a world of wAARmongers III

[Diefledermas]

History of the World January 1st, 1936 - June 1st, 1937

Fascist Perspective

USA - Darthmaur
UK - Fort
France - GI Tom
Nationalist China - Poki-Mo
USSR - Mr Bigglesworth
Japan - Jokerswild
Italy - Cfeedback
Germany - DieFledermas

1936

Chinese Civil War: 1922 -

Nationalist China, Sinkaing, Communist China

On March 4th, Chiang Kai-shek refused the olive branch from Mao in the Sian Incident and ordered his armies to attack Yanan. Yanan finally fell on April 6th. It is unclear exactly what US involvement was in the civil war, but US advisers were officially inivited to Nanking on March 6th along with several airwings of American made P-40 Warhawks. Mao and his Communist rebels played a game of cat and mouse with the Guomindang armies until he was finally captured 9 months later on December 4th and executed. Stalin is reported to have lost little sleep over the incident. The war with Sinkaing had been little more than infrequent border skirmishes.

Ethopian Conflict : November 8th, 1935 - January 27th, 1936

Italy, Ethiopia

Italian expeditionary forces engaged the bulk of the Ethiopian army at Harar on January 17th and defeated them after a quick but harrowing battle. The result was a fighting retreat across the East African steppe resulting in a final show down in the streets of Addis Abeba on January 27th. The Ethiopian king fled to London that night and his son abdicated the thrown to the Italian general. Ethiopia was official incorporated in Italian East Africa on January 28th.

Italian-Yugoslav War: February 7th - March 10th

Italy, Yugoslavia

Emboldened by his success in Africa, Mussolini declared war on Yugoslavia on Febuary 7th. The French delegate to league of nations denounced this naked act of Fascist aggression but the Allies did little else. The first use of modern air war techniques were displayed in the Balkan peninsula as Italian tactical bombers strafed the cities of Slovenia mercilessly for 3 weeks. By the time the Italian army marched into Rijeka on February 24th, little resistance was left. Fiat L6 tank divisions raced down out of the Alps until meeting resistance on the outskirts of Sarajevo. Italian bombers engaged in a brutal bombing campaign, leveling the city. Sarajevo and Belgorad both fell on March 10th. Yugoslavia was officialky annexed by Italy the next day. France, once again, deplored the action.

Danzig Incident, February 24th

Polish destroyers attacked and sunk and unarmed german oil tanker heading to Stettin from Konisberg, all hands were lost. When inquiries were made in Warsaw by the German diplomat, he was informed that Polish territorial waters were "violated". In response the Koln was sent to escort the next convoy which was attacked as well. In response Germany sent IX Panzer Korps to secure a land route to East Prussia. Poland responded by attacking the armor column. Germany had no choice but to declare war.

Polish Campaign: March 1st - March 30th

Germany, Poland

IX Panzer Korps under Rommel introduced the world to the "Blitzkrieg". Overrunning the Polish defenders in the central plains, the pzI's, supported by dive bombers, were at the gates of Warsaw on March 5th. Danzig fell from seige that night. The New York Times broke the story that Hitler had agreed to "partition Poland" between himself and Stalin. Chamberlain and the French PM were speachless. Krakow fell on March 8th and it seemed the Polish Campaign would be over in a week. Not so, Polish irregulars in the "Poznan Pocket" rose up and cut off IX Panzer. The German Luffewaffe pounded the defender mercilessly and the Poles finally surrender after two entire army groups were poured into the province. Poland officially surrendered on March 30th and were incorporated in the Greater Reich. The Molotov-Rippentrop Pact was honored on April 3rd and the General Goverment was established on June 6th. France refused to acknowledge the legitimacy of both acts.

Albanian Conflict: March 17th - March 18th

Italy, Albania

Without even bothering to declare war, Italian forces already in theatre for the Yugoslav campaign, attacked Tyrel on March 17th and captured King Zog asleep in his bed at the royal palace. He was excuted the next day and Albania was incorporated into new Italian protectorate of Balkania.

On April 29th the Belgians, in response the growing power of Germany, elected the conservative Nationalist Party to power. Every defiant, the Norwegians kept the Socialist Party in power on May 6th with French following suit, even though the polls suggested a more leftist outcome. On November 8th, FDR was re-elected on the promise of rebuilding America and pulling her out of the Great Depression.

Spanish Civil War: July 18th -

Republican Spain, Nationalist Spain, France (exp. forces), Italy (exp. forces & support), Germany (support), USSR (support)

On July 18th, General Mola attempted a military coup but was later assassinated by British SAS agents disguised as Portugese sailors. His protege, General Franco, assumed command of the rebels. French Foriegn Legion troops and the Italian Condor Legion both entered the conflict under auspice of "volunteers". After almost 4 months of heavy fighting, Madrid fell to the Fascists on September 2nd. This was short lived, however, and the Republicans pushed the Nationalists back from everything except the city center. The seige of Madrid began on September is still going on as of June 1st, 1937. It is said the trapped civilan population is living on little more than rats and the flesh of the dead. The Condor Legion was decimated and ceased to function as a unit at the Rout of Tortosa on November 12th. With their supplies cut off somewhere in the mountain passes, the Italian armor was useless and abandoned. By Christmas, the Nationalists were pushed back to Barcelona.

On July 27th, Germany and Italy officially formed the Axis Alliance in response to growing Allied aggression and imperialism.

Swedish War of Liberation: August 18th - September 8th

Sweden, Germany

On August 10th, the Swedish government arrested 1000's of protesters in Stockholm demanding that the police release a dozen Fascist intellectuals held without trial who had been protesting the newly elected Communist goverment. On August 12th, Sweden closed its borders to German interests and nationalized the Rheimetal Ironworks, a wholey owned German company. Unconfirmed reports suggested hundreds of suspected Fascist sympathizers were executed. Fearing the fate of their brothers Swedes, the Wermacht landed an amphibious assualt outside of Malmo under Guderian. German spies had secretly landed several days earlier and organized the Swedish resistance. Rommel's Scandanavia Korps raced up the coast and took Stockholm on September 8th. FDR denounced this as "the Rape of Stockholm". A National Socialist goverment was installed on September 10th and welcomed with open arms into the Axis.

The Romanian Incident: August 20th - December 7th

Part of the Molotov-Rippentop Pact from March agreed that Romania should fall under the sphere of Soviet influence. Unfortunately, no one had informed Mussolini of this. The Fascist Party of Romania had developed a strong following after witness German might during the Polish Campaign. Italy, desiring to further expand its influence in the Balkans began to aggressively support their fellow Fascists. The Bolsheviks attempted to influence the Romanian elections as well, but the population showed little interest. On September 3rd, the Romanian plebiscite carried the Fascists into power. Molotov personally delivered a commique to Hitler the next day, "What is you Neopolitan Dog up to?". The Germans had a problem. The new Romanian president was begging to join the Axis and promised free reign to the Romanian oil fields. Mussolini, drunk with power, believed the Soviets would cower before his legions. Rippentrop however, had reported that the new T-26 tanks on parade in Moscow could easily be turned west. Hitler told Mussolini to tone it down and focus on developing his new conquests. Molotov was assured that Romania was Stalin's to do with as he wished.


1937

Second Romanian Incident: January 11th - March 12th

Elements of the Italian foreign ministry, unbenownst to Mussolini, had never given up on Romania and began supporting "Romanian Stormtroopers" in their crusade to harass Bolshevik elements in Bucherest. Stalin was made aware of this and became outraged, believing in his paranoia that Hitler had betrayed him. On January 11th, Molotov closed the Soviet embassy in Berlin and delivered the personal message of Stalin, "what is the point an embassy if fascists cannot be trusted ?". The chimneys of the embassy burned black smoke as sensitive documents were burned. 2 Red Armies were moved to the German-Russian border. Outraged, Hitler sent his SS Reichsfurher to Rome to see just what was going on down there. Mussolini assured he had no fore-knowledge of the events but once again suggested an all out assualt on Russia. Manstein's III Panzer Korps was sent to Rome to "assist" in the inter-Fascist negotiations. A secret back channel was established between Wilhelm Frick and the infamous Beria in the city of Talinn in Estonia. The Estonia Accords were signed there (of which the contents are unknown to this author). The Red Army groups were pulled back on March 12th and Mussolini ceased his grumblings about Romania. The Italian Foriegn Minister was executed on April 1st.

On March 13th after many months of careful negotiation, Lithuania joined the Axis. On May 15th, in an event that shocked the world, the Labor Unions in the United States announced they were united under one banner and became the American Communist Party. Concerned about the fate of democracy in North America, both France and Britain lent their support to Right Wing elements of the United States.

Spanish Civil War (continued):

The Second Condor Legion landed in Barcelona, now under seige on February 2nd. They Nationalists broke out of the Barcelona pocket on February 17th. The Second Battle of Tortosa occured on March 3rd with Nationalists defeating the Republicans soundly. Madrid was relieved on May 9th. On May 17th, Anarchists attempted to take over the Republican goverment now in Seville but were violently crushed. As of June 1st, the winner of the Civil War is still in doubt.

On March 2nd, Stalin initiatied the Great Purges. So far, 150,000 Russians, Ukranians, and Karelians have disapeered into the barren tundra of Siberia. Their fate is unknown.

 

[unmerged(14377)]

History of the World January 1st, 1936 - June 1st, 1937

French Perspective

1936

Chinese Civil War: 1922 -

Nationalist China, Sinkaing, Communist China

On March 4th, Chiang Kai-shek refused the olive branch from Mao in the Sian Incident and ordered his armies to attack Yanan. Yanan finally fell on April 6th. It is unclear exactly what US involvement was in the civil war, but US advisers were officially inivited to Nanking on March 6th along with several airwings of American made P-40 Warhawks. Mao and his Communist rebels played a game of cat and mouse with the Guomindang armies until he was finally captured 9 months later on December 4th and executed. Stalin is reported to have lost little sleep over the incident. The war with Sinkaing had been little more than infrequent border skirmishes.

Reports confirmed and noted that 2 French Divisions that had previously been on duty in far flung reaches of the French empire, were also part of the battle against Communist China. While this was kept fairly low key, the French government had an eye on the Chinese fighting. The Divisions provided were not of superior strength, yet they were hoped to provide security for Chiang Kai's rear areas so more of the Nationalist forces could be used elsewhere. Inquires to Chiang Kai-shek about the whereabouts of these forces are still unanswered. The French government awaits word even though they are pleased with the outcome of hostilities.

Italian-Yugoslav War: February 7th - March 10th

Italy, Yugoslavia

Emboldened by his success in Africa, (Ethiopia) Mussolini declared war on Yugoslavia on Febuary 7th. The French delegate to league of nations denounced this naked act of Fascist aggression but the Allies did little else. The first use of modern air war techniques were displayed in the Balkan peninsula as Italian tactical bombers strafed the cities of Slovenia mercilessly for 3 weeks. By the time the Italian army marched into Rijeka on February 24th, little resistance was left. Fiat L6 tank divisions raced down out of the Alps until meeting resistance on the outskirts of Sarajevo. Italian bombers engaged in a brutal bombing campaign, leveling the city. Sarajevo and Belgorad both fell on March 10th. Yugoslavia was officialky annexed by Italy the next day. France, once again, deplored the action.

