France will be over-run by the Germans
Commander of Second Corps
Appointed Commander of Second Corps & ordered to withdraw
Evacuation
Agrees that the BEF should evacuate after deciding "no further proportionate damage could be inflicted on the enemy"
Dunkirk Evacuation
Works in Cabinet during the Dunkirk evacuation crisis
Commander of Second Corps
Appointed Commander of Second Corps & ordered to withdraw
Temporary Second Corps Command at Dunkirk
Takes temporary command of II Corps during the final stages of the withdrawal to Dunkirk.
Supreme War Council
Meets Churchill as Dunkirk evacuation and Italy are discussed.
Supreme War Council
Represents French air concerns as Allied resources are debated.
Battle of Narvik
Argues France's collapsing front must take priority over Norway.
French Crisis and Narvik
Argues the French front has priority despite the Allied success at Narvik.
Supreme War Council
Reviews the military situation with Churchill and Reynaud.
Supreme War Council
Questions prospects as France approaches military collapse.
Battle of Narvik
Meets Churchill as Narvik success is overshadowed by France's crisis.
Supreme War Council Narvik
Meets Churchill as Narvik success is overshadowed by events in France.
First Army
The French First Army surrenders
Result of Surrender of French First Army
The French First Army ceases organised resistance and passes into German control.
Surrender of French First Army
The French First Army surrenders
Result of Surrender of French First Army
German terms are presented to the surrounded French force, leading toward its capitulation.
Surrender of French First Army
Offers the French their terms of surrender
Supreme War Council
Travels with Churchill for the Paris council meeting.
Supreme War Council
Attends the council as Allied strategy shifts during the Dunkirk evacuation.
Supreme War Council
Announces evacuation figures from Dunkirk during a Supreme War Council meeting.
Supreme War Council
Meets the Allied Supreme War Council and declares Britain will fight on.
Supreme War Council
Promises to fight on despite the worsening military position.
Operation Alphabet
Coordinates naval arrangements for removing Allied troops from Narvik.
British Expeditionary Force (BEF)
Decides to evacuate all 3 remaining Divisions of the BEF on 1st June
British Expeditionary Force (BEF)
Gort returns to Britain & Alexander is put in charge of the 3 BEF Divisions at Dunkirk
Evacuation
Ignores orders from Gort & the French to stay. Decides to evacuate all 3 remaining Divisions of the BEF on 1st June
Evacuation
Gort returns to Britain & Alexander is put in charge of the 3 BEF Divisions at Dunkirk
Supreme War Council
Accompanies Churchill during the Paris crisis meeting.
Supreme War Council
Assists Churchill at the council meeting as France nears collapse.
Supreme War Council
Warns against any separate French surrender during discussions.
Operation Alphabet
Manages withdrawal arrangements while maintaining pressure on German forces.
Battle of Narvik
Discusses Narvik and Dunkirk with French leaders at the Supreme War Council.
Battle of Narvik
Discusses Narvik and Dunkirk with French leaders.
Supreme War Council
Attends as Allied leaders discuss evacuation from Norway and France.
Supreme War Council
Discusses Dunkirk and Norway with French leaders.
Supreme War Council
Discusses Narvik and Dunkirk with French leaders.
British Expeditionary Force (BEF)
The Commander of the BEF follows Cabinet orders & returns to Britain
Evacuation
The Commander of the BEF follows Cabinet orders & returns to Britain
Belgian Army Defends Flanders Line
Leopold's army fights in Flanders as German forces press westward through Belgium.
Belgian Withdrawal through Flanders Conducted
Belgian forces fall back through Flanders while trying to maintain contact with British and French armies.
German Occupation
German forces occupy Bruges during the campaign in Belgium.
Battle of Montcornet
Holds the Germans up at Montcornet
Capture of Konigstein
Captured by the Germans & held in Konigstein
Allied Counterattack Plans Include Flanders Forces
Weygand attempts to coordinate counterattacks while northern Allied armies remain trapped in Belgium and Flanders.
Exile of Jacques Philippe Leclerc
Deserts & joins de Gaulle in England rather than surrender
Siege of Rethel
Delays the Germans at Rethel on the Aisne
Colonel
Appointed Colonel General
Belgium and Netherlands Operations Monitored
Jodl's operations staff monitors the rapid campaigns through Belgium and the Netherlands.
Colonel
Appointed Colonel General after his 19th corps defeat the French at Sedan
Invasion of Belgium
Rommels Div earns the name "the Ghost Division" because of its sudden appearences
Seventh Panzer Advance Threatens Allied Flanders Position
Rommel's rapid advance helps split Allied forces and threatens communications supporting troops in Flanders.
Invasion of Belgium
Commands 28 Divisions from the North Sea to Aix-la-Chapelle
Invasion of France
Commands 28 Divisions from the North Sea to Aix-la-Chapelle
Invasion of Netherlands, The
Commands 28 Divisions from the North Sea to Aix-la-Chapelle
Invasion of France
Commands 17 Divisions from the Moselle to the Swiss border
Luftflotte Two Supports German Drive in Flanders
Kesselring's air fleet supports German armies attacking Allied positions across Belgium and Flanders.
XXXVIII Army Corps
During the German campaign in France, Manstein commanded XXXVIII Army Corps. He directed his formation in the west after moving from the planning staff positions for which he had previously been known.
Battle of France
Fall Gelb (Case Yellow), German armoured units pushed through the Ardennes, to cut off and surround the Allied units that had advanced into Belgium
British Expeditionary Force (BEF)
Operation Yellow is launched to lure the BEF out of France
Invasion of France
Fall Gelb (Case Yellow), German armoured units pushed through the Ardennes, to cut off and surround the Allied units that had advanced into Belgium
Operation Fall Gelb
German armoured units push through the Ardennes to cut off and surround the Allied units that had advanced into Belgium
Operation Fall Gelb
Launched to prevent the Allies Treaty obligations to defend Belgium
Operation Fall Gelb
Operation Yellow is launched to lure the BEF out of France
German Army Group Pressure Tightens around Flanders
Rundstedt's forces continue closing the corridor around Allied armies retreating through Flanders.
Battle of France
In the Battle of France commands Panzergruppe von Kleist, consisting of XLI Panzer Corps and XIX Panzer Corps (under Heinz Guderian), the two southernmost armoured corps in the drive to the English Channel
Invasion of France
In the Battle of France commands Panzergruppe von Kleist, consisting of XLI Panzer Corps and XIX Panzer Corps (under Heinz Guderian), the two southernmost armoured corps in the drive to the English Channel
Invasion of France
The Germans had massed the bulk of their armoured force in Panzer Group von Kleist, which attacked through the comparatively unguarded sector of the Ardennes and achieved a breakthrough at Sedan with air support. Commands 5 Panzer & 3 motorised Divisions through the Ardennes
Bombing of Rotterdam
Rotterdam is reduced to a blazing ruin for the German invasion of France
Secretary of State for War and the Colonies
Appointed Secretary for War, May-December
Commander of British Expeditionary Force (BEF)
Appointed Commander of the British Exteditionary Force
BEF Withdrawal toward Flemish Coast Ordered
Gort orders British forces toward the coast as the Allied position in Belgium deteriorates.
Flanders Corridor Defence Prioritised
Gort prioritises routes through Flanders needed for the BEF's withdrawal toward evacuation ports.
Flanders Withdrawal Enables Dunkirk Evacuation
The BEF withdrawal from positions in Flanders helps concentrate British forces for evacuation from Dunkirk.
Commander of British Expeditionary Force (BEF)
Appointed Commander of the British Exteditionary Force
Secretary of State for War and the Colonies
Appointed Secretary for War, May-December
Dunkirk Perimeter Defence
Uses 3rd Division in the defensive battle protecting routes toward the Dunkirk evacuation area.
Third Division Withdrawal from Dyle Line
Conducts an organised withdrawal as Allied armies fall back from the Dyle position under German pressure.
June 1940198 historical events
Invasion of France
Meets de Gaulle & informs him that he is preparing an armistice with the Germans
Evacuation
Completes the withdrawal of Second Corps from La Panne & Dunkirk
Second Corps Evacuation Completed
Completes the withdrawal of II Corps as British forces evacuate from Dunkirk.
Battle of Narvik
Learns that Allied forces will evacuate northern Norway.
Northern Norway Crisis
Norwegian leaders are informed that Allied evacuation from Narvik is planned.
Operation Alphabet
Is informed that Allied troops will evacuate northern Norway after the Narvik victory.
Battle of Narvik
Receives warning that Allied forces will withdraw from Narvik.
Narvik Evacuation News
Receives news that Allied forces will leave northern Norway.
Operation Alphabet
Receives notice that Allied support around Narvik will be withdrawn.
Front Line Tour
Hitler visits Rommel, Rommel is ordered to accompany Hitler on his front-line tour
Operation Marita
Rommel is ordered to accompany Hitler on the rest of his front-line tour
Enemy Aliens
Clamps down on "the enemy within" & strongly supports the deportation of enemy aliens
Birth of Constantine II
Constantine is born in Athens to Crown Prince Paul and Princess Frederica.
Bombing of Paris
The Germans begin bombing Paris
Evacuation
The final day of the Dunkirk evacuation
Raid
Sets up raiding forces to keep German troops tied down in occupied countries
Evacuation
The British Royal Navy evacuates 300,000 from Dunkirk
Operation Dynamo
The British Royal Navy evacuates 300,000 from Dunkirk
Battle of Dunkirk
The French rearguard surrenders
Capture of Dunkirk
Dunkirk is captured after its evacuation by the BEF
Evacuation
The Germans enter Dunkirk
Operation Dynamo
"We shall fight on the beaches...... we shall never surrender"
Speech
"We shall fight on the beaches...... we shall never surrender"
Operation Alphabet
Cunningham helps direct naval evacuation movements as Allied forces withdraw from northern Norway.
Battle of Narvik
Directs evacuation of Allied forces from the Narvik area.
Operation Alphabet
Directs evacuation of Allied forces from the Narvik area.
Operation Alphabet
Directs evacuation of Allied troops and equipment from the Narvik area.
Battle of Narvik
Oversees withdrawal of British land forces from northern Norway.
Operation Alphabet
Oversees withdrawal of British land forces during the evacuation.
We Shall Fight on the Beaches
Warns Parliament that Britain will fight on whatever happens.
Brigadier General
Appointed Brigadier General
Under Secretary
Appointed Under Secretary of State for War
Brigadier General
Appointed Brigadier General
Under Secretary
Appointed Under Secretary of State for War
Battle of Narvik
French forces evacuate after helping recapture Narvik.
Evacuation from Narvik
French forces withdraw after helping recapture the town.
Operation Alphabet
Withdraws French forces after their role in the recapture of Narvik.
Commander of Second Battalion
Appointed Commander 2nd Battalion of the 36th Panzer Regiment
Commander of Second Battalion
Appointed Commander 2nd Battalion of the 36th Panzer Regiment
Battle of France
Operation Fall Rot (Case Red) is began and German forces outflank the Maginot Line and push deeper into France
Invasion of France
Operation, Fall Rot (Case Red), German forces outflank the Maginot Line
Maginot Line
Operation, Fall Rot (Case Red), German forces outflank the Maginot Line
Operation Fall Rot
Operation Fall Rot (Case Red) is began and German forces outflank the Maginot Line and push deeper into France
Battle of Narvik
Continues evacuation arrangements after the temporary Allied victory at Narvik.
Operation Alphabet
Continues evacuation arrangements for Allied forces in northern Norway.
Battle of Narvik
Polish Highland Brigade evacuates after the Allied victory.
Evacuation from Narvik
Polish Highland Brigade evacuates after the Allied victory.
Operation Alphabet
Withdraws the Polish Highland Brigade from Narvik after the Allied victory.
Invasion of France
Rommels 7th Panzer Div crosses the River Somme
Evacuation from Norway
Leaves Norway with the king and government for exile in Britain.
Battle of Narvik
Norwegian forces are left exposed after Allied evacuation begins.
Norwegian Withdrawal
Norwegian forces are left with little hope after Allied evacuation begins.
Operation Alphabet
Faces the collapse of the Narvik position after Allied evacuation begins.
Evacuation from Norway
Leaves Norway for Britain as German victory becomes unavoidable.
Evacuation to Britain
Haakon VII and the Norwegian government leave Tromso for Britain to continue resistance in exile.
Exile of Haakon VII
Escapes to Great Britain into exile for the rest of the war
Operation Juno
Leads German naval forces against Allied shipping during the evacuation.
Operation Juno
Marschall leads German heavy ships in a sortie intended to disrupt the Allied evacuation from Norway.
Gneisenau Action
Commands Gneisenau during Operation Juno.
Scharnhorst Action
Commands Scharnhorst during the sinking of HMS Glorious.
Battle of Narvik
Uses Dietl's survival and Narvik's recovery as propaganda success.
Narvik Propaganda Victory
Uses the survival of Dietl's force as a German propaganda success.
Battle of Narvik
Reoccupies Narvik after Allied forces complete their withdrawal.
Operation Alphabet
Reoccupies Narvik after Allied forces complete their withdrawal.
Retaking of Narvik
Reoccupies Narvik after Allied forces complete their withdrawal.
Retaking of Narvik
Dietl's troops reoccupy Narvik after Allied forces evacuate northern Norway.
Invasion of Norway
Final day of the evacuation of the British forces from Norway
HMS Glorious Lost
Commands HMS Glorious when German battlecruisers sink the carrier.
Sinking of HMS Glorious
DOyly-Hughes commands HMS Glorious when German battlecruisers sink the carrier during Operation Juno.
Operation Juno Encounter
Commands destroyers escorting ships during the evacuation period.
HMS Acasta Attack
Commands HMS Acasta and torpedoes Scharnhorst before being sunk.
HMS Ardent Lost
Commands HMS Ardent during the defence of HMS Glorious.
Battle of Narvik
Allied withdrawal from Narvik is completed as Norway becomes untenable.
Withdrawal from Narvik
Allied evacuation from Narvik is completed despite the earlier victory.
Withdrawal from Narvik
British and Allied forces complete withdrawal from Narvik during Operation Alphabet.
