32 events found for 1940
Second World War: The Royal Navy attacked the French fleet at Mers El Kébir (pictured), fearing that the ships would…
The Story Bridge in Brisbane, the longest cantilever bridge in Australia, was opened by Sir Leslie Wilson, Governor of…
Sumner Welles, U.S. Under Secretary of State, issued a declaration that the U.S. government would not recognize the…
At the Salzburg Conference, Adolf Hitler demanded the replacement of much of Slovakia's cabinet.
World War II: Italian forces began a conquest of British Somaliland, capturing the region in 16 days.
World War II: The German Luftwaffe launched an air operation, codenamed Adlertag, to destroy the British Royal Air…
Second World War: During the Battle of Britain, the Luftwaffe made an all-out effort to destroy RAF Fighter Command,…
The 1940 New England hurricane formed over the Atlantic Ocean; it would go on to cause widespread damage despite never…
Second World War: Two Royal navy destroyers were lost to mines and two other vessels damaged off Texel, Netherlands,…
Second World War: The Luftwaffe changed their strategy in the Battle of Britain and began bombing London and other…
Second World War: Italian forces captured the town of Sidi Barrani, but their invasion of Egypt progressed no further.
World War II: Polish resistance leader Witold Pilecki allowed himself to be captured by German forces and sent to…