Today in the Second World War

Welcome to today's special September 3rd edition of the Hidden History Newsletter. On this day in 1939, Britain and France declared war on Germany, a pivotal moment that broadened the scope of World War II and set the stage for a global conflict that would last six years. Today, we delve into the immediate repercussions of this historic declaration, examine the political climate that led to it, and explore how it forever changed the lives of countless individuals. As we look back at these seminal events, let us remember their lasting impact on the world and honor the sacrifices made.

"National Socialist Germany wants peace because of its fundamental convictions. And it wants peace also owing to the realization of the simple primitive fact that no war would be likely essentially to alter the distress in Europe... The principal effect of every war is to destroy the flower of the nation... Germany needs peace and desires peace!" - Adolf Hitler - 21st May 1935

World War

At 0900 hours, British Ambassador in Germany Nevile Henderson delivered the British declaration of war to German Foreign Minister Joachim von Ribbentrop, effective at 1100 hours; British Commonwealth nations of New Zealand and Australia followed suit. France would also declare war later on this day, effective at 1700 hours. In the afternoon, Adolf Hitler issued an order to his generals, again stressing that German troops must not attack British and French positions. Finally, Hitler also sent a message to the Soviet Union, asking the Soviets to jointly invade Poland.

The first RAF operation flight over Germany was a reconnaissance mission, but later in the night RAF bombers would conduct a leaflet raid.

The British government announced the immediate closure of all theatres, cinemas, music halls and other places of public entertainment. Football matches and other events likely to be attended by large crowds were banned, as was the blowing of whistles or sounding of horns.

At 1115 hours, British Prime Minsiter Neville Chamberlain announced over radio that because Germany had failed to withdraw troops from Poland by 1100 hours, a state of war now existed between the United Kingdom and Germany.

Change in Strategy

50 German Do 17 bombers escorted by 80 Bf 110 fighters and 40 Bf 109 fighters flew up the Thames Estuary in souther England, United Kingdom, then split up to hit RAF airfields at North Weald, Hornchurch, and Debden. All three airfields were badly damaged, but all remained operational. Biggin Hill also saw two minor raids on this date. Luftwaffe lost 17 fighters and 8 bombers, while the RAF lost 20 fighters and 2 bombers (to friendly fire). During a meeting on this date, Kesselring recommended Göring to cease the bombing of British fighter airfields because there were too many of them; instead, he suggested to bomb London and use the threat of civilian deaths to force large numbers of British fighters to come to battle. Overnight, German bombers attacked Kent, Liverpool, and South Wales.

Experiments

Experimental trials of gas chambers at Block II of Auschwitz Concentration Camp in Poland began, using Soviet prisoners of war as test subjects. Zyklon-B was used.

Photo of the Day

Cruiser Mk IV tanks of British 3rd Royal Tank Regiment on exercise in East Anglia, England, United Kingdom, 3 September 1940.

As we wrap up this special September 3rd edition, let's pause to remember the monumental impact of the events that unfolded on this day in 1939, when Britain and France declared war on Germany. Their decision set in motion a global conflict that would shape the course of history and humanity. Thank you for engaging with us today—your interest keeps the lessons and memories of WWII alive for future generations. Until our next edition, lest we forget.

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

Have a great weekend :)

Recommended Books:

Today’s email was brought to you by Hidden History.