Capture of Rouen
The Germans capture Rouen
Mobilization
Arranges transportation of 500,000 French soldiers to continue the war in north Africa
Invasion of France
Rommels 7th Panzer Div crosses the River Seine
Capital
The French Government departs from Paris for Tours
Operation Yellow
The operation is redirected at the Weygand line protecting the heart of France
Battle of France
Italy declares war on France and soon afterwards the French Government fled to the city of Bordeaux
Invasion of France
Italy declares war on France
Norway Secured
German control of Norway is secured after the campaign ends.
Declaration of War
Benito Mussolini declares war on the Allies
Invasion of Libya
Italian dictator Benito Mussolini declares war. Immediately Wilson's forces invade Libya
Italy Enters War
Responds as Mussolini brings Italy into the war.
Declaration of War
Declares war on Britain & France after Germany has occupied France
Invasion of France
Mussolini enters the war against France
Suez Canal
Declares war on Britain and France, making Egypt and the Suez Canal a strategic objective for Italian forces in Libya.
Battle of Narvik
Norwegian forces surrender after Allied evacuation from northern Norway.
Norwegian Surrender
Norwegian forces surrender after the Allied evacuation from northern Norway.
Norwegian Surrender
Mainland Norwegian forces surrender after Allied evacuation, while Haakon VII continues the government in exile.
Supreme War Council
Meets French leaders as the French front collapses.
Invasion of France
Rommels 7th Panzer Div reaches St Valery
Churchill promises that
Churchill promises that after the Allies win the war France will be fully restored
Requests Roosevelt to enter the war to save France
Requests Roosevelt to enter the war to save France
Result of Surrender of France
France moves closer to seeking an armistice, although Britain refuses to endorse a separate peace.
Surrender of France
Churchill refuses to support a seperate French peace with Germany
Capture of Cherbourg
Captures Cherbourg, the last major operation carried out by the 7th in France in 1940
Operation Yellow
Captures Cherbourg, the last major operation carried out by the 7th in France in 1940
Production Council and Economic Policy
Explains government arrangements for coordinating production and economic policy during the war.
Meeting with De Gaulle & greets him with the
Meets de Gaulle & greets him with the words "Lhomme du destin"
Result of Surrender of France
Britain refuses to support a separate French peace and commits to continuing the war.
Result of Surrender of France
The collapse of the French military position forces the government toward an armistice decision.
Surrender of France
Promises the Allies will restore France after the war. Forbids France making a separate peace with Germany
Surrender of France
Informed of the imminent collapse of France. Flies to Tours where the French Government is now based
Supreme War Council
Urges Reynaud's government to continue fighting.
Capital
It is decided to move the French Government to Bordeaux
Capture of Paris
The Germans capture Paris
Receives a telegram from Roosevelt saying the US will not enter the
Receives a telegram from Roosevelt saying the US will not enter the war
Battle of France
Frances capital of Paris is occupied
Capture of Paris
The Germans capture Paris
Maginot Line
The Maginot Line is penetrated at Saarbrucken
Operation Fall Rot
German forces occupy Paris unopposed
Siege of Paris
The Germans capture Paris
Battle of Maginot Line
Heinrici breaks through the Maginot Line
Invasion of France
Heinrici breaks through the Maginot Line
Capture of Paris
Paris falls to the Germans. Churchill realises that Britain will be the next target for Hitler after France
Fall of Paris
Faces the strategic shock of Paris falling to Germany.
Capture of Langres
Captures the Plateau of Langres
Prime Minister of France
Appointed Prime Minister of the French Government in Bordeaux
Constitution of France
Forms the Vichy Government & gives orders for the British to leave France
Vichy Government
Forms the Vichy Government & gives orders for the British to leave France
Prime Minister of France
Appointed Prime Minister of the French Government in Bordeaux
Resignation of Paul Reynaud
Resigns after transferring the Government to Bordeaux, replaced by Petain
Siege of Cherbourg
Rommels 7th Panzer Div reaches the Cotentin Peninsular to capture Cherbourg
Battle of Halfaya Pass
Rommel orders his Panzers to remove the British from Halfaya. 200 of the Western Desert Force tanks are destroyed
Anglo-French Union
Offers a political union to encourage France to remain in the war.
Armistice
Asks the Germans for an Armistice
Capture of Langres
Reaches the Swiss frontier, the campaign in the west reaches its final stage
Battle of France
Philippe Petain publicly announced France would ask for an armistice
Invasion of France
Philippe Petain publicly announced France would ask for an armistice
Invasion of Libya
Wilson's advance is reversed when France sought an armistice and the Italians where able to move their forces from the Tunisian border in the West and reinforce with 4 divisions those that opposed Wilson in the East
Broadcast
Broadcasts to the French people declaring that the War for France is not over
Major General
Appointed Major General
Capture of Cherbourg
Rommels 7th Panzer Div advances into Cherbourg
Major General
Appointed Major General
Battle of Britain
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"
Battle of Britain
Tells Parliament the Battle of Britain is about to begin.
Battle of Britain
Declares that the Battle of France is over and the Battle of Britain is about to begin.
Battle of Britain
Uses the Finest Hour speech to prepare Britain for the coming air campaign.
Armistice
Germany presents armistice terms to France
Capture of Cherbourg
Rommels 7th Panzer Div captures Cherbourg
Capture of Cherbourg
Rommels 7th Panzer Div enters Cherbourg
Siege of Cherbourg
Rommels 7th Panzer Div enters Cherbourg
Armistice
Germany presents armistice terms to France
Capture of Cherbourg
Rommels 7th Panzer Div captures Cherbourg
Exile after Narvik
Leaves Norway after leading the campaign that retook Narvik.
Conference of Fuhrer
Plans for the defeat of Britain at the Fuhrer Conference
Invasion of Great Britain
Plans for the defeat of Britai at the Fuhrer Conference
Operation Sea Lion
Plans for the defeat of Britain at the Fuhrer Conference
National Resources Mobilization Act
Introduces national mobilization while initially limiting overseas conscription.
Exile of Edouard Daladier
Sets sail with other former French ministers to North Africa on the cruiser Massila
Arrest of 27,000 enemy aliens
Persuades the Home Office to intern 27,000 enemy aliens
Enemy Aliens
Persuades the Home Office to intern 27,000 enemy aliens
Invasion of Russia
Participates from the beginning of operation Barbarossa
Operation Barbarossa
Participates from the beginning of operation Barbarossa
Armistice
Signs an armistice with the Germans in the Foch railway carriage of 1918
Armistice
Signs the Armistice Treaty with France after disctating its terms
Armistice
Meets the demands of Army Group B by providing support over the Somme & the Seine. Helps secure an armistice with France
Invasion of France
Advanced as far as the Swiss border when France surrenders
Battle of Britain
France surrenders to the Germans
Invasion of France
An armistice is signed between France and Germany
French Armistice
Prepares Britain to continue alone after France seeks an armistice.
Berlin Construction
Instructed by Hitler to rebuild Berlin by 1950, must surpass Paris
Operation Collar
1st British Commando raid on occupied France at Boulogne-sur-Mer, attackers failed to achieve any of their objectives
Siege of Boulogne-sur-Mer
1st British Commando raid on occupied France at Boulogne-sur-Mer, attackers failed to achieve any of their objectives
Marshal
Appointed Marshal
Marshal
Appointed Marshal
Invasion of Switzerland
Captain Otto Wilhelm von Menges in OKH submitted a draft plan for the invasion
Invasion of Switzerland
Germany starts planning the invasion of Switzerland, the day France surrendered
Invasion of Russia
Crosses into Russia
Operation Barbarossa
Crosses into Russia
Capture of Great Britain
All French ships in British ports are seized by the royal Navy
Prime Minister of Egypt
Forms a government during the early stages of the Second World War.
Peace
The Pope writes a letter to Hitler offering mediation for "a just & honorable peace"
Free French
Recognizes Charles de Gaulle as the leader of the Free French
Recognition of Charles de Gaulle as the leader of
Recognizes Charles de Gaulle as the leader of the Free French
Free French Support
Supports de Gaulle and the Free French movement in London.
Acceptance of Soviet Ultimatum
Tatarescu's government accepts the Soviet ultimatum and evacuates Bessarabia and northern Bukovina.
Capture of Channel Islands
Germany captures the Channel Islands
Armistice
Asks Reynaud to seek an armistice with Germany while French troops can keep the peace
France Campaign Operational Reporting
Jodl briefs and coordinates operational information during the final stages of the campaign in France.
Invasion of Switzerland
After the Second Armistice at Compiegne in June 1940, the Reich Interior Ministry produced a memorandum on the annexation of a strip of eastern France from the mouth of the Somme to Lake Geneva, which was to be reserved for post-war German colonization.
Peace
After France's surrender peace negotiations take place in a railway carriage
Result of Surrender of France
France enters armistice negotiations with Germany at Compiรจgne.
Surrender of France
The same railway carriage used to sign the Armistice in 1918. After France's surrender peace negotiations take place in a railway carriage
Profs Book
Produces a detailed cryptanalytic reference manual on Naval Enigma known at Bletchley Park as Profs Book.
Operation Dynamo
The British, although besieged, had been spared from annihilation when Operation Dynamo evacuated 300,000 troops from Dunkirk
Mobilization
The 3rd Division is stationed to defend the coast around Brighton
Mobilization
Sets up a Divisional HQ near Steyning
Third Division Reconstitution after Dunkirk
Rebuilds 3rd Division after its return from France and restores training, equipment and organisation.
Suez Canal
Commands Italian forces in Libya as Rome plans operations threatening Egypt and the Suez Canal.
Changkufeng & Nomonhan incidents with Russia are settled
The Changkufeng & Nomonhan incidents with Russia are settled
Incident-Changkufeng
The Changkufeng & Nomonhan incidents with Russia are settled
Incident-Nomonhan
The Changkufeng & Nomonhan incidents with Russia are settled
Government in Exile
Queen Wilhelmina establishes a Government in exile in Britain
Invasion of Netherlands, The
Queen Wilhelmina establishes a Government in exile in Britain
July 194093 historical events
Invasion of Great Britain
Says preparations for invasion should begin immediately. Issues a directive saying a landing in England is possible
1st Meeting With Churchill
Meets Winston Churchill for the 1st time
Battle of Mers-el-Kebir
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
Battle of Oran
Churchill says the sinking of the French Navy shows how serious Britain is. Britain sinks the French fleet which refuses to surrender
Mers-el-Kebir
Orders action against French naval forces to deny them to Germany.
Mers-el-Kebir Statement
Explains the attack on the French fleet to Parliament.
Gigurtu Government
Gigurtu forms a government aligned increasingly with Nazi Germany.
Catapult
Vichy breaks off dilomatic relations with Britain in response to Operation Catapult
Espionage-Silent Column
Instructs the Ministry of Information to campaign against rumors which help the enemy
Battle of Mers-el-Kebir
The British Admiral James Somerville of Force H, based in Gibraltar, is ordered to deliver an ultimatum to the French
Battle of Mers-el-Kebir
Ark Royal sinks Dunkerqueat at Mers-el-Kebir
Birth of Ringo Starr
Birth of Ringo Starr, Richard Starkey
Birth of Ringo Starr
Birth of Richard Starkey, later known as Ringo Starr.
Ambassador
Appointed Ambassador of France with the collaborationist regime at Vichy
Ambassador
Appointed Ambassador of France with the collaborationist regime at Vichy
Battle of Britain
British convoys in the Channel from Dover to Plymouth are harried. 1st phase to 18th Aug. 1st day of the Battle of Britain
Battle of Britain
Directs Luftflotte 2 operations against southern Britain.
Battle of Britain
Supports attacks on Channel shipping during the opening phase.
Battle of Britain
Commands Luftflotte 3 during attacks on Britain.
Battle of Britain
Coordinates bomber and fighter operations from bases in occupied France.
Battle of Britain
Opening day of the Battle of Britain
Battle of Britain
Says, "there is a time to live & a time to die"
Battle of Britain
Commands Fighter Command as the official Battle of Britain period begins.
Battle of Britain
Directs Britain's integrated fighter defence through the Dowding System.
Battle of Britain
Oversees Britain's air defence as the Luftwaffe begins sustained attacks.
Battle of Britain
Controls the fighter defence of London and south-east England.
Battle of Britain
Directs No. 11 Group during the opening Channel battles.
Head of State
Formally proclaimed head of State in France
Head of State
Appointed Head of State in France
Invasion of Great Britain
Raeder advises British invasion as a last resort to force Britain to sue for peace
Operation Sea Lion
Military chiefs meet to discuss the invasion of Britain but Raeder advises against
General
Appointed Generaloberst
General
Appointed Generaloberst
Home Guard
Encourages mobilisation of local defence volunteers against invasion.
Transfer to Intelligence Corps
Transfers to the Intelligence Corps and begins wartime service focused on military intelligence and analysis.
Ambassador
Commando raid on the Channel island of Guernsey, failes to achieve its objective
Invasion of Russia
Drives Soviet Divisions back to the Dnieper
Operation Barbarossa
Drives Soviet Divisions back to the Dnieper
Battle of Britain
Hopes that news of the preparations would frighten Britain into peace negotiations, issues "Directive No. 16; On the Preparation of a Landing Operation against England"
Battle of Britain
Issues Directive No. 16 ordering preparations for Operation Sea Lion.
Battle of Britain
Makes air superiority over Britain a prerequisite for the planned invasion.
Directive No. 16
Issues "Directive No. 16; On the Preparation of a Landing Operation against England"
Invasion of Great Britain
Hopes news of the preparations of invasion will frighten Britain into peace negotiations
Invasion of Great Britain
Issues "Directive No. 16; On the Preparation of a Landing Operation against England"
Invasion of Great Britain
Issues instructions to prepare for an invasion of Britain
Operation Sea Lion
Says invasion should commence by mid August but the services revise this to 15th Sept
SOE
Churchill invites Hugh Dalton to establish the Special Operations Executive
SOE
Churchill invites Hugh Dalton to establish the Special Operations Executive
Field Marshal
Appointed Field Marshal
Field Marshal
Appointed General Field Marshal
Promotion
Witzleben is promoted to Field Marshal after the victory over France
Field Marshal
Appointed Field Marshal
Field Marshal
Appointed Field Marshal, Hitler creates 12 general Field Marshals
Fuhrer Chancellor
Hitler creates 12 general Field Marshals
Peace
Hitler makes his last plea in a speech in the Reichstsag for Britain to make peace
Promotion to General der Artillerie
Jodl is promoted from Generalmajor directly to General der Artillerie.
