What Happened This Year 1940

Historical Events from This Year 1940

Politics & Government

Hitler and Franco's Diplomatic Meeting

October 23rd, 1940 84 years ago

Adolf Hitler and Francisco Franco convened in Hendaye, France, to discuss the possibility of Spain joining the Axis powers during World War II. The meeting took place on October 23, 1940, and was marked by tensions regarding Spain's neutrality and its potential contributions to the Nazi effort. Despite the Axis powers' hopes for Spain's involvement, Franco was hesitant, seeking to protect Spanish interests and sovereignty while navigating pressures from Hitler and the ongoing conflict in Europe.

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Military & Warfare

Benjamin O. Davis Sr. Becomes First African American General

October 25th, 1940 84 years ago

Benjamin O. Davis Sr. was appointed as the first African American general in the United States Army. This milestone took place during a time when racial segregation was prevalent in the military and society at large. Davis's promotion was significant as it challenged the prevailing attitudes regarding race and military leadership. His distinguished service played a critical role in advocating for racial equality within the armed forces.

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Military & Warfare

Greece Resists Italian Ultimatum

October 28th, 1940 84 years ago

On this day, Greece rejected an ultimatum from Italy, which demanded the surrender of Greek territory. Italian forces then launched an invasion from Albania just hours later. The Greek government, led by Prime Minister Ioannis Metaxas, declared a resolute 'no', which ignited widespread national support for the defense of the country. This marked the beginning of the Greco-Italian War, a significant conflict in World War II.

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Military & Warfare

First Day of Battle of Elaia–Kalamas

November 2nd, 1940 84 years ago

The Battle of Elaia–Kalamas commenced between Greek and Italian forces, marking a significant turning point in the Greco-Italian War. Launched by Italy with a surprise attack on Greek positions, the battle saw intense fighting in the mountainous terrain of northwestern Greece. Greek forces, under the command of General Konstantinos Bakopoulos, managed to initially repulse the Italian advance, demonstrating remarkable resilience despite being outnumbered. This confrontation symbolized Greek defiance against Italian aggression during World War II.

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Military & Warfare

Admiral Scheer Sinks HMS Jervis Bay

November 5th, 1940 84 years ago

The British armed merchant cruiser HMS Jervis Bay was sunk by the German pocket battleship Admiral Scheer during a battle in the Atlantic Ocean. This encounter occurred while the Jervis Bay was escorting a convoy of merchant ships. Despite being heavily outgunned, the Jervis Bay engaged Admiral Scheer, creating a diversion that allowed most of the convoy to escape. The loss of the Jervis Bay marked a significant event in naval warfare, demonstrating the tactics of merchant vessels in defensive operations.

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Politics & Government

Franklin D. Roosevelt Wins Third Presidential Term

November 5th, 1940 84 years ago

Franklin D. Roosevelt was elected to a third term as President of the United States, making him the first and only president to achieve this milestone. The election occurred during a time when the nation was grappling with the Great Depression and the looming threat of World War II in Europe. Roosevelt's leadership style and economic policies, particularly the New Deal, garnered significant support. Facing off against Republican candidate Wendell Willkie, Roosevelt's campaign focused on stability and preparedness, resonating with voters who sought continuity amid global uncertainty.

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Transportation & Infrastructure

Tacoma Narrows Bridge Collapses in Windstorm

November 7th, 1940 84 years ago

The Tacoma Narrows Bridge, located in Tacoma, Washington, famously collapsed due to aeroelastic flutter during a severe windstorm. Constructed as a suspension bridge, it opened to the public just four months prior, in July 1940. On this day, the bridge began to sway uncontrollably in strong winds, ultimately leading to its dramatic failure. This incident highlighted the importance of aerodynamics in bridge design and was witnessed by many, prompting significant engineering discussions.

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Military & Warfare

Greek Forces Repulse Italian Invasion in Epirus

November 8th, 1940 84 years ago

In the Battle of Elaia–Kalamas, outnumbered Greek units successfully repulsed the invading Italian forces in Epirus. The conflict erupted as Italy sought to expand its territorial control in the Balkans, believing that Greece would easily yield. The Greeks, however, mounted a determined resistance, demonstrating tactical prowess and resilience against better-equipped adversaries. The battle exemplified the unexpected strength of Greek military forces during World War II.

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Military & Warfare

Warsaw Receives Virtuti Militari from Exiled Government

November 9th, 1940 84 years ago

The Polish government-in-exile awarded Warsaw the Virtuti Militari for its resistance during World War II. This prestigious military decoration was presented to recognize the valor and heroism of the city’s citizens in the face of Nazi occupation. The award symbolized not only national pride but also hope for liberation. The ceremony, held in London, honored the city’s enduring spirit amidst the war's devastation.

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