The Experience of War

WAR! War was declared on the 3 rd of September The first year was described as the “phoney war” The serious fighting began in earnest in 1940.

1940 The British Army had to be evacuated from Dunkirk. A serious setback which was turned into victory. The Battle of Britain, fought in the air, saved Britain from German invasion. There was a new national mood and a determination to defeat Hitler and create a better Britain.

The Government Churchill replaced Neville Chamberlain as Prime Minister. He formed a Coalition government including all the main parties Some Labour MPs were given important jobs Clement Atlee became deputy Prime Minister and Ernest Bevin the Minister of Labour.

Evacuation The government was afraid the Germans would bomb British cities. Plans to evacuate school age children from the cities to the country were put into operation. The condition of children from deprived areas shocked middle class country dwellers.

Effects Different sections of society met up and socialised with each other in a way that had never happened before. It raised awareness of continuing social problems. It helped unite Britain and give its people a common experience and purpose

Bombing The Germans bombed key factories, transport and communication links. London was bombed every night for three months. Other big industrial towns like Manchester, Liverpool and Coventry were targetted.

Scotland In Scotland Glasgow, Dundee, Edinburgh were bombed. Aberdeen was the most bombed city in Scotland with 34 attacks. The most famous raid was on Clydebank when 1,000 people died.

Effects Very often bombers missed their targets and civilian areas were damaged. The homes of the rich and poor alike were damaged. People of different classes were brought together whether sheltering together, working as part of the air defence team. The government had to help all groups in society.

Rationing 60% of British food supplies came from abroad. The Nazis controlled most of Europe. Shortages led to queues and rising prices

Rationing The government had to ensure there were Fair shares for all Food rationing was introduced in 1940 Clothes rationing was introduced in 1941.

Effects Rationing demonstrated the principle of universal and equal share of the national cake No one should profit from the war when everyone was fighting the same war.

Health The government also took direct control of the nation’s health. The ministry of food was to ensure everyone got not only their fair share but a balanced diet to be fit to fight. The ministry of food used propaganda to promote food economy and healthy eating.