27 January 1940CommanderFritz Erich von Manstein
Manstein is sacked as Chief of Staff of Army Group A and appointed Commander of an army corps in East Prussia
Historical records for Germany in 1940, rendered directly from the World History Database and ordered by month, day and event.
Manstein is sacked as Chief of Staff of Army Group A and appointed Commander of an army corps in East Prussia
Manstein is sacked as Chief of Staff of Army Group A and appointed Commander of an army corps in East Prussia
Manstein is sacked as Chief of Staff of Army Group A and appointed Commander of an army corps in East Prussia
Hitler orders comprehenisive plans be made for the invasion of Norway
Jodl signs or processes repeated postponement orders for the western offensive as weather and readiness delay the attack.
Hitler orders Manstein's invasion plans to be carried out
Hitler orders Manstein's invasion plans to be carried out
Hitler orders Manstein's invasion plans to be carried out
Hitler orders Manstein's invasion plans to be carried out
Jodl, Warlimont and Jeschonnek discuss operational possibilities involving Norway, Denmark and the Netherlands.
Appointed Commander of the 7th Panzer Division with the rank of Major General
Appointed Commander of the 7th Panzer Division with the rank of Major General
Appointed Commander of the 7th Panzer Division with the rank of Major General
Receives command of the German invasion of Norway.
Falkenhorst is given command of the ground forces for the planned invasion of Norway and Denmark.
The British destroyer Cossack seizes the Altmark off Norway. Increases Hitler's determination to capture Norway
The Cossack seizes the Altmark off Norway, increases will to invade Norway
Jodl coordinates army, navy and air-force planning for the Scandinavian operation.
Bulgaria joins the Tripartite Pact
Supports seizing Norwegian ports before the Allies can cut the ore route.
Orders preparation of the German invasion of Denmark and Norway.
Bulgaria joins the Tripartite Pact
Issues an order to invade Norway
Bulgaria joins the Tripartite Pact
Raeder supports the plan to seize Norway before Allied forces can establish bases along the coast.
Appointed Lieutenant General
Appointed Lieutenant General
Commands the destroyer group carrying Dietl's troops to Narvik.
Embarks mountain troops on destroyers bound for Narvik.
Lutjens commands the distant cover force as German warships sail for Norway.
Commands Admiral Hipper during actions linked to the Norway invasion.
Kummetz leads the German naval force toward Oslo when Oscarsborg blocks the attack.
Commands the German destroyer force carrying Dietl's troops into Narvik.
Lands mountain troops from German destroyers and seizes Narvik.
Seizes Narvik with mountain troops landed from German destroyers.
Dietl's mountain troops land from German destroyers and seize Narvik during the opening invasion.
Commands a German destroyer in the Narvik invasion force.
Commands a German destroyer during the Narvik operation.
With operation "Weserubung" Germany occupies Denmark and Norway
With operation "Weserubung" Germany occupies Denmark and Norway
Germany launches Operation Weserubung and German forces land at Narvik to secure the northern ore route.
Brings the German naval force into Narvik during the invasion.
Bonte commands the German destroyer force carrying mountain troops into Narvik at the start of Operation Weserubung.
Bonte commands the destroyer group carrying Dietl's mountain troops to Narvik.
Dietl's mountain troops land at Narvik and seize the port during the opening German invasion.
Falkenhorst directs the wider Norwegian invasion as German forces attack Oslo, Bergen, Trondheim and Narvik.
With operation "Weserubung" Germany occupies Denmark and Norway
Hitler launches the invasion of Denmark and Norway to secure bases and protect the Swedish iron ore route.
Kaupisch commands German forces in Denmark as the invasion quickly forces Danish surrender.
Jodl's OKW staff coordinates the opening of the invasions of Denmark and Norway.
Woldag commands the cruiser Blucher when Norwegian guns and torpedoes sink the ship in Oslofjord.
Brings German destroyers out of Ballangen Bay for the counterattack.
Is killed when HMS Hardy's force attacks German destroyers.
Berger brings German destroyers out of Ballangen Bay and joins the counterattack against Warburton-Lee's flotilla.
Bonte is killed when HMS Hardy's flotilla attacks the German destroyers in Narvik harbour.
Is killed when Wilhelm Heidkamp is destroyed in Narvik harbour.
