The Blitz Begins: September 7, 1940

On September 7, 1940, Nazi Germany initiated a sustained bombing campaign against London, marking the beginning of what would become known as “The Blitz.” This period of intense aerial bombardment was a significant phase of the Battle of Britain during World War II.

Context and Prelude

• Battle of Britain: Prior to The Blitz, the Battle of Britain was primarily an air battle between the German Luftwaffe and the British Royal Air Force (RAF). The objective for Germany was to gain air superiority in preparation for a potential invasion of Britain, codenamed Operation Sea Lion.
• Strategic Shift: After failing to decisively defeat the RAF, Adolf Hitler and the German High Command shifted their strategy to target British cities, aiming to demoralize the British population and force the government to negotiate peace.

Key Events of September 7, 1940

• First Raid: On the afternoon of September 7, 1940, approximately 348 German bombers, escorted by 617 fighters, attacked London. This marked the first of 57 consecutive nights of bombing.
• Targets: The initial raids focused on the East End of London, particularly the docks and industrial areas, causing significant damage and civilian casualties.
• Casualties and Damage: On the first day alone, around 430 civilians were killed, and over 1,600 were seriously injured. The raids caused widespread destruction, with fires raging across the city.

Broader Historical Significance

• Impact on Civilians: The Blitz had a profound psychological and physical impact on the British population. Despite the destruction, the British public’s resilience became a symbol of national defiance.
• Military Consequences: The shift to bombing cities allowed the RAF to recover and regroup, ultimately contributing to the failure of Germany’s air campaign.
• Cultural Legacy: The Blitz is remembered for the “Blitz Spirit,” characterized by the determination and solidarity of the British people. It also led to significant advancements in civil defense and air raid precautions.

Aftermath

• Duration: The Blitz continued until May 1941, with London being the primary target, although other cities across the UK were also heavily bombed.
• Casualties: By the end of the campaign, over 40,000 civilians had been killed, and more than a million homes were destroyed or damaged.
• Long-term Effects: The experience of The Blitz influenced post-war urban planning and architecture in Britain, as well as the development of early warning systems and radar technology.

The Blitz remains a pivotal moment in World War II history, illustrating both the horrors of modern warfare and the resilience of those who lived through it.