Blitzkrieg Begins: 8 Documentaries on the Invasion of Poland
A Historical Examination of World War II's Opening Act
The German invasion of Poland on September 1, 1939 marked the beginning of World War II in Europe. This swift military campaign introduced the world to a new form of warfare known as blitzkrieg, or "lightning war." The rapid advance of German forces across Poland demonstrated the effectiveness of coordinated attacks using tanks, aircraft, and mobile infantry.
Several documentaries have captured the dramatic events of the Polish invasion, offering viewers insight into the strategies and tactics employed by the German military. These films provide historical context, eyewitness accounts, and analysis of the blitzkrieg approach that would come to define Germany's early conquests in World War II. Through archival footage and expert commentary, these documentaries bring to life a pivotal moment in 20th century history.
1) 'The Nazis Strike' by Frank Capra
'The Nazis Strike' is the second installment in Frank Capra's "Why We Fight" propaganda film series. Released in 1943, this documentary focuses on Nazi Germany's aggressive expansion leading up to World War II.
The film traces the origins of German expansionism back to Otto von Bismarck in 1863. It then fast-forwards to Hitler's rise and the Nazi Party's territorial ambitions.
Capra's work details Hitler's annexation of Austria and parts of Czechoslovakia. These conquests positioned Germany for its invasion of Poland, which is covered extensively in the film.
The documentary depicts the swift German conquest of Poland, accomplished in just three weeks. This blitzkrieg campaign prompted Britain and France to declare war on Germany.
'The Nazis Strike' uses maps, documentary footage, and narration to illustrate the Nazi military machine's relentless advance across Europe. It provides viewers with a clear understanding of the events leading to World War II's outbreak.
[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Nazis_Strike]
2) 'Katyń' directed by Andrzej Wajda
'Katyń' is a 2007 Polish historical drama film directed by acclaimed filmmaker Andrzej Wajda. The movie depicts the 1940 Katyn massacre, a mass execution of Polish military officers and intelligentsia by Soviet forces.
Wajda's personal connection to the subject matter lends depth to the film. His father was among those killed in the Katyn forest, making this project deeply meaningful for the director.
The film explores the aftermath of the massacre through the experiences of the victims' families. It portrays their long wait for news and their struggle with conflicting narratives about their loved ones' fates.
'Katyń' received critical acclaim and was nominated for the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film. It stands as a powerful testament to a tragic chapter in Polish history.
The movie's unflinching portrayal of historical events serves as both a memorial and a call for truth. It sheds light on a long-suppressed atrocity and its impact on subsequent generations.
3) 'The World at War: Poland' narrated by Laurence Olivier
'The World at War' is a landmark documentary series chronicling World War II. The episode focused on Poland provides a detailed account of the German invasion that ignited the global conflict.
Narrated by the renowned actor Laurence Olivier, this installment offers a compelling examination of the events surrounding September 1, 1939. It combines archival footage with expert commentary to paint a vivid picture of the blitzkrieg tactics employed by Nazi forces.
The documentary explores the devastating impact of the invasion on Polish civilians and military alike. It also delves into the political context, including the Molotov-Ribbentrop Pact between Germany and the Soviet Union.
Produced in 1973, 'The World at War' series set a new standard for historical documentaries. Its comprehensive approach and high production values continue to influence filmmakers today.
The Poland episode serves as a crucial entry point for understanding the early stages of World War II. It provides viewers with a clear and concise overview of this pivotal moment in history.
[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_World_at_War]
4) 'Hitler's Blitzkrieg' by The History Channel
'Hitler's Blitzkrieg' offers a detailed examination of the German invasion of Poland in 1939. The documentary showcases the swift and brutal tactics employed by Nazi forces at the start of World War II.
Viewers gain insights into the German military strategy that overwhelmed Polish defenses. The film highlights the use of coordinated air and ground assaults that defined the blitzkrieg approach.
Historical footage and expert commentary provide context for the invasion's impact. The documentary explores how this attack marked the beginning of a new era in warfare.
'Hitler's Blitzkrieg' also delves into the political climate preceding the invasion. It examines Hitler's motivations and the international community's response to Germany's aggression.
The film presents a comprehensive look at the events that plunged Europe into conflict. It serves as an educational resource for those seeking to understand the opening moves of World War II.
https://www.imdb.com/title/tt1754191/
5) 'The Eagle Unbowed' by Halik Kochanski
'The Eagle Unbowed' by Halik Kochanski is a comprehensive book that explores Poland's experience during World War II. Published in 2012, it offers a detailed account of the Polish perspective on the conflict.
Kochanski's work covers the entirety of Poland's wartime journey, from the initial invasion in September 1939 to the aftermath of the war. The book examines both the German and Soviet occupations of Poland.
'The Eagle Unbowed' highlights Poland's significant contributions to the Allied war effort between 1940 and 1943. It also delves into the experiences of Polish exiles in the Soviet Union and their subsequent escape.
This book stands out for its thorough examination of Poland's wartime history, filling a gap in English-language literature on the subject. Kochanski's research provides insights into the political, military, and human aspects of Poland's struggle during World War II.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Eagle_Unbowed
6) 'September 1939: Poland Defends the World' by TVP1
'September 1939: Poland Defends the World' is a documentary produced by TVP1, Poland's public television broadcaster. The film focuses on the Polish perspective of the invasion that marked the beginning of World War II.
This documentary showcases the valiant efforts of Polish soldiers and civilians who fought against overwhelming odds. It presents archival footage and interviews with historians to provide a comprehensive view of Poland's defense.
The film highlights key battles and moments of resistance, including the defense of Westerplatte and the siege of Warsaw. It also explores the diplomatic context leading up to the invasion and its aftermath.
'September 1939: Poland Defends the World' emphasizes Poland's role as the first nation to actively resist Nazi Germany's aggression. The documentary serves as a tribute to the Polish people's courage and sacrifice during this critical period in world history.
https://www.tvp.pl/historia/dokumenty-historyczne
7) 'The Battle of Westerplatte' directed by Paweł Chochlew
'The Battle of Westerplatte' is a 2013 Polish-Lithuanian war film that depicts the opening conflict of World War II. Directed by Paweł Chochlew, the film focuses on the Polish defense of the Westerplatte peninsula against German invasion in September 1939.
The movie portrays the seven-day battle where Polish troops held their ground against overwhelming German forces. It showcases the courage and determination of the Polish soldiers who continued fighting despite being vastly outnumbered.
Chochlew's film features a cast including Michał Żebrowski, Robert Żołędziewski, and Jan Englert. The story centers on the conflict between the Westerplatte commander Henryk Sucharski and his officers as they face the German onslaught.
While not entirely historically accurate, the film serves as a patriotic tribute to Polish resistance. It dramatizes the events that unfolded when the German battleship Schleswig-Holstein opened fire on the Westerplatte garrison, marking the start of World War II.
https://www.imdb.com/title/tt2392057/
8) 'War of Worlds: Poland Under Siege' by BBC
'War of Worlds: Poland Under Siege' is a BBC documentary that examines the German invasion of Poland in 1939. The film provides a comprehensive look at the events leading up to and during the initial stages of World War II.
The documentary uses archival footage and expert interviews to explore the Nazi strategy of Blitzkrieg. It details how the German forces quickly overwhelmed Polish defenses with their superior military technology and tactics.
Viewers gain insight into the devastating impact of the invasion on Polish civilians. The film depicts the bombing of Warsaw and other cities, showcasing the brutal reality of modern warfare.
'War of Worlds: Poland Under Siege' also covers the Soviet invasion of eastern Poland, which occurred just weeks after the German attack. This aspect of the conflict is often overlooked in popular accounts of World War II's beginnings.
The documentary provides a balanced perspective on the Polish resistance efforts and the eventual fall of the country to the invading forces. It serves as a valuable resource for understanding this pivotal moment in 20th-century history.
https://www.bbc.co.uk/history/worldwars/wwtwo/invasion_poland_01.shtml
Historical Context of the Invasion
The invasion of Poland in 1939 emerged from a complex web of political tensions and historical grievances in Europe. Long-simmering disputes and aggressive expansionism set the stage for this pivotal event that sparked World War II.
Pre-War Tensions in Europe
Nazi Germany's territorial ambitions escalated rapidly in the late 1930s. Hitler annexed Austria in 1938 and dismembered Czechoslovakia in 1939. These aggressive moves alarmed other European powers but yielded only limited resistance.
The Nazi-Soviet Non-Aggression Pact, signed in August 1939, secretly divided Poland between Germany and the USSR. This agreement removed the threat of Soviet intervention against a German invasion.
Britain and France had guaranteed Poland's independence earlier in 1939. However, their ability to provide immediate military assistance was limited by geography and lack of preparedness.
The Treaty of Versailles and Its Impact
The 1919 Treaty of Versailles, which ended World War I, imposed harsh penalties on Germany. These included territorial losses, military restrictions, and heavy reparations payments.
Many Germans resented the treaty's terms, viewing them as unjust and humiliating. Hitler exploited this sentiment to build popular support for his nationalist and expansionist agenda.
The treaty created the Polish Corridor, giving Poland access to the Baltic Sea. This separated East Prussia from the rest of Germany, becoming a major grievance for German nationalists.
Versailles' limitations on German military power were gradually eroded in the 1930s. By 1939, Germany had rebuilt its armed forces in violation of the treaty, preparing for aggressive action.
Blitzkrieg Warfare Tactics
Blitzkrieg tactics revolutionized modern warfare through rapid, coordinated attacks using mechanized forces and air power. These strategies aimed to overwhelm enemies quickly and decisively.
Mechanized Units and Their Role
Tanks formed the spearhead of Blitzkrieg attacks, supported by motorized infantry and artillery. These fast-moving armored units punched through enemy lines, creating gaps for follow-up forces to exploit.
German Panzer divisions concentrated their strength at key points, overwhelming defenders before they could react. Infantry transported in half-tracks and trucks kept pace with tanks, securing captured territory.
Mobile artillery provided crucial fire support, moving swiftly to new positions as the front line advanced. This coordinated approach allowed Blitzkrieg forces to maintain a rapid tempo of operations.
Air Superiority and Strategies
The Luftwaffe played a vital role in Blitzkrieg tactics, supporting ground forces and disrupting enemy defenses. Dive bombers like the Ju-87 Stuka attacked frontline positions with pinpoint accuracy.
Fighter aircraft secured air superiority, preventing enemy planes from interfering with ground operations. Bombers targeted enemy airfields, supply lines, and command centers to sow chaos behind the lines.
Close air support missions coordinated directly with advancing armored units, helping overcome pockets of resistance. This air-ground integration amplified the shock effect of Blitzkrieg attacks.
Reconnaissance aircraft provided real-time intelligence on enemy positions and movements, enabling commanders to exploit emerging opportunities rapidly.