The Germans occupy Oslo
The Germans occupy Oslo
The Germans occupy Oslo
Commands surviving German destroyers during the second naval battle.
His destroyer force is destroyed or scuttled after the British attack.
Bey commands surviving German destroyers as the Royal Navy destroys the remaining Narvik destroyer force.
Gadow's 3rd Destroyer Flotilla is destroyed or scuttled during the second naval battle at Narvik.
Commands surviving German destroyers as the Royal Navy attacks.
His destroyer force is destroyed or scuttled after the second battle.
Leads right hand column of the 7th, "Ghost Division"
Dimissed by Hitler after he had declared himself head of the Norwegian Government
Appointed Reich Commissioner for Norway
Appointed Reich Commissioner for Norway
Appointed Reich Commissioner for Norway
Leads a German invasion force
Jodl participates in high-level decisions as German forces face uncertainty during the Norwegian campaign.
Appointed Commandant of Auschwitz concentration camp
Norwegian organised resistance ends and German occupation becomes established.
Norway surrenders to Germany
Appointed Chief of Staff of XIX Corps
Appointed Commander of XIX Corps
1st day of Fall Gelb, German forces occupy Luxembourg
1st day of Fall Gelb, German forces occupy Luxembourg
1st day of Fall Gelb, German forces occupy Luxembourg
Composed of First, 2nd & 10th Panzer divisions & an elite regiment "Grossdeutschland"
Witzleben commands First Army during the German offensive in the west
Appointed Commander of the 4th Army in France
Appointed Commander of the 4th Army in France
Ambassadors of The Netherlands & Belgium are summoned & told troops will invade
Jodl works within OKW as Germany launches the western offensive against the Low Countries and France.
Army Group B launches it's feint offensive during into The Netherlands and Belgium
An invasion is launched to "safeguard neutrality". Ambassadors of The Netherlands & Belgium are summoned & told troops will invade
The assault on the Maginot Line begins. Rommel crosses the border 30 miles south of Aachen
Crosses the borders of Belgium & Holland towards France
Hitler takes up his Battle HQ at Munstereifel on the Siegfried Line
Commands the army group advancing through the Netherlands and Belgium.
1st day of Operation Yellow, the military occupation of The Netherlands & Belgium
Army Group B launches it's feint offensive during into The Netherlands and Belgium
An invasion is launched to "safeguard neutrality". Ambassadors of The Netherlands & Belgium are summoned & told troops will invade
The assault on the Maginot Line begins
Uses the Manstein Plan to enter the Ardennes, cross the Meuse & reach the Channel
Oversees operations seeking rapid control of Maastricht and nearby crossings.
An invasion is launched to "safeguard neutrality"
Army Group B launches it's feint offensive during into The Netherlands and Belgium
The 6 Fliegerkorps of Luftflotte 2 & 3 begin the war in the west
1st day, takes the high ground at Maspelt before moving on to the Espeler-Dorner line
After several months of "Drole de Guerre" (Phoney war, Sitzkrieg) the Germans finally attack in the west
Crosses the Borders of Belgium & Luxembourg towards France
The 7th Division crosses the Ourthe River
From Dinant to Sedan the Germans are within reach of the River Meuse
Reaches Sedan
Guderian crosses the River Meuse
Crosses the River Meuse
Crosses the River Meuse
Present at the German attack on Sedan
Germany completes the capture of Holland
The 9th Panzer Division reaches Rotterdam
Receives the surrender of Belgium
Adopts the Manstein Plan under which Army Group A crosses the Meuse
The 7th Rifle Regiment crosses the Maas between Houx & Dinant
Withdraws toward mountain positions as Allied pressure increases.
Reaches Revin in Belgium
Strikes out towards the Channel ports via Peronne & Cambrai
Begins the "German pocket" which will cut the Allied forces in two
Reaches Anthee in Belgium
The Dutch Army surrenders after the Bombing of Rotterdam by the Luftwaffe
The Dutch Army surrenders after the Bombing of Rotterdam by the Luftwaffe
Breaks through Sedan & reaches the Channel coast within 1 week
Withdraws toward mountain positions as Allied pressure increases.
