The London Blitz

by hparkins, posted in - World War II

Today’s post comes from National Archives Office of Strategy and Communications staff writer Rob Crotty.

This picture, taken during the first mass air raid on London, 7th September 1940, describes more than words ever could, the scene in London's dock area. Tower Bridge stands out against a background of smoke and fires. New York Times Paris Bureau Collection., ca. 1950 - ca. 1950 (306-NT-2743V)
This picture, taken during the first mass air raid on London, 7th September 1940, describes more than words ever could, the scene in London’s dock area. Tower Bridge stands out against a background of smoke and fires. New York Times Paris Bureau Collection., ca. 1950 – ca. 1950 (306-NT-2743V)

Seventy years ago this week, the German blitz on London began, devastating the British capital. The Blitz brought World War II to England’s home front.

For 57 consecutive days and nights the Blitz raged on. All told the indiscriminate bombings of London and greater England would claim the lives of 43,000 civilians, half of whom were Londoners. Over a million buildings were destroyed or damaged.

For more photos, visit our Facebook photo album, “The London Blitz.”

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