France and her people were outraged! A complet, and utter disregard for human life and a vauled country of the international community. The Italian Fascists were sternly spoken too by the French Diplomat in Rome who was relaying a very strongly worded letter from Laval. Many foul words were exchanged and could be heard verbrating from the capitol.

It was shortly after that when all French sensitive material was burned and all diplomatic relations with the Italians ceased and the embassy quietly evacuated. It was pleasing to hear the Germans announce they wanted to peacefully co-exist with the world. France informed Germany that actions speak louder than words, but was very encouraged to hear such statements made by Germany.

Danzig Incident, February 24th

Danzig Incident, February 24th

Polish destroyers attacked and sunk and unarmed german oil tanker heading to Stettin from Konisberg, all hands were lost. When inquiries were made in Warsaw by the German diplomat, he was informed that Polish territorial waters were "violated". In response the Koln was sent to escort the next convoy which was attacked as well. In response Germany sent IX Panzer Korps to secure a land route to East Prussia. Poland responded by attacking the armor column. Germany had no choice but to declare war.

and

Polish Campaign: March 1st - March 30th

Germany, Poland

IX Panzer Korps under Rommel introduced the world to the "Blitzkrieg". Overrunning the Polish defenders in the central plains, the pzI's, supported by dive bombers, were at the gates of Warsaw on March 5th. Danzig fell from seige that night. The New York Times broke the story that Hitler had agreed to "partition Poland" between himself and Stalin. Chamberlain and the French PM were speachless. Krakow fell on March 8th and it seemed the Polish Campaign would be over in a week. Not so, Polish irregulars in the "Poznan Pocket" rose up and cut off IX Panzer. The German Luffewaffe pounded the defender mercilessly and the Poles finally surrender after two entire army groups were poured into the province. Poland officially surrendered on March 30th and were incorporated in the Greater Reich. The Molotov-Rippentrop Pact was honored on April 3rd and the General Goverment was established on June 6th. France refused to acknowledge the legitimacy of both acts.

Fascist lies! Dozens of covert operatives gleaned all information possible from this supposed "incident". France has enough evidence to conclusively prove that the "incident" was nothing more than a thinly veiled plot by Hitler and his Fascist dogs to validate the stark aggression and annexation of Poland for their Lebensbraum.

It was discovered that an older German oil vessel was pre-prepared for scuttling in the waters near Konisberg. There was no loss of German life, nor were there any aggressive acts on behalf of the Poles. Furthermore, upon sighting of the sinking by a Polish fishing vessel, the Polish Navy was dispatched to assist with possible rescue efforts. Curtly turned away by the German representatives, nothing was further thought about it. Strangely, the fishing boat and it's crew could not be found for comment and are feared to be permanently missing.

Further reports confirm reports that in German shipyards, the "Koln" that was sent as an escort the next day, was seen being fired on by Germans to make an "appearance" of sea action.

Further reports of 'damaged tanks' were substantiated by undercover operatives as well.

The entire incident the German government proclaims is foul play, is nothing more than a lie. France has all supporting documents to prove so. Obviously, the French were fully made aware of Hitler's intentions now in the face of this action. His previous words were meant to pacify France at the time. Never again shall France be fooled by the dispicable Hitler.

France began mobilizing a defense force for Poland, but by the time one was ready for shipment and fully equipped, the Soviets reported the futility of sending any assistance. Having a front row seat to the battle, they reported happenings to the French government. This action was most appreciated.

Albanian Conflict: March 17th - March 18th

Italy, Albania

Without even bothering to declare war, Italian forces already in theatre for the Yugoslav campaign, attacked Tyrel on March 17th and captured King Zog asleep in his bed at the royal palace. He was excuted the next day and Albania was incorporated into new Italian protectorate of Balkania.

On April 29th the Belgians, in response the growing power of Germany, elected the conservative Nationalist Party to power. Every defiant, the Norwegians kept the Socialist Party in power on May 6th with French following suit, even though the polls suggested a more leftist outcome. On November 8th, FDR was re-elected on the promise of rebuilding America and pulling her out of the Great Depression.

Unbeknownst to many at the time, France had actually had secret negotiations with King Zog to come to the Albanian defense in the growing threats throughout the region. A force was on standby and ready to be dispatched with the utmost speed.

The unfortunate timing of the Polish issue however prevented this from happening. Due to "bad intelligence" by operatives, the information required for such a mobilization never saw the light of day. Counter-espionage measure are being beefed up in France. King Zog will be missed. France feels a sense of guilt for not being able to follow through on this secret promise.

The news of FDR's election was taken very well by France. Her own elections went off without a hitch and the people were pleased with the current government.

Spanish Civil War: July 18th -

Republican Spain, Nationalist Spain, France (exp. forces), Italy (exp. forces & support), Germany (support), USSR (support)

On July 18th, General Mola attempted a military coup but was later assassinated by British SAS agents disguised as Portugese sailors. His protege, General Franco, assumed command of the rebels. French Foriegn Legion troops and the Italian Condor Legion both entered the conflict under auspice of "volunteers". After almost 4 months of heavy fighting, Madrid fell to the Fascists on September 2nd. This was short lived, however, and the Republicans pushed the Nationalists back from everything except the city center. The seige of Madrid began on September is still going on as of June 1st, 1937. It is said the trapped civilan population is living on little more than rats and the flesh of the dead. The Condor Legion was decimated and ceased to function as a unit at the Rout of Tortosa on November 12th. With their supplies cut off somewhere in the mountain passes, the Italian armor was useless and abandoned. By Christmas, the Nationalists were pushed back to Barcelona.

France mobilized 5 Divisions under a Field Marshal and formed "The Republican Guard" and sent it off to help the Republicans. While things went well initially, the Field Marshal, made a grave tactical error. Without the presence of UK troops, the Field Marshal apparently felt invincible. While fighting a vicious battle against 9 Nationalist Divisions in the Northeast procvince of Spain, the Field Marshal failed to notice the crumbling of the Republican forces behind him securing his supply route. This caused the Field Marshal and the vailant men and equipment to be cut off. While moving back slowly due to fuel being out of supply, the area of Republican Spain they moved to became occupied by Nationalist Spain. Due to very low organizational levels of the troops, upon arrival in their retreat area, they promptly were dispatched by the Nationalist forces that had moved there while they were in route. A sad day indeed.

Unfortunately, the Field Marshal's plane that was bringing him back to France unexpicably crashed into the mountainside in the East part of Spain. A further tragedy indeed.

On July 27th, Germany and Italy officially formed the Axis Alliance in response to growing Allied aggression and imperialism.

This was very disturbing for France. The pact signifies a shift in the balance of power in France's immediate region. Furthermore, France will not provide anymore forces to Republican Spain in light of this new alliance. Every division is needed here, now.


France was hardly involved in the Romanian situation, nor cared to discover the facts. Other pressing matters were of higher importance. France was very pleased to see the Soviets pull out of Berlin though and sprung hopes of a fresh set of negotiations with the Soviets.

Conclusion

1936 was a very hectic year for France. Her plans to assist other countries on the bad end of the Fascist exercises all miserably failed. While believed to be a Grand Plan at the start, the speed at which the Fascists moved caught France somewhat off guard.

This will not happen again.

France is feverishly building fortifications, strengthening her armies both home and abroad and is preparing for what could be the worst: Global Warfare.

The beginning of 1937 saw few changes in Frances position. It is feared that National Spain with the help of the Italian Fascists will be victorious. France is hopeful the UK can send an expeditionary force to stem the tide.

Diplomatic relations stand as follows:

Italy/Germany: Ceased
SU: Negotiations with the Soviets are classified Informaton
UK: Excellent negotiations with classifed Technical Data sharing occuring
US: Excellent support from non-intervention of the Spanish Civil War.

France is ready if necessary and will not be "bullied" by the Fascists. They are in for a tough road if they want to tangle with France. Her population is straining for war, last confirmed, 94% would support military action.

We will see what the future brings.

GI Tom

 

[Mr.Bigglesworth]

The year 1936 will forever be remembered in Soviet history. German aggression relieved the albatross of capitalism from the neck of the Russian economy. By the end of 1936, the Soviet Union had the largest and most advanced army in the world, with an enormous reserve.

The Romanian Incident

The amended Molotov-Ribbentrop called for Finland to be in the Axis and Romania and Bulgaria left to Soviet occupation. As soon as Italy conquered Yugoslavia and joined the Axis, they began to influence Romania. A friendly but firm message was sent to the German ambassador in Moscow to control their “puppet”. Italy had already stupidly called themselves the world-eradicators of communism, and Stalin had caused a stir by previously proclaiming that the already annexed Poles posed a greater threat to the Soviets than the Italians. Hitler assured Stalin that the Italians were uninformed of the deal, and would be told immediately. However, the influencing did not stop, and Hitler tried to obfuscate the issue. Finally, Ribbentrop sent a message to Moscow that they wanted to amend the deal, and trade Finland for Romania. It was at this point that Stalin was sure that he was being played for a fool, and closed the Russian embassy in Berlin and sent 30 divisions to the German border. Cooler heads prevailed, and an Italian foreign minister was beheaded. The divisions were moved back from the border, but the Soviet Union remains weary. Stalin is sure that the incidents over Romania and Bulgaria were no misunderstanding, but an attempt to gain an advantage over the Soviet Union.

 

[Diefledermas]

June 1st, 1937 - June 1st, 1938 "moved down" to put Italian history in chronological order

 

[cfeedback]

First Session

preface: Some of the historical info is loosely borrowed from other sites as I knew little about Italian history before writing this. I don't speak italian either (use a computer translator), so if I get anything wrong please let me know! I am unclear as to how many men a Commandante would command but for HOI terms I consider it to be equivalent to a major general (one division). And I'm not much of a writer, so be nice.

History of the World January 1st, 1936 - June 1st, 1937
Italian Soldier's Perspective

Manco il fortuno, Non il valore.
We were short on luck, Not on bravery.​

I would like to tell you of a great man, il duce of the Italian people. This man was born in the small market town of Predappio (in Romagna) in 1883. He was raised by his father Alessandro, a blacksmith, and his mother Rosa, a schoolteacher. Like his father he was a fervent socialist and like his mother he became a schoolteacher. Yes, this man is Benito Mussolini and I will tell you the true story of the events that led Italy to the brink of extinction and back again in that great world war. My name is Mario Pazzaglia and I was privileged to serve first as a Commandante and later as an intelligence operative in the Regio Esercito, the Italian Army, from 1935 until 1951. I tell you this tale now while on my deathbed for history's sake. Whether or not history has recorded the accounts of this war accurately I leave for you to judge.

Ethopian Conflict : November 8th, 1935 - January 27th, 1936

Italy, Ethiopia

Italian expeditionary forces engaged the bulk of the Ethiopian army at Harar on January 17th and defeated them after a quick but harrowing battle. The result was a fighting retreat across the East African steppe resulting in a final show down in the streets of Addis Abeba on January 27th. The Ethiopian king fled to London that night and his son abdicated the thrown to the Italian general. Ethiopia was official incorporated in Italian East Africa on January 28th.

Ah, the dream. Even now I smile fondly in remembrance of that day in 1936 when Benito Mussolini declared the new Italian Empire was born. Still in Officers Candidate School, I could not help but feel a great destiny awaited us. Victor Emmanuel III was named Emperor and this was a cause of great celebration for the Italian people. You must understand that at the time the living conditions in Italy were very poor and most of the nation lived in poverty. Mussolini told us that we would have an empire to rival the Romans of old and we believed him.

