Hitler Strikes Poland

Main Themes and Topics

"Hitler Strikes Poland" by Alexander B. Rossino offers a profound exploration of one of the most chilling military campaigns in history — the invasion of Poland in 1939. The book dives into the complex and brutal execution of Nazi Germany's first blitzkrieg and its underlying genocidal agenda. Rossino meticulously examines how the invasion was not just about territorial gain, but a calculated racial war that foreshadowed the Holocaust and other horrific events in occupied Europe. The book provides a detailed analysis of the ideological motivations behind Germany's actions, emphasizing how Nazi philosophy influenced both military strategy and racial policies. Readers gain insight into how the campaign served as a precursor to even greater atrocities in subsequent years and became a template for the war crimes that would eventually unfold against the Slavic and Jewish populations, particularly during the Russian campaign.

Writing Style and Tone

Rossino employs a scholarly yet accessible writing style that allows readers to deeply engage with the subject matter. His tone is authoritative and carefully balanced, providing both a descriptive overview of military operations and an analytical dissection of the racial and ideological factors at play. The author navigates the complex narrative with a clear and methodical approach, ensuring that even readers new to World War II studies can comprehend the multi-faceted events and their significance. Rossino's commitment to historical accuracy and his use of primary sources lend a compelling authenticity to the work, making it both a remarkable read for historians and those interested in understanding the past's darker sides.

Brief Summary (no spoilers)

"Hitler Strikes Poland" reveals the harrowing narrative of Germany's invasion of Poland within six weeks in 1939. The book illustrates how the campaign was a display of unprecedented military ruthlessness combined with ideological fervor. Rossino uncovers the collaboration between the German army and SS forces, highlighting the deliberate targeting and execution of Polish civilians as part of a larger genocidal plan for "living space" in Eastern Europe. Through comprehensive research, Rossino unveils how the atrocities committed set the stage for the broader criminalities of World War II. This work is crucial in understanding how ideology was inextricably linked with Nazi military aggression, leading to the brutal sufferings of the Polish people.

Criticism

While "Hitler Strikes Poland" is praised for its exhaustive research and insightful analysis, some critics argue that the book's heavy focus on military operations and ideological aspects might overshadow other elements such as the civilian perspective from the Polish side. However, it's essential to understand that Rossino's primary intent is to unravel the motivations and actions of the perpetrators, which he does with remarkable clarity and depth.