Commander in Chief
Appointed Commander of the Home Forces
Agreement on Provide Britain with 50 ex-US Navy destroyers
The US agrees to provide Britain with 50 ex-US Navy destroyers in return for access to British naval bases in the western hemisphere
Commander in Chief
Appointed Commander of the Home Forces after the evacuation at Dunkirk
Invasion of Great Britain
Begins preparations for an anticipated German invasion of Britain
Alliance United States and partner not stated in source
Provides for a shipbuilding program for entry into the 2nd World War
Armament
Provides for a shipbuilding program for entry into the 2nd World War
Government-in-Exile
Leads the Czechoslovak government-in-exile in London.
Operation Sea Lion
Sets the latest date for "Sea Lion" as 15th September 1941
SOE
Forms the Special Operations Executive, supports resistance in German occupied Europe
Special Operations Executive
Approves creation of a body to support resistance in occupied Europe.
Government-in-Exile
Leads the Czech Government in exile, first in Paris then in London
President of Czechoslovakia
Appointed President of Czechoslovakia. Appointed President of Czech
Home Guard
The Local Defence Volunteers are renamed the Home Guard, risen to 1,250,000
Home Guard
Renames the Local Defence Volunteers as the Home Guard
Operation Sea Lion
Plans to land 90,000 men in the 1st 6 days of the invasion of Britain
Mobilisation of Resources
Addresses the Commons on mobilisation of national resources for the war effort.
Barbarossa Preliminary Planning Ordered
Jodl instructs Warlimont to begin planning for a possible attack on the Soviet Union.
Operation Sea Lion
Sets 20-26 September as the earliest date on which the Navy can be ready
Alliance Adolf Hitler and Spain and the capture of Gibraltar
Begins planning an alliance with Spain & the capture of Gibraltar
Alliance Agreement with Spain & the capture of Gibraltar
Begins planning an alliance with Spain & the capture of Gibraltar
Battle of Britain
Hitler holds a meeting of his army and navy chiefs in his Berghof
Invasion of Russia
Originally intended to last 5 months. Announces Russian invasion plans to his military commanders
Operation Barbarossa
Originally intended to last 5 months. Announces Russian invasion plans to his military commanders
Vichy Government
Part of the new Vichy Government
Vice Prime Minister
Appointed Vice Prime Minister of France after the collapse of France
Battle of 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.
Battle of Mers-el-Kebir
The French squadron consists of the old battleships Provence and Bretagne, the modern battleships (or battlecruisers) Dunkerque and Strasburg, the seaplane tender Commandant Teste and six destroyers under the command of Admiral Marcel-Bruno Gensou.
Battle of Mers-el-Kebir
in an attempt to avoid its falling into the hands of the German Navy.
Vice Prime Minister
Appointed Vice Prime Minister of France after the collapse of France
Invasion of Russia
Involved in planning the invasion of Russia
Operation Barbarossa
Involved in planning the invasion of Russia
General
Appointed General Field Marshal
Commander of 5th Corps
Appointed Commander of 5th Corps, a promotion
Battle of Mers-el-Kebir
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
Neutrality
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
Commander of 5th Corps
Appointed Commander of 5th Corps, a promotion
Constitution
Promulgates a constitution that strengthens executive authority.
August 1940141 historical events
Operation Sea Lion
Signs jointly with Hitler the directive for authorizing Operation Sea Lion
Battle of Britain
The OKW (Oberkommando der Wehrmacht or "High Command of the Armed Forces") issues its plan
Oberkommando der Luftwaffe (OKL)
Hitler gives the Luftwaffes Commander in Chief, Reichsmarschall (Empire Marshal) Hermann Goring and the Oberkommando der Luftwaffe (High Command of the Air Force) a (Directive No. 17) to launch the air assault
Operation Adler
Hitler gives the Luftwaffes Commander in Chief, Reichsmarschall (Empire Marshal) Hermann Goring and the Oberkommando der Luftwaffe (High Command of the Air Force) a (Directive No. 17) to launch the air assault
Operation Sea Lion
Issues a directive for launching Operation Sea Lion
Wehrmacht
The OKW (Oberkommando der Wehrmacht or "High Command of the Armed Forces") issues its plan
Battle of Britain
Raeder believes that air superiority might make a successful landing possible although it would be a risky operation and required "absolute mastery over the Channel by our air forces"
Invasion of Great Britain
Raeder believes that air superiority might make a successful landing possible although it would be a risky operation and required "absolute mastery over the Channel by our air forces"
Operation Sea Lion
Raeder believes that air superiority might make a successful landing possible although it would be a risky operation and required "absolute mastery over the Channel by our air forces"
Battle of Britain
Believes air superiority was "not enough". Donitz later stated, "we possessed neither control of the air or the sea; nor were we in any position to gain it"
Invasion of Great Britain
Believes air superiority was "not enough". Donitz later stated, "we possessed neither control of the air or the sea; nor were we in any position to gain it"
Operation Sea Lion
Believes air superiority was "not enough". Donitz later stated, "we possessed neither control of the air or the sea; nor were we in any position to gain it"
Invasion Defence
Orders continued preparations against a possible German landing.
Neutrality
Confirms Russias neutrality
Battle of Britain
Begins converting to Hurricanes before entering Battle of Britain combat.
Battle of Britain
Joins No. 303 Polish Squadron at Northolt.
Adlertag
Goring had promised Hitler that Adlertag and Adlerangriff would achieve the results required within days, or at worst weeks. It had meant to be the beginning of the end of RAF Fighter Command, but Adlertag and the following operations failed to destroy the RAF, or gain the necessary local air superiority. As a result, Operation Sea Lion was postponed indefinitely
Operation Adler
Eventually, it was carried out on 13 August 1940. Goring had promised Hitler that Adlertag and Adlerangriff would achieve the results required within days, or at worst weeks.
Operation Adler
It had meant to be the beginning of the end of RAF Fighter Command, but Adlertag and the following operations failed to destroy the RAF, or gain the necessary local air superiority. As a result, Operation Sea Lion was postponed indefinitely
Operation Adler
The essential target was RAF Fighter Command. The services destruction would deny the British their air superiority asset. Throughout July and early August, the Germans made preparations for Adlertag. The date of the assault was postponed several times because of bad weather.
Invasion of Somaliland
Italy commences the occupation of British Somaliland
Rule of British Somaliland
Italy commences the occupation of British Somaliland
Battle of Britain
Directive no 17 intensifies the air war against England
Fuhrer Directive No. 17
Directive no 17 intensifies the air war against England
Invasion of Great Britain
Rejects the Navys proposals for carrying the Army as "suicide"
Operation Sea Lion
Rejects the Navys proposals for carrying the Army to England as "suicide"
Suicide
Rejects the Navys proposals for carrying the Army to England as "suicide". Rejects the Navys proposals for carrying the Army as "suicide"
Economic Policy
Speaks for the coalition on wartime economic policy and organisation.
Battle of Britain
Renews attacks on the Channel, marks the next phase. Over the next 3 days the Germans lose 35 to the British 29 aircraft over the Channel. Gathers a force of 2,800 planes, 900 fighters & 1,300 bombers in 3 fleets
President of Argentina
Serves as acting president from August 12, 1940 to June 27, 1942 due to the illness of President Ortiz, who did not resign until less than a month before his death
Eagle Day
The fighters are called back because of the bad weather & 8 bombers are lost. 1st of 4 days to destroy British air superiority over Britain
Battle of Britain
Luftwaffe raids strike Manston, Hawkinge, Lympne and radar sites.
Battle of Britain
Orders systematic attacks on RAF airfields and radar stations.
Battle of Britain
Luftwaffe attacks switch to British airfields and radar stations.
Battle of Britain
Orders attacks against airfields and radar stations during the Battle of Britain.
Chain Home Attacks
Authorises attacks on radar stations during Adlerangriff.
Luftwaffe
Luftwaffe operations target radar stations and Fighter Command airfields.
Battle of Britain
"Never in the field of human conflict, was so much owed by so many to so few"
Battle of Britain
Germany has lost 1,733 planes compared to British loses of 915
Battle of Britain
Directs fighter interceptions during attacks on south-eastern airfields.
Battle of Britain
Uses radar and sector control to preserve Fighter Command's response.
Adlertag
The Operation begins on Adlertag ("Eagle Day") by German forces, elimination of British air cover had been set as one of the prerequisites for Sea Lion - the amphibious assault of Britain. A series of Luftwaffe attacks beginning on 13 August 1940 known as Operation Eagle Attack (Unternehmen Adlerangriff) set to begin on Adlertag ("Eagle Day")
Battle of Britain
The Operation begins on Adlertag ("Eagle Day") by German forces, elimination of British air cover had been set as one of the prerequisites for Sea Lion - the amphibious assault of Britain. The engagements resulting from Eagle Day are later dubbed the Battle of Britain
Battle of Britain
The engagements resulting from Eagle Day are later dubbed the Battle of Britain
Luftwaffe
A series of Luftwaffe attacks beginning on 13 August 1940 known as Operation Eagle Attack (Unternehmen Adlerangriff) set to begin on Adlertag ("Eagle Day")
Operation Adler
A series of Luftwaffe attacks beginning on 13 August 1940 known as Operation Eagle Attack (Unternehmen Adlerangriff) set to begin on Adlertag ("Eagle Day")
Operation Eagle Attack
The Operation begins on Adlertag ("Eagle Day") by German forces, elimination of British air cover had been set as one of the prerequisites for Sea Lion - the amphibious assault of Britain
Battle of Britain
The engagements resulting from Eagle Day are later dubbed the Battle of Britain. 1st day of the main offensive
Battle of Britain
Commands major Luftwaffe formations during Eagle Day.
Battle of Britain
Luftflotte 2 attacks targets across south-east England.
Battle of Britain
An offensive is discovered when the British use the enigma machine
Battle of Britain
Directs national resistance as the Luftwaffe launches Eagle Day.
Battle of Britain
Directs No. 11 Group during Eagle Day.
Battle of Britain
Fighter Command prevents the Luftwaffe from crippling southern defences.
Alliance United States and Great Britain
Will supply Britain with 50 WW1 destroyers for the lease of Caribbean naval bases
Minister of Air & Civil Aviation
Appointed Minister of Air & Civil Aviation
Birth of Anthony Michael Tony Secunda
Birth of Anthony Michael "Tony" Secunda
Battle of Britain
Adlertag, eagle day, opening of the decisive phase of the battle. 1,786 sorties are flown
Battle of Britain
The largest air Battle of this period. Adlertag, eagle day, opening of the decisive phase of the battle. 5 major actions are fought but the Germans lose 76 to Britains 34 aircraft. 1st large air Battle takes place in north England. 1,786 sorties are flown
Battle of Britain
About 100 bombers escorted by 40 Me 110s are launched against Tyneside
Battle of Britain
German air fleets attack widely separated targets across the country.
Battle of Britain
Launches one of the Luftwaffe's largest daylight efforts against Britain.
Invasion of Egypt
Churchill sends reinforcements to Wavell in Egypt to be used against the Italians
Battle of Britain
Coordinates Fighter Command during one of the battle's largest air actions.
Battle of Britain
Moves limited squadrons carefully between threatened sectors.
Battle of Britain
The largest air Battle of this period. 5 major actions are fought but the Germans lose 76 to Britains 34 aircraft
Battle of Britain
Directs repeated fighter responses during intense Luftwaffe attacks.
Battle of Britain
No. 11 Group bears heavy responsibility for defending south-east England.
Battle of Britain
Directs No. 10 Group fighters defending south-west England.
Battle of Britain
His group helps counter major Luftwaffe attacks during the day's fighting.
Battle of Britain
Continues attacking a German fighter despite severe burns and a burning Hurricane.
Battle of Britain
His actions later earn Fighter Command's only Victoria Cross of the war.
Battle of Britain
Directs fighters as Tangmere and other southern targets are attacked.
Battle of Britain
No. 11 Group contests repeated raids over southern England.
Blockade of Britain
Germany begins its blockade of Britain
Britain Maritime Blockade Declared
Germany announces measures intended to isolate Britain and threaten shipping serving the British war economy.
Invasion of Russia
Sets Spring 1941 for an invasion of Russia which should last no longer than 5 months
Operation Barbarossa
Sets Spring 1941 for an invasion of Russia which should last no longer than 5 months
Blockade of British Isles
Hitler declares a blockade of the British Isles
British Isles Blockade Declared
The German declaration presents waters around the British Isles as subject to wartime maritime restriction.
Battle of Britain
Commits large Luftwaffe forces during the day later called the Hardest Day.
Battle of Britain
Heavy losses reduce subsequent use of Ju 87 dive bombers in the battle.
Battle of Britain
Advocates concentrating fighters into larger formations against German raids.
Battle of Britain
Leads No. 242 Squadron during the Battle of Britain.
Battle of Britain
Directs Fighter Command responses as Kenley and other airfields are attacked.
Battle of Britain
No. 11 Group fights sustained engagements over south-east England.
Invasion of Egypt
Orders the invasion of Egypt on the day that the invasion of Britain was mounted
Invasion of Somaliland
Italy completes the occupation of British Somaliland
Rule of British Somaliland
Italy completes the occupation of British Somaliland
Operation Sea Lion
Kesselring is ordered to concentrate his forces in the Pas de Calais
The Few Speech
Praises Fighter Command pilots in his speech on the Few.