I was close to receiving my first command when the Ethopian savages were finally pacified in a short but bloody conquest. Field Marshal Graziani oversaw the campaign with the Eastern Sector forces under his direct command, consisting of two divisiones of infantry and one divisione of calvary. General Messe commanded the Southern Sector which had 4 divisiones of colonial militia. Launching from Obbia on Jan 1st the final attack took just under a month. Afterwards, Graziani returned home to Roma a military hero with many parades in his honor. Messe was named acting Imperial Commander, Ethopia awaiting the arrival of Field Marshal Badoglio who landed later in February.

Italian-Yugoslav War: February 7th, 1936 - March 10th, 1936

Italy, Yugoslavia

Emboldened by his success in Africa, Mussolini declared war on Yugoslavia on Febuary 7th. The French delegate to league of nations denounced this naked act of Fascist aggression but the Allies did little else. The first use of modern air war techniques were displayed in the Balkan peninsula as Italian tactical bombers strafed the cities of Slovenia mercilessly for 3 weeks. By the time the Italian army marched into Rijeka on February 24th, little resistance was left. Fiat L6 tank divisions raced down out of the Alps until meeting resistance on the outskirts of Sarajevo. Italian bombers engaged in a brutal bombing campaign, leveling the city. Sarajevo and Belgorad both fell on March 10th. Yugoslavia was officially annexed by Italy the next day. France, once again, deplored the action.

(French perspective)
France and her people were outraged! A complete, and utter disregard for human life and a valued country of the international community. The Italian Fascists were sternly spoken too by the French Diplomat in Rome who was relaying a very strongly worded letter from Laval. Many foul words were exchanged and could be heard venerating from the capitol.

It was shortly after that when all French sensitive material was burned and all diplomatic relations with the Italians ceased and the embassy quietly evacuated. It was pleasing to hear the Germans announce they wanted to peacefully co-exist with the world. France informed Germany that actions speak louder than words, but was very encouraged to hear such statements made by Germany.

On February 2nd, I received my first command, the 18a infantry Divisione 'Messina'. I served under General Berardi in the II. Corps which consisted of 6 divisiones of infantry. We were immediately transferred to Venezia in preparation for the Yugoslavian campaign. Field Marshall Bastico was named Supreme Commander, Eastern Forces. When the attack came on the morning of February 7th, things could not have gone better. The Regia Aeronautica under command of Air Marshall Accorsi performed admirably in its first live combat, proving to the world that the Italian military was not as backwards as thought. My forces under Berardi took Sarajevo in early March while Bastico pressed on for Belgorad. After Yugoslavia was added to the Empire on 11 March, 1936, I was stationed in Nis and given the task in improving the fortifications there.

What was not known at the time is this nearly caused an incident between Germany and Italy. Hitler, fearing Russian threats against any expansion in the east tried to persuade Mussolini from this course of action. Telegraphs flew between Roma and Berlin and it was not known until days before the attack whether or not it would proceed. In the end, I think that Mussolini felt he needed to show both Hitler and the world that Italy was not simply Hitler's dog, but a world power to be respected and perhaps feared. Negotiations for a potential German-Italian alliance were put on hold. France, as usual protested in outrage and ceased diplomatic relations. We were happy for any excuse to stop listening to their empty threats.

Albanian Conflict: March 17th, 1936 - March 18th, 1936

Italy, Albania

Without even bothering to declare war, Italian forces already in theatre for the Yugoslav campaign, attacked Tyrel on March 17th and captured King Zog asleep in his bed at the royal palace. He was executed the next day and Albania was incorporated into new Italian protectorate of Balkania.

The remainder of General Berardi's II. Corps launched the suprise attack on Albania. Plans for this were well in place before the Yugoslavian campaign was launched and proceeded with no resistance. This was all part of the grand plan designed by Field Marshal Graziani, who after a brief vacation from the Ethopia campaign was given the special title of Direttore di Operazioni Strategiche (Director of Strategic Operations) by Mussolini. His military genius was a large part of Italy's early success in the war.

Danzig Incident, February 24th, 1936

Polish destroyers attacked and sunk and unarmed German oil tanker heading to Stettin from Konisberg, all hands were lost. When inquiries were made in Warsaw by the German diplomat, he was informed that Polish territorial waters were "violated". In response the Koln was sent to escort the next convoy which was attacked as well. In response Germany sent IX Panzer Korps to secure a land route to East Prussia. Poland responded by attacking the armor column. Germany had no choice but to declare war.

Polish Campaign: March 1st, 1936 - March 30th, 1936

Germany, Poland

IX Panzer Korps under Rommel introduced the world to the "Blitzkrieg". Overrunning the Polish defenders in the central plains, the pzI's, supported by dive bombers, were at the gates of Warsaw on March 5th. Danzig fell from siege that night. The New York Times broke the story that Hitler had agreed to "partition Poland" between himself and Stalin. Chamberlain and the French PM were speechless. Krakow fell on March 8th and it seemed the Polish Campaign would be over in a week. Not so, Polish irregulars in the "Poznan Pocket" rose up and cut off IX Panzer. The German Luffewaffe pounded the defender mercilessly and the Poles finally surrender after two entire army groups were poured into the province. Poland officially surrendered on March 30th and were incorporated in the Greater Reich. The Molotov-Rippentrop Pact was honored on April 3rd and the General Government was established on June 6th. France refused to acknowledge the legitimacy of both acts.

While Hitler tried to check Mussolini's expansion, he seemed to have no qualms with his own. On the front the troops had mixed feelings about this expansion by Germany. While not exactly allies, Germany had been supplying Italy with some badly needed weapons and equipment, and the soldiers knew they were using German Karabiner 1898 Kurz (K98k) model rifles. On the other hand, this brought the front closer to Russia and everyone was concerned about il grand'orso, the great bear to the east. High Command was in a near panic due to strained German-Russian relations and threats made by Russia towards Italy herself regarding Italy's diplomatic overtures towards Romania. The entire eastern border was set to the task of improving fortifications in defense of a possible Russian attack through Romania.

Spanish Civil War: July 18th 1936 - ongoing

Republican Spain, Nationalist Spain, France (exp. forces), Italy (exp. forces & support), Germany (support), USSR (support)

On July 18th, General Mola attempted a military coup but was later assassinated by British SAS agents disguised as Portugese sailors. His protege, General Franco, assumed command of the rebels. French Foreign Legion troops and the Italian Condor Legion both entered the conflict under auspice of "volunteers". After almost 4 months of heavy fighting, Madrid fell to the Fascists on September 2nd. This was short lived, however, and the Republicans pushed the Nationalists back from everything except the city center. The siege of Madrid began on September is still going on as of June 1st, 1937. It is said the trapped civilian population is living on little more than rats and the flesh of the dead. The Condor Legion was decimated and ceased to function as a unit at the Rout of Tortosa on November 12th. With their supplies cut off somewhere in the mountain passes, the Italian armor was useless and abandoned. By Christmas, the Nationalists were pushed back to Barcelona.

On July 27th, Germany and Italy officially formed the Axis Alliance in response to growing Allied aggression and imperialism.

Mussolini feared what would happen if Republicans regained control in Spain as they were known to have Stalinist leanings. The Axis Treaty was signed in Berlin on July 19th, 1937 but not officially announced to the world for another week as plans were made to send the elite German trained Condor Legione to fight alongside the Nationalists. Consisting of 5 divisiones of infantry, including two with artillery brigades under command of General Armellini, the Condor Legion landed in Barcelona on July 28th and made swift progress towards Madrid. However, casualties were high and the supply chain was weak even though a steady stream of transports arrived from Napoli. Armelli sent word to Supreme Commander Graziani that French units were spotted assisting the Republicans and reinforcements were needed or victory would not be assured. Fearing that the situation might be worse than stated, Graziani sent Field Marshal De Bono, a close personal friend to assume command of the Condor Legione. De Bono commanded Italy's only two armored divisions at the time, early war model tanks of limited effectiveness. Never the less, they were one of the most impressive assets of the army at that time and Graziani felt the situation would be well in hand. During this time, I was en route to my home outside of Roma on a short furlough after being rotated out of the Balkans. Later, my division and I were assigned to the Roma High Command garrison.

When De Bono landed in Barcelona on September 3, 1936, he was appalled at the conditions there. Even though Barcelona was uncontested Nationalist territory, battle still raged in the streets and small guerilla bands made travel difficult. Things got off badly when the oil for the tanks was hijacked, leaving them with enough fuel to travel only several hundred kilometers. Knowing that more fuel would be on the way, De Bono advanced to Tortosa. No word had been heard from the Condor Legione in several days, but last reports had placed them south of Madrid, which was deep inside Republican territory. De Bono's advance was halted at Tortosa on September 26th as more fuel had yet to arrive. He watched helplessly as both Cuenca and Valencia fell to the Republicans, eliminating what slim chance the Condor Legione still had. On November 15th the first survivors started to roll in which, amazingly enough, included General Armelli. He was immediately arrested and the all remaining Italian troops pulled out of Spain and returned home.

Incorrectly reported by the western media as the Rout of Tortosa, the actual battle took place in Albacete on November 13th, 1936 and will forever be remembered as one of the saddest days in Italian history. Over 70,000 men lost their lives in that battle and nearly 90,000 total men died fighting in Spain. Upon return to Roma on November 20th, Armellia was summarily executed by Mussolini for gross incompetence.

Swedish War of Liberation: August 18th, 1936 - September 8th, 1936

Sweden, Germany

On August 10th, the Swedish government arrested 1000's of protesters in Stockholm demanding that the police release a dozen Fascist intellectuals held without trial who had been protesting the newly elected Communist government. On August 12th, Sweden closed its borders to German interests and nationalized the Rheimetal Ironworks, a wholly owned German company. Unconfirmed reports suggested hundreds of suspected Fascist sympathizers were executed. Fearing the fate of their brothers Swedes, the Wermacht landed an amphibious assault outside of Malmo under Guderian. German spies had secretly landed several days earlier and organized the Swedish resistance. Rommel's Scandinavia Korps raced up the coast and took Stockholm on September 8th. FDR denounced this as "the Rape of Stockholm". A National Socialist government was installed on September 10th and welcomed with open arms into the Axis.

While officially at war with Sweden as a member of the Axis, Italy did little to support the war other than a statement of approval by Mussolini. We did see immediate benefit to this addition to the alliance as the new regime made sure to share with us Swedish advances in aircraft. Elsewhere, several divisions were transferred to Egypt and Ethopia to bolster our garrisons there, but I remained with Roma Command. Plans were made with Germany to support the defense of North Africa with several Panzer divisions as Italian armor technology still lagged badly behind the other major powers.

