[Homer_J_Simpson]

Free Republic University, Department of History presents World War II Plus 70 Years: Seminar and Discussion Forum
First session: September 1, 2009. Last date to add: September 2, 2015.
Reading assignment: New York Times articles delivered daily to students on the 70th anniversary of original publication date. (Previously posted articles can be found by searching on keyword “realtime”.)
To Add this class to or drop it from your schedule notify Admissions and Records (Attn: Homer_J_Simpson) by freepmail. Those on the Realtime +/- 70 Years ping list are automatically enrolled. Course description, prerequisites and tuition information is available at the bottom of Homer’s profile.

[Homer_J_Simpson]

After . . . a plentiful exchange of letters, Hitler was now resigned to Mussolini’s leaving him in the lurch. Late on the night of August 26 he got off one more note to his Axis partner. It was dispatched by telegram from Berlin at 12:10 A.M. on August 27 and reached Mussolini that morning at 9 o’clock.

DUCE:

I have received your communication on your final attitude. I respect the reasons and motives which led you to take this decision. In certain circumstances it can nevertheless work out well.

In my opinion, however, the prerequisite is that, at least until the outbreak of the struggle, the world should have no idea of the attitude Italy intends to adopt. I therefore cordially request you to support my struggle psychologically with your press or by other means. I would also ask you, Duce, if you possibly can, by demonstrative military measures, at least to compel Britain and France to tie down certain of their forces, or at all events to leave them in uncertainty.

But, Duce, the most important thing is this: If, as I have said, it should come to a major war, the issue in the East will be decided before the two western Powers can score a success. Then, this winter, at latest in the spring, I shall attack in the West with forces which will be at least equal to those of France and Britain . . .

I must now ask a great favor of you, Duce. In this difficult struggle you and your people can best help me by sending me Italian workers, for both industrial and agricultural purposes . . . In specially commending this request of mine to your generosity, I thank you for all the efforts you have made for our common cause.

ADOLF HITLER

The Duce replied meekly late in the afternoon that the world would “not know before the outbreak of hostilities what the attitude of Italy is” – he would keep the secret well. He would also tie down as many Anglo-French military and naval forces as possible and he would send Hitler the Italian workers he requested.

William L. Shirer, The Rise and Fall of the Third Reich

[CougarGA7]

Got a few sound bites today. First we have a German Foreign Minister (It doesn't say who it is and I don't recognize the voice) warning the Poles that basically things have reached a critical mass (It is translated too)

Now for some news broadcasts.

The BBC carries the Czech Ambassador in London

CBS carries H.V. Kaltenborn

[dfwgator]

August 27, 1939. Poland defeats Hungary, the best soccer team in the world at that time 4-2. It was to be the “Last Game”, as it is known as in Poland.

It provided the last joy Poles would have for many years.

[GeronL]

Poles don’t expect an immediate war? Wow. They’re so scared they were yammering nonsense.

[GeronL]

Britains Territorial Army women’s auxiliary was paying $7 per week?

Thats a bit exorbitant