Assassination of Leon Trotsky
Assassinated in Mexico City
Death of Leon Trotsky
Death of Leon Trotsky, assassinated
Assassination of Leon Trotsky
Assassinates Leon Trotsky with an ice-pick
Death of Jaime Ramon Mercader del Rio Hernandez
Assassinates Leon Trotsky with an ice-pick
Bombing of London
1st air raids take place on central London
Battle of Britain
The 3rd phase of the battle begins. Resumes after bad weather. Airfields & commuincations are damaged as German numerical superiority takes effect
Battle of Britain
Berlin is bombed by the RAF in retaliation for the bombing of London
Battle of Britain
Concentrates on airfields in the south east but bombs are dropped in error on London. 2nd phase to 27th Sept, a route to London is to be opened up by destroying the RAF
Bombing of London
Concentrates on airfields in the south east but bombs are dropped in error on London
Battle of Britain
Bombs also fall on London during the continuing air offensive.
Battle of Britain
Luftwaffe operations intensify against Fighter Command targets around London.
Night Bombing Response
Responds to German bombing raids on British cities and airfields.
Bombing of Berlin
The RAF makes its 1st bombing raid on Berlin
Battle of Britain
Retaliation for the bombing of London. RAF bombers attack Berlin for the 1st time
Bombing of Berlin
RAF bombers attack Berlin for the 1st time, retaliation for the bombing of London
Battle of Britain
Britain retaliates for attacks on London with a raid against Berlin.
Battle of Britain
The Berlin raid influences German decisions about subsequent bombing strategy.
Invasion of Poland
2 panzer & 10 infantry divisions move into Poland to secure Romanian oil fields
Invasion of Romania
2 panzer & 10 infantry divisions move into Poland to secure Romanian oil fields
Invasion of Great Britain
Given command of operations to invade England, subject to victory in the air
Operation Sea Lion
Given command of operations to invade England, subject to victory in the air
Autumn Journey
Orders are given to carry deception maneuvers along Britains east coast
Operation Sea Lion
Says victory is dependent on vicory in the Air. Issues a directive for Naval & Army operations for the invasion of England
Armament
Congress authorizes the President to call the National guard & other reserves for 1 yr
Conscription
Congress authorizes the President to call the National guard & other reserves for 1 yr
Birth of Nik Turner
Birth of Nik Turner
Battle of St Quentin
Forced back & abandons the objective of capturing St Quentin
Operation Sea Lion
At the request of the Services the invasion of England is postponed to 21st September
Battle of St Quentin
Prevents the French 5th Army from capturing St Quentin
Battle of Britain
Dowding manages reserves as pressure on southern sector stations increases.
Battle of Britain
Fighter Command flies more than one thousand sorties during intense fighting.
Battle of Britain
Biggin Hill suffers severe damage while remaining operational.
Battle of Britain
Directs interceptions during heavy attacks on Fighter Command sector stations.
Battle of Britain
Bales out badly wounded and later loses part of his left leg.
Battle of Britain
Is shot down during combat with German bombers east of Duxford.
Battle of Britain
Airfields including Biggin Hill and Hornchurch face renewed attacks.
Battle of Britain
Commands No. 11 Group on Fighter Command's heaviest aircraft-loss day.
Battle of Britain
The Kanalkampf comprises a series of running fights over convoys in the English Channel launched partly because Kesselring and Sperrle were not sure about what else to do, and partly because it gives German aircrews some training and a chance to probe the British defences
Kanalkampf
The Kanalkampf comprises a series of running fights over convoys in the English Channel launched partly because Kesselring and Sperrle were not sure about what else to do, and partly because it gives German aircrews some training and a chance to probe the British defences
Adlertag
Goring had promised Hitler that Adlertag and Adlerangriff would achieve the results required within days, or at worst weeks. It had meant to be the beginning of the end of RAF Fighter Command, but Adlertag and the following operations failed to destroy the RAF, or gain the necessary local air superiority. As a result, Operation Sea Lion was postponed indefinitely
Operation Adler
Goring had promised Hitler that Adlertag and Adlerangriff would achieve the results required within days, or at worst weeks. It had meant to be the beginning of the end of RAF Fighter Command, but Adlertag and the following operations failed to destroy the RAF, or gain the necessary local air superiority. As a result, Operation Sea Lion was postponed indefinitely
Enigma Machine
Joins senior Hut 6 cryptanalysts protesting a proposed transfer of the Luftwaffe Red Enigma task.
Enigma Machine
Introduces the diagonal board, sharply reducing false stops and making the Bombe far more effective.
Enigma Machine
Oversees engineering of the improved Bombe known as Agnus Dei, incorporating Welchman's diagonal board.
Battle of Britain
Radar information helps Fighter Command conserve pilots and aircraft.
Battle of Britain
Uses radar warning to direct No. 11 Group fighters.
Battle of Britain
The "Dowding system", a set of reporting chains to move information from the various observation points to the pilots in their fighters, named after its chief architect
Dowding System
Combines radar, Observer Corps reports and command control for fighter interception.
Fighter Command
Fighter Command filters radar reports into tracks for sector control rooms.
Deputy Chairman
Appointed Deputy Chairman of Sovnarkom
September 1940150 historical events
President of Ecuador
Appointed President of Ecuador
Battle of Britain
Continues communications duties during attacks on RAF Biggin Hill.
Battle of Britain
Her courage under bombing later brings the Military Medal.
Battle of Britain
Continues working during repeated attacks on RAF Biggin Hill.
Battle of Britain
Her service under fire later earns the Military Medal.
Battle of Britain
Marks unexploded bombs while the station is under attack.
Battle of Britain
Remains at her post during bombing of RAF Biggin Hill.
Battle of Britain
Begins the combat sequence that makes him a leading Allied scorer.
Battle of Britain
Claims a Bf 109 destroyed while flying with No. 303 Squadron.
Destroyers for Bases
Welcomes the deal bringing American destroyers to Britain.
Legislation
Congress agrees to lend 50 destroyers to Britain in return for 99 yr naval base leases
Lend-Lease
Congress agrees to lend 50 destroyers to Britain in return for 99 yr nave base leases
Alliance United States and Great Britain
Congress agrees to lend 50 destroyers to Britain in return for 99 yr naval base leases
Armament
Congress agrees to lend 50 destroyers to Britain for 99 yr leases on naval bases
Battle of Britain
Claims another Bf 109 destroyed.
Battle of Britain
Continues his rapid series of victories with No. 303 Squadron.
Invasion of Great Britain
The OKW issues a command saying the earliest date for sailing will be Twentieth Sept. Issues a directive with the decision to invade England be taken by 11th September
Operation Sea Lion
Issues a directive with the decision to invade England be taken by 11th September
Abdication of Carol II
Comes to power on the abdication of King Carol II
Head of State
Appointed Pro-German Head of State
Appointment as Prime Minister
Carol II appoints Antonescu prime minister with broad political powers.
Battle of Britain
Adds two more victories during heavy September fighting.
Battle of Britain
Claims a Bf 109 and a Ju 88 destroyed.
Battle of Britain
Claims another Bf 109 destroyed.
Battle of Britain
His combat success continues as Luftwaffe pressure remains intense.
Operation Sea Lion
Goering arrives at Kesselrings HQ to take command of Operation Sea Lion
Battle of Britain
The Germans have lost 308 aircraft to the British 273. End of the 3rd phase of the Battle of Britain
Bombing of London
London is bombed, marking the beginning of the London blitz
Possesses 8 of 50 destroyers from America agreed under the Lend-Lease scheme
Possesses 8 of 50 destroyers from America agreed under the "Lend-Lease" scheme
Abdication of Carol II
Carol abdicates after territorial losses and political collapse.
Second Accession of Michael I
Michael returns to the throne after Carol II's abdication.
Bombing of London
The Germans begin their 1st large scale bombing of London
Battle of Britain
The Luftwaffe diverts its forces from destroying the RAF to bombing London
Battle of Britain
London becomes the target for incessant bombing
Bombing of London
Fighter Command concentrates its dwindling force after Goerings change of strategy
Bombing of London
The Luftwaffe diverts forces from destroying the RAF to bombing London
Luftwaffe
The Luftwaffe diverts its forces from destroying the RAF to bombing London
Battle of Britain
Shifts the main Luftwaffe effort toward large-scale attacks on London.
Battle of Britain
The change reduces pressure on Fighter Command's sector stations.
Bombing of London
The Luftwaffe begin to systematically bomb London, the blitz
Luftwaffe
The Luftwaffe begin to systematically bomb London, the blitz
The Blitz Begins
Faces the start of sustained German bombing of London.
Battle of Britain
Is wounded while flying with No. 242 Squadron during the London raids.
Battle of Britain
Returns safely despite facial injuries caused during combat.
Battle of Britain
Directs fighter defence as major Luftwaffe formations attack London.
Battle of Britain
No. 11 Group contests the first sustained mass assault on the capital.
President of Paraguay
Assumes power after Estigarribia dies in an aircraft crash.
Bombing of London
The Chancellor agrees with Churchill & air-raid damage is charged to the state
Battle of Britain
Adds two victories while No. 303 Squadron defends southern England.
Battle of Britain
Claims a Bf 109 and a He 111 destroyed.
Bombing of London
A bomb falls on the garden of Buckingham Palace
Invasion of Russia
A memo is issued to increase the Army from 143 to 180 Divisions
Operation Barbarossa
A memo is issued to increase the Army from 143 to 180 Divisions
Battle of Britain
Claims two Bf 109s and a He 111 destroyed.
Battle of Britain
Records three victories during one day of Battle of Britain fighting.
Invasion of Great Britain
Hitler postpones his order for invasion from 11th Sept to 14th Sept
Operation Sea Lion
The 11th Septmber deadline is passed & the invasion of England is cancelled. Postpones Operation Sea Lion by 3 days to the 24th September
Commander of Northern Front
Replaces Marshal Voroshilov on the Northern Front
Commander of Northern Front
Replaces Marshal Voroshilov on the Northern Front
Siege of Leningrad
Takes over the defense of Leningrad
Invasion of Egypt
Rodolfo Graziani and the Italian Army make a rapid advance into Egypt
Capture of Sollum
Italy captures Sollum, Egypt
Invasion of Egypt
Rodolfo Graziani and 5 Italian divisions began a rapid advance into Egypt
Invasion of Egypt
Orders the Italian advance from Libya into Egypt, beginning a campaign aimed at threatening British positions guarding the Suez Canal.
Invasion of Great Britain
Raeder advises Hitler that there is not enough air cover for an invasion of Britain
Operation Sea Lion
Postpones Operation Sea Lion awaiting orders to be issued September 17. Postpones Operation Sea Lion
Invasion of Great Britain
Raeder advises Hitler that there is not enough air cover for an invasion of Britain
Operation Sea Lion
Says Germany does not enough air superiority over England to launch Sea Lion
National Legionary State
Antonescu proclaims a National Legionary State with the Iron Guard.
Battle of Britain
Claims a Bf 110 destroyed on Battle of Britain Day.
Battle of Britain
Contributes to No. 303 Squadron's strong record during the battle.
Battle of Britain
Bomber command destroys 200 barges in France & Low Country ports
Operation Sea Lion
Suspends operation Sea Lion scheduled for 27 September
Adlertag
The Operation begins on Adlertag ("Eagle Day") by German forces, elimination of British air cover had been set as one of the prerequisites for Sea Lion - the amphibious assault of Britain
Battle of Britain
Initial Luftwaffe estimates are that it will take four days to defeat the RAF Fighter Command in southern England
Battle of Britain
Bombing on London peaks. Believing the RAF is broken Goering bombs London, 1,300 sorties are flown. 56 German planes are downed compared with 26 British. 1,000 bombers & 700 fighters rage over the London
Bombing of London
Believing the RAF is broken Goering bombs London, 1,300 sorties are flown
Luftwaffe
Initial Luftwaffe estimates are that it will take four days to defeat the RAF Fighter Command in southern England
Operation Eagle Attack
The Operation begins on Adlertag ("Eagle Day") by German forces, elimination of British air cover had been set as one of the prerequisites for Sea Lion - the amphibious assault of Britain
Operation Sea Lion
The Operation begins on Adlertag ("Eagle Day") by German forces, elimination of British air cover had been set as one of the prerequisites for Sea Lion - the amphibious assault of Britain. Initial Luftwaffe estimates are that it will take four days to defeat the RAF Fighter Command in southern England. Believing the RAF is broken Goering bombs London, 1,300 sorties are flown
Battle of Britain
Coordinates Fighter Command during the decisive September air battles.
Battle of Britain
The day's German losses undermine hopes of defeating Fighter Command.
Battle of Britain
Oversees defence during the decisive daylight air battle.
Battle of Britain
Observes Fighter Command committing its available squadrons against the raids.
Battle of Britain
Visits No. 11 Group headquarters during the climactic daylight attacks.
Battle of Britain
Leads fighters from Duxford during the major September battles.
Battle of Britain
Supports the use of large Big Wing formations against Luftwaffe bombers.
Battle of Britain
Commits available fighter squadrons against two large Luftwaffe assaults on London.
Battle of Britain
Directs No. 11 Group during the major attacks later called Battle of Britain Day.
Legislation
Burke-Wadsworth Bill, passed to provide for limited conscription
Mobilization
Burke-Wadsworth Bill, passed to provide for limited conscription
Conscription
Burke-Wadsworth Bill, passed to provide for limited conscription
Battle of Britain
Is awarded the Distinguished Flying Medal.
Battle of Britain
The award recognizes his exceptional combat record with No. 303 Squadron.
Battle of Britain
Failure to gain air superiority prevents the planned invasion of Britain.
Battle of Britain
Postpones Operation Sea Lion until further notice.
Operation Sea Lion
Operation Sea Lion is postponed indefinitley
Operation Sea Lion Alert
Maintains invasion readiness while Germany threatens a cross-Channel landing.
Invasion of Great Britain
Hitler orders ships in ports to be disperesed to avoid further loss. Hitler orders further assembly of the invasion fleet to cease
Operation Sea Lion
Invasion fleets in the Channel & North Sea are dispersed to prevent damage by the RAF
Tizard Mission
Supports technological cooperation with the United States.
Battle of Britain
Receives his Distinguished Flying Medal from King George VI.
Battle of Britain
The presentation takes place at RAF Northolt.
