The story of how two wars on opposite sides of the world contributed to the outbreak of World War II. Plus, how the events helped to shape global politics within a new framework.
EPISODE 1
The Gathering Storm
Explores how wars in the east and the west became the second World War; an examination of inter-war years; the effects of the Third Reich.
EPISODE 2
The Phony War
An invasion of Poland forces the powers to declare a war involving several big players; Winston Churchill is named Prime Minister; China wins at Changsha and Guangxi.
EPISODE 3
Blitzkrieg
The German invasion of France begins in full force, as Germany reinforces their army; British troops are evacuated from Dunkirk; the Japanese army turns back a Chinese counter-offensive.
EPISODE 4
Alone
German troops try to neutralise the strength of Britain from the air; the Allies are driven back in North Africa, led by Erwin Rommel; Japan suffers major losses.
EPISODE 5
Barbarossa
Hitler actions Operation Barbarossa, in which German troops invade Russia; Britain falls under heavy fire as they suffer attacks from Germany and cities are bombed.
EPISODE 6
A Date in Infamy
German armies continue to make ground in Russia, as they reach the gates of Moscow. The Japanese launch an attack on Pearl Harbour, as the American Pacific Fleet lays in anchor.
Michael Cove
Oliver Waghorn
Michael Tear