Rommel arrives at the River Meuse near Dinant
The 7th Div is the 1st German unit to cross the River Meuse
Suports the German 6th Army in Flanders
The Dutch sign the document of capitulation
The Dutch sign the document of capitulation
The Netherlands ends organised military resistance to Germany.
Suports the German 6th Army in Flanders
Holland surrenders to Germany
Advances as far as Avesnes
Rommel captures Clairfay on the Maginot Line
The XIX Corps captures Ribemount in Northern France on its way to the Channel Coast
Writes in his diary, "the breakthrough is developing along completely classical lines"
Manages to fend off de Gaulles attempt to break off his supply lines
Ordered by Rundstedt to launch a "reconnaissance in force", undermines Hitler
Advances as far as Le Cateau
Captures the Landrecies bridge, a crossing point acros the River Sambre into 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
Moves westward in the direction of the River Sambre
Advances as far as the Channel Coast
Captures the Sambre Bridge at Berlimont & joins the 7th & 5th Panzers
Reaches the Channel Coast
Guderains tanks break through to Abbeville
Rommel captures Cambrai, 12,000 enemy troops are taken
Appointed Chief of Staff of the Panzer Group comprising XIX, XXXIX & XLI Corps
Appointed Chief of Staff of the Panzer Group comprising XIX, XXXIX & XLI Corps
Leading panzer divisions reach the Channel near Abbeville
Races to the coast of the English Channel at Abbeville isolating the British Expeditionary Force, Belgian Army, and the French Army
Rommel engages the British with 88-mm anti-tank guns. 5 British Brigades stop the SS Totenkopf & manage to create a retreat to Dunkirk
An Allied counter-attack briefly stops the Germans
Races to the coast of the English Channel at Abbeville isolating the British Expeditionary Force, Belgian Army, and the French Army
Races to the coast of the English Channel at Abbeville isolating the British Expeditionary Force, Belgian Army, and the French Army
Rommel reaches La Basee Canal but Hitler halts the Panzers advance on Dunkirk
Drafts a "halt order" after concerns about the Allied counter-attack at Arras
Rommel crosses the River Scarpe
1st Panzer Division breaches the Aa Canal, 15 kilometers from Dunkirk
Hitler orders the left wing to stop, it is forbidden to cross the Aa
"Dunkirk is to be left to the Luftwaffe". A "Fuhrer order" is issued from Rundstedts HQ forbidding the left to cross the Aa
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
Halts his forces behind Dunkirk to allow the Luftwaffe the finishing blow
Ordered to halt by the German High Command & not to advance on Dunkirk. Guderains tanks capture Boulogne-sur-Mer
Orders Guderains tanks to make no further advance, allowing the evacuation of the BEF
Times the 2nd phase of the invasion of France for 31st May at a Council of War
"Dunkirk is to be left to the Luftwaffe"
Halts his forces behind Dunkirk to allow the Luftwaffe the finishing blow
The Panzer Divisions halt on Hitler's orders enabling British troops to escape to Dunkirk
Orders Guderains tanks to make no further advance, allowing the evacuation of the BEF
A "Fuhrer order" is issued from Rundstedts HQ forbidding the left to cross the Aa
Goering holds back the Army outside Dunkirk, Kesselring objects to this strategy
The "halt order" is lifted & the Panzers resume their advance
The "halt order" is lifted & the Panzers resume their advance
The evacuation of Allied troops from Dunkirk begins
The evacuation of Allied troops from Dunkirk begins
Appointed Commander of the 5th Panzer Division
Awarded the Knights Cross of the Iron Cross, 1st divisional commander so honoured
Withdraws German troops after Allied forces retake the town.
Withdraws from Narvik as Allied troops take the town.
The Battle for Flanders is successfully concluded
The 7th cuts the main Lille-Armentieres Road
The Belgian Army lays down its arms, forcing Allied forces in Belgium to withdraw.
The King of the Belgians surrenders the Belgian Army to the Germans
Withdraws German mountain troops from the town after Allied attack.
Dietl withdraws German mountain troops from Narvik after Allied forces retake the town.
Allied craft are hit but 47,300 of the BEF are evacuated
Allied craft are hit but 47,300 of the BEF are evacuated
The French First Army surrenders
German terms are presented to the surrounded French force, leading toward its capitulation.
