London Blitz
Background
The London Blitz was a period of sustained strategic bombing of the United Kingdom by Nazi Germany during the Second World War. The bombings began on 7 September 1940 and continued for 57 consecutive nights, marking a significant escalation in the German bombing campaign over Britain.
Prelude to the Blitz
The Blitz was preceded by the Battle of Britain, a significant air campaign waged by the German Air Force (Luftwaffe) against the United Kingdom during the summer of 1940. The Luftwaffe's objective was to gain air superiority over the Royal Air Force (RAF), but despite heavy losses, the RAF was able to resist the German air offensive.
The Blitz Begins
On 7 September 1940, the Luftwaffe shifted its focus from RAF airfields and infrastructure to London and other major British cities. This marked the beginning of the Blitz, a campaign of sustained aerial bombing that would last until May 1941.
Impact on London
The Blitz had a profound impact on London and its inhabitants. The city's infrastructure was severely damaged, with many buildings destroyed or damaged beyond repair. The human cost was also significant, with thousands of Londoners killed or injured in the bombings.
Air Raid Precautions
In response to the bombings, the British government implemented a series of Air Raid Precautions (ARP). These included the construction of air raid shelters, the blackout, and the evacuation of children from urban areas.
End of the Blitz
The Blitz ended in May 1941 when Hitler ordered the Luftwaffe to shift its focus eastward in preparation for the invasion of the Soviet Union (Operation Barbarossa).
Legacy
The Blitz had a lasting impact on London and the United Kingdom. It marked a turning point in the Second World War and played a significant role in shaping British national identity in the post-war period.