Invasion of Egypt
Plans to attack the Italians now he has superior forces. Mussolini calls off the invasion
George Cross
Initiates the George Cross as the highest award for bravery for citizens
Operation Menace
Authorises the failed Allied expedition against Dakar.
Jud Suss
Directs Jud Suss, a notorious antisemitic Nazi propaganda film.
Battle of Britain
More than 450 British fighters are destroyed & 103 pilots killed. Attacks are shifted to main inland RAF bases
George Cross
The George Cross is instituted King George VI, during the height of the Blitz, designed by Percy Metcalfe
George Cross
The George Cross is instituted King George VI, during the height of the Blitz, there was a strong desire to reward the many acts of civilian courage
Siege of Dakar
Churchill decides to abandon the attempt to capture the port of Dakar
Dakar Failure
Accepts withdrawal from Dakar after Vichy resistance holds.
Battle of Britain
Adds two victories during late-September air fighting.
Battle of Britain
Claims two He 111 bombers destroyed.
Battle of Britain
Claims a He 111 and a Bf 110 destroyed.
Battle of Britain
Continues his sequence of victories with No. 303 Squadron.
Pact between Germany, Italy and Japan
The Tripartite Pact is signed by Germany, Italy & Japan
Battle of Britain
Tells the country that invasion danger remains despite RAF success.
Tripartite Pact
The Tripartite Pact is signed by Germany, Italy & Japan
Commander of 6th Corps
Appointed Commander of 6th Corps when Italy enters the war
Vichy Government
Appointed Delegate-General to the North African colonies
Commander in Chief
Appointed Commander in Chief, West
Commander of Army Group D
Appointed Commander of Army Group D
Commander in Chief
Appointed Commander in Chief, West
Mobilization
Commands Army Group A & has tactical Command over Army Group D
Commander of Army Group D
Appointed Commander of Army Group D
Occupation
Army Group D occupies France after A, B & C are moved to the Eastern Front
Invasion of France
Army Group D is formed to occupy France
Invasion of Russia
Army Groups A, B & C are moved to the Eastern Front
Operation Barbarossa
Army Groups A, B & C, are moved to the Eastern Front
Tizard Mission
Brings radar knowledge and the cavity magnetron to America.
Tizard Mission
Carries British radar secrets to the United States.
Military Service
Serves in the Royal Artillery during the Second World War.
Radar Defence
Praises Fighter Command while radar remains vital to defence.
Capture of Sidi Barrani
The Italian forces invade Egypt in September 1940, and advance some 60 miles (97 km) to occupy Sidi Barrani
Invasion of Egypt
The Italian forces invade Egypt in September 1940, and advance some 60 miles (97 km) to occupy Sidi Barrani
Invasion of Egypt
The Italians invade Egypt
Defence of Egypt
Directs British Middle East forces defending Egypt, the Nile Delta and the Suez Canal against Italian pressure from Libya.
Battle of Britain
Buckingham Palace is hit by 6 bombs while George VI is in residence
Invasion of Egypt
Leads the Italian Tenth Army, nearly 250,000, into Egypt
Tenth Army
Leads the Italian Tenth Army, nearly 250,000, into Egypt
Alliance Konoe Fumimaro and Axis powers
A military alliance is signed with the Axis powers
Invasion of Indochina
Japan completes the invasion of northern French Indochina
Alliance Hirohito and Japan
Thailand is forced to become an ally of Japan
Capture of Japan
Japan captures Indo, with the agreement of the Vichy Government
International Sanctions
The US applies sanctions against Japan for closing the "Open Door" policy in Asia
Invasion of Indochina
After the fall of France Japan stations troops north Indo
Peace
Japan agrees peace with Russia in Berlin, after joining the Tripartite Pact
Tripartite Pact
Japan makes an alliance with Russia & Germany
Vichy Government
Japan captures Indo, with the agreement of the Vichy Government
October 194061 historical events
Cabinet War Rooms
Uses underground war rooms as the Blitz makes central London dangerous.
United States Citizenship
Becomes a United States citizen while retaining Swiss citizenship.
Prime Minister of Great Britain
Churchill appoints Ernest Bevin as Minister of Labour
Meeting with On the Brenner Pass
Ciano, Mussolini & Htler meet on the Brenner Pass
Bombing of London
Former Leader of the London County Council, useful during the blitz
Home Secretary of Great Britain
Appointed Home Secretary
Operation Sea Lion
Visits Hitler, notes in his diary there was no talk about Operation Sea Lion
Battle of Britain
Dies after becoming one of the battle's highest-scoring Allied pilots.
Battle of Britain
Is killed when his Hurricane crashes near Ewell after a patrol.
Birth of John Lennon
Birth of John Lennon in Liverpool
Birth of John Lennon
Birth of John Lennon during wartime Liverpool.
Constitution of 1940
Becomes constitutional president under the 1940 constitution.
Invasion of Great Britain
Hitler calls off the invasion until the Spring
Operation Sea Lion
The British invasion forces are released. After pressure from the Army & the Navy calls off Operation Sea Lion until the Spring
Operation Sea Lion
Adolf Hitler postpones Operation Sea Lion
Promotion to Wartime Lieutenant
Advances to wartime lieutenant while serving in military intelligence.
GSO3 Intelligence Appointment
Serves as a temporary captain and General Staff Officer Grade Three in an intelligence role with an armoured formation.
International Agreement
Britain and France agree not to sign a separate peace with Germany
Invasion of Greece
Mussolini and his closest advisers finalise their decision to invade Greece
Baden and Saarpfalz Deportations
Organizes deportation of Jews from Baden and Saarpfalz.
Jews Deported to Unoccupied France
Nearly seven thousand people are sent to unoccupied France.
Collaboration
Laval meets Hitler & offers to collaborate
Invasion of France
Laval meets Hitler & offers to collaborate
Invasion of Greece
Mussolini decides to proceed with the planned invasion of Greece despite German reservations about widening the Balkan war.
Birth of Pelรฉ in Trรชs Coraรงรตes
Pelรฉ was born on 23 October and grew up in a footballing family before becoming one of the sport's most celebrated players.
Meeting with Hitler at Hendaye
Franco meets Hitler at Hendaye but Franco declines to enter the war
Meeting with Hitler at Hendaye
Franco meets Hitler at Hendaye but declines to enter the war
Commander of 18th Panzer Division
Appointed Commander of the 18th Panzer Division
Commander of 18th Panzer Division
Appointed Commander of the 18th Panzer Division
Neutrality
Belgium declares its neutrality
Advisery War Council
Founds the Advisery War Council
Greek War
Promises support after Italy attacks Greece.
Italian Ultimatum Rejected
Metaxas rejects Italy's ultimatum and Greece enters the Second World War.
Battle of Greece
The Battle of Greece becomes a continuation of the Greco-Italian War
Invasion of Greece
The Battle of Greece becomes a continuation of the Greco-Italian War
Battle of Greece
The Battle of Greece becomes a continuation of the Greco-Italian War
Invasion of Greece
The Battle of Greece becomes a continuation of the Greco-Italian War
Invasion of Greece
Metaxas rejected the ultimatum (the refusal is commemorated as Ohi Day, a national holiday in Greece), but even before its expiration, Italian troops had invaded Greece through Albania. Italian Ambassador Emmanuel Grazzi presents Metaxas with a three-hour ultimatum, in which he demands free passage for troops to occupy unspecified "strategic sites" within Greek territory
Battle of Greece
The Battle of Greece becomes a continuation of the Greco-Italian War
Invasion of Greece
Metaxas rejects the Italian ultimatum (commemorated as Ohi Day, a national holiday in Greece)
Invasion of Greece
The failed invasion attempt diverts German divisions from the Russian front
Battle of Britain
Commands Fighter Command through the official final day of the Battle of Britain.
Battle of Britain
The Luftwaffe has failed to gain the air superiority required for invasion.
Invasion Threat Reduced
Continues invasion precautions as the immediate German landing threat declines.
Vice Prime Minister
Appointed Vice Prime Minister in the Vichy Government of Marshal Philippe Petain
Vichy Government
Appointed Vice Prime Minister in the Vichy Government of Marshal Philippe Petain
Vice Prime Minister
Appointed Vice Prime Minister in the Vichy Government of Marshal Philippe Petain
Vichy Government
Appointed Vice Prime Minister in the Vichy Government of Marshal Philippe Petain
Vice Prime Minister
Appointed Vice Prime Minister in the Vichy Government of Marshal Philippe Petain
Vichy Government
Appointed Vice Prime Minister in the Vichy Government of Marshal Philippe Petain
Invasion of Switzerland
The plan plan to invade Switzerland continued to undergo revision until October, when Twelfth Army submitted its fourth draft, now called "Operation Tannenbaum". Although the Wehrmacht feigned moves toward Switzerland in its offensives, it never attempted to invade. After D-Day, the operation was put on hold and Switzerland remained neutral for the duration of the war
Neutrality
Although the Wehrmacht feigned moves toward Switzerland in its offensives, it never attempted to invade. After D-Day, the operation was put on hold and Switzerland remained neutral for the duration of the war
Operation Tannenbaum
The plan plan to invade Switzerland continued to undergo revision until October, when Twelfth Army submitted its fourth draft, now called "Operation Tannenbaum"
Twelfth Army
The plan plan to invade Switzerland continued to undergo revision until October, when Twelfth Army submitted its fourth draft, now called "Operation Tannenbaum"
Wehrmacht
Although the Wehrmacht feigned moves toward Switzerland in its offensives, it never attempted to invade. After D-Day, the operation was put on hold and Switzerland remained neutral for the duration of the war
Operation Sea Lion
Preparations are deferred to the Spring but only to keep pressure on the British. Operation Sea Lion is called off
Fifth Corps Command Assumed
Takes command of V Corps and continues intensive preparations against a possible invasion.
Censorship
Political parties are banned
Constitution of Japan
Political parties are banned
IRAA
Appointed Head of the The Imperial Rule Assistance Association
MIT Radiation Laboratory
Helps establish the laboratory that develops wartime microwave radar.
November 194065 historical events
Battle of the Atlantic
Focuses on convoy protection as U-boat losses increase.
Battle of Elaia-Kalamas
During the Battle of Elaia-Kalamas the Italians fought their way across the Thyamis (Kalamas) river, but were then forced to a halt
Invasion of Greece
During the Battle of Elaia-Kalamas the Italians fought their way across the Thyamis (Kalamas) river, but were then forced to a halt
Battle of Greece
Hitler intervened on November 4, 1940, four days after the British took both Crete and Lemnos
Invasion of Greece
The Fuhrer orders his Army General Staff to prepare for an invasion of Northern Greece via Romania and Bulgaria. Hitler's plans for this campaign are incorporated into a master plan aimed at depriving the British of their Mediterranean bases. Hitler intervened on November 4, 1940, four days after the British took both Crete and Lemnos
Battle of Greece
Hitler intervened on November 4, 1940, four days after the British took both Crete and Lemnos
Invasion of Greece
Hitler intervened on November 4, 1940, four days after the British took both Crete and Lemnos
Birth of Jaime Roldos Aguilera
Birth of Jaime Roldos Aguilera
Election
Elected for a 3rd term, 27 million votes to Wilkies 22 million votes
Chilean Antarctic Territory
Defines the claimed boundaries of the Chilean Antarctic Territory by presidential decree.
Capture of Gallabat
Captures Gallabat from the Italians
Appointed Archbishop of Dublin
McQuaid is appointed Archbishop of Dublin and begins an episcopate marked by major expansion of parishes, schools and Catholic social services.
Capture of Gallabat
The Italians recapture Gallabat
Death of Neville Chamberlain
Death of Neville Chamberlain, age 71
Capture of Gallabat
The British recapture Gallabat from the Italians
Bombing of London
London is bombed by 170 aircraft
Battle of Taranto
The British Mediterranean Fleet attacks the Italian base
Taranto Raid
Welcomes the Fleet Air Arm attack on the Italian fleet at Taranto.
Eastern Campaign Preparations Continued
Jodl initials a directive ordering continuation of preparations for a future campaign against the Soviet Union.
Felix
Hitler issues directive 18 for Operation Felix, the invasion of Gibraltar
Invasion of Gibraltar
Hitler issues directive 18 for Operation Felix, the invasion of Gibraltar
Invasion of Greece
The German Armed Forces High Command issued Directive No. 18, in which they scheduled simultaneous operations against Gibraltar and Greece for the following January. Hitler issues directive 18 for Operation Marita, the invasion of Greece
Operation Marita
Hitler issues directive 18 for Operation Marita, the invasion of Greece
Molotov has discussions with the German High Command
Molotov has discussions with the German High Command
Bombing of Berlin
British bombers conduct a night raid on Berlin
Bombing of Berlin
British bombers conduct a night raid on Berlin
Bombing of Taranto
British bombers bomb the Italian naval base of Taranto
Battle of Britain
The Luftwaffe cannot gain permanent air control but sporadic night raids continue
Battle of Britain
Coventry is blitzed by 500 bombers & almost demolished
Luftwaffe
The Luftwaffe cannot gain permanent air control but sporadic night raids continue
Battle of Britain
Coventry is destroyed during a night raid
Bombing of Coventry
449 German planes bomb Coventry
Bombing of Coventry
449 German planes bomb Coventry, killing 380 people and injuring 865
Coventry Blitz
Responds to the severe German bombing of Coventry.
Bombing of Hamburg
The Royal Air Force bomb Hamburg
Bombing of Gelsenkirchen
British bombers conduct a raid on the Gelsenkirchen oil plant
Bombing of Southampton
150 German aitcraft bomb Southampton
Bombing of Gelsenkirchen
British bombers conduct a raid on the Gelsenkirchen oil plant
Bombing of Southampton
150 German aitcraft bomb Southampton
Airborne Radar
Airborne radar is successfully used by the Royal Air Force.
Birmingham Blitz
A major German air raid causes extensive deaths and destruction across Birmingham.
Alliance Adolf Hitler and Axis Powers
Hungary joins the Axis Powers
Pact between Germany, Italy, Japan and Hungary
Hungary joins the Tripartite Pact
Mediterranean Strategy
Reviews British commitments in Egypt Greece and the Mediterranean.
