Today in the Second World War

The 5th of December

Hidden History
December 05, 2023

Welcome to today's edition, where we delve into the historical significance of December 5 in the context of World War II. This day witnessed a series of key events, from decisive battles to strategic diplomatic maneuvers, each playing a crucial role in the unfolding of the war. Our aim is to bring these moments to light, offering a blend of tactical analysis and human stories that highlight the day's impact. Join us as we explore the narratives of December 5, revealing the depth and lasting influence of these events on the course of history and their relevance to our understanding of the world today.

"It is on this beautiful day that we celebrate the Fuhrers birthday and thank him for he is the only reason why Germany is still alive today" - Josef Goebbels - Ministry of Propaganda - 26th April 1945

Plotting

1941: Joachim von Ribbentrop gave Japanese ambassador Hiroshi Oshima a draft document which noted that Germany would declare war on the United States should Japan and the US enter a state of war.

Joachim von Ribbentrop being greeted by Japanese Ambassador Hiroshi Ōshima and his wife Toyoko, at the Japanese embassy in Berlin

Photo of the Day

Abandoned German vehicles on the Volokolamsk Highway near Moscow, Russia, 5 Dec 1941

As we bring this edition to a close, we thank you for joining us in retracing the pivotal moments of December 5 in World War II. Our journey today has taken us through various facets of the war, from the strategic battlegrounds to the personal sagas of resilience and courage. We hope that these insights have not only enriched your understanding of this significant period in history but also underscored the ongoing relevance of these events in shaping our contemporary world. As we part ways, let us continue to carry the lessons and stories of this era with us, allowing them to inform our perspectives and actions. Join us again as we forge ahead in our exploration of the rich and complex history of World War II.

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

Have a great week :)

Recommended Books:

At Dawn We Slept by Gordon W. Prange

Revisit the definitive book on Pearl Harbor in advance of the 78th anniversary (December 7, 2019) of the "date which will live in infamy".

Judgement at Tokyo by Gary J. Bass

A landmark, magisterial history of the trial of Japan’s leaders as war criminals—the largely overlooked Asian counterpart to Nuremberg.

The Things Our Fathers Saw by Matthew A. Rozell

How soon we forget. Or perhaps, we were never told. That is understandable, given what they saw. But, it happened.

Operation: Snare Drum: A WWII Submarine Adventure Novel by Scott W. Cook

December 7, 1941 - America is attacked by the Japanese and dragged into a worldwide struggle for power unlike anything ever seen on Earth.

Pacific Sniper: A World War II Thriller by David Healey

In December 1941, the surprise attack on Pearl Harbor plunges the United States into war. Fresh from the hardscrabble mountains of Appalachia, Deacon Cole joins the fight against Imperial Japan.

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