What Happened This Year 1940
Historical Events from This Year 1940
Initiation of Kanalkampf Shipping Attacks
On October 7, 1940, the Kanalkampf shipping attacks commenced against British maritime convoys as part of a strategy to weaken the Royal Navy and disrupt supply lines. This military operation was a precursor to the larger German campaign known as Operation Sea Lion, which aimed to invade Britain. The attacks were undertaken by the Luftwaffe, targeting British merchant vessels and aimed at asserting German dominance in the English Channel.
Continue ReadingEstablishment of Vichy France under Pétain
The Vichy regime was formally established when Philippe Pétain became the Chief of the French State. In the wake of France's defeat by Nazi Germany, Pétain's government was established in the unoccupied southern part of France. This regime collaborated with the Axis powers while presenting an image of French sovereignty, fundamentally altering France's political landscape during World War II.
Continue ReadingHitler Appoints First World War II Field Marshals
On this significant day, Adolf Hitler appointed several new field marshals in recognition of their military achievements during World War II. This ceremony took place in Germany, emphasizing the regime's emphasis on military success and leadership. The appointed individuals represented key military figures whose actions had significantly impacted the early stages of the war. With the appointments, Hitler aimed to boost morale and strengthen the military hierarchy, signaling a momentous shift in the German command structure as they sought to consolidate power.
Continue ReadingRoyal Navy vs Regia Marina at Cape Spada
On July 19, 1940, the Royal Navy engaged the Regia Marina near Cape Spada, leading to the sinking of the Italian light cruiser Bartolomeo Colleoni. The encounter, part of the larger Mediterranean conflict, resulted in 121 casualties among the Italian crew and marked a significant naval confrontation. The British fleet, utilizing superior tactics and firepower, successfully targeted the Italian vessel, showcasing the strategic importance of naval dominance in the region.
Continue ReadingFormation of the British Army's Intelligence Corps
Army Order 112 established the Intelligence Corps, formally integrating military intelligence roles. This unit arose from a need for enhanced strategic gathering amidst the ongoing war. The Intelligence Corps was tasked with various operations, including surveillance, reconnaissance, and analysis of enemy actions, ultimately shaping the British Army's approach to intelligence throughout WWII.
Continue ReadingCalifornia opens its first freeway
The Arroyo Seco Parkway, linking Los Angeles and Pasadena, opened as California's first freeway on July 20, 1940. Stretching approximately 8 miles, it showcased modern design principles including landscaped medians and overpasses. The parkway was designed to ease traffic and improve connectivity between urban centers, reflecting the growing dependency on automobiles. It became a model for later freeway projects across the nation, symbolizing a shift in American transportation infrastructure.
Continue ReadingDenmark Withdraws from the League of Nations
Denmark formally announced its departure from the League of Nations, joining a handful of countries that reconsidered their membership during a time of European turmoil. The decision was influenced by the significant changes in the geopolitical landscape as World War II escalated. Considering the current occupation by Nazi Germany, Denmark adopted a position aligning more closely with its national interests rather than the League’s collective security framework. The move symbolized a shift in Denmark's international relations amidst a backdrop of conflict.
Continue ReadingWelles' Declaration on Baltic States Recognition
Under Secretary of State Sumner Welles issued a declaration emphasizing the U.S. non-recognition policy towards the Soviet Union's annexation of Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania. This declaration reaffirmed the U.S. commitment to maintain legal and diplomatic principles against coercion and illegal territorial changes. The U.S. position aimed to support the sovereignty of these nations and highlight the illegitimacy of Soviet actions.
Continue ReadingSwitzerland's Defense Strategy Against Invasion
General Henri Guisan addressed the Swiss Army, insisting on a firm policy of resistance against any German invasion. He declared that surrender would be illegal, solidifying the nation's resolve to maintain its neutrality and territorial integrity. This pivotal moment took place during a time when Europe was grappling with the devastating effects of World War II, and Switzerland sought to ensure its safety amidst growing tensions in the region.
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