Today in the Second World War

The 21st of July

Hidden History
July 21, 2023

Welcome to the July 21 edition of the Hidden History Newsletter. As we journey back to this day in history, we'll dive deep into the complex narrative of World War II, exploring significant events on both global and personal scales. So, let's together unfold the pages of history that shaped our world on this day, in the throes of the Second World War.

"The assertion that it is the intention of the German Reich to coerce the Austrian State is absurd" - Adolf Hitler

War Crimes

Outside Minsk, Byelorussia, German SS troops ordered 30 Byelorussians to bury 45 Jews alive in a pit; upon meeting refusal, the SS men executed the entire group of 75 by machine gun fire.

SS Soldiers

Defiance

Claus von Stauffenberg was executed in Berlin, Germany.

Claus von Stauffenberg, chief conspirator in the 20th of July plot.

Invasion of Guam

US 3rd Marine Division landed near Agana and US 1st Provisional Marine Brigade landed near Agat on Guam, Mariana Islands; the landing was supported by US Navy Task Force 53. US Navy and US Army aircraft attacked Tinian of Mariana Islands, Eniwetok of Marshall Islands, and Truk and Yap of Caroline Islands as indirect support. Troops of the US Army 77th Infantry Division arrived in the afternoon; their landing was difficult due to the lack of LVT vehicles. A mile-deep beachhead was established at both landing sites by sundown. The Japanese attempted a counterattack during the night, which was repulsed.

Two US officers plant the first American flag on Guam eight minutes after US Marines and Army assault troops landed on the beaches, 21 July 1944.

The End is Near

The Allied leadership threatened Japan with destruction if it did not surrender.

Allied leaders selected Nürnberg, Germany as the location for trials against accused German war criminals.

Bernard Montgomery, Winston Churchill, Harold Alexander, and Anthony Eden at the Charlottenberger Chausce reviewing stand during the Berlin victory parade, Germany, 21 July 1945.

Photo of the Day

Pennsylvania bombarding Guam with her 14-in and 5-in guns, 21 July 1944.

As we close our July 21 issue of the Hidden History Newsletter, we trust that you've found value and insight in retracing the steps of this pivotal day in World War II. Each historical narrative we delve into serves not just as a testament to our past, but a beacon to our future. We thank you for joining us today and look forward to further illuminating the complexities and courage of this era in future editions. Please continue to share your thoughts, questions, and insights with us - we always appreciate your engagement.

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

Have a great weekend :)

Recommended Books:

The Pope at War: The Secret History of Pius XII, Mussolini, and Hitler: Kertzer, David I.

NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER • “The most important book ever written about the Catholic Church and its conduct during World War II.”—Daniel Silva

Band of Brothers: E Company, 506th Regiment, 101st Airborne from Normandy to Hitler's Eagle's Nest: Ambrose, Stephen

Stephen E. Ambrose’s classic New York Times bestseller and inspiration for the acclaimed HBO series about Easy Company, the ordinary men who became the World War II’s most extraordinary soldiers at the frontlines of the war's most critical moments. Featuring a foreword from Tom Hanks.

World War II: The Definitive Visual History from Blitzkrieg to the Atom Bomb: DK

This defining period in world history is explored and explained as never before. World War II is captured in hundreds of compelling images, presenting the people, places, and politics involved in the epic conflict.

The Midwife of Auschwitz: Inspired by a heartbreaking true story, an emotional and gripping World War 2 historical novel: Stuart, Anna

Inspired by an incredible true story, this poignant novel tells of one woman’s fight for love, life and hope during a time of unimaginable darkness.

Three Ordinary Girls: The Remarkable Story of Three Dutch Teenagers Who Became Spies, Saboteurs, Nazi Assassins--and WWII Heroes: Brady, Tim

The astonishing true story of three fearless female resisters during WWII whose youth and innocence belied their extraordinary daring in the Nazi-occupied Netherlands. It also made them the underground's most invaluable commodity. Recruited as teenagers, Hannie Schaft, and Dutch sisters Truus and Freddie Oversteegen fulfilled their harrowing missions as spies, saboteurs, and Nazi assassins with remarkable courage, but their stories have remained largely unknown...until now.

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