What Happened This Year 1940
Historical Events from This Year 1940
Operation Compass Launches Against Italian Forces
British and Indian troops, led by Major-General Richard O'Connor, launched Operation Compass against the Italian 10th Army near Sidi Barrani in Egypt. This surprise attack began in the early morning hours, marking a significant offensive in the North African Campaign. The operation aimed to disrupt Italian military operations in Egypt and to secure a foothold for the British forces. Within days, the British forces achieved significant victories, capturing thousands of Italian troops and materiel.
Continue ReadingFirst Isolation of Plutonium-238 in Berkeley
Researchers at the University of California, Berkeley, managed to isolate plutonium-238, a significant isotope, on December 14, 1940. This was achieved by a team led by Glenn T. Seaborg, who utilized nuclear reactions involving uranium to produce and subsequently identify this new element. Their work was pivotal in advancing nuclear chemistry and physics, laying the groundwork for future developments in both research and nuclear energy applications.
Continue ReadingRisto Ryti Elected President of Finland
Risto Ryti, serving as Prime Minister, was elected President of Finland by the electoral college. This election was distinctive due to its circumstances during the ongoing Winter War against the Soviet Union, which necessitated a united leadership. Ryti's presidency was characterized by significant wartime governance, aiming to bolster national morale and drive strategies against external threats.
Continue ReadingFirst Appearance of Captain America in Comics
Captain America Comics #1 marked the debut of Captain America, created by writer Joe Simon and artist Jack Kirby. This iconic superhero, donning a patriotic costume and wielding a shield, was introduced as a super-soldier fighting against the Axis powers during World War II. Published by Timely Comics, this comic book quickly captured the imagination of readers amidst a tumultuous global landscape, reflecting America's fighting spirit during a time of impending conflict.
Continue ReadingGreek Army Captures Himara During Conflict
Himara, a strategic coastal town in Albania, was captured by the Greek army during the Greco-Italian War. This engagement showcased the Greek forces' resilience amid an Italian invasion. The capture not only strengthened Greek control over southern Albania but also acted as a significant morale booster for Greek troops facing the Italian army, who had invaded Greece in late 1940. The location's strategic importance lay in its position on the Albanian coast, providing vital access to the Mediterranean Sea.
Continue ReadingLuftwaffe Bombs London in Second Great Fire
During World War II, the Luftwaffe targeted London with incendiary bombs, resulting in extensive damage and nearly 200 civilian casualties. The raid was part of the relentless Blitz campaign during which German forces aimed to weaken British resolve and destroy critical infrastructure. Londoners, already suffering from previous air raids, faced another wave of destruction on this date.
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