Ep 2. Distant War: September 1939 - May 1940

In The World At War season 1 episode 2, titled "Distant War: September 1939 - May 1940," we are taken back to the early days of World War II. The episode begins with the declaration of war on September 3rd, 1939, and the excitement and anticipation felt by the people of Britain quickly turns to fear and uncertainty as they realize the unfolding of what will be one of the most devastating conflicts in human history.

The episode covers the events of the war from September 1939 through May 1940, as the war rages on in Europe and the world watches on anxiously. We see how the German army, under the leadership of Adolf Hitler, launches a series of lightning-fast attacks on Poland, Denmark, Norway, Belgium, and the Netherlands, using tactics that would come to be known as the Blitzkrieg. These swift and brutal attacks catch the allied forces off guard and result in devastating losses on both sides.

In this episode, we also learn about the impact of the war on ordinary citizens. We see how people in Britain prepare for the inevitable air raids and how they cope with the bombing raids when they do occur. We witness the bravery of those who worked to keep the country going during these difficult times, such as the doctors and nurses who treated the injured and the emergency services who worked to keep the population safe.

The episode also covers the diplomatic efforts to end the war and the various alliances that were formed during this time. We see how Germany formed the Axis Powers with Japan and Italy and how Britain and France became part of the Allied Powers with other countries, including the Soviet Union.

Overall, "Distant War: September 1939 - May 1940" gives us a fascinating insight into the early days of WWII. Through interviews with survivors and historians, this episode offers a poignant reminder of the impact that war has on people's lives. It is a gripping and emotional look at one of the most significant periods in history that changed the world forever.