The French First Army ceases organised resistance and passes into German control.
Offers the French their terms of surrender
The French First Army surrenders
Fall Gelb (Case Yellow), German armoured units pushed through the Ardennes, to cut off and surround the Allied units that had advanced into Belgium
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
Jodl's operations staff monitors the rapid campaigns through Belgium and the Netherlands.
Rotterdam is reduced to a blazing ruin for the German invasion of France
Operation Yellow is launched to lure the BEF out of France
Appointed Colonel General
Appointed Colonel General after his 19th corps defeat the French at Sedan
Rundstedt's forces continue closing the corridor around Allied armies retreating through Flanders.
Commands 28 Divisions from the North Sea to Aix-la-Chapelle
Rommels Div earns the name "the Ghost Division" because of its sudden appearences
Commands 28 Divisions from the North Sea to Aix-la-Chapelle
Fall Gelb (Case Yellow), German armoured units pushed through the Ardennes, to cut off and surround the Allied units that had advanced into Belgium
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
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
Commands 17 Divisions from the Moselle to the Swiss border
Commands 28 Divisions from the North Sea to Aix-la-Chapelle
Kesselring's air fleet supports German armies attacking Allied positions across Belgium and Flanders.
German armoured units push through the Ardennes to cut off and surround the Allied units that had advanced into Belgium
Launched to prevent the Allies Treaty obligations to defend Belgium
Operation Yellow is launched to lure the BEF out of France
Rommel's rapid advance helps split Allied forces and threatens communications supporting troops in Flanders.
Hitler visits Rommel, Rommel is ordered to accompany Hitler on his front-line tour
Rommel is ordered to accompany Hitler on the rest of his front-line tour
The Germans begin bombing Paris
The final day of the Dunkirk evacuation
The French rearguard surrenders
Dunkirk is captured after its evacuation by the BEF
The British Royal Navy evacuates 300,000 from Dunkirk
The British Royal Navy evacuates 300,000 from Dunkirk
Operation Fall Rot (Case Red) is began and German forces outflank the Maginot Line and push deeper into France
Appointed Commander 2nd Battalion of the 36th Panzer Regiment
Appointed Commander 2nd Battalion of the 36th Panzer Regiment
Operation, Fall Rot (Case Red), German forces outflank the Maginot Line
Operation, Fall Rot (Case Red), German forces outflank the Maginot Line
Operation Fall Rot (Case Red) is began and German forces outflank the Maginot Line and push deeper into France
Rommels 7th Panzer Div crosses the River Somme
Reoccupies Narvik after Allied forces complete their withdrawal.
Uses Dietl's survival and Narvik's recovery as propaganda success.
Commands Gneisenau during Operation Juno.
Uses the survival of Dietl's force as a German propaganda success.
Reoccupies Narvik after Allied forces complete their withdrawal.
Leads German naval forces against Allied shipping during the evacuation.
Marschall leads German heavy ships in a sortie intended to disrupt the Allied evacuation from Norway.
Reoccupies Narvik after Allied forces complete their withdrawal.
Dietl's troops reoccupy Narvik after Allied forces evacuate northern Norway.
Commands Scharnhorst during the sinking of HMS Glorious.
Rommels 7th Panzer Div crosses the River Seine
Italy declares war on France and soon afterwards the French Government fled to the city of Bordeaux
Italy declares war on France
German control of Norway is secured after the campaign ends.
