Today in the Second World War

The 25th of August

Author

Hidden History
August 25, 2024

In this edition, we invite you to join us on a journey through history, exploring the moments and stories that have shaped our world. As we reflect on the events of the past, we seek to uncover the lessons they offer and the impact they continue to have on our present and future. Through the lens of history, we gain a deeper understanding of the human experience, the challenges we have faced, and the progress we have made. Let us delve into these narratives together, honoring the legacies of those who have come before us and enriching our perspective on the world.

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“Greater Germany – the dream of our fathers and grandfathers – is finally created.” - German Armaments Magnate Gustav Krupp von Bohlen

Pacts

1939: In the morning, Adolf Hitler sent a message to Benito Mussolini, noting that the reason why Italy was not informed of the Molotov-Ribbentrop Pact was because Hitler had not imagined the negotiations would conclude so quickly. He also revealed to him that war was to commence soon, but failed to let him know that the planned invasion date was on the following day. Later on the same day, however, Hitler hesitated in the face of the Anglo-Polish mutual defense agreement; he would quickly decide to postpone the invasion date. Meanwhile, in Berlin, Germany, journalist William Shirer noted in his diary that war seems to be imminent.

Hitler & Mussolini

Revenge

1940: 81 British Hampden bombers of No. 49 and No. 50 Squadrons attacked Berlin, Germany in the first retaliation attack for the raid on London, England. Clouds led to bombs falling largely in suburban lawns and gardens, killing only 6. Nevertheles, Luftwaffe chief Hermann Göring was shocked and embarrassed that the British bombers were able to get through in such great numbers.

Göring

Resistance

1942: Before dawn, Japanese destroyers Kagero, Isokaze, Kawakaze, Mutsuki, and Yayoi bombarded Henderson Field, Guadalcanal in the Solomon Islands, causing little damage. At 0600 hours, six SBD dive bombers from Henderson Field attacked a Japanese convoy 64 miles northeast of Santa Isabel Island, sinking troop transport Kinryu Maru and damaging cruiser Jintsu (24 were killed). Four US Army B-17 bombers arrived shortly after, sinking Japanese destroyer Mutsuki (41 were killed, 11 were injured) as Mutsuki rescued survivors from the Kinryu Maru sinking.

Mutsuki at sea

Photo of the Day

Hitler Youth firefighters in action, Düsseldorf, Germany, 25 Aug 194

Bonus Photo

Members of the US Army’s 4th Infantry Division sightseeing in Paris, France, Aug 25, 1944

As we conclude this edition, we reflect on the stories and insights we've explored together. History serves as a powerful reminder of where we've been and a guide to where we might go. The lessons, triumphs, and challenges of the past continue to resonate, shaping our understanding of the present and influencing our vision for the future. Thank you for joining us on this journey through time. Until our next edition, may we carry forward the knowledge and wisdom we've gained, using it to navigate the path ahead.

If you ever have any recommendations feel free to reach out to us at [email protected]

Have a great week :)

Recommended Books:

The Ghost That Died at Sunda Strait by W. G. Winslow

Recounting the last stand of the heavy cruiser Houston, this tale of survival brings to life the 1942 battle at Sunda Strait.

Lost at Guadalcanal: The Final Battles of the Astoria and Chicago as Described by Survivors and in Official Reports by John J. Domagalski

The dramatic account of two American warships in the South Pacific, this book follows the USS Astoria (CA–34) and USS Chicago (CA–29) during the late summer of 1942, when both participated in the early days of the critical battle for Guadalcanal. Drawing on a variety of firsthand accounts, some previously unpublished, the book tells the story from the perspective of the men aboard each ship, transporting readers inside the gun turrets, behind the lookout binoculars, and below deck as the battle rages. Individual stories of heroism, sacrifice and survival unfold as both vessels meet their fates in the South Pacific.

The Sinking of the Bismarck: The History of the Battle that Destroyed Nazi Germany’s Most Famous Battleship by Charles River Editors 

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