The Romanian Incident: August 20th 1936 - December 7th 1936

Part of the Molotov-Rippentop Pact from March agreed that Romania should fall under the sphere of Soviet influence. Unfortunately, no one had informed Mussolini of this. The Fascist Party of Romania had developed a strong following after witness German might during the Polish Campaign. Italy, desiring to further expand its influence in the Balkans began to aggressively support their fellow Fascists. The Bolsheviks attempted to influence the Romanian elections as well, but the population showed little interest. On September 3rd, the Romanian plebiscite carried the Fascists into power. Molotov personally delivered a communique to Hitler the next day, "What is your Neapolitan Dog up to?". The Germans had a problem. The new Romanian president was begging to join the Axis and promised free reign to the Romanian oil fields. Mussolini, drunk with power, believed the Soviets would cower before his legions. Rippentrop however, had reported that the new T-26 tanks on parade in Moscow could easily be turned west. Hitler told Mussolini to tone it down and focus on developing his new conquests. Molotov was assured that Romania was Stalin's to do with as he wished.

Looking back in hindsight, one can see how a cascade of events led to the current world situation today. Hitler had signed a treaty with Russia dividing up parts of Scandinavia, the Baltics, Poland, and the Balkans with Russia. It is not known to this day whether Hitler neglected to inform Mussolini of this treaty or simply felt he did not need to, but Mussolini took it as a personal affront. Tensions were strained but after much discussion it was agreed to acknowledge the Russian claims on Romania. Furthermore, Italy would no longer actively support the Fascist regime there.

Axis relations further weakened when it was revealed that Germany was undergoing diplomatic talks with Japan, again without Italy's involvement. Mussolini warned Hitler that he would not be permitted to treat Italy as anything other than a full member of the Axis and demanded to be included in all treaty negotiations.

Second Romanian Incident: January 11th 1937 - March 12th 1937

Elements of the Italian foreign ministry, unbeknownst to Mussolini, had never given up on Romania and began supporting "Romanian Stormtroopers" in their crusade to harass Bolshevik elements in Bucherest. Stalin was made aware of this and became outraged, believing in his paranoia that Hitler had betrayed him. On January 11th, Molotov closed the Soviet embassy in Berlin and delivered the personal message of Stalin, "what is the point an embassy if fascists cannot be trusted ?". The chimneys of the embassy burned black smoke as sensitive documents were burned. Two Red Armies were moved to the German-Russian border. Outraged, Hitler sent his SS Reichsfurher to Rome to see just what was going on down there. Mussolini assured he had no fore-knowledge of the events but once again suggested an all out assault on Russia. Manstein's III Panzer Korps was sent to Rome to "assist" in the inter-Fascist negotiations. A secret back channel was established between Wilhelm Frick and the infamous Beria in the city of Talinn in Estonia. The Estonia Accords were signed there (of which the contents are unknown to this author). The Red Army groups were pulled back on March 12th and Mussolini ceased his grumblings about Romania. The Italian Foreign Minister was executed on April 1st.

It is hard to remember who we distrusted more in those days: The capitalist media, for blatantly misreporting the facts of the war? The Nazis, for continuing to treat Italy as little more than a tool to be used then discarded when unneeded? Or Stalin, for his threats against the safety of the homeland? On January 8th, a rally in part funded for by Italy was held in Bucherest supporting the Fascist cause. Mussolini was pleased by the response, and felt that Bulgaria might be a useful ally on the Russian border. He gave orders for continued support of Fascism underground in Bulgaria. Then on February 14th, the same group began actions in Romania in clear violation of the Molotov-Rippentop treaty that Italy had honor. Appalled by this development, Mussolini immediately informed the Soviets that this was not their intent and he would personally see to it that further actions were limited to Bulgaria. Stalin informed him that no matter, Bulgaria was off limits as well. There were a wide variety of further threats and demands, but no more Russian telegraphs were answered for the time being. But they were, however, flying back and forth between Roma and Berlin. Within a short time Mussolini learned the truth, not only had the Germans completely neglected to mention this treaty the first time around, would you believe that the second time they failed to inform us of the entire treaty? Bulgaria was indeed acknowledged as a Russian claim in Molotov-Rippentop, yet somehow Italy was left completely unaware of this fact. I think this was the first time Mussolini wondered if he had made a mistake in allying with the Germans, and began to privately look for a way out. In public, Mussolini agreed to the Molotov-Rippentop (amended) Pact, as it was always named here reflecting the fact that we were informed of the orginal treaty's provisions.

Note the capitalist propaganda in the newspaper: at no time were Panzer Korps sent to "assist" in negotiations, rather they were there as a technology demonstration of the support Italy could expect in North Africa. The "foreign minister" reported as executed was none other than General Armellia who was shot some 3 months earlier.

Spanish Civil War - Continued: January 1st, 1937 - ongoing

The Second Condor Legion landed in Barcelona, now under siege on February 2nd. They Nationalists broke out of the Barcelona pocket on February 17th. The Second Battle of Tortosa occurred on March 3rd with Nationalists defeating the Republicans soundly. Madrid was relieved on May 9th. On May 17th, Anarchists attempted to take over the Republican government now in Seville but were violently crushed. As of June 1st, the winner of the Civil War is still in doubt.

On March 2nd, Stalin initiated the Great Purges. So far, 150,000 Russians, Ukranians, and Karelians have disappeared into the barren tundra of Siberia. Their fate is unknown.

After we pulled out of Spain in early November of 1936, the Nationalists managed to turn a near defeat into a drawn out stalemate. We received an urgent request for help in early March stating that immediate reinforcements would turn the tide of the war. Having no other troops available, Roma Command under General Amadeo di Abruzzi was immediately dispatched to Barcelona, which included the 18a Divisione 'Messina' that I commanded and 2 other infantry divisiones. We arrived on March 13th (reported again incorrectly by the western media) and immediately set to putting and end to this bloody civil war, once and for all. I did not enjoy fighting in Spain...the terrain was difficult and I could not help but be haunted by the spirits of my fallen brothers. We fought for over five months on Spanish soil, making slow but steady progress. Abruzzi was not a tactical idiot his predecessor was and I had no doubt in my mind during the campaign that we would prevail.

On the Soviet purges, I only have one thing to say about this. The rest of the world deplored the "barbaric" actions of Italian troops in the colonial campaigns, which employed no different tactics than used by the French and English in the 19th century. Yet there was little outcry from the west over the actions of Stalin, a double standard which was hard to ignore. Mussolini truly was a visionary in recognizing early on the growing threat of Bolsheviks.

Here ends the account of the first session.

Mario Pazzaglia
Wartime photo

 

[Diefledermas]

History of the World: June 1st, 1937 - June 1st, 1938

UK - Fort
USA - Darthmaur
France - GI Tom
USSR - Mr Bigglesworth
Japan - Jokerswild (June 1st - Sept 17th, 1937)
Japan - Mithrilmight (Sept 17th - June 1st, 1938)
Italy - Cfeedback
Germany - DieFledermas

1937 (continued)

With the Balkan crisis averted, the situation in Europe cooled from a potential hot war and settled into a cold war between France and Germany. The Soviet Union exploited the Western Power's distraction and set about promoting World Revolution via diplomatic means, particulary in the Americas.

The Great Purges in the USSR continued with the officer corps of the Red Army being decimated in mass executions in the Polish Frontier.

On June 16th, the Columbian labor party took power ousting the military junta there.

The Americans hosted a public ceremony on June 23rd, in the Quincy, Massachuesetts shipyards where the keel of the 33,000 ton USS Essex aircaft carrier was laid down in flagrant violation of the Washington Naval Treaty.

On July 2nd, the Japanese Empire officially declared martial law and disbanded the parliment. This was followed a fortnight later by the Siamese Conflict which touched off The War of Southeast Asia.

Siamese Conflict: July 16th - September 28th

Siam, Japan, Nationalist China

Japanese torpedo planes launched a suprise attack on the Siamese Fleet in the Gulf of Siam on the morning of July 16th. The entire fleet was sunk in a matter of hours. Japan officially declared war as Imperial naval infantry stormed the beaches north of Singapore and Bangkok. France, Britain, and Germany all expressed outrage at this flagrant expansionism while the USA expressed "grave concerns". Bangkok fell to the Japanese on July 20th. By the end of the month the Siamese were engaged soley in Guerilla warfare. The King of Siam fled to Indochina. On August 5th, with Japanese forces racing north, the Chinese declared war on Siam as well and crossed the border. The Washington Post ran a front page headline, "Is China a democracy?" On September 12th, at the Battle of Khon Kaen, the Chinese defeated the Siamese and were face to face with the Imperial Japanese Army. The Siam Conference was held in Calcutta on the 28th will all major powers present. It was decided Bangkok and the Malay Peninsula would go to Japan while the rest would be incorporated into Greater China. The Japanese representative was not pleased.

Spanish Civil War: July 18th, 1936 - August 2nd, 1937 (cont'd)

On June 29th, the Fascist armies under Franco support by the Italian Condor Legion under General Abruzzi defeated the Republicans at Seville. This was the last major engagement of the Spanish Civil War. Only a ragtag force of scattered guerillas remained. On July 29th, the last Republican held province of Grenada fell and the French Foriegn Legion was evacuated to Gibraltar. Franco was recognized as the legitimate leader of Spain by Germany, Italy, Sweden, and Lithuania on August 2nd. The rest of the world powers begrudgingly advocated their stand on the Republicans by the end of the year.

Axis Rift

Mussolini publically questioned the "Iron" of Hitler's regime and proclaimed himself the "Crusader against Bolshevism". Hitler responded by ceasing all iron shipments to Italy and cessation of their scientific exchange program. Mussolini responded by publically stating the entire Balkan region was in the Italian sphere of influence. Stalin declared any Italian aggression would mean war with the Reich to which Hitler responded the Russian's would "regret any offensive moves towards the Axis". Forces were moved to the fronts and several overflights of me109's and Yak-1's into enemy airspace were reported. At this time the French took advantage of the situation and sent emissaries to Hungary and Romania suggesting the formation of a "Little Entente". Both Stalin and Hitler realized Allied explotation of the situation and agreed to moritorium on the situation on August 15th. By October 8th, with the war raging in Asia, Germany proclaimed Mussolini the "betrayer of Fascism". Italy officially withdrew from the Axis 3 days later.

On October 16th, French courtisans unsuccessfully attempted to poison Franco in his bed. The coup put down, Franco moved his forces into the Pirennes. Hitler and Franco began holding talks about a Germanic-Spanish Axis.

