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Germany felt that certain Polish territory was rightfully theirs. It had belonged to Germany until the Treaty of Versailles. Germany prepares to go to war to reclaim this land. America and Great Britain try to maintain the peace between Germany and Poland to no avail.
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The Nazis (leaders of the Germans) signed a pact with the Soviets (the Russians).
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Germany begins its attack on Poland at 4:40 a.m..
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Children across Britain began getting evacuated for fear of German bombing. Entire schools along with teacher were evacuated out into the countryside where it was safer. Pregnant women and women with young children were also evacuated. Many such waves of evacuations took place. When people thought it was safe enough, they would send for their children. Later, when the dangers rose, the children were evacuated once more. Foster care varied greatly for the young evacuees who were away from home.
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France, Australia, Britain, New Zealand, and Canada all declare war on Germany. Meanwhile, the United States declares its neutrality.
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By the end of 1939, both Poland and Czechoslovakia are controlled by the Nazis. The Soviets helped the Nazis conquer Poland, and Poland is divided up amongst them.
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The Nazis begin invading Denmark, Norway, France, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, and Belgium during this time.
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Belgium, the Netherlands, and Norway surrender to the Nazis.
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Latvia, Estonia, and Lithuania are captured by the Soviets.
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Egypt and Greece are invaded by Italy.