What Happened This Year 1939
Historical Events from This Year 1939
Władysław Sikorski Becomes Prime Minister
On September 30, 1939, Władysław Sikorski was appointed as the Prime Minister of the Polish government-in-exile following Poland's invasion by German and Soviet forces. Sikorski, a decorated military leader and politician, took charge of the exiled government, which was based in Paris. His leadership came at a critical time when Poland faced overwhelming military defeat and needed to galvanize international support. The aim was to ensure the continuity of the Polish state while seeking to build alliances against the Axis powers.
Continue ReadingGerman Troops Capture Warsaw After Siege
Following a month-long siege, German forces successfully occupied Warsaw, Poland's capital. The assault began in September 1939 as part of a larger invasion of Poland, employing relentless aerial bombardments and ground assaults. Despite fierce resistance from Polish defenders, the city succumbed to German control, marking a significant moment in World War II and showcasing the effectiveness of blitzkrieg tactics.
Continue ReadingFinal Combat of the September Campaign in Poland
The Battle of Kock marked the last significant engagement during the Polish September Campaign, featuring the remnants of Polish forces facing overwhelming German troops. The battle commenced on October 2, 1939, in Kock, Poland, as Polish military units attempted to regroup and make a stand against the advancing Wehrmacht. Despite their courageous defense, Polish forces ultimately surrendered on October 5, concluding the campaign for Poland's defense against the German invasion.
Continue ReadingGermany's annexation of western Poland
In 1939, following the invasion of Poland, Germany annexed western territories, incorporating them into the Reich as part of its expansionist agenda. This action altered the borders of Poland and resulted in significant demographic and political changes in the region. The annexation was a direct consequence of the Molotov-Ribbentrop Pact, which had divided Poland between Germany and the Soviet Union. Poland's sovereignty was severely compromised as a result of this aggressive act.
Continue ReadingU-47 Sinks HMS Royal Oak at Scapa Flow
The German submarine U-47 penetrated the British naval base at Scapa Flow and sank the battleship HMS Royal Oak during the early morning hours. This successful attack marked a significant breach in British naval defenses and was a notable early victory for the German U-boat campaign in World War II. The Royal Oak was hit by torpedoes, leading to substantial loss of life and showcasing the potential vulnerability of battleships even in well-guarded ports.
Continue ReadingDedication of New York Municipal Airport
The New York Municipal Airport, later known as LaGuardia Airport, was dedicated on October 15, 1939. Located in East Elmhurst, Queens, the airport was named after New York City Mayor Fiorello LaGuardia. The dedication ceremony featured speeches from notable figures and marked the airport's official opening as a major hub for air travel, underscoring the growing importance of aviation in America.
Continue ReadingRAF's First Air Interception of Luftwaffe
No. 603 Squadron RAF successfully intercepted a Luftwaffe raid on British soil. This event marked a significant milestone as it was the first such interception of the war, showcasing the growing air defense capabilities of the United Kingdom against the German Air Force, known for its aggressive bombing campaigns. The squadron was notably equipped with Hawker Hurricanes, demonstrating the RAF's readiness to counter the threats posed by the Luftwaffe during the early months of World War II.
Continue ReadingRoosevelt Orders Cash-and-Carry Implementation
U.S. President Franklin D. Roosevelt directed the Customs Service to execute the provisions of the Neutrality Act of 1939. This legislation allowed nations engaged in conflict to purchase military supplies on a cash-and-carry basis, which meant they had to pay upfront and arrange their own transportation. This decision was significant in altering the U.S. stance from strict neutrality and provided much-needed aid to allies. Roosevelt's actions aimed to support Britain and France as they confronted aggression from Nazi Germany while minimizing the risk of U.S. involvement in the war.
Continue ReadingCapture of British Agents by German Forces
Two British agents from the Secret Intelligence Service (SIS) were captured by German forces following a failed operation in Venlo, Netherlands. The agents, Major Hugh McGhee and Captain John F. G. D. Peele, were attempting to negotiate with a German official about potential peace terms but were intercepted. Their capture marked a significant intelligence failure for Britain, exposing vulnerabilities in their operations in occupied Europe.
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