The War of Southeast Asia: October 6th - December 2nd

Japan, France, UK, Australia, Canada, South Africa, Nationalist China, Manchucko

The Japanese, infuriated by the Siamese Treaty, declared war on France on October 6th in an attempt to bring Indochina into their Co-Prosperity Sphere. The Allies, obeying treaty stipulations with France, declared war on Japan the next day. On October 7th, the HMS Hood and her battle group were attacked by Japanese Zeros from the Kaga and the Hosho in the Battle of Thailand Gulf. The Hood escaped with heavy damage but the rest of the battle group was sunk, the harbinger of carrier warfare and the end of the "queen of the sea's" reign was apparent. On October 17th the Australian Navy with her sole carrier caught a Japanese assault force heading for Brunei. The Battle of the Singapore Sea saw the entire Japanese force sent to the bottom with 12 Japanese marine divisions. On October 26th, after heavy negotiations by France, China joined the Allies and sent 40 divisions into Manchuko violating a the Sino-Japanese Non-Aggression Treaty of 1936. President Roosevelt proclaimed extreme concern for U.S. business interests in China. On November 1st, Japanese marines landed in the Caroline Islands quickly overwhelming the island chain's defenders. The retreating British general proclaimed, "I shall return!". On November 2nd, the Dali Lama of Tibet and Chaing Kai-shek proclaimed a desire for closer relations between the two nations in the face of Japanese aggression. The following day, Bangkok fell to Guomindang forces which then turned east towards Indochina. On November 15th, the bulk of the Chinese and Japanese armies met at Phnom Penn. The Chinese were supported by irregular Viet Minh guerillas under the Ho Chi Minh. This did not sit well with the French governor. In a brillant manuever, the Japanese did an end-arround on the 17th and landed an amphibious assualt force near Bangkok surrounding the city. The seige lasted until November 20th when the city finally fell. The Phillipines were evacuated of all American civilians under the cover of the U.S. 7th Fleet on the 19th. On November 22nd, the Australian Navy and the Yamoto battle group fought an inclusive exchage in the Battle of the East China Sea. The Yamato was heavily damaged but not before leveling her guns on the Australian carrier, sending it to Melbourne for repairs. On December 1st, the Royal Navy's India Station battled the massed Japanese Imperial Navy and was anihiliated at the Japanese Trench. On the same day, the Indian Army attacked Japan's western Siamese holdings. Realizing they had lost the initiative, the Japanese ambassodor in Paris offered to evacuate all forces from Indochina in exchange for peace. The German and US representatives at the talks both urged a return to the status quo. France agreed to peace and hostilities officially ended on December 7th, 1937. Chaing Kai-shek, who was not present at the peace talks and whose Guomindang armies were gobbling up Japanese territory was outraged. He publicly insulted the French as "cowardly weaklings" and was slow to withdraw his divisions from Japanese territory until the Royal Navy was dispatched to Kowloon.

Saudi Arabian Conflict: September 16th - November 25th

Italy, Saudi Arabia

Italian forces landed in Bahrain on September 16th and fought a war of attrition through the desert until finally besieging Riyadh on November 16th. More soldiers were lost to dehydration and dissentary than actual combat with the Saudis. The city held for 9 days but finally surrendered on November 25th. Mussolini established Saudi Arabia, as Italian Asia Minor.

Bulgarian Conflict: October 21st - November 9th

Italy, Bulgaria

Mussolini, intent on keeping his promises of Balkan domination declared war on Bulgaria on Oct 21. Repeating their Yugoslavian tactics, the Italian airforce engaged in a bombing campaign of Sofia on for 3 weeks until finally besieging the Bulgarian captial on November 6th. The demoralized population surrendered in 3 days and the victorious Italian legions installed Slodibin Chiceschu as the puppet fascist leader of Bulgaria. The Soviet Union was outraged vowed to kick "the little Italian" out of the Balkans.

A Ukranian independent movement held an unauthorized plebiscite on November 2nd and voted to leave the Union of the Soviet Socialist Republics. Stalin responded by sending the Red Army and "purging" the entire city of Odessa. The League of Nation expressed utter shock at Stalin's brutality. Curiously, France stated it was an "internal Russian matter". Rippentrop expressed sadness for the people of Ukraine and offered refuge in the Reich to those Ukranians who could make it across the Dnieper.

On November 5th, Finland, fearing the growing hostility of the USSR elected a leftist government on the premise of neutrality.

Romania

Ever the plaything of the world powers, The Romanian political parties of the left, right, and center all saw foreign currency and covert operations assist and hinder them. Hungarian seperatists attempted provoke a Hungarian-Romanian conflict over Transylvania. Russia assisted the leftist-leaning army with Soviet doctrine and elite Italian mountain troops secretly crossed the border to assist the governments "protection police" By December, the Romanian president had caved to the militaries demands and began looking East.

1938

On January 3rd, Franco and Laval held the Spanish-French Summit in Barcelona. To the suprise of both Berlin and Rome, Madrid announced closer ties with the West. Over the course of the next six months, Franco loosened his iron grip and as of June 1st has even begun to suggest the possibility of allowing a parliment to be instated although his stand on Spanish neutrality seems assured.

Albert Speer announced the completion of the Ziegfried Line in the Rhineland to defend the Reich against French aggression. This seems to have been a wise investment. On February 5th, workers in Alsace-Lorraine demanded Paris allow their provinces to be returned to Greater Germany. The French responded by violently suppressing the protesters. The French premier announced war was inevitable but luckily cooler German heads prevailed and conflict was avoided.

On March 13th, the great German people of Austria demanded their president accept Anschluss with Germany proper and take their place with the Reich. The Austrian people were welcomed into Germany with open arms and the Austrian army, second only to Germany in discipline and prowess was easily folded into the Wermacht.

On February 18th, bowing to extreme pressure, the Romanians joined the Commintern. The honeymoon was extremely short as can be evidenced by the Romanian army being taken over by the Russians a short 2 weeks later with Commisars installed in every division. The Romanian army was sent to the Hungarian border on March 27th in what can only have been a precussor to invasion. Italy, seeing the potential to further expand its Balkan holdings, also moved its legions to the Hungarian border. The Hungarians, fearing imminent invasion, asked, and were accepted into the Axis on April 12th. The Wermacht's IX Korps was sent to Prague and both the Italian and Romanian armies moved away from the borderlands.

On March 5th, proclaiming, "the French are bunch of worthless Frogs who are only concerned with women's underwear", Chaing Kai-shek announced China was unconcerned with European affairs and withdrew from the Alliance. France proclaimed "extreme sadness over Chaing's obvious lack of understanding of real politik" and closed its embassy in Nanking. The United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, and South Africa followed suit.

Despite the French's continued gifts, promises, and bribes to the Turkish Sultan, the fine Ottamans elected a Nationalist candidate to their governing body on April 11th.

As the spring of 1938 gives way to summer, the world is at peace although a cold war between France and Germany for the domination of Europe is fully engaged and the Russian Bear has been eerily quiet.

 

[unmerged(14377)]

History of the World: June 1, 1937 - June 1, 1938 The French Connection

UK - Fort
USA - Darthmaur
France - GI Tom
USSR - Mr Bigglesworth
Japan - Jokerswild (June 1st - Sept 17th, 1937)
Japan - Mithrilmight (Sept 17th - June 1st, 1938)
Italy - Cfeedback
Germany - DieFledermas

1937 continued...

With the Balkan crisis averted, the situation in Europe cooled from a potential hot war and settled into a cold war between France and Germany. The Soviet Union exploited the Western Power's distraction and set about promoting World Revolution via diplomatic means, particulary in the Americas

France continued to denounce the extreme dissastifaction she has with the Fascist nations of the Axis. Germany, especially ignorant in the true power of France had many unpleasantries exchanged throughout the International News Agencies. It seemed as if Hitler and Laval were on a crash course for conflct. France was initally unprepared for conflict at this point in time, but was steadily moving closer to an acceptable military position.

Spanish Civil War: July 18th, 1936 - August 2nd, 1937 (cont'd)

On June 29th, the Fascist armies under Franco support by the Italian Condor Legion under General Abruzzi defeated the Republicans at Seville. This was the last major engagement of the Spanish Civil War. Only a ragtag force of scattered guerillas remained. On July 29th, the last Republican held province of Grenada fell and the French Foriegn Legion was evacuated to Gibraltar. Franco was recognized as the legitimate leader of Spain by Germany, Italy, Sweden, and Lithuania on August 2nd. The rest of the world powers begrudgingly advocated their stand on the Republicans by the end of the year.

Yet anther setback in the French "Plan". It was hoped that the UK would intervene, but the French sensed a coolness from London and elected not to press the matter. After France lost it's 5 Divisions by that incapable Field Marshal, she was in no position to send further help with the beginning of the Franco-German Cold War. France was beginning to feel a sense of vulnerability.

Axis Rift

Mussolini publically questioned the "Iron" of Hitler's regime and proclaimed himself the "Crusader against Bolshevism". Hitler responded by ceasing all iron shipments to Italy and cessation of their scientific exchange program. Mussolini responded by publically stating the entire Balkan region was in the Italian sphere of influence. Stalin declared any Italian aggression would mean war with the Reich to which Hitler responded the Russian's would "regret any offensive moves towards the Axis". Forces were moved to the fronts and several overflights of me109's and Yak-1's into enemy airspace were reported. At this time the French took advantage of the situation and sent emissaries to Hungary and Romania suggesting the formation of a "Little Entente". Both Stalin and Hitler realized Allied explotation of the situation and agreed to moritorium on the situation on August 15th. By October 8th, with the war raging in Asia, Germany proclaimed Mussolini the "betrayer of Fascism". Italy officially withdrew from the Axis 3 days later.

France is skeptical of this turn of events. After intense discussions with the Allies (even Stalin sent an "observer" for the talks held in Paris), it was unclear what the true intentions of Italy was at this point. The Balkans were quickly becoming a hotbed of activity. The Cold War was in full swing with France and Germany.

Indeed emissaries were dispatched to Hungary and Romania, but of course the Germans felt this was some type of Allied plot. While not the case, seeing that France is only interested in World Peace, the International reaction to the dispatched envoy's was cool to say the least. Stalin requested diplomatically that this was a Soviet Affair and kindly requested the removal of the diplomats. Not wanting a confrontation with the Soviets at this juncture, Laval agreed to recall them back to Paris and let events unfold with a very watchful eye.

On October 16th, French courtisans unsuccessfully attempted to poison Franco in his bed. The coup put down, Franco moved his forces into the Pirennes. Hitler and Franco began holding talks about a Germanic-Spanish Axis.

While sounding drastic in nature, this was indeed not the case. However, the documents leading up to the "supposed events" by the Germans are still highly classified. They will not be available for public review until 1951 as there are French National Security concerns regarding this that are considered sensitive until that time. After all, Germany and France are in a cold war and it should be expected that the Fascists will continue to try and spread lies and rumors.

The War of Southeast Asia: October 6th - December 2nd

While completely involved in the events of the Balkans and Europe proper, inexplicably the Japanese declare war on French provinces in Asia. Totally unprepared for such a move, an immediate emergency cabinet meeting is held to discuss the situation. It is decided that the French colonies, now nearly undefended, will stand to or die for the greater good. No help will be sent due to mounting tensions at home. Within a day, the Allied bloc of nations declares war on the Japanese as well.

In a completely unexpected, yet welcome move, the Chinese formally ask for alliance with the Allies. Welcomed with open arms, Laval spins thoughts of future relations with the Chinese in his head.

With this turn of events, the Japanese government is thrown into an uproar. Realizing it's tenuous position, it sues for peace. While protests were heard from the Chinese and Soviets, they were reminded it was not their blood that was being spilled, nor their resources being gobbled up. A separate peace was made with the Japanese that restored the situation back to normal.

China's Chaing Kai-Shek was outraged. After several attempts to provide China with valuable, and most importantly free resources for their obvious upsetedness, they continued to decline requested diplomatic meetings. The newly established French embassy in China which had only been operational for a few days, was asked very unkindly to leave. Unfortunately, the envoy not very happy with his long journey from France made some remarks that infuriated the Chinese. This did not help matters any and a total and abrupt communication halt occurred. A most unfortunate turn of events, but France was back to holding her original posessions in the Far East, which at this juncture is more important than a Chinese relationship.

