From September 1940, Germany’s Luftwaffe subjected Britain to an intense bombing campaign lasting more than eight months. Around 43,000 civilians were killed, with many more injured or made homeless. But what led to the onslaught, and why could it not be stopped? How effective was Hitler’s campaign in achieving his aims? And how did the people of Britain react to this massive disruption to their daily lives and to the ever-present threat of death? 

This is a Short History of the Blitz.

Written by David Jackson. With thanks to Joshua Levine, historian and author of several books including The Secret History of the Blitz.

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