Blitzkrieg Unleashed
by Richard Hargreaves
"The German Invasion of Poland, 1939"
Popularity
4.24 / 5
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Blitzkrieg Unleashed by Richard Hargreaves
Details
War:
World War II
Perspective:
Commanders
Military Unit:
Wehrmacht
True Story:
Yes
Biography:
No
Region:
Europe
Page Count:
370
Published Date:
2010
ISBN13:
9780811707244
Description
Brief Summary
Blitzkrieg Unleashed by Richard Hargreaves offers a detailed on-the-ground account of the opening campaign of World War II. The book narrates the swift and ruthless assault by the Germans on Poland, marking the beginning of a devastating global conflict. Utilizing a wealth of sources including letters, diaries, official documents, and newspapers, Hargreaves examines the perspective of the Germans who orchestrated this blitzkrieg, highlighting the overwhelming power wielded by the Nazi war machine. The narrative follows the events from the initial land, air, and sea assault on September 1, 1939, to the eventual surrender of the Poles after six weeks of intense and brave resistance.
Main Themes and Topics
This book primarily delves into the themes of military strategy, the human experience of war, and the rapid technological advancements in warfare. It meticulously details the logistical and tactical elements of the blitzkrieg and the subsequent psychological and physical impacts on both German forces and the Polish defenders. The relentless nature of modern warfare and the stark contrast between the German military prowess and the Polish resistance are explored thoroughly.
Writing Style and Tone
Hargreaves employs a factual and descriptive writing style, effectively balancing military detail with personal narratives. His tone is objective yet compelling, aimed at providing a comprehensive understanding of the campaign through the eyes of those involved. The use of personal accounts adds depth and emotion, ensuring the narrative remains engaging while being informative.
Criticism
While Blitzkrieg Unleashed has been praised for its detailed research and gripping narrative, some readers may find the focus on the German perspective somewhat limiting. The intricate military descriptions might also be overwhelming for those less familiar with World War II strategies and tactics. Nevertheless, these elements are crucial for the book’s thorough examination of the blitzkrieg campaign.