Saudi Arabian Conflict: September 16th - November 25th

Italy, once again rearing it's Fascist head, goes for further expansion and conquest. France, realizing the UK's position is unable to assist in any way, shape or form. Italy is warned again that continuing aggression will not be tolerated. The messages fall on deaf ears as usual. Mussolini does not respect the French it appears. Laval is itching to show them France's power, but his cabinet cools him down explaining that even though the latest polls show 100% of the people support hostile actions, the cutback in consumer goods would raise national dissent to an unacceptable level. Laval reluctantly concurs with his cabinet and leaves the meeting with a sour taste in his mouth.

Bulgarian Conflict: October 21st - November 9th

..Curiously, France stated it was an "internal Russian matter".

The Soviets requested an audience and welcomely offered to assist France in assuming some responsibility to let the French government concentrate on "other" matters. Somewhat reluctantly, but necessary, France agreed. France's position dictates this move and quite honestly was relieved that Stalin was being so generous. Maybe Italy and Germany will realize the consequences of their actions now, however, hardly unlikely. 1937 closes with tensions running high.

1938

On January 3rd, Franco and Laval held the Spanish-French Summit in Barcelona. To the suprise of both Berlin and Rome, Madrid announced closer ties with the West. Over the course of the next six months, Franco loosened his iron grip and as of June 1st has even begun to suggest the possibility of allowing a parliment to be instated although his stand on Spanish neutrality seems assured.

With the Balkans pressure relieved, France turned it's attention West to the now Nationalist Spain. After intense negotiations, finally dividends started to pay off and Spain agreed to lean towards a Western view of things. A fine piece of diplomatic work indeed.

Albert Speer announced the completion of the Ziegfried Line in the Rhineland to defend the Reich against French aggression. This seems to have been a wise investment. On February 5th, workers in Alsace-Lorraine demanded Paris allow their provinces to be returned to Greater Germany. The French responded by violently suppressing the protesters. The French premier announced war was inevitable but luckily cooler German heads prevailed and conflict was avoided.

Unconcerned with Speers efforts, France once again had to explain to the world that the supposed "uprising" was again a feeble attempted plot by the Germans to wage war. It was found that German sympathists were leaned on by the German government to start the uprising. There was no suppression other than the sympathists that caused the problems in the first place amongst a peaceful France. The cold war was indeed in full swing and Laval strained to maintain peace although every fibre within him wanted to unleash the French Military Machine.

To show Laval's serious intentions, he sent an open invitation to the UK, the US and even the Soviets, that they had just finished constructing an excellent, top notch Military training facility on the Maginot line. The governments were invited to send any Military units they liked to utilize the facilities at French cost.

The UK and the Soviets responded by sending an undisclosed number of units to take up the offer. The U.S. declined. When asked, the U.S. stated they were busy with internal operations. France is unclear if the U.S. really is worried about the European situation that is arising. Only time will tell.

On March 13th, the great German people of Austria demanded their president accept Anschluss with Germany proper and take their place with the Reich. The Austrian people were welcomed into Germany with open arms and the Austrian army, second only to Germany in discipline and prowess was easily folded into the Wermacht.

Another disturbing incident for the French government. This proves that Hitler's intentons are purely hostile and that he has no aim other than world conquest. France is becoming immune to any communication the Fascists make.

Despite the French's continued gifts, promises, and bribes to the Turkish Sultan, the fine Ottamans elected a Nationalist candidate to their governing body on April 11th.

Unfortunately, rumors to the Turkish government by unknown members of the Axis alliance swayed the government to a change of initial plans. The French will not abandon hopes of a Turkish alliance and will continue to pursue different solutions to the "Turk Problem".

As the spring of 1938 gives way to summer, the world is at peace although a cold war between France and Germany for the domination of Europe is fully engaged and the Russian Bear has been eerily quiet.

France enters the summer of 38' with a solid position amongst the world. Much stronger than the previous year, she feels confident that her country is in excellent standing. Franco-German cold war conflict is at an all time high. Italian correspondance is non-existant. The breakup of the Axis: does it signify treachery or good news? Fascists are Fascists after all, and France feels you cannot teach on old dog new tricks. Time tells all.

GI Tom

 

[Minodrin]

Yes, this AAR is even better than the last one, although having images displaying the attacks (By arrows and so on) would be nice...

 

[Mr.Bigglesworth]

History of the World: June 1, 1937 - June 1, 1938 - Soviet Perspective​

The time period ended with the Soviet Union mobilized for war. With non-aggression treaties with Japan and China, the Soviet Union felt secure enough in their eastern flank to consider hostile actions in the west.

Italy had been a thorn in the Great Bear's paw for the past two and a half years. For some reason, Mussolini had gone out of his way several times to sour relations with their superior neighbors to the east. Romania, pressured to join the Commintern, provided a land link to the Italian holdings. The Soviet Union now has the ability to surge over 100 divisions into Italy, whose inferior troops would not stand a chance. Clearly, the coming year will finally see the subjugation of the Italians, whether by force or by diplomatic pressure. Communists funded by the Soviet Union have already begun to take hold in their government.

In the east, the Soviet Union was disappionted in the peace process in Asia. China did not receive anything in the peace, and was relegated to secondary status by France and Japan. The great risks that China took to become part of the Alliance should have been rewarded.

Despite the Asian situation, relations with France remain cordial, as they could become an essential ally to neutralize Italy. Moscow also hopes to improve relationships with Mexico and other burgeoning communists.

 

[cfeedback]

Originally posted by Minodrin
Yes, this AAR is even better than the last one, although having images displaying the attacks (By arrows and so on) would be nice...

Working on that heh...was a bit slow in preparing for this AAR, plus not much of a graphics wiz. Next session's AAR will include at least 1 screenshot if not more...will slowly work up in complexity.

Any feedback (no pun intended) is appreciated!

 

[cfeedback]

Second Session

History of the World: June 1st, 1937 - June 1st, 1938
Italian Operative's Perspective​

Spanish Civil War - Continued: July 18th, 1936 - August 2nd, 1937

On June 29th, the Fascist armies under Franco support by the Italian Condor Legion under General Abruzzi defeated the Republicans at Seville. This was the last major engagement of the Spanish Civil War. Only a ragtag force of scattered guerillas remained. On July 29th, the last Republican held province of Grenada fell and the French Foreign Legion was evacuated to Gibraltar. Franco was recognized as the legitimate leader of Spain by Germany, Italy, Sweden, and Lithuania on August 2nd. The rest of the world powers begrudgingly advocated their stand on the Republicans by the end of the year.

(French Perspective)
Yet anther setback in the French "Plan". It was hoped that the UK would intervene, but the French sensed a coolness from London and elected not to press the matter. After France lost it's 5 Divisions by that incapable Field Marshal, she was in no position to send further help with the beginning of the Franco-German Cold War. France was beginning to feel a sense of vulnerability.

On June 29th, the Battle of Seville was fought and a decisive victory was gained over the Republicans. General Abruzzi announced to the troops that we would return to Barcelona immediately and set sail for Roma. My heart filled with joy at the thought of returning home. On August 2nd, 1937 the Nationalist forces finished off the last resistance in Granada and Malaga. General Abruzzi's cable sent to Marshall Graziani and to all major world powers simply said Roma locuta est. Causa finita est: Rome has spoken. The cause is finished. The following morning, August 3rd, all Italian troops pulled out of Spain, thus ending this chapter of the second great war.

Axis Rift: August 2nd, 1937 - October 11th, 1937

Mussolini publicly questioned the "Iron" of Hitler's regime and proclaimed himself the "Crusader against Bolshevism". Hitler responded by ceasing all iron shipments to Italy and cessation of their scientific exchange program. Mussolini responded by publicly stating the entire Balkan region was in the Italian sphere of influence. Stalin declared any Italian aggression would mean war with the Reich to which Hitler responded the Russian's would "regret any offensive moves towards the Axis". Forces were moved to the fronts and several overflights of me109's and Yak-1's into enemy airspace were reported. At this time the French took advantage of the situation and sent emissaries to Hungary and Romania suggesting the formation of a "Little Entente". Both Stalin and Hitler realized Allied exploitation of the situation and agreed to moratorium on the situation on August 15th. By October 8th, with the war raging in Asia, Germany proclaimed Mussolini the "betrayer of Fascism". Italy officially withdrew from the Axis 3 days later.

On October 16th, French courtesans unsuccessfully attempted to poison Franco in his bed. The coup put down, Franco moved his forces into the Pirennes. Hitler and Franco began holding talks about a Germanic-Spanish Axis.

(French Perspective)
France is skeptical of this turn of events. After intense discussions with the Allies (even Stalin sent an "observer" for the talks held in Paris), it was unclear what the true intentions of Italy was at this point. The Balkans were quickly becoming a hotbed of activity. The Cold War was in full swing with France and Germany.

Indeed emissaries were dispatched to Hungary and Romania, but of course the Germans felt this was some type of Allied plot. While not the case, seeing that France is only interested in World Peace, the International reaction to the dispatched envoy's was cool to say the least. Stalin requested diplomatically that this was a Soviet Affair and kindly requested the removal of the diplomats. Not wanting a confrontation with the Soviets at this juncture, Laval agreed to recall them back to Paris and let events unfold with a very watchful eye.

Upon return to Roma on August 7th, I was given a special assignment. Due to my outstanding performance in the Spanish campaign and the fact that I had a degree (Economics and Natural Sciences) from the University of Milan, I was chosen to become a member of a new intelligence force known simply as P2. The first task given to me was to decipher secret German-Japanese messages that Hitler still refused to share with his Italian allies. The task proved insurmountable, and Mussolini grew increasing paranoid that Hitler was selling him out to the Russians. On October 7th, Mussolini informed Hitler of his intention to withdraw the Axis and did so on October 11th, notifying both Germany and Russia that Italy considered itself no longer bound by the Molotov-Rippentop Pact (amended). Supreme Commander Graziani began plans for Balkan campaign, and I was quickly promoted to Director of Intelligence: European Operations (DOIEO). Along with the directors of African, Asian, and American Operations, we formed the core of the P2 leadership and reported only to my supervisor (who I'll not name) and to Mussolini himself.

My immediate concerns turned toward the Germans and the Russians. I had to find out what, if anything, they were plotting and how the Japanese fit into this. The French, as usual, were as easy to read as an open book, proclaiming themselves to be the defenders of freedom all over the world yet somehow managing to bungle it at every turn. I wondered to myself how it was they were not already conquered.

The War of Southeast Asia: October 6th, 1937 - December 2nd, 1937

Japan, France, UK, Australia, Canada, South Africa, Nationalist China, Manchucko

The Japanese, infuriated by the Siamese Treaty, declared war on France on October 6th in an attempt to bring Indochina into their Co-Prosperity Sphere. The Allies, obeying treaty stipulations with France, declared war on Japan the next day......France agreed to peace and hostilities officially ended on December 7th, 1937. Chaing Kai-shek, who was not present at the peace talks and whose Guomindang armies were gobbling up Japanese territory was outraged. He publicly insulted the French as "cowardly weaklings" and was slow to withdraw his divisions from Japanese territory until the Royal Navy was dispatched to Kowloon.

Mussolini's paranoia proved correct as Japan launched a surprise attack on France and the Allies on October 6th. Italy was not ready to fight a war with the major powers at this time and feared Hitler would use this as an excuse to drag the Axis into war. We received assurances from Germany that this conflict would not involve us, but the decision was made anyway to leave the Axis on the next day. As to the war in Asia, we kept a watchful eye towards it but nothing else. French diplomats managed to negotiate a peace treaty yet China chose to withdraw from the alliance. For the French, that was coming up ahead.

