Evacuation - World War II

By nsteeves

  • Evacuation

    Evacuation
    In a climate of increasing fear at home and abroad about a war in Europe, the Committee on Evacuation is formed, to decide on the best strategies for evacuating children and the vulnerable from towns and cities aross the country in the event of war.

  • Invasion

    Invasion
    Hitler's army invades Czechoslovakia, further increasing speculation that war is imminent. Over the course of the summer, evacuation drills take place in towns across the country.

  • Poland

    Poland
    Hitler threatens to invade Poland. On August 31st, with war seemingly inevitable, th evacuation plan is put into action.

  • Poland Invasion

    Poland Invasion
    German armies invade Poland. Over 800,000 unaccompanied children are evacuated from British towns and cities, along with more than 500,000 mothers and young children, 13,000 expectant mothers, and 113,000 school teachers and escorts. This all happens over the course of 3 days. Many families choose to stay and face the war together.

  • Neville

    Neville
    Prime Minister Neville Chamberlain makes a radio address in which he announces that Britain has declared war on Germany. France, Australia and New Zealand also declare war on Germany.

  • "Phoney War"

    "Phoney War"
    September to December 1939 is a period known as the "Phoney War"; very little direct conflict between the competing powers occurs and no bombs are dropped on British cities. Many evacuees return home for Christmas, and since there has been no bombing, decide to stay there.

  • Food

    Food
    The rationing of food starts in Britain.

  • Blitz

    Blitz
    The beginning of the Blitz. German bombers begin nightly raids over London.