What Happened This Year 1940

Historical Events from This Year 1940

Crime & Law

First Prisoners Arrive at Auschwitz Concentration Camp

May 20th, 1940 84 years ago

Auschwitz concentration camp welcomed its first prisoners, primarily Polish political prisoners. Established by the Nazis in German-occupied Poland, this facility was initially meant for the internment of individuals opposing the regime. The arrival marked the beginning of what would become one of the largest extermination camps in history.

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Politics & Government

Failed Assassination of Leon Trotsky in Mexico

May 24th, 1940 84 years ago

Iosif Grigulevich, an NKVD agent acting under Joseph Stalin’s orders, attempted to assassinate Leon Trotsky in Coyoacán, Mexico. The attempt unfolded as Grigulevich infiltrated Trotsky’s compound, where he sought to eliminate the prominent exiled Russian revolutionary. Despite orchestrating a plan involving a gun, the assassination was unsuccessful, allowing Trotsky to survive this violent plot against him, which further showcased the lengths to which the Soviet regime would go to eliminate its perceived enemies.

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Science & Technology

Igor Sikorsky's First Single-Rotor Helicopter Flight

May 24th, 1940 84 years ago

Igor Sikorsky successfully flew the first single-rotor helicopter, marking a significant milestone in aviation history. This innovative flight showcased Sikorsky's engineering prowess and dedication to rotary-wing flight. The test occurred in Connecticut, where the Vought-Sikorsky VS-300 prototype demonstrated the viability of the single-rotor configuration, which became essential for future helicopter designs.

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Military & Warfare

German 2nd Panzer Division Captures Boulogne-sur-Mer

May 25th, 1940 84 years ago

The German 2nd Panzer Division captured the port of Boulogne-sur-Mer after fierce fighting. The surrender of the remaining French and British forces marked the end of the Battle of Boulogne, part of the larger Campaign in the West during World War II. This pivotal seizure allowed the Germans to secure a strategic point for their operations along the French coastline.

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Military & Warfare

Siege of Calais ends with garrison surrender

May 26th, 1940 84 years ago

The Siege of Calais concluded with the surrender of British and French forces. This critical event occurred during World War II, as German troops advanced into France. The garrison had fought valiantly to delay the Germans, allowing Allied forces to regroup at Dunkirk. The surrender marked a significant moment in the Battle of France, as it showcased the overwhelming power of the German Blitzkrieg strategy. The fall of Calais also highlighted the strategic importance of the city as a point of defense for the Allies.

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Military & Warfare

Allied Evacuation Begins at Dunkirk

May 26th, 1940 84 years ago

In northern France, a massive evacuation operation named Operation Dynamo commenced, aiming to rescue Allied forces trapped at Dunkirk. As German troops advanced, British and French defenders fought tenaciously to hold the line, enabling the evacuation of over 338,000 soldiers between May 26 and June 4, 1940. This critical retreat marked a pivotal moment in World War II, showcasing both the desperation of the Allies and their resolve to regroup.

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Military & Warfare

Le Paradis Massacre of Royal Norfolk Soldiers

May 27th, 1940 84 years ago

In the Le Paradis massacre, 99 soldiers from the Royal Norfolk Regiment surrendered to German troops during World War II. After their surrender, they were executed at close range, with only two survivors managing to escape. This event was part of the larger context of the Battle of France, where British forces were facing overwhelming German advances.

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Military & Warfare

Belgium Surrenders to Nazi Germany

May 28th, 1940 84 years ago

Belgium capitulated to Nazi Germany after intense fighting during the Battle of Belgium, which took place from May 10 to May 28, 1940. The Belgian government decided to end hostilities to prevent further devastation and to protect its citizens. The surrender marked a significant turn in the early phase of World War II, as Germany rapidly advanced through Western Europe with its Blitzkrieg tactics. This swift victory over Belgium opened the road for German forces towards France, furthering their military objectives in the region.

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Military & Warfare

Allied Forces Recapture Narvik in Norway

May 28th, 1940 84 years ago

Allied forces composed of Norwegian, French, Polish, and British military units successfully recaptured the strategic town of Narvik in Norway from German occupation. This marked a significant first infantry victory for the Allies during World War II, demonstrating effective collaboration among diverse national troops. The operation was critical not only to maintain control over the northern supply routes but also to boost Allied morale early in the conflict.

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