Saudi Arabian Conflict: October 16th, 1937 - November 25th, 1937

Italy, Saudi Arabia

Italian forces landed in Bahrain on September 16th and fought a war of attrition through the desert until finally besieging Riyadh on November 16th. More soldiers were lost to dehydration and dysentery than actual combat with the Saudis. The city held for 9 days but finally surrendered on November 25th. Mussolini established Saudi Arabia, as Italian Asia Minor.

Just five short days after leaving the Axis, we declared war on the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. This was actually a diversionary tactic by Graziani in preparation for the Balkan campaign. The invasion's purpose was twofold: to motivate the Italian people by adding more territory to L'Impero, and to distract the Bulgarians and the world from the impending invasion. Italy's 2 armored divisions saw action for the second time, barely adequate to survive the harsh desert conditions of Arabia. Plans for the new Carro Armato model tank were accelerated as it was clear how vital armored units would be in the coming conflict. After a long journey and a brief struggle, Saudi Arabia was officially added to the Empire on November 25th. Emperor Victor Emmanuel III later visited and installed the Duke of Asia Minor at Riyadh.

Bulgarian Conflict: October 21st, 1937 - November 9th, 1937

Italy, Bulgaria

Mussolini, intent on keeping his promises of Balkan domination declared war on Bulgaria on Oct 21. Repeating their Yugoslavian tactics, the Italian air force engaged in a bombing campaign of Sofia on for 3 weeks until finally besieging the Bulgarian capital on November 6th. The demoralized population surrendered in 3 days and the victorious Italian legions installed Slodibin Chiceschu as the puppet fascist leader of Bulgaria. The Soviet Union was outraged vowed to kick "the little Italian" out of the Balkans.

After much negotiation with the Vatican, on October 15th Pope Pius XII gave his famous in hoc signo vinces speech, which literally translated means, "Under this sign (the cross of God) thou shalt conquer." At this historical event, the Pope proclaimed full support for Mussolini's new Italian Empire. An open immigration policy for all Catholics was announced, with generous land grants for those willing stake claims in the colonial possessions.

The long awaited Balkan campaign began October 21st with General Umberto, the Prince of Piedmont, in command. His III. Corps consisted of four infantry divisionesand three alpini divisiones and made short work of the Bulgarian royal forces with the support of the massive strafing by the Regia Aeronautica that went on for weeks. After the Battle of Sofia was won on the morning of November 9th, an agreement was reached with the Fascist element of the government, granting them limited self autonomy. All foreign affairs would be handled through Roma, and the remains of the Bulgarian army were now under the direct command of General Umberto, who was named Overseer of Bulgaria.

Romania's Political Upheaval: October 22nd, 1937 - February 18th, 1938

Ever the plaything of the world powers, The Romanian political parties of the left, right, and center all saw foreign currency and covert operations assist and hinder them. Hungarian seperatists attempted provoke a Hungarian-Romanian conflict over Transylvania. Russia assisted the leftist-leaning army with Soviet doctrine and elite Italian mountain troops secretly crossed the border to assist the governments "protection police" By December, the Romanian president had caved to the militaries demands and began looking East.

On February 18th, bowing to extreme pressure, the Romanians joined the Comintern. The honeymoon was extremely short as can be evidenced by the Romanian army being taken over by the Russians a short 2 weeks later with Commissars installed in every division. The Romanian army was sent to the Hungarian border on March 27th in what can only have been a precursor to invasion. Italy, seeing the potential to further expand its Balkan holdings, also moved its legions to the Hungarian border. The Hungarians, fearing imminent invasion, asked, and were accepted into the Axis on April 12th. The Wermacht's IX Korps was sent to Prague and both the Italian and Romanian armies moved away from the borderlands.

I am ashamed to say I must take full blame for the Russian coup in Romania. My attentions were turned elsewhere as I thought the situation in Romania was too volatile for Stalin to take advantage of. On February 19th, after learning of their entrance to the Comintern, I was called in for a meeting with il Duce himself, and I must admit I feared for my life. Mussolini was in a foul mood indeed but the safety of my head did not come up, and I left his headquarters feeling very relieved. I resolved to redouble my efforts and never fail in his service again.

Here ends the account of the second session.

L'Impero Italiano
The Italian Empire c. 1938

 

[Minodrin]

Btw, looking it the Italian map it appears the British aren't defending their colonies...any reason why?

 

[cfeedback]

Originally posted by Minodrin
Btw, looking it the Italian map it appears the British aren't defending their colonies...any reason why?

I can't speak for the British, but at the present date of the screenshot we're not at war. Perhaps they're just being sneaky and keeping their forces in reserve.

 

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White House: American point of view

1936: The end of Isolationism
United States were still recovering from the great depression, But no longer would it be inward-looking nation.

It was estimated by governmental agencies that country supply of raw materials would become insuffiecent in few years. Concerned with that, US administration begun establishing economical ties with China and Britain, both having large amounts of unused coal and steel deposits. Private corporations followed, and soon american businnes was heavily involved in China.

American military also dispatched military observers to Chinese interior provinces, where conflict with Communists raged. Fortunately, this rebellion was crushed, increasing stability of China and making businnes safer.

Events in Europe, expansion of Spanish, Italian and German fascist movements and downfall of European democracies triggered increased public support for military-related spending, and cooperation with France and United Kingdom.

While whole economy experienced healthy growth, american shipbuilding and aircraft industries were particuraly affected by it, and in turn, American Navy and Airforce greatly profited from it, in form of new designs.

Electronic and rocketry research at many US universities received large federal grants, which coupled with scientists refugees from Nazi Germany and other European states, allowed rapid progress.

1937: Trouble in Asia
Apart from civil war in Spain, first part of the year was relatively calm. The attention of US governemnt was mostly focused on Asia, as Chinese officials inquired US about their stance towards joined Sino-Japanese aggresion of Siam.

Warnings were issued, but to no avail. The independent state of Siam was invaded and partitioned between Japan and China. American public, outraged by this unprovoked aggresion, pressured government to take necessary steps, and US support for China was considerably cut down, and American military observers left China.

This was quickly changed with the Japanese agression against French-British alliance. With China joining French and British in their defence, USA decided to reestablish full ties with Chinese republic.

Nevertheless, decision of evacuating Phillipines of all American citizens was made, and Pacific fleet was considerably strengtened.

This also led to decision of designigs new classes of warships and airplanes, and possible contractors begun drawing plans.

 

[unmerged(15003)]

Japan's view 1937-1938

War Perspective Japan 1937 - 1939

Well as a new player I shall give this a shot, but I have had lots of fun learning from everyone

As a newly elected Prime Minister, Japan has undertaken a course on correcting the former Prime Ministers laudable errors in judgement in bringing Japan into War with the allies France, Britain and Nationalist China. New to office I surmised the best course of action and offered the White hand of peace. Japan is a peace loving nation who strives only to protect its people and trade with the community.

Now France being the enlightened nation that it is accepted our admission of guilt by the former administration and allowed us to return to our original borders to resume peace. During this time England had stripped its colonies of its defenders in the heroic attempt to stand by its misguided ally the Chinese, (refer to view of Italy in earlier posting), and marched them to the borders of Siam and Singapore. China enraged by the "power mongering" inflicted upon it by the Allies left the alliance with harsh words for its former benefactors.

Now that peace reigned in the Orient, all nations hoped to resume trading and life. But this was not to be had, Nationalist China repeatedly took an aggressive stance towards Japan, sailing its fleets into home territories, massing troops along the border. In an effort to maintain the peace Japan sought input from both the Allies and the Axis. Japan has become an independent country willing to look to either side for guidance and friendship, especially with the United States looming in the distance with unknown intentions and hostile stances at the negotiating table.

Having received non-responsive answers, Japan reluctantly declared war on the hostile Chinese in an effort to build a buffer zone to protect its industries and community outreach programs. Initial battles progressed well for the Japanese, taking several key counties in the North. Do to slow moving terrain (we think it was a glitch) Japanese troops in Siam did not move for over a month and the initative was lost, as well as the Generals honor. British Infantry troops along with French Mechanized forces numbering between 25 - 30 divisions were given to the Chinese. To stall the Japanese excursion.

The Japan army suffered a grave defeat early on, with its Field Marshal missing in action due to a breakdown in transportation, 8 divisions marched into entrenched field works, after desperate fighting, the Japanes army suffered a rare defeat and lost the battle suffering 6 divisions lost. Japan outgunned, outnumbered used encirclement of the Chinese forces to swing around the entrenchments and march to the sea, much like Sherman in the USA Civil War, only the British Armor divisions racing from the south have blunted the Japanese attack suffering horrendous losses to themselves.

As we come to the fall of 1939, Japan reached out to review its negotiated treaty with the Russian Bear, hoping to continue its positive relationship. But far to the West as the Germans fell on France, Russia declared war on our partner, and because of intangling alliances, so in turn declared war on us. We did not seek to harm our northern brethren but it seems that they seek us out themselves. A much embarrassed ambassy arrived much abashed telling of the clerical error and re-affirming that a word given is a word kept.

 

[Minodrin]

Wow, so like Japan betrayed it's allies, or?

 

[Diefledermas]

History of the World: June 1st, 1938 - September 27th, 1939

Reich Perspective

USSR - Mr Bigglesworth
USA - Darthmaur
UK - Fort
France - GI Tom
Japan - Mithrilmight
Italy - Cfeedback
Nationalist China - Poki-Mo
Germany - DieFledermas

1938 (continued)

The Summer of 1938 opened with the hope of peace. Throughout the world not one country was at war. Unfortunately this was not the dawn of a new era but the eye of the storm.

Bolsheviks in the Americas

On June 2nd, the Marxist-Leninist Party of Mexico, in control of the Mexican senate, passed the Mexican-Russian Friendship Treaty. On July 4th, the American Communist Party staged mass rallies in Los Angeles back by the AFL-CIO. America expelled all Soviet Citizens on August 22nd and banned Socialist Parties.

Turkey and the United Kingdom held talks about closer ties in view of the increasing hostilities of the Russian and Italian forces in the area.

On September 13th, fearing Soviet "cultural aggression", Estonia joined the Axis Powers at the urging of their Baltic sister nation, Lithiuania.

Czechoslavakian Crisis

On September 30th, the Germans living in the Sudetenland held a plebiscite and voted to leave Czechoslavakia (a bastard creation of the French) and rejoin the Reich. A firm German hand in Munich caused Chamberlain and Laval to acquiese to this rightious demand. The Reich agreed to the independence of what remained of Czechoslovakia. The Russians and French released the usual diplomatic protests.

On October 20th, Rippentrop and Laval held the first French-German Summit in Geneva. Both sides re-affirmed their desire for peace between the two nations. France, once again, attempted to meddle in internal Reich affairs but this was waived off by Rippenrop as inconscequential.

On November 3rd, the American Communist Party gained 5 seats in the Senate and 22 seats in Congress. FDR's control over his nation was brought into question.

On December 1st, after repeated threats of invasion, Afghanistan joined the Commintern. The United States publically condemned Soviet imperialism.

