Notes
- Germans take Denmark and Norway. Sweden gave much of their steel to Germany, but Sweden was neutral, so Germany invading Norway was a move to protect Sweden and secure their steel.
- Germany also used Norway to send U-boats more quickly into the Atlantic.
- Norway was fiercely resistant to Nazism.
- Quisling was the leader of Norway, who collaborated with the Germans and helped them establish control.
- Before Germany took control, Norway sent all of their shipping supplies to Britain.
The Low countries
Netherlands, Belgium, Luxemburg. May 1940.
Times to surrender:
Netherlands: 4 days
Belgium: 18 days
Luxemburg: 2 days
British and French attempt to save Belgium, but they are very ineffectual. No one is prepared for Blitzkrieg warfare. (Luxemburg very close to the Maginot line, and there is the feeling that France might be next).
Video
Summary
On April 8 and 9, Hitler invades Denmark and Norway. This invasion had two purposes. The Germans were after the steel that came from Sweden, so, in the defence of this steel, the British land in Norway declaring their help for Finland.
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Political Cartoon
Quotes
“Jews have no place in Europe. They are an internationally destructive element. The Jews create the Jewish problem and cause active Anti-Semitism. For the NS there can be no compromise in this struggle. Those who are not for us are against us.”- Quisling
Subjunctive Question
What if Quisling had not been so willing to compromise his country? Maybe Norway could have limited Germany's early gains in the war?