Alliance Teleki and Germany
Signs the Tripartite Pact with Germany
Pact between Germany, Italy, Japan and Hungary
Signs the Tripartite Pact with Germany
Signs the Tripartite Pact
Signs the Tripartite Pact with Germany
Execution
60 former aides of Carol II are exected
Execution
60 former aides of Carol II are exected
Alliance Adolf Hitler and Axis Powers
Romania joins the Axis Powers
Pact between Germany, Italy, Japan and Romania
Romania joins the Tripartite Pact
Alliance Adolf Hitler and Axis Powers
Slovakia joins the Axis Powers
Pact between Germany, Italy, Japan and Slovakia
Slovakia joins the Tripartite Pact
Bristol Blitz
German bombing causes severe damage across Bristol.
Government-in-Exile
In the wake of London Blitz, Benes, his wife, their nieces, and his household staff moved to The Abbey at Aston Abbotts near Aylesbury in Buckinghamshire
Operation Barbarossa
The XIX Corps is expanded for the invasion of Russia
Retirement
Air Chief Marshal Charles Portal removes Dowding from his post and replaces him with Sholto Douglas
Bombing of Coventry
Tours the ruins of Coventry for 5 hrs
Battle of Greece
Within weeks the Italians are driven out of Greece and Greek forces pushed on to occupy much of southern Albania
Invasion of Greece
Within weeks the Italians are driven out of Greece and Greek forces pushed on to occupy much of southern Albania
Alliance Tripartite Pact
Signs the Tripartite Pact
Pact between Germany, Italy, Japan and Romania
Signs the Tripartite Pact
Signs the Tripartite Pact
Signs the Tripartite Pact
Tripartite Pact
Signs the Tripartite Pact
MIT Radiation Laboratory
Directs major American radar research at MIT.
December 194055 historical events
War Cabinet Review
Reviews air defence shipping losses and imperial commitments.
Invasion of Russia
Hitler received military plans for the invasion, and approved them all, with the start scheduled for May 1941
Operation Otto
Hitler's staff present their plan for Operation Otto, the invasion of Russia
Operation Otto
Announces plan to surround & the Red Army north & south of the Pripet marshes
Red Army
Announces plan to surround & the Red Army north & south of the Pripet marshes
Arrest of Maurice Gustave Gamelin
Arrested for the French defeat
Invasion of Egypt
Wilson launches Operation Compass, the strategy is outstandingly successful and very quickly the Italian forces are cut in half
Operation Compass
Wilson launches Operation Compass, the strategy is outstandingly successful and very quickly the Italian forces are cut in half
Army Reform
Kerensky develops his views through army reform after 1917.
Invasion of Egypt
The Italians are driven out of Egypt in the 1st major british offensive of the War
North Africa
Opens a counter-offensive threatening Tripoli, the fascist capital in north Africa
Siege of Tobruk
Opens a counter-offensive threatening Tripoli, captital of fascist north Africa
Operation Compass
Launches Operation Compass against Italian positions in Egypt, helping remove the immediate Axis threat to the Suez Canal.
Operation Compass
Authorises offensive action against Italian forces in Egypt.
Invasion of Egypt
The Italians are driven out of Egypt in the 1st major british offensive of the War
Western Desert Offensive
Receives news of early British success against Italian forces.
Arrest of Pierre Laval
Laval is dismissed and arrested, pressure from German ambassador Otto Abetz secures his release, Laval leaves for Paris and the protection of his German patron
Collaboration
Laval is dismissed and arrested, pressure from German ambassador Otto Abetz secures his release, Laval leaves for Paris and the protection of his German patron
Invasion of Greece
The Armed Forces High Command issued Directive No. 20 on December 13, 1940, the document outlines the Greek campaign under the code designation, "Operation Marita". Orders 24 divisions to assemble in Rumania & advance on Greece through Bulgaria
Operation Marita
The Armed Forces High Command issued Directive No. 20 on December 13, 1940, the document outlines the Greek campaign under the code designation, "Operation Marita". Orders 24 divisions to assemble in Rumania & advance on Greece through Bulgaria. Hitler issues directive Operation Marita for the occupation of the Balkans
Roosevelt Correspondence
Presses Roosevelt for greater American material aid.
Lend Lease Appeal
Appeals for American help as Britain's financial resources are strained.
Directive Barbarossa Initialled
Jodl initials Directive 21, the formal planning directive for Operation Barbarossa.
Fuhrer Directive No. 21
Issues Directive 21 finalizing orders for the invasion of Russia
Invasion of Russia
Hitler signed War Directive No. 21 to the German High Command for an operation now codenamed "Operation Barbarossa" stating: "The German Wehrmacht must be prepared to crush Soviet Russia in a quick campaign". All preparations for the invasion of Russia are to be completed by 15th May 1941
Operation Barbarossa
Issues Directive 21 finalizing orders for the invasion of Russia. Hitler signed War Directive No. 21 to the German High Command for an operation now codenamed "Operation Barbarossa" stating: "The German Wehrmacht must be prepared to crush Soviet Russia in a quick campaign". All preparations for the invasion of Russia are to be completed by 15th May 1941
Wehrmacht
Hitler signed War Directive No. 21 to the German High Command for an operation now codenamed "Operation Barbarossa" stating: "The German Wehrmacht must be prepared to crush Soviet Russia in a quick campaign"
Birth of Frank Vincent Zappa
Birth of Frank Vincent Zappa
Foreign Secretary
Returns to the Foreign Office as Churchill's Foreign Secretary
Manchester Blitz
Responds to the bombing of Manchester during the winter Blitz.
Christmas Broadcast
Addresses the Empire during the first wartime Christmas of his premiership.
London Blitz
Responds after heavy bombing and fires across the City of London.
Bombing of London
The Luftwaffe use 1,000 bombers to bomb London
Luftwaffe
The Luftwaffe use 1,000 bombers to bomb London
Bombing of Guildhall
Visits the ruins of Guildhall with his wife
Bombing of London
Visits the ruins of Guildhall with his wife. Germany bombs Londo with 1,000 bombers
Bombing of Naples
Churchill says Mussolini is "the one man" who brought Italy into the war
Bombing of Naples
Churchill says Mussolini is "the one man" who brought Italy into the war
Bombing of Valona
The RAF bombs Valona
Invasion of Albania
The Italians cannot form a line of defence & the Greeks advance on Valona
Mobilization
Signs a decree providing for the fortification of the Canary Islands
Alliance Alben Barkley and to the Allies
Approves the speech goven by Roosevelt to give additional support to the Allies
Aid to Britain
Makes a speech pledging more aid to Britain & declares the Axis will not win the war
Alliance Axis
The Defence Commission announces approval for arms contracts worth ล2.5 million. Makes a speech pledging more aid to Britain & declares the Axis will not win the war. It is announced that the "loan or lease" plan will be extended to Greece & China
Defence Commission
The Defence Commission announces approval for arms contracts worth ล2.5 million
Bombing of London
Makes a broadcast on BBC TV outlining plans for fire-fighting in London
1940 Review
Reviews a year in which Britain survived invasion threats and fought on.
Battle of Britain
Supports continued expansion of aircraft output after the Battle of Britain.
Wehrmachtfรผhrungsstab Established
The Wehrmachtfรผhrungsamt develops into the Wehrmachtfรผhrungsstab, with Jodl remaining its chief.
Invasion of Russia
Brauchitschs advice to attack Moscow directly is rejected by Hitler
Operation Barbarossa
The operation was named after Emperor Frederick Barbarossa of the Holy Roman Empire, a leader of the 3rd Crusade in the 12th century
Bombing of London
In 5 months 22,000 are killed
Invasion of Libya
Wilson oversaw the first stages of the campaign during which the British Army secured its first field victories of the war and advanced to the border with Libya
Bombing of Bardia
The British bomb Bardia
Plutonium Discovery
Produces plutonium from uranium-derived neptunium.
Castillo maintained Argentinas neutrality during World War II
Castillo maintained Argentinas neutrality during World War II
Neutrality
Castillo maintained Argentinas neutrality during World War II
Minister of Navy
Appointed Minister of the Navy
Mobilization
Sends 2 Auatralian divisions to the Middle East
Reich Commissioner
Appointed Reich Commissoner for The Netherlands
Emigration and Evacuation Office
The unit handles emigration, evacuation and deportation matters.
RSHA IV D 4 Leadership
Becomes director of RSHA section IV D 4.
University of Konigsberg
Appointed professor of psychology at the University of Konigsberg
School of Theoretical Physics Directorship
Becomes director of the School of Theoretical Physics at the newly established Dublin Institute for Advanced Studies.
Commander of 52nd Infantry Division
Appointed Commander of the 52nd Infantry Division
Commander of Fourteenth Infantry Division
Appointed Commander of the 14th Infantry Division for the invasion of France
Reich Commissioner
Appointed Reich Commissoner for the Austria
Commander of 52nd Infantry Division
Appointed Commander of the 52nd Infantry Division
Commander of Fourteenth Infantry Division
Appointed Commander of the 14th Infantry Division for the invasion of France
Reich Commissioner
Appointed Reich Commissoner for The Netherlands. Appointed Reich Commissoner for the Austria
Foreign Secretary of Belgium
Appointed Foreign Minister
Minister of National Defence
Appointed Minister of National Defence
Wartime Childhood
Spends part of the German occupation concealed in orphanages to hide his Jewish identity and survive Nazi persecution.
Commander of North Africa
Appointed Commander for North Africa
Commander of North Africa
Appointed Commander for North Africa
Foreign Secretary of Belgium
Appointed Foreign Minister
Chief of Staff
Appointed Chief of Canadian General Staff
Chief of Staff
Appointed Chief of Canadian General Staff
Hundred Regiment
Directs the Hundred Regiment guerrilla campaign against the Japanese
Minister of Education
Appointed Minister of Education
Foreign Minister of Czechoslovakia
Appointed Foreign Minister
Government-in-Exile
In the wake of London Blitz, Benes, his wife, their nieces, and his household staff moved to The Abbey at Aston Abbotts near Aylesbury in Buckinghamshire.
Government-in-Exile
Leads the Czech Government in exile
Government-in-Exile
Organizes the Czechoslovak Government-in-Exile in London with Jan Sramek as Prime Minister and himself as President
Minister of Interior
Appointed Minister of the Interior
Aage Bohr University Physics Studies
Begins studying physics at the University of Copenhagen, entering the research environment centred on his father's Institute for Theoretical Physics.
Invasion of Denmark
Offers Germany Danish neutrality if Denmark's borders are preserved
Invasion of Denmark
Resigns after German occupation
Neutrality
Offers Germany Danish neutrality if Denmark's borders are preserved
Resignation of Peter Rochegune Munch
Resigns after German occupation
Birth of Andres Tarand
Birth of Andres Tarand
President of Finland
Appointed President of Finland
Arrest of Jean-Baptiste Nicolas Robert Schuman
Arrested for acts of resistance and protest against Nazi methods. He was interrogated by the Gestapo but thanks to the intervention of a German lawyer, he was saved from being sent to Dachau. Transferred as a personal prisoner of Gauleiter Joseph Buerckel, he escaped in 1942 and re-joined the French Resistance
Member of Government
Because of his expertise on Germany, Schuman was called to become a member of Paul Reynaud's wartime Government, in charge of the refugees
Government
The majority of 1 vote in the Assembly makes him dependent on Daladiers support
Prime Minister of France
Appointed Prime Minister of France
Under Secretary
Appointed Under Secretary of State on the War Committee
Resignation of Albert Lebrun
Rsigns when the gvernment headed by Petain & Laval assumes power. Last President of the 3rd Republic
Burial
A gift to France from Adolf Hitler, moved from Vienna to Les Invalides
The Philosophy of No
Bachelard publishes The Philosophy of No, presenting scientific knowledge as dynamically revisable.
German Captivity
Sartre is captured during the German invasion and spends months as a prisoner of war.
Commander of 7th Army
Appointed Commander of the 7th French Army
French Resistance
Opposes the appointment of Petain & joins the French resistance
Arrest of Jean-Baptiste Nicolas Robert Schuman
Arrested for acts of resistance and protest against Nazi methods. He was interrogated by the Gestapo but thanks to the intervention of a German lawyer, he was saved from being sent to Dachau. Transferred as a personal prisoner of Gauleiter Joseph Buerckel, he escaped in 1942 and re-joined the French Resistance
Arrest of Leon Blum
Arrested & imprisoned by the Vichy Government, 1940-1945
Vichy Government
Arrested & imprisoned by the Vichy Government, 1940-1945
Heavy Water
Helps safeguard heavy water supplies during the war.
Commander of 7th Army
Appointed Commander of the 7th French Army
Trial
Deserts from the Vichy Government & is sentenced to death
Vichy Government
Deserts from the Vichy Government & is sentenced to death
Arrest of Jacques Philippe Leclerc
Arrested by by the Germans & escapes
Armistice
The Vichy Government has to pay reperations & disarm the Navy held in French ports
Capital
The French Government moves to Vichy in unoccupied southern France
Reparations
The Vichy Government has to pay reperations & disarm the Navy held in French ports
Vichy Government
The Vichy Government has to pay reperations & disarm the Navy held in French ports
French Resistance
Opposes the appointment of Petain & joins the French resistance
Minister of Marine
Appointed Minister of Marine
Mobilization
Orders the fleet to North Africa provoking attacks by the British Mediterranean fleet
Kleiner Mann, Grosser Mann
Publication of "Kleiner Mann, Grosser Mann"
Governor
Appointed Governor of Vienna
Citizenship
Becomes a citizen of the USA
Discovery of Cepheid Stars
Walter Baade recognizes that Cepheids consist of at least two separate populations (classical Cepheids & Type II Cepheids). Classical Cepheids are younger and more massive population I stars, whereas Type II Cepheids are older fainter population. Resolves stars in the centre of the Andromeda galaxy for the first time, which led him to define distinct "populations" for stars (Population I and Population II)
Health of Adolf Hitler
Euthanasia teams are renamed the Charitable Foundation for Institutional Care
Chief of Staff
Appointed Chief of Staff
Colonel
Appointed Colonel
Commander of 3rd Panzer Division
Appointed Commander of the 3rd Panzer Division
Commander of 6th Army
Appointed Commander 6th Army
Commander of Luftflotte 2
Appointed Commander Luftflotte 2 in the west
Commander of Twelfth Army
Appointed Commander of the Twelfth Army during the invasion of France
Twelfth Army
Appointed Commander of the Twelfth Army during the invasion of France
Deputy Commander
Appointed Deputy Commander of the Home Army, serves under Fromm
Field Marshal
From 1941 also becomes air inspector General of the Luftwaffe
Luftwaffe
From 1941 also becomes air inspector General of the Luftwaffe
Field Marshal
Appointed Field Marshal, 1 of 12. Appointed Commander of the army groups for the western offensive
Field Marshal
Appointed Field Marshal after the succesful invasion of France
Field Marshal
Appointed Field Marshal
Field Marshal
Appointed Field Marshal
Field Marshal
Appointed Field Marshal
Field Marshal
Appointed Field Marshal
General
July, appointed General Field Marshal
Promotion to General of Infantry
Following the successful German campaign in France, Manstein was promoted to General of Infantry. His higher rank reflected the increasing seniority of his field commands.
