What Happened This Year 1940
Historical Events from This Year 1940
Hitler and Franco's Diplomatic Meeting
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.
Continue ReadingBenjamin O. Davis Sr. Becomes First African American General
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.
Continue ReadingGreece Resists Italian Ultimatum
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.
Continue ReadingFirst Day of Battle of Elaia–Kalamas
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.
Continue ReadingAdmiral Scheer Sinks HMS Jervis Bay
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.
Continue ReadingFranklin D. Roosevelt Wins Third Presidential Term
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.
Continue ReadingTacoma Narrows Bridge Collapses in Windstorm
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.
Continue ReadingGreek Forces Repulse Italian Invasion in Epirus
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.
Continue ReadingWarsaw Receives Virtuti Militari from Exiled Government
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.
Continue Reading