What Happened This Year 1939
Historical Events from This Year 1939
Hitler Survives Georg Elser's Assassination Attempt
During a rally in Munich commemorating the Beer Hall Putsch, Adolf Hitler narrowly escapes an assassination attempt by Georg Elser. The plot involved a bomb planted in the Bürgerbräukeller, a famous beer hall. The explosion caused significant damage and casualties but occurred shortly after Hitler had left the venue, allowing him to survive unscathed. Elser, a carpenter, was motivated by his opposition to Nazi rule and aimed to disrupt Hitler's power.
Continue ReadingF. E. Sillanpää Receives Nobel Prize in Literature
Finnish author Frans Eemil Sillanpää was awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature. Known for his profound exploration of rural life and the human condition, Sillanpää had gained recognition for works such as 'Hurskas kurjuus' and 'Ihmiset suviyössä'. His writing is characterized by a vivid sense of place, and he effectively captures the essence of Finnish existence. The Nobel Prize awarded him international acclaim and celebrated Finnish literature on a global stage.
Continue ReadingCzech Students Executed Amid Anti-Nazi Protests
In response to anti-Nazi demonstrations sparked by Jan Opletal's death, nine Czech students were executed. This led to the closure of all Czech universities and the detention of over 1,200 students, who were sent to concentration camps. The event highlighted the fierce opposition to Nazi occupation in Czechoslovakia.
Continue ReadingHMS Rawalpindi Sunk by German Battleships
HMS Rawalpindi, a British armed merchant cruiser, was sunk in the North Atlantic by the German battleships Scharnhorst and Gneisenau. This naval engagement occurred during World War II, when the Rawalpindi was on patrol in the dangerous waters looking for enemy vessels. Despite being significantly outgunned, the Rawalpindi fought bravely before succumbing to the firepower of the more powerful German warships.
Continue ReadingSoviet Army's Pretext for the Winter War
The Shelling of Mainila was an incident orchestrated by the Soviet Army, where they shelled their own village near the Finnish border, claiming it was an attack by Finnish forces. This event was utilized as propaganda to rally support for the impending invasion of Finland, which commenced just four days later. The incident raised tensions and provided a narrative for the Soviet leadership to justify their military actions against Finland.
Continue ReadingSoviet Red Army Invades Finland During Winter War
The Soviet Red Army launched an invasion of Finland, crossing the border in multiple locations while conducting aerial bombings of Helsinki and other Finnish cities. The core reason behind this military action was the Soviet Union's desire to gain strategic territory and security against a perceived threat from Finland, prompting Finland to mount a defense against the sudden onslaught. The conflict was characterized by soldiers' bravery against superior numbers and equipment.
Continue ReadingEstablishment of Finnish Democratic Republic
In Terijoki, Finland, the Soviet Union proclaimed the Finnish Democratic Republic, effectively establishing a puppet state during the Winter War. This entity was created to garner support for Soviet military objectives and undermine Finland's sovereignty. Soviet leaders aimed to counterbalance any potential threats from Finland, influenced by the geopolitical tension of the time. The declaration included an invitation for Finnish communists to join the government, further solidifying its alignment with Soviet interests.
Continue ReadingRyti I Cabinet Formed During Winter War
In Finland, the transition of government leadership occurred as the Cajander III Cabinet resigned amidst the early chaos of the Winter War. The new Ryti I Cabinet took charge as Parliament relocated to Kauhajoki to avoid Soviet airstrikes that were threatening the capital, Helsinki. This strategic movement underscored the urgency and severity of the conflict.
Continue ReadingLaGuardia Airport Begins Operations in NYC
LaGuardia Airport opened its doors, becoming a key air travel hub in New York City. Named after Mayor Fiorello LaGuardia, the airport aimed to provide commercial aviation services and replace the older and smaller Newark and Floyd Bennett Fields. Designed by the architectural firm of D.O. and T.A. LeFevre, LaGuardia initially had a single terminal and essential facilities, setting a standard for modern airports later on. Its strategic location in East Elmhurst established it as a vital part of America's air travel infrastructure, contributing to the growth of commercial aviation in the United States.
Continue Reading