Major General
Appointed Major General
Military Head
Appointed Head of the Military Administration in Paris
Reichmarschall
Awarded the specially created title od Reichmarschall
Reichminister
Appointed Reichminister for Armaments & Munitions
Massacre
2.5 million are exterminated under his command
Invasion of Russia
Warns Hitler about underestimating Russia
Operation Barbarossa
Warns Hitler about underestimating Russia
Invasion of France
Works with Guenther Blumentritt & Henning von Tresckow to develop the plan to invade France. Manstein serves under General Gunther von Kluge
Invasion of France
Manstein & his colleagues suggest the German Army should attack through the wooded Ardennes hills. Hitler approves of the Manstein Plan to invade France
Manstein Plan
Hitler approves of the Manstein Plan to invade France
Chief of Staff
Appointed Chief of Staff
Capture of Germany
Commands the German forces which capture Norway. Commands the German forces which capture Denmark
Invasion of France
Commands the 3rd Air Fleet during Germany's invasion of France
Commander of 3rd Panzer Division
Appointed Commander of the 3rd Panzer Division
Invasion of France
Leads the invasion of France wwith 44 Divisions from Aix-la-Chapelle to the Moselle
Invasion of Normandy
Commands the German army against the Allied landings in Normandy
Invasion of Netherlands, The
Leads the German invasion of Holland
Invasion of France
Encircles 4 French Armies in Epinal-Belfort
Invasion of France
Commands the 8th Army during the invasion of France
Invasion of Netherlands, The
Commands the 8th Army during the invasion of Holland
Commander of Fliegerkorps VIII
Appointed Commander the Fliegerkorps VIII
Invasion of France
Commands the Fliegerkorps VIII, cousin of the "Red Knight"
Battle of Britain
Responsible for Luftwaffe operations against Britain and the west
Commander of Luftflotte 2
Appointed Commander Luftflotte 2 in the west
Luftwaffe
Responsible for the air war against Britain & the west
Operation Sea Lion
Sets up a wirless intercept system to hear RAF messages
Invasion of France
Supports Rundstedts Army Group A in its invasion of France
Invasion of France
Helps the Germans break through the Weygand Line into France
Iron Cross
Awarded the Iron Cross, 1st class, helps the break through the Weygand Line in France
Commander of Twelfth Army
Appointed Commander of the Twelfth Army during the invasion of France
Twelfth Army
Appointed Commander of the Twelfth Army during the invasion of France
Invasion of France
Guderains blitzkrieg policy is accepted by the German High Command
Battle of France
Commands his Corps during the Battle of France
Deputy Commander
Appointed Deputy Commander of the Home Army, serves under Fromm
Field Marshal
From 1941 also becomes air inspector General of the Luftwaffe
Luftwaffe
From 1941 also becomes air inspector General of the Luftwaffe
First Army
Witzleben leads First Army during operations against France
Field Marshal
Appointed Field Marshal, 1 of 12. Appointed Commander of the army groups for the western offensive
Field Marshal
Appointed Field Marshal after the succesful invasion of France
Field Marshal
Appointed Field Marshal after the successful invasion of France
Field Marshal
Appointed Field Marshal
Field Marshal
Appointed Field Marshal
Triple Alliance
Negotiates the Italo-Germanese Alliance
Afrika Korps
Creates the Afrika Korps to prevent the defeat of Italy in north Africa
Battle of Britain
Defeats France & then turns on Britain
Euthanasia
Euthanasia teams are renamed the Charitable Foundation for Institutional Care
Foundation for Institutional Care
Euthanasia teams are renamed the Charitable Foundation for Institutional Care
Invasion of France
Sets up his HQ in Margival near Soissons during the German invasion of France
Operation Sea Lion
Britain will not allow Hitler a free hand in the east & will not sue for peace
Invasion of Russia
Tries to convince Hitler to defeat Britain before the Americans join the British
Operation Barbarossa
Tries to convince Hitler to defeat Britain before the Americans join the British
Military Head
Appointed Head of the Military Administration in Paris
British Expeditionary Force (BEF)
Advises Hitler to allow the BEF time to gather for an evacuation at Dunkirk
Evacuation
Advises Hitler to allow the BEF time to gather for an evacuation at Dunkirk
Reichmarschall
Awarded the specially created title od Reichmarschall
Reichminister
Appointed Reichminister for Armaments & Munitions
Rule of Poland
Issues a directive to breakup what remains of Poland & its races
Army Administration
His work in the organisational branch links him to the structure and mobilisation of the German Army
General Staff
Quirnheim continues General Staff service as Germany expands its military operations in Europe
Military Planning
Quirnheim gains experience in military planning and staff administration during the German campaigns
Invasion of France
Advocates the German thrust into Sedan
The Great Dictator
Directs, "The Great Dictator"
My Country Right or Left
Orwell published My Country Right or Left, exploring patriotism and left-wing political commitment.
New Words Essay
Orwell discussed language invention and meaning in his essay New Words.
The Power and the Glory
Publication of "The Power & the Glory"
The New World Order
Publication of "The New World Order"
Another Time
Publication of "Another Time"
Spitfire Production
Castle Bromwich begins large-scale production of Supermarine Spitfire aircraft.
Metallic Security Thread Banknote
Montagu Norman serves as Governor as the Bank of England introduces a special blue one-pound note using a metallic security thread against wartime counterfeiting.
Death of Wiliam Lashly
Death of William Lashly
President of the British Meteorological Society
Appointed President of the British Meteorological Society
Speech
Criticizes Churchill for "interfering with everybodys department"
Economy of Great Britain
Given responsibility for directing economic policy
Lord President
Appointed Lord President
Minister of Supply
Appointed Minister of Supply, 1st term
Battle of Britain
Naval construction is top followed by production of fighters for the Battle of Britain
Secretary of State
Appointed Secretary of State for India & Burma
Secretary
Appointed Dominions Secretary, 1st term
Ambassador
Appointed Ambassador of Spain
Peerage
Created Viscount Simon
Minister of Information
Appointed Minister of Information
Dismissal
Dismissed by Chamberlain
Resignation of Neville Chamberlain
Prominent role in the Parliamentary debate leading to Chamberlains resignation
Governor
Appointed Governor of the Bahamas, 1940-45
Hamas
Appointed Governor of the Bahamas, 1940-45
Leader of House of Commons
Appointed Leader of the House of Commons
Lord President
Appointed Lord President of the Council
Food Rationing
Opposes food rationing, encourages the Ministry of Food to increase imports
Secretary
Appointed Secretary to the War Cabinet
Minister of Aircraft Production
Appointed Minister of Aircraft Production
Fire Service
Founds the National Fire Service
Lord Chancellor
Appointed Lord Chancellor
Postmaster General
Appointed Postmaster General
Foreign Secretary of Great Britain
Appointed Foreign Minister, 3rd term
Lord Privy Seal
Appointed Lord Privy Seal
Failure of a Mission
Publication of "Failure of a Mission"
Minister of War
Appointed Minister of War
Wartime Military Service
Hoggart served in the British Army during the Second World War, an experience that interrupted his academic development.
Blood Toil Tears and Sweat Speech
Churchill delivered his first speech as prime minister to the House of Commons, defining the sacrifices required for victory.
Never Was So Much Owed
Churchill publicly praised the Royal Air Force during the Battle of Britain, shaping remembrance of the air campaign.
Their Finest Hour Speech
Churchill urged Britain to resist Nazi Germany and described the historic stakes of the coming battle.
We Shall Fight on the Beaches
Churchill delivered his celebrated Commons speech after Dunkirk, framing continued resistance as a national obligation.
1922 Committee
Appointed Chairman of the 1922 Committee
Cato
Under the pen-name "Cato" he and two other Beaverbrook journalists (Frank Owen, editor of the Standard, and Peter Howard of the Daily Express) publish Guilty Men, a Left Book Club book attacking the appeasement policy of the Chamberlain Government
Cato
Uses the pen-name Cato while co-writing Guilty Men against appeasement.
Guilty Men
Publishes a bestselling attack on appeasement under the shared pseudonym Cato.
Guilty Men
Co-writes Guilty Men with Michael Foot and Peter Howard.
Guilty Men
Co-writes Guilty Men with Michael Foot and Frank Owen.
Churchill Government
Remains outside the wartime coalition government.
Democratic Socialist Group
Helps establish a democratic socialist group that soon displaces the former Oxford Labour Club.
Oxford Labour Club Split
Leaves the Communist-dominated Oxford Labour Club with Tony Crosland and other democratic socialists.
Communist Party Departure
Healey leaves the Communist Party after becoming disillusioned with Soviet conduct and Communist doctrine.
Communist Party
Healey leaves the Communist Party after becoming disillusioned with Soviet policy and the consequences of the Nazi-Soviet pact.
Double First
Healey completes his Oxford degree with a double first in classical studies.
Education
Healey achieves a double first for his degree, awarded in 1940.
Merton College
Healey wins a Harmsworth Senior Scholarship at Merton before wartime service changes his path.
Gold Medal of the Royal Astronomical Society
Edwin Hubble receives the Gold Medal of the Royal Astronomical Society.
Accretion by Stars
Hoyle and Lyttleton developed an influential model for gravitational accretion of interstellar material by moving stars.
War Cup Final Winning Goal
Sam Small scores for West Ham United as the club defeats Blackburn Rovers 1-0 at Wembley to claim the Football League War Cup.
Admiral
Appointed Commander in Chief during the Norwegian campaign
SAS
Submits a plan to Ritchie & Auchinleck to raid airfields behind the Afika Korps
Commander of Bomber Command
Appointed Commander of Bomber Command
Commander in Chief
Appointed Commander in Chief, British forces remaining in France after Dunkirk
Commander in Chief
Appointed Commander in Chief, Far East
Battle of Britain
Appointed Commander of 12 Group during the Battle of Britain
Flag Officer
Appointed Flag Officer Submarines
Chief Bomber Command
Appointed Chief of Bomber Command
Commander of Home Defence
Appointed Commander of the Home Defence forces
Deputy Chief of Staff
Appointed Deputy Chief of the Air Staff
Field Marshal
Appointed Field Marshal
General
Appointed General
Commander in Chief
Appointed Commander in Chief
Inspector
Appointed Inspector General
Banburismus
Develops Banburismus, a statistical method that reduces the number of Naval Enigma rotor settings requiring Bombe tests.
Bombe Logical Design
Develops the central logical design used by the British Bombe to search efficiently for possible Enigma settings.
Hut 8 Leadership
Heads Hut 8 during the early development of systematic methods for breaking German Naval Enigma.
Enigma Machine
Joins Hut 6 and applies advanced mathematics to German Army and Luftwaffe Enigma.
Enigma Machine
Leads Hut 6 as regular Luftwaffe Enigma reading begins to provide operational intelligence.
Enigma Machine
Works in Hut 6 on German Army and Luftwaffe Enigma before later transferring to Naval Enigma.
Enigma Machine
Arrives at Bletchley Park and is assigned to Turing's Hut 8 team working on Naval Enigma.
Enigma Machine
Becomes skilled in Banburismus, reducing the Bombe processing required for Naval Enigma.
Enigma Machine
Works with Dilly Knox's section on Enigma variants used by German intelligence and other Axis organisations.
Enigma Machine
Joins Dilly Knox's team and learns techniques for attacking Enigma variants used by Axis forces.
Enigma Machine
Works in Hut 6 on German Army and Luftwaffe Enigma and helps organise the growing cryptanalytic operation.
Admiral
Appointed Commander in Chief during the Norwegian campaign
SAS
Submits a plan to Ritchie & Auchinleck to raid airfields behind the Afika Korps
Commander of Bomber Command
Appointed Commander of Bomber Command
Commander in Chief
Appointed Commander in Chief, British in France after Dunkirk
Fighter Command
Once appointed soon introduces wing-sized fighter sweeps into France, known as "rodeos". Leigh-Mallory takes over from Park as Commander of 11 Group
Battle of Britain
After the Battle of Britain, Air Chief Marshal Charles Portal, the new Chief of the Air Staff, who had agreed with Leigh-Mallory, removed both Park and Dowding from their posts.
Battle of Britain
Appointed Commander of 12 Group during the Battle of Britain
Battle of Britain
Leigh-Mallory is critical of the tactics of Park and Sir Hugh Dowding, head of Fighter Command, believing that not enough was being done to allow wing-sized formations to operate successfully. Forms the "Big Wing" formations to attack German bombers. Devises with Acting Squadron Leader Douglas Bader a massed fighter formation known as the Big Wing, which they used, with little success, to hunt German bomber formations
Big Wing
Leigh-Mallory takes over from Park as Commander of 11 Group
Big Wing
Devises with Acting Squadron Leader Douglas Bader a massed fighter formation known as the Big Wing, which they used, with little success, to hunt German bomber formations.
Big Wing
Leigh-Mallory is critical of the tactics of Park and Sir Hugh Dowding, head of Fighter Command, believing that not enough was being done to allow wing-sized formations to operate successfully.
