211: The Battle Before Britain Pt. 3 - How to Build a Bombing Campaign

This episode delves into the often-overlooked early years of Britain’s Bomber Command during 1940, revealing a story of ambitious plans, flawed assumptions, and determined aircrews. We explore how Bomber Command transitioned from pre-war theory to desperate anti-invasion efforts, laying mines and attacking German harbors as the threat of a Nazi landing loomed. Beyond the immediate crisis, we uncover the enduring belief – championed by Churchill – that strategic bombing held the key to victory, despite early failures and a fundamental misunderstanding of the challenges ahead, setting the stage for the massive campaigns to come. Join us as we uncover the realities of early war bombing and the unwavering faith in a strategy that would define much of the conflict. Contact [e-mail] to advertise on History of the Second World War. History of the Second World War is part of the Airwave Media podcast network. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices