Website #1: Spartacus Educational |
This website is credible because it (1) has a list of references, (2) it was updated within the last three years (9/?/14), and (3) it has at least three working hyperlinks.
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This credible website outlines the details of the battle, beginning by stating exactly what the Battle of Britain was. It began in July of 1940, "the German airforce began its mass bomber attacks on British radar stations, aircraft factories, and fighter airfields," (Website 1). Such heavy fire raining down from the sky had never been seen in war before, and the Blitz was a major landmark in war technology and battle strategy. This was modern warfare. In September, the German air force "began to concentrate on bombing London," (Website 1). With such a large population and industry, London was a prime target. After the first day, German bombs had killed about 430 people, and the next day "a further 412 died," (Website 1). London suffered from heavy losses during this time and it was extremely difficult for them to attempt to fight back. From that point on, up to May 1941, "the Luftwaffe made 127 large-scale night raids," (Website 1), and 71 of these were targeted at London. To even imagine the constant state of fear and panic the people in every city were in every night is extremely frightening. These massive attacks resulted in the destruction of two million houses, 60,000 civilians killed, and 87,000 injured. "Until half-way through the Second World War, more women and children in Britain had been killed than soldiers." (Website 1) Not only was the Battle of Britain a major battle in the most destructive war of all time, it was one of the most devastating, and it almost lead to Britain's defeat.
Website #2: Wikipedia |
This website is credible because it (1) has a list of references, (2) it was updated within the last three years (4/22/15), and (3) it is a ".org".
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In this article, it is explained that the casualties, although high, were actually not as high as other events. "The British bombing in Hamburg (...) alone inflicted some 42,000 civilian deaths," (Website 2). This amounts to almost the same number as the entire Blitz. The loss of life was not as immense as other battles of the war, but the amount of property damage was definitely higher. The London Blitz was the first time the Germans had chosen to bomb large cities rather than military bases. London was bombed "for 57 consecutive nights" (Website 1). The bombed cities lost many more buildings and homes than people. The use of bunkers became much more common and saved many lives. The Blitz also had a large effect on British morale. Although morale was low, it was the steadfast strength of the British that kept them going. They continued to hold strong against the German war effort, and this helped keep Britain in the war. By May of 1941, Hitler was beginning to "give up" on the British, "Hitler's attention had turned to Operation Barbarossa in the East," (Website 2). Thanks to this, "the Blitz did not facilitate Operation Sea Lion, the planned German invasion of Britain," (Website 2). Had the Germans not let up their attacks, the British defense surely would have weakened, and the Allies could have lost the war much quicker. Or, Britain would have been surrendered after a period of time, and would not be able to recover in time to aid America and the other Allies with defeating Nazi Germany. The entire war would have been completely different.
Website #3: Second World War History |
This site is credible because it (1) lists the author and a way to contact him, (2) has at least three working hyperlinks, and (3) was updated within the last three years (5/1/2014).
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This website shares a timeline of events that occurred throughout the Battle of Britain, as well as important detailed information. The article states that "the majority of the fighting occurred from July 10th, 1930 and October 31st, 1940," (Website 3) and the attacks were not restricted to major cities, but also spread out across the English Chanel and all the way to France, where the Germans had controlled bases. In "The What" section, you learn that the British were up "against 3,385 aircraft (including 1223 fighters, 1482 bombers, and 327 dive bombers) fielded by the Germans," (Website 3). The Royal Air Force was facing many losses by such aircraft, for Germany began their attack by slowly luring out RAF and countering against them, as well as bombing ships in the English Chanel. Slow and steady these attacks grew more damaging and ever closer to the British cities, until the Blitz hit its climax and began bombing London. Like other sites, it is acknowledged here that "the British managed to hold steady despite daily attacks" and eventually, due to "an unwillingness on the part of the British to capitulate" (Website 3) Germany drew back. People all around the world see this steadfastness as one of the many honorable strengths of the British people, especially during such troubling times, and it is one of the most highly mentioned facts of the articles on the internet pertaining to the Blitz. This article also shares a quote by Winston Churchill, "The Battle of France is over. The Battle of Britain is about to begin. Upon this battle depends the future of Christian civilization," (Website 3). This quote further reveals the significance of the Battle and how its effects would not only affect Britain, but all other nations involved in the war.