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The Supreme Command of the Allied Expeditionary Force, 1944
© IWM (TR 1629)
Second World War

Why D-Day Was So Important to Allied Victory

The invasion of northern France in 1944 was the most significant victory of the Western Allies in the Second World War. The German Army suffered a catastrophe greater than that of Stalingrad, the defeat in North Africa or even the massive Soviet summer offensive of 1944.

Wing Commander Guy Gibson with members of his crew, July 1943.
IWM TR 1127
Second World War

The Incredible Story Of The Dambusters Raid

On the night of 16-17 May 1943, Wing Commander Guy Gibson led 617 Squadron of the Royal Air Force on an audacious bombing raid to destroy three dams in the Ruhr valley, the industrial heartland of Germany. The mission was codenamed Operation 'Chastise'.

Women and men queuing outside Wood Green in 1945
Second World War

What You Need To Know About Rationing In The Second World War

In January 1940, the British government introduced food rationing. The scheme was designed to ensure fair shares for all at a time of national shortage.