The operation is redirected at the Weygand line protecting the heart of France
Rommels 7th Panzer Div reaches St Valery
Captures Cherbourg, the last major operation carried out by the 7th in France in 1940
Captures Cherbourg, the last major operation carried out by the 7th in France in 1940
Frances capital of Paris is occupied
Heinrici breaks through the Maginot Line
The Germans capture Paris
Heinrici breaks through the Maginot Line
The Maginot Line is penetrated at Saarbrucken
German forces occupy Paris unopposed
The Germans capture Paris
Captures the Plateau of Langres
Rommels 7th Panzer Div reaches the Cotentin Peninsular to capture Cherbourg
Philippe Petain publicly announced France would ask for an armistice
Reaches the Swiss frontier, the campaign in the west reaches its final stage
Philippe Petain publicly announced France would ask for an armistice
Rommels 7th Panzer Div advances into Cherbourg
Appointed Major General
Appointed Major General
Germany presents armistice terms to France
Rommels 7th Panzer Div captures Cherbourg
Rommels 7th Panzer Div enters Cherbourg
Rommels 7th Panzer Div enters Cherbourg
Plans for the defeat of Britain at the Fuhrer Conference
Plans for the defeat of Britai at the Fuhrer Conference
Plans for the defeat of Britain at the Fuhrer Conference
Signs the Armistice Treaty with France after disctating its terms
Meets the demands of Army Group B by providing support over the Somme & the Seine. Helps secure an armistice with France
France surrenders to the Germans
Advanced as far as the Swiss border when France surrenders
An armistice is signed between France and Germany
Instructed by Hitler to rebuild Berlin by 1950, must surpass Paris
Germany starts planning the invasion of Switzerland, the day France surrendered
Captain Otto Wilhelm von Menges in OKH submitted a draft plan for the invasion
The Pope writes a letter to Hitler offering mediation for "a just & honorable peace"
Germany captures the Channel Islands
Jodl briefs and coordinates operational information during the final stages of the campaign in France.
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.[
After France's surrender peace negotiations take place in a railway carriage
France enters armistice negotiations with Germany at Compiègne.
The same railway carriage used to sign the Armistice in 1918. After France's surrender peace negotiations take place in a railway carriage
Says preparations for invasion should begin immediately. Issues a directive saying a landing in England is possible
Appointed Ambassador of France with the collaborationist regime at Vichy
Appointed Ambassador of France with the collaborationist regime at Vichy
British convoys in the Channel from Dover to Plymouth are harried. 1st phase to 18th Aug. 1st day of the Battle of Britain
Directs Luftflotte 2 operations against southern Britain.
Supports attacks on Channel shipping during the opening phase.
Commands Luftflotte 3 during attacks on Britain.
Coordinates bomber and fighter operations from bases in occupied France.
Raeder advises British invasion as a last resort to force Britain to sue for peace
Military chiefs meet to discuss the invasion of Britain but Raeder advises against
Appointed Generaloberst
Appointed Generaloberst
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"
Issues Directive No. 16 ordering preparations for Operation Sea Lion.
Makes air superiority over Britain a prerequisite for the planned invasion.
Issues "Directive No. 16; On the Preparation of a Landing Operation against England"
Hopes news of the preparations of invasion will frighten Britain into peace negotiations
Issues "Directive No. 16; On the Preparation of a Landing Operation against England"
Issues instructions to prepare for an invasion of Britain
Says invasion should commence by mid August but the services revise this to 15th Sept
Appointed Field Marshal
Appointed Field Marshal
Appointed Field Marshal, Hitler creates 12 general Field Marshals
Appointed General Field Marshal
Hitler creates 12 general Field Marshals
Hitler makes his last plea in a speech in the Reichstsag for Britain to make peace
Witzleben is promoted to Field Marshal after the victory over France
Jodl is promoted from Generalmajor directly to General der Artillerie.
Sets the latest date for "Sea Lion" as 15th September 1941
Plans to land 90,000 men in the 1st 6 days of the invasion of Britain
Jodl instructs Warlimont to begin planning for a possible attack on the Soviet Union.
Sets 20-26 September as the earliest date on which the Navy can be ready
Begins planning an alliance with Spain & the capture of Gibraltar
Begins planning an alliance with Spain & the capture of Gibraltar
Hitler holds a meeting of his army and navy chiefs in his Berghof
Originally intended to last 5 months. Announces Russian invasion plans to his military commanders
Originally intended to last 5 months. Announces Russian invasion plans to his military commanders
Appointed General Field Marshal
Involved in planning the invasion of Russia
Involved in planning the invasion of Russia
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"
The OKW (Oberkommando der Wehrmacht or "High Command of the Armed Forces") issues its plan
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"
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"
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"
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
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
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"
Issues a directive for launching Operation Sea Lion
Signs jointly with Hitler the directive for authorizing 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"
The OKW (Oberkommando der Wehrmacht or "High Command of the Armed Forces") issues its plan
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
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.
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
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.
