Today in the Second World War

The 19th of July

Author

Hidden History
July 19, 2024

Welcome to our July 19 edition, where we delve into the significant events and compelling stories of World War II. In this issue, we explore the acts of bravery, strategic maneuvers, and personal sacrifices that shaped this era. Our mission is to bring these historical moments to life, offering you a deeper understanding and appreciation of the past. Thank you for joining us on this journey of discovery and remembrance, and for your dedication to preserving these important stories.

Want U-Boat or Warship models? Go here: https://hiddenhistoryyt.myshopify.com

Want to learn more about Submarines? Click here: https://hiddenhistoryyt.com

“I speak in the name of the entire German people when I assure the world that we all share the honest wish to eliminate the enmity that brings far more costs than any possible benefits. It would be a wonderful thing for all of humanity if both peoples would renounce force against each other forever. The German people are ready to make such a pledge.” – October 14th, 1933. - Adolf Hitler

Not Yet

1938: Ludwig Beck met with German Army chief Walther von Brauchitsch, attempting to persuade him to use his influence to put a stop to the invasion of Czechoslovakia. He also offered suggestions on what he thought Adolf Hitler's government should be doing, mainly social and civil concerns, instead of provoking war at this stage of Germany's rearmament.

Ludwig Beck

Battle of Cape Spada

1940: Battle of Cape Spada: British destroyers HMS Hyperion, HMS Hasty, HMS Ilex, and HMS Hero engaged Italian cruisers Giovanni dalle Bande Nere and Bartolomeo Colleoni. As the British destroyers began to flee from fight, Australian cruiser HMAS Sydney and British destroyer HMS Havock arrived to lend help. Sydney disabled Bartolomeo Colleoni with gunfire, and Ilex and Hyperion launched torpedoes to sink her, killing 121. Giovanni dalle Bande Nere was able to withdraw. 555 survivors of Bartolomeo Colleoni was rescued by Ilex and Hyperion after the battle.

Italian cruiser Bartolomeo Colleoni under attack from HMAS Sydney and destroyer flotilla

Intelligence

1941: Winston Churchill decided to share military intelligence gained by deciphering the German Enigma-encoded messages with the Soviets, but the Soviets would not be told how the intelligence was gained; instead, they were told that the intelligence was gained through a spies in Berlin.

Too Much

1943: Adolf Hitler and Benito Mussolini meet at Feltre in northern Italy in a magnificent villa. Mussolini had come to ask Hitler for massive military help, but the meeting was a fiasco with Hitler promising no specific aid and instead spent the entire morning in a dreary dialogue about German arms production. Mussolini was unable to pin Hitler down with specific demands for equipment and troops. Just before lunch, a messenger arrived with the news that Rome, Italy had suffered a heavy air attack. Mussolini was so upset that he could no longer listen to Hitler's waffle. Yet at a private luncheon Hitler was able to persuade Mussolini that his secret weapons, including atom warheads on flying bombs, could still win the war for the Axis.

Photo of the Day

WASP trainee pilot Shirley Slade on the cover of the 19 Jul 1943 issue of Life Magazine

Bonus Photo

A Churchill infantry tank being unloaded from a Diamond T tank transporter, Arezzo, Italy, 19 Jul 1944 Best

As we conclude our July 19 edition, we hope the stories and insights shared have deepened your appreciation for the remarkable events and individuals of World War II. Your continued support and interest are crucial in keeping these memories alive. Thank you for joining us in honoring and remembering the past. We look forward to bringing you more compelling narratives in our future issues. Until then, let's continue to reflect on the lessons of history and celebrate the resilience and bravery of those who shaped our world.

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 

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

Was this email forwarded to you? You can subscribe here!