Today in the Second World War

The 3rd of September

Author

Hidden History
September 03, 2024

On September 3rd, we reflect on the pivotal moments in history that have marked significant turning points and new beginnings. This date has witnessed events that altered the course of nations and the lives of countless individuals. In this edition, we explore the key historical milestones that took place on September 3rd, uncovering the stories of change, resilience, and transformation. Join us as we delve into these moments, gaining insights into how the past continues to shape our present and guide our future.

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“The Mediterranean will be turned into an Italian lake.” - Italian Dictator Benito Mussolini

War

1939: 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.

King George VI of the United Kingdom delivering his radio address announcing Britain’s entry into the war with Germany, Buckingham Palace, London, England, UK, Sept 3, 1939 [staged press photo].

Removal

1941: The equivalent of a whole Red Army Division under NKVD officers was sent south to round up and deport all the Soviet Union's ethnic Germans they could find. By Jan 1942, 800,000 Germans from all parts of the Soviet Union had been shipped eastward.

NKVD Officers

Changing Teams

1943: The new Italian government signed a secret armistice with the Allies. Immediately after, Operation Baytown, the invasion of the Italian mainland, was launched across the Strait of Messina, with British and Canadian troops of British XIII Corps landing at Reggio Calabria without opposition.

British troops, presumably of the 5th Infantry Division, come ashore at Reggio, during the Allied invasion of Italy, September 1943.

Photo of the Day

Japanese troops scaling a wall, Baoshan County, Zhejiang, China, 3 Sep 1937

Bonus Photo

German Panzer I, Panzer II, and SdKfz. 251 vehicles in Poland, circa 3 Sep 1939; the officer in the SdKfz. 251 halftrack vehicle might be Heinz Guderian

As we conclude this edition on September 3rd, we reflect on the turning points and new beginnings that have shaped the world as we know it. The events we've explored today remind us of the power of change and the enduring impact of history on our lives. As we move forward, may we carry the lessons of these moments with us, using them to navigate the challenges and opportunities ahead. Thank you for joining us on this journey through history. Until our next edition, may the stories of the past continue to inspire and guide us.

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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