Directive no 17 intensifies the air war against England
Directive no 17 intensifies the air war against England
Rejects the Navys proposals for carrying the Army as "suicide"
Rejects the Navys proposals for carrying the Army to England as "suicide"
Rejects the Navys proposals for carrying the Army to England as "suicide". Rejects the Navys proposals for carrying the Army as "suicide"
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
Luftwaffe raids strike Manston, Hawkinge, Lympne and radar sites.
Orders systematic attacks on RAF airfields and radar stations.
Luftwaffe attacks switch to British airfields and radar stations.
Orders attacks against airfields and radar stations during the Battle of Britain.
Authorises attacks on radar stations during Adlerangriff.
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
Luftwaffe operations target radar stations and Fighter Command airfields.
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")
The engagements resulting from Eagle Day are later dubbed the Battle of Britain. 1st day of the main offensive
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
The engagements resulting from Eagle Day are later dubbed the Battle of Britain
Commands major Luftwaffe formations during Eagle Day.
Luftflotte 2 attacks targets across south-east England.
A series of Luftwaffe attacks beginning on 13 August 1940 known as Operation Eagle Attack (Unternehmen Adlerangriff) set to begin on Adlertag ("Eagle Day")
A series of Luftwaffe attacks beginning on 13 August 1940 known as Operation Eagle Attack (Unternehmen Adlerangriff) set to begin on Adlertag ("Eagle Day")
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 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
About 100 bombers escorted by 40 Me 110s are launched against Tyneside
German air fleets attack widely separated targets across the country.
Launches one of the Luftwaffe's largest daylight efforts against Britain.
Adlertag, eagle day, opening of the decisive phase of the battle. 1,786 sorties are flown
Germany begins its blockade of Britain
Germany announces measures intended to isolate Britain and threaten shipping serving the British war economy.
Sets Spring 1941 for an invasion of Russia which should last no longer than 5 months
Sets Spring 1941 for an invasion of Russia which should last no longer than 5 months
Commits large Luftwaffe forces during the day later called the Hardest Day.
Heavy losses reduce subsequent use of Ju 87 dive bombers in the battle.
Kesselring is ordered to concentrate his forces in the Pas de Calais
The 3rd phase of the battle begins. Resumes after bad weather. Airfields & commuincations are damaged as German numerical superiority takes effect
Berlin is bombed by the RAF in retaliation for the bombing of London
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
Bombs also fall on London during the continuing air offensive.
Luftwaffe operations intensify against Fighter Command targets around London.
Concentrates on airfields in the south east but bombs are dropped in error on London
2 panzer & 10 infantry divisions move into Poland to secure Romanian oil fields
2 panzer & 10 infantry divisions move into Poland to secure Romanian oil fields
Orders are given to carry deception maneuvers along Britains east coast
Given command of operations to invade England, subject to victory in the air
Says victory is dependent on vicory in the Air. Issues a directive for Naval & Army operations for the invasion of England
Given command of operations to invade England, subject to victory in the air
Prevents the French 5th Army from capturing St Quentin
At the request of the Services the invasion of England is postponed to 21st September
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
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
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
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
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
Issues a directive with the decision to invade England be taken by 11th September
The Germans have lost 308 aircraft to the British 273. End of the 3rd phase of the Battle of Britain
London is bombed, marking the beginning of the London blitz
Goering arrives at Kesselrings HQ to take command of Operation Sea Lion
The Luftwaffe diverts its forces from destroying the RAF to bombing London
London becomes the target for incessant bombing
Shifts the main Luftwaffe effort toward large-scale attacks on London.
The change reduces pressure on Fighter Command's sector stations.
Fighter Command concentrates its dwindling force after Goerings change of strategy
The Luftwaffe diverts forces from destroying the RAF to bombing London
The Germans begin their 1st large scale bombing of London
The Luftwaffe diverts its forces from destroying the RAF to bombing London
A memo is issued to increase the Army from 143 to 180 Divisions
A memo is issued to increase the Army from 143 to 180 Divisions
Hitler postpones his order for invasion from 11th Sept to 14th Sept
The 11th Septmber deadline is passed & the invasion of England is cancelled. Postpones Operation Sea Lion by 3 days to the 24th September
Raeder advises Hitler that there is not enough air cover for an invasion of Britain
Raeder advises Hitler that there is not enough air cover for an invasion of Britain
Postpones Operation Sea Lion awaiting orders to be issued September 17. Postpones Operation Sea Lion
Says Germany does not enough air superiority over England to launch 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
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
Bomber command destroys 200 barges in France & Low Country ports
Believing the RAF is broken Goering bombs London, 1,300 sorties are flown
Initial Luftwaffe estimates are that it will take four days to defeat the RAF Fighter Command in southern England
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 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
Suspends operation Sea Lion scheduled for 27 September
Failure to gain air superiority prevents the planned invasion of Britain.
Postpones Operation Sea Lion until further notice.
Operation Sea Lion is postponed indefinitley
Hitler orders ships in ports to be disperesed to avoid further loss. Hitler orders further assembly of the invasion fleet to cease
Invasion fleets in the Channel & North Sea are dispersed to prevent damage by the RAF
More than 450 British fighters are destroyed & 103 pilots killed. Attacks are shifted to main inland RAF bases
Directs Jud Suss, a notorious antisemitic Nazi propaganda film.
The Tripartite Pact is signed by Germany, Italy & Japan
Appointed Commander in Chief, West
Appointed Commander in Chief, West
Appointed Commander of Army Group D
Appointed Commander of Army Group D
Army Group D is formed to occupy France
Army Groups A, B & C are moved to the Eastern Front
Commands Army Group A & has tactical Command over Army Group D
Army Group D occupies France after A, B & C are moved to the Eastern Front
Army Groups A, B & C, are moved to the Eastern Front
Ciano, Mussolini & Htler meet on the Brenner Pass
Hitler calls off the invasion until the Spring
The British invasion forces are released. After pressure from the Army & the Navy calls off Operation Sea Lion until the Spring
Franco meets Hitler at Hendaye but Franco declines to enter the war
Appointed Commander of the 18th Panzer Division
Appointed Commander of the 18th Panzer Division
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
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
Preparations are deferred to the Spring but only to keep pressure on the British. Operation Sea Lion is called off
The plan plan to invade Switzerland continued to undergo revision until October, when Twelfth Army submitted its fourth draft, now called "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"
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
Hitler intervened on November 4, 1940, four days after the British took both Crete and Lemnos
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
Jodl initials a directive ordering continuation of preparations for a future campaign against the Soviet Union.
Hitler issues directive 18 for Operation Felix, the invasion of Gibraltar
Hitler issues directive 18 for Operation Felix, the invasion of Gibraltar
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
Hitler issues directive 18 for Operation Marita, the invasion of Greece
British bombers conduct a night raid on Berlin
Coventry is destroyed during a night raid
The Luftwaffe cannot gain permanent air control but sporadic night raids continue
Coventry is blitzed by 500 bombers & almost demolished
449 German planes bomb Coventry
The Luftwaffe cannot gain permanent air control but sporadic night raids continue
British bombers conduct a raid on the Gelsenkirchen oil plant
150 German aitcraft bomb Southampton
Hungary joins the Axis Powers
Hungary joins the Tripartite Pact
Romania joins the Axis Powers
Romania joins the Tripartite Pact
Slovakia joins the Axis Powers
Slovakia joins the Tripartite Pact
The XIX Corps is expanded for the invasion of Russia
Hitler received military plans for the invasion, and approved them all, with the start scheduled for May 1941
Hitler's staff present their plan for Operation Otto, the invasion of Russia
Announces plan to surround & the Red Army north & south of the Pripet marshes
Announces plan to surround & the Red Army north & south of the Pripet marshes
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
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
Jodl initials Directive 21, the formal planning directive for 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
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
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"
The Luftwaffe use 1,000 bombers to bomb London
The Luftwaffe use 1,000 bombers to bomb London
Brauchitschs advice to attack Moscow directly is rejected by Hitler
The operation was named after Emperor Frederick Barbarossa of the Holy Roman Empire, a leader of the 3rd Crusade in the 12th century
The Wehrmachtführungsamt develops into the Wehrmachtführungsstab, with Jodl remaining its chief.