Medal
Posthumously awarded the Victoria Cross
Flag Officer
Appointed Flag Officer Submarines
Home Guard
Serves in the Home Guard during the war.
War Critic
Criticises wartime government failures from the Labour left.
Bombing of London
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
Trafalgar Symbolism
Trafalgar remains a symbol of resistance during invasion fears.
Wartime Propaganda
Begins wartime work producing political propaganda directed toward Germany and occupied Europe.
Army Enlistment
Healey joins the British Army after completing his Oxford degree.
British Army
Healey enters wartime service instead of pursuing an academic career at Oxford.
Royal Artillery
Healey serves first as a gunner in the Royal Artillery before commissioning.
Bombing of Germany
Decides upon area rather than precision bombing to wreck German production
Chief Bomber Command
Appointed Chief of Bomber Command
Commander of Home Defence
Appointed Commander of the Home Defence forces
Battle of Britain
The "Dowding system", a set of reporting chains to move information from the various observation points to the pilots in their fighters, named after its chief architect. Credited with winning the battle and made a Knight Grand Cross of the Order of the Bath
Battle of Dunkirk
When the Allied resistance collapsed, works closely with Air Vice Marshal Keith Park, the commander of 11 Fighter Group, in organizing cover for the evacuation of the British Expeditionary Force at Dunkirk
Battle of France
Dowding, nicknamed "Stuffy" by his men, is unwilling to sacrifice aircraft and pilots in the attempt to aid Allied troops during the Battle of France
British Expeditionary Force (BEF)
When the Allied resistance collapsed, works closely with Air Vice Marshal Keith Park, the commander of 11 Fighter Group, in organizing cover for the evacuation of the British Expeditionary Force at Dunkirk
Knight of the Grand Cross
Credited with winning the battle and made a Knight Grand Cross of the Order of the Bath
Deputy Chief of Staff
Appointed Deputy Chief of the Air Staff
Field Marshal
Appointed Field Marshal
General
Appointed General
Commander in Chief
Appointed Commander in Chief
Battle of Britain
Stays in London during the Battle of Britain & the Blitz
Bombing of Buckingham Palace
The King & Queen remain resident in London, Buckingham Palace is bombed twice
Bombing of London
The King & Queen remain resident in London, Buckingham Palace is bombed twice
Constitution of Great Britain
Wants Halifax to sit in the Commons as PM with his peerage in temporary abeyance
Emergency Medical Service
Continues wartime coordination of hospitals and casualty services.
Emergency Medical Service
Maintains the emergency medical system during wartime pressure.
Mobilization
Begins the re-formation of the 3rd Division after Dunkirk
Maginot Line
Hitler rounds the Maginot line forcing evacuation of 340,000 between 27 May-4 June
Operation Dynamo
Hitler rounds the Maginot line forcing evacuation of 340,000 between 27 May-4 June
Inspector
Appointed Inspector General
Invasion of Greece
Greece repels an invasion by Italy
Invasion of Greece
Greece repels an invasion by Italy
Arrest of Matyas Rakosi
Returned to Moscow in exchange for Hungarian patriotic flags held in Russia since 1849
Chairman
Appointed Chairman of the Foreign Committee of the Hungarian Communists
Treaty Negotiations
Signs a Treaty of mutual assistance with Yugoslavia
Cosmic Ray Tracks
Bibha Chowdhuri works with D. M. Bose using photographic plates at high altitude to study charged particles in cosmic rays.
Scientific Research Organisation
Shanti Swarup Bhatnagar becomes a central organiser of the Board of Scientific and Industrial Research, strengthening coordinated applied research in India.
French Forces of the Interior
The "Stern Gang" assassinate Lord Moyne & Count Bernadotte. Founds the Fighter for the Freedom of Israel
Health of Benito Amilicare Andrea Mussolini
A leg wound from 1917 opens up & he has to wear special boots
Uranium Graphite Lattice Experiments
Conducts increasingly large uranium and graphite lattice experiments to determine the neutron economy required for a chain-reacting pile.
Uranium Graphite Assemblies Tested
Fermi's group measured how uranium and graphite arrangements affected neutron losses and multiplication. The development expanded the tools available for subsequent innovation.
Menti Wins Fiorentina's First Coppa Italia
Romeo Menti plays a part in Fiorentina's victorious Coppa Italia campaign, which gives the club its first major national honour.
Galluzzi Guides Fiorentina to First Italian Cup
Giuseppe Galluzzi manages Fiorentina to their first Coppa Italia title, establishing an early landmark in the club's history.
Chief of Staff
Appointed Chief of Staff
Fascist Grand Council
Appointed Member of Fascist Grand Council
Supreme Council
Appointed Member of Fascist Grand Council
Resignation of Pietro Badoglio
Resigns after Italy's failure in Abysinnia
Chief of Staff
Appointed Chief of Staff
Resignation of Pietro Badoglio
Resigns after the disastrous campaign in Greece
Battle of Mersa Matruh
Stopped by the British defences at Mersa Matruh
Invasion of Egypt
Stopped by the British defences at Mersa Matruh
Fascist Grand Council
Appointed Member of Fascist Grand Council
Supreme Council
Appointed Member of Fascist Grand Council
Minister of War
Appointed Minister of War
Arrest of Toyohiko Kagawa
Arrested for pacifism
Inspector
Appointed Inspector General of the Imperial Airforce
Shrine
The Togo Shrine is built in Harajuku, Tokyo in dedication to Togo Heihachiro who is celebrated as a shinto kami
Inspector
Appointed Inspector General of the Imperial Airforce
Visit to Berlin
Visits Hitler, no action against the Allies until modernisation of army & airforce
Franco-Thai War Crisis
Faces territorial pressure as Thailand challenges French authority in Laos
Exile of Janis Balodis
Deported by occupying Soviet forces
Minister of Interior
Appointed Minister of the Interior, helps President Avila Camacho to power
President of Mexico
Appointed President of Mexico
Revolution of Mexico
A moderate who wishes to consolidate the achievements of the Mexican revolution
Arrest of U Nu
Arrested for anti-imperialist activities
Resignation of Dirk Jan de Geer
Resigns in disgrace for attempting to negotiate a peace settlement with Germany
Invasion of Netherlands, The
Pre war pacifism costs Holand dear, it has no tanks & only 26 armoured cars. Canals are flooded & "fortress Holland" created but Holland is overun by German tanks
Government in Exile
Serves the Norwegian Government in exile in London
Government in Exile
Serves the Norwegian Government in exile in London
Abdication
Strengthens the resistance to German occupation by refusing to abdicate
Exile of Haakon VII
Strengthens the resistance to German occupation by refusing to abdicate
Exile of Haakon VII
Haakon VII & his Cabinet escape to London after the capitulation of Norway
Conference of Lahore
A political statement adopted by the All India Muslim League during the three-day general session calls for greater Muslim autonomy in British India, largely interpreted as a demand for a separate Muslim state, Pakistan
Conference of Lahore
At Lahore the League formally recommitts itself to creating an independent Muslim state called Pakistan, including Sindh, Punjab, the North West Frontier Province and Bengal, that would be "wholly autonomous and sovereign".
Conference of Lahore
The "Pakistan resolution" is adopted as the main goal of the party, the resolution is rejected outright by the Congress. Pledges support for the British war effort.
Independence of Pakistan
A political statement adopted by the All India Muslim League during the three-day general session calls for greater Muslim autonomy in British India, largely interpreted as a demand for a separate Muslim state, Pakistan.
Independence of Pakistan
At Lahore the League formally recommitts itself to creating an independent Muslim state called Pakistan, including Sindh, Punjab, the North West Frontier Province and Bengal, that would be "wholly autonomous and sovereign".
Independence of Pakistan
At the conference of Lahore Jinnah calls for a separate Pakistan & an independent India.
Conference of Lahore
A political statement adopted by the All India Muslim League during the three-day general session calls for greater Muslim autonomy in British India, largely interpreted as a demand for a separate Muslim state, Pakistan
Conference of Lahore
At Lahore the League formally recommitts itself to creating an independent Muslim state called Pakistan, including Sindh, Punjab, the North West Frontier Province and Bengal, that would be "wholly autonomous and sovereign".
Conference of Lahore
The "Pakistan resolution" is adopted as the main goal of the party, the resolution is rejected outright by the Congress. Pledges support for the British war effort.
Independence of Pakistan
A political statement adopted by the All India Muslim League during the three-day general session calls for greater Muslim autonomy in British India, largely interpreted as a demand for a separate Muslim state, Pakistan.
Independence of Pakistan
At Lahore the League formally recommitts itself to creating an independent Muslim state called Pakistan, including Sindh, Punjab, the North West Frontier Province and Bengal, that would be "wholly autonomous and sovereign".
Independence of Pakistan
At the conference of Lahore Jinnah calls for a separate Pakistan & an independent India.
Matriculation
Achieves exceptionally high marks in the University of the Punjab matriculation examination while still a teenager.
Abdication
Power is handed over to the fascist Iron Guard. Concedes parts of Romania to the Axis powers & is forced to abdicate
One Party State
Power is handed over to the fascist Iron Guard
Rule of Romania
Concedes parts of Romania to the Axis powers & is forced to abdicate
The Willow
Publication of "The Willow"
Kadykchan Coal Mines
Shalamov began work in the Kadykchan and Arkagala coal mines, facing harsh camp conditions.
Manifesto of the Fourth International
Writes the Fourth International manifesto on the imperialist war and the tasks of the world socialist revolution.
Deputy Commissar
Appointed Deputy Commisar of Defence
Minister of War
Appointed Minister of War
Armaments Conversion Oversight
Helps oversee conversion of regional industry toward wartime armaments production.
Arrival in America
Moves to the United States after leaving France during the Second World War and continues political activity in exile.
Exile in United States
Settles in the United States during the war.
Move from France
Leaves France as German victory transforms exile politics.
Red Army
Appointed Member of Red Army
Massacre
About 15,000 Polish officers are murderred in Eastern Poland
Red Army
Appointed Member of Red Army
Minister of War
Appointed Minister of War
Economy of South Africa
The Industrial Development Corporartion is founded
IDC
The Industrial Development Corporartion is founded
ANC
Appointed Member of ANC
Fort Hare Expulsion
Is expelled from Fort Hare after a student protest.
Student Protest
Leaves university following conflict over student representation.
Leader Opposition
Opposed smuts internationalism & participation in the second World War
Arrest of Balthazar Johannes Vorster
Arrested for opposing South African support of the Allies
Rheumatoid Arthritis Drug
Develops a drug later widely used for inflammatory bowel disease.
Salazopyrin Treatment
Introduces salazopyrin for treatment of rheumatoid arthritis.
Peace
Offers to mediate for peace between Great Britain & Germany
Director
Appointed Director of the Psychological Laboratory at Geneva
Psychological Laboratory
Appointed Director of the Psychological Laboratory at Geneva
Invasion of Switzerland
Developed his famous "Reduit Concept" in summer 1940, according to which the Swiss Army would have retreated into the Alps relatively soon if attacked.
Invasion of Switzerland
The Swiss paramilitary organisation Aktion Nationaler Widerstand (Resistant National Action), formed from contacts between selected army figures and conservative civilian circles, had the explicit task to persuade the civilian population to resist invade.
Invasion of Switzerland
but would have kept up resistance based on some sort of guerrilla and stay-behind tactics from there.
Reduit Concept
Developed his famous "Reduit Concept" in summer 1940, according to which the Swiss Army would have retreated into the Alps relatively soon if attacked, but would have kept up resistance based on some sort of guerrilla and stay-behind tactics from there
Resistant National Action
The Swiss paramilitary organisation Aktion Nationaler Widerstand (Resistant National Action), formed from contacts between selected army figures and conservative civilian circles, had the explicit task to persuade the civilian population to resist invade
Regency
Regents continue governing Tibet while the young Dalai Lama receives religious education.
Academy Award
Winner of the Oscar for Best Actor, "The Philadelphia Story" as Macaulay Connor
The Philadelphia Story
Stars in, "The Philadelphia Story"
Our Town
Directs Our Town
Academy Award
Winner of Best Supporting Actor for The Westerner
The Westerner
The Westerner is a 1940 film directed by William Wyler and starring Gary Cooper
For Whom the Bell tolls
Publication of "For Whom the Bell tolls"
Robbie Robot Story
Asimov published Robbie, an early robot story exploring human prejudice toward artificial beings.
Why England Slept", problems with dictators before World War II
Publication of "Why England Slept", problems with dictators before World War II
Why England Slept
Publication of "Why England Slept", problems with dictators before World War II
Secretary
Appointed Secretary of State for War, 2nd term
Congress Street Residence
Marguerite Oswald moved with young Lee to a rented home on Congress Street after renting out the family property on Alvar Street.
Election
Defeated by Roosevelt for the Presidency
Problems of Nebular Research
Hubble publishes Problems of Nebular Research in Scientific Monthly, reviewing unresolved observational questions involving galaxies, distance measurements, redshifts and the interpretation of deep-space surveys.
Discovery of Neptunium
Co-discovers neptunium, the first transuranium element, extending the periodic table beyond uranium.
Neptunium Discovery
Finds neptunium during uranium irradiation studies.
Betatron Electron Accelerator
Builds the first successful betatron, accelerating electrons to high energy with a changing magnetic field.
Under Secretary
Appointed Under Secretary of the Navy
Rear Admiral
Appointed Observer in London by the Navy Department
Under Secretary
Appointed Under Secretary of the Navy
Alliance USA and Britain
Discusses naval co-operation between the USA & Britain
Rear Admiral
Appointed Observer in London by the Navy Department
China Exile
Leaves Vietnam and joins Ho Chi Minh in revolutionary exile
Politburo
Appointed Member of Politburo of the Communist Party of Yugoslavia
Sapphira and the Slave Girl
Cather published Sapphira and the Slave Girl, her final completed novel.
Posthumous Bloomsbury Discussion
Strachey's innovative biographical method remained a subject of literary debate.
Marriage to Heinrich Blucher
Arendt married Heinrich Blรผcher while living in France.