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- Today in the Second World War
Welcome, history enthusiasts, to your August 1st issue of the Hidden History Newsletter. As we journey 80 years back, we offer you a unique blend of profound insights, rare archival images, personal narratives and overlooked stories that painted the grand canvas of World War II. Today, as we sip our morning brew and delve into the often underappreciated events that transpired on this day, let's reflect on the monumental impact these moments had on shaping our collective past, and the enduring lessons of resilience and courage they instilled in humanity. Enjoy today's exploration!
"Hitler's large-scale demands for the Mediterranean meant that...the plans for...an 'Eastern Wall' were overtaken by the increasingly rapid advance of the Red Army" - Lieutenant General Warlimont - (Speaking after the war)
Asleep at the Wheel
Italian destroyer Ugolino Vivaldi detected British submarine HMS Oswald on the surface 15 miles off of the coast of southern Italy in the Mediterranean Sea, charging batteries and performing routine maintenance. Oswald made no attempt to escape or to attack the Italian ship, possibly because the commander suffers from night blindness when he was suddenly called to the bridge. Oswald was sunk by ramming and depth charges; 3 were killed and 52 were taken prisoner. The British commander (who ordered abandon ship before the ramming occurred, when Vivaldi was 100 yards away) was later court martialled on 5 charges for the loss of his ship and found to have been negligent in performing his duties. He was sentenced to forfeit all seniority as a lieutenant commander, to be dismissed and to be severely reprimanded.
HMS Oswald
No Betrayal
The Duke of Windsor, the former King Edward VIII of the United Kingdom, received German Foreign Minister Joachim von Ribbentrop's message. He turned down Ribbentrop's request for him to help bring peace between Britain and Germany, citing his loyalty to the British government. He did, however, maintain a channel of communications with Germany in the future should his assistance be helpful once again. To Ribbentrop's dismay, the duke departed Lisbon, Portugal for the Bahamas by the end of the day, ending the German attempt to use him to form a new pro-German leadership in Britain.
Edward reviewing SS guards with Robert Ley.
Sorry Bye
Britain broke off diplomatic relations with Finland for invading Russia. Just over a year earlier, Britain had supported the Finns against the Russians.
Franco-British support was offered on the condition their armed forces be given free passage through neutral Norway and Sweden instead of taking the difficult and Soviet-occupied passage from Petsamo.
Denial
The United States Navy Bureau of Ordnance admitted problems with torpedoes, but only that they were running 10 feet to deep, refusing to address the detonator failure issue.
Captain Theodore Westfall, NTS CO and Captain Carl Bushnell of the Bureau of Ordnance, inspect a Mark 14 torpedo at the Naval Torpedo Station, Keyport, Washington, 1943.
Photo of the Day
A Soviet soldier walking along a road in Russia, 1 August 1943; note field gun in background.
As we conclude today's edition of the Hidden History Newsletter, we express our gratitude for your companionship on this shared exploration of August 1st's stories from the Second World War. Remember, these stories are not mere past events but echo the human spirit of sacrifice, resilience, and the pursuit of peace. We hope they inspire and enlighten you. Until we reconvene tomorrow for another day in history, keep the echoes of the past alive in your thoughts.
If you ever have any recommendations feel free to reach out to us at [email protected]
Have a great week :)
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