Creates the Afrika Korps to prevent the defeat of Italy in north Africa
His work in the organisational branch links him to the structure and mobilisation of the German Army
Defeats France & then turns on Britain
Responsible for Luftwaffe operations against Britain and the west
Commands his Corps during the Battle of France
Advises Hitler to allow the BEF time to gather for an evacuation at Dunkirk
Commands the German forces which capture Norway. Commands the German forces which capture Denmark
Appointed Chief of Staff
Appointed Chief of Staff
Becomes a citizen of the USA
Appointed Colonel
Appointed Commander of the 3rd Panzer Division
Appointed Commander of the 3rd Panzer Division
Appointed Commander 6th Army
Appointed Commander the Fliegerkorps VIII
Appointed Commander Luftflotte 2 in the west
Appointed Commander Luftflotte 2 in the west
Appointed Commander of the Twelfth Army during the invasion of France
Appointed Commander of the Twelfth Army during the invasion of France
Appointed Deputy Commander of the Home Army, serves under Fromm
Appointed Deputy Commander of the Home Army, serves under Fromm
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)
Euthanasia teams are renamed the Charitable Foundation for Institutional Care
Advises Hitler to allow the BEF time to gather for an evacuation at Dunkirk
Appointed Field Marshal, 1 of 12. Appointed Commander of the army groups for the western offensive
Appointed Field Marshal, 1 of 12. Appointed Commander of the army groups for the western offensive
Appointed Field Marshal
Appointed Field Marshal
Appointed Field Marshal
Appointed Field Marshal
Appointed Field Marshal
From 1941 also becomes air inspector General of the Luftwaffe
From 1941 also becomes air inspector General of the Luftwaffe
Appointed Field Marshal
Appointed Field Marshal after the successful invasion of France
Appointed Field Marshal after the succesful invasion of France
Appointed Field Marshal after the succesful invasion of France
Witzleben leads First Army during operations against France
Euthanasia teams are renamed the Charitable Foundation for Institutional Care
July, appointed General Field Marshal
Quirnheim continues General Staff service as Germany expands its military operations in Europe
Appointed Governor of Vienna
Euthanasia teams are renamed the Charitable Foundation for Institutional Care
Guderains blitzkrieg policy is accepted by the German High Command
Sets up his HQ in Margival near Soissons during the German invasion of France
Commands the 8th Army during the invasion of France
Helps the Germans break through the Weygand Line into France
Encircles 4 French Armies in Epinal-Belfort
Works with Guenther Blumentritt & Henning von Tresckow to develop the plan to invade France. Manstein serves under General Gunther von Kluge
Manstein & his colleagues suggest the German Army should attack through the wooded Ardennes hills. Hitler approves of the Manstein Plan to invade France
Commands the Fliegerkorps VIII, cousin of the "Red Knight"
Advocates the German thrust into Sedan
Leads the invasion of France wwith 44 Divisions from Aix-la-Chapelle to the Moselle
Commands the 3rd Air Fleet during Germany's invasion of France
Supports Rundstedts Army Group A in its invasion of France
Leads the German invasion of Holland
Commands the 8th Army during the invasion of Holland
Commands the German army against the Allied landings in Normandy
Warns Hitler about underestimating Russia
Tries to convince Hitler to defeat Britain before the Americans join the British
Awarded the Iron Cross, 1st class, helps the break through the Weygand Line in France
Publication of "Kleiner Mann, Grosser Mann"
Responsible for the air war against Britain & the west
From 1941 also becomes air inspector General of the Luftwaffe
From 1941 also becomes air inspector General of the Luftwaffe
Appointed Major General
Hitler approves of the Manstein Plan to invade France
2.5 million are exterminated under his command
Appointed Head of the Military Administration in Paris
Appointed Head of the Military Administration in Paris
Quirnheim gains experience in military planning and staff administration during the German campaigns
Warns Hitler about underestimating Russia
Tries to convince Hitler to defeat Britain before the Americans join the British
Britain will not allow Hitler a free hand in the east & will not sue for peace
Sets up a wirless intercept system to hear RAF messages
Awarded the specially created title od Reichmarschall
Awarded the specially created title od Reichmarschall
Appointed Reichminister for Armaments & Munitions
Appointed Reichminister for Armaments & Munitions
Issues a directive to breakup what remains of Poland & its races
Negotiates the Italo-Germanese Alliance
Appointed Commander of the Twelfth Army during the invasion of France
Appointed Commander of the Twelfth Army during the invasion of France
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