Second Sino-Japanese War: November 30th, 1938 -

Japan, Nationalist China, Manchukua, UK (exp forces), France (exp forces), USA (exp forces)

Nationalist China and Imperial Japan had been engaged in border clashes since the end of the first war between their two nations. On Novermber 30th, elements of the Guomintang attacked Manchukuo forces the Japanese to respond by declaring war to defend their ally. The month of December was known as the "phony war" with no major actions between the two nations. France, the United Kingdom, and America all sent "volunteers" into the conflict.

On December 7th, the United States joined the Allies in hopes to protect its interests in the Far East and curb Soviet expansion.

1939

El Salvador and Mexico began discussing a mutual defense pact with the USSR against American aggression on March 6th.

On March 8th, undersecretary of the interior in Germany, von Stupel, was uncovered as a spy for the French by the SS. He was executed in Berlin. Germany publically denounced the French and their historically dishonorable tactics. France denied all responsibility. Germany offered to hold another peace summit to which the French but Laval, ever the warmonger, refused. As if to reinforce the French taste for dishonorable actions, they once again attempt to assasinate Franco, this time with an exploding cigar, on March 26th. Franco expressed complete shock considering the recent thawing of French-Spanish relations.

War of Bohemian Independence: March 15th - April 6th

Germany, Czechoslavakia

On March 15th, reports of Slovakian atriocities against the Czech minority reached Berlin. In attempt to prevent further bloodshed, Germany offered to take the Czechs under their protection and allow the Slovaks to govern themselves as they saw fit. The Czechs responded by imprisioning the German diplomat and declaring war on the Germany. Slovakian marauders attacked the undefended city of Katowice in the General Government and massacred the Polish citizens there. France demanded Germany sue for peace! Germany will teach any who dare declare war on the Reich that this brings a price. V, IX, and X Panzerkorps attacked Pizen along with XII and XV mechkorps on March 22nd. The Luffewaffe's bf109's cleared the skies while stukas reigned down hell. Czech LT 35 tanks proved completely inferior to the Wermacht's pzIII's and IV's. The Battle of Pizen was over in hours. The Panzers blitzed towards Slavkov. On March 8th, Slavkov fell to the Wermacht. Bratislava fell on April 4th. the Czech lands were incorporated into Greater Germany on August 6th and Slovakia was incorporated into the General Government.

Political Crisis over Czechoslavakia

The Soviets condemned German aggression and the French called up their reserves. Italy told France to mind its own business and Germany declared any assistance to Czechoslavakia would be interpretted as a declaration of war. On March 24h, Pope Pius XII called for a world peace summit at the Vatican. France declined. The Pope announced amnesty to all French Catholics and Italy announced open immigration to French ex-patriots. Revealing their true nature, the Bolsheviks granted refuge to Slovakian raiders within the USSR. The Kriegsmarine sailed to the Sund and announced the Baltic was closed to all shipping. On April 1st, desiring increased security, Lativa joined the Axis.

In the aftermath of the Czechslovakian Crisis, France increased the Maginot Line. The Wermacht's elite Gerigsjager Korps was moved to the Ziegfried Line to counter this.

Second Sino-Japanese War (cont'd)

On March 21st, the Japanese won the first major battle of the war at Xianyang. In communication SNAFU, American "Flying Tigers" based in Hong Kong straffed elements of the Soviet Fleet in the Tonkin Gulf. A Russian battlecruiser was damaged and diplomatic insults flew back and forth. On April 14th, under guidance of German advisors, Japan used the new "blitzkrieg" tactics and defeated the Chinese during the first tank battle of the war at Yanan. On May 20th, with Allies now fielding 20 "volunteer" divisions in China, Japan joined the Axis Powers. France once again protested this action even as their troops marched on Japanese occupied Kowloon. On June 27th, the bulk of the Chinese army was routed at Wudu. The Imperial Army had seemed to gain the initiative once again. On August 5th, fearing Chinese aggression, the Warlord Lee of Singkaing, brought his nation into the Commintern. For the next 4 months, the Sino-Japanese fronts settled into a protracted stalemate.

On May 8th, Chile and Germany opened negotiations for greater trade relations. Both Chile and Argentina expressed concerns about the growing communist movements in Central and North America.

On June 8th, Swedish intelligence operative reported that French spies were instigating the Norwegian government to supress Socialist political groups in Oslo. All German diplomatic envoys were turned away. It was decided that "occupied Scandanavia" needed to be liberated.

Operation Thor's Hammer: June 16th - July 5th

Germany, Sweden, Norway

On June 16th, Germany declared war on the Norwegian government and pleaded with the Norse to take up arms against their illegal goverment. On June 17th, the Kriegsmarine defeated the Norwegian navy at the Battle of Hardanger Fjord. The Gerigsjager Korps successfully committed an Amphibious landing in Tronheim on July 29th. The luffewaffe engaged in a bombing campaign against Oslo. On July 1st, elements of the Swedish Defense Forces occupied Roros. Kristiansand provincial citizens rose up on July 3rd and overthrew their oppressors. On July 4th, the Norwegian army commited a coup in Oslo and turned the capital over to the Gerigsjager. On July 5th, National Socialist Norway was welcomed into the Axis.

On August 5th, South Africa elected the Democratic-Republicans to power.

Netherlands Conflict: August 1st - August 13th

Germany, Netherlands

On August 1st, under French pressure, the Netherlands banned all Fascist parties and invited French "observers" to the German border. This affront could not be tolerated. Elements of X Panzers crossed the Ems River and overran Groningen by August 4th. Arnhem fell on the 5th. The Battle of Amsterdam raged from August 5th until the 13th when the beseiged city finally fell. The Dutch government was evacuated to the East Indies. The immediate threat averted, the Germans were satisfied to let the Dutch live in their South Pacific holdings.

On August 3rd, Laval gave his famous "Not One Inch of French Soil" speach at the League of Nations and openly threathened Germany with war.

On August 21st, Finland, Norway, and Sweden held the Pan-Scandanavian Summit. Denmark refused to participate.

On September 10th, after a 5 day conference in Echternach, Luxemborg offered and was accepted into Greater Germany. The French went beserk. The Allies shrugged that Luxembourg was German soil after all.

On September 11th France withdrew from the Allies and massed troops on the German border. French fighters began buzzing German positions on the Maginot Line. The French fleet put to sea. Soviet armies in the East began to engage in maneuvers. It became appatent that a double-cross was in the works. With no other recourse, the Germans declared war.

WORLD WAR TWO

September 12th, 1939 -

Axis Powers vs. the Commintern

WESTERN FRONT

Germany, France

Swedish Kommandos informed the German High Command that the bulk of French forces were massed on their northern border in anticipation of a Wermacht offensive thru Belgium. Belgium, a neutral state, was assured by Germany that its territorial intergrity would be honored. Operation Panzermaus was launched on April 12th. Elements of the Jagdverband with their bf109's quickly gained air superioty over the Alsace-Lorraine theatre over the out-dated French airforce. The luffewaffe then pounded the Maginot Line at Metz. The Karl railguns were brought up and began shelling the Maginot Line at Metz with their 60 cm cannon. On September 14th, Army Group Center spearheaded by Rommel's Totenkopf Panzer Korps attacked thru the breach in the Maginot Line. On the 15th, Army Group Center exploited the "Metz Gap" and overran Nancy. French Legion North attempted to move south to close the gap but were pinned down by the Luffewaffe. By Septemer 18th, Rommel was seiging Paris. By the 20th, the Wermacht had reached the Atlantic at Brest and split France in two. Germany offered peace on September 22nd, in exchange for Alsace-Lorraine but Laval spit in Rippentrop's face and stormed out of the ceasefire talks screaming "Vive La France!". Attempting to exploit the ceasefire, the French launched a counter attack with 19 mechanized divisions against 6 German mechanized divisions in Nancy. The French were soundly routed once the Luffewaffe stukes pounded the French and turned them back. Paris fell on the 22nd. The French goverment was evacuated to the Riveria.
By September 27th, German panzers had reached Bordeaux, Cherbourg, and Clemont-Ferrand. Other than the southern portion of the cut off Maginot Line, France holds the Northeast and Riveria pockets. German victory is assured.

EASTERN FRONT

Germany, USSR, Hungary (exp. forces), Sweden (exd. forces)

On September 14th, in an act of extreme betrayal, Stalin dishonored the Molotov-Rippentrop Pact and declared war on Germany. Four Army Groups (North, Center, South, and Baltic)
attacked the across the Plitch River on the 17th. Army Group Baltic overran Estonia and Latvia within a week and brutally annexed those Baltic Nations into the USSR. As of the 27th, the Lithuanians are holding out against a vast superior force. Possibly suggesting the lack of metal in the Soviet troops hearts. Army Group North broke through the front and overran defenders in Eastern Prussia on the 20th and have taken up positions outside Danzig were Field Marshall Von Brock is hurriedly organzing the German defenders. Army Group South routed the Hungarian expeditionary forces there are has advanced all the way to the province of Oppeln. Army Group Center overran the front forces and met the German Sixth Army at Warsaw on September 19th. Outnumbered 3 to 1 with no armor or heavy weapons, the Third Army held out for a full week until being forced to fall back on the 26th. As of the 27th, elements of the Sixth Army are still fighting hard in the "Lubin Pocket". In Berlin and all along the Elbe, elements of the German Third and Ninth armies are digging in building up defenses. On September 26th, the Swedish Nord Korps landed in Rostock to assist in the defense of the Reich. The world famous Regio Aeronautica and the Luffewaffe relocated to Berlin on the 27th.

BATTLE OF THE ATLANTIC

Germany, USA

The location and numbers of U-boats are classified. Between September 16h and September 27th, 36 US cargo ships have been sunk.

BALKAN THEATRE

Italy, Romania, Hungary

On September 15th, with a worldwide assualt on Fascism, Italy and Germany set aside their differences and joined hands. Italy and Bulgaria rejoined the Axis. The Regio Aeronautica began pounding Romanian positions in Timisonia on the 16th. As of the 27th no major actions by either side have yet to be launched.

ALLIED POWERS

Interestingly, the Allies seem to be sitting the war out waiting to see whether the Soviets or Fascist win the day. Apparently the French betrayel of September 11th has cooled the Allied desire to send their boys to defend the French.

As this chapter closes, war rages in Asia and Europe. The Communists have a firm foothold in Latin America and the outcome is far from certain.

 

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History of the World, June 1, 1938 - September 27, 1939

French Fries

USSR - Mr Bigglesworth
USA - Darthmaur
UK - Fort
France - GI Tom
Japan - Mithrilmight
Italy - Cfeedback
Nationalist China - Poki-Mo
Germany - DieFledermas

1938 did indeed open with peace which was welcome to the French, let us not forget of the cost of this peace however. The Fascist nations were in usual full swing of demanding and getting territories of their whims.

This would not go on forever.

Czechoslavakian Crisis

On September 30th, the Germans living in the Sudetenland held a plebiscite and voted to leave Czechoslavakia (a bastard creation of the French) and rejoin the Reich. A firm German hand in Munich caused Chamberlain and Laval to acquiese to this rightious demand. The Reich agreed to the independence of what remained of Czechoslovakia. The Russians and French released the usual diplomatic protests.

On October 20th, Rippentrop and Laval held the first French-German Summit in Geneva. Both sides re-affirmed their desire for peace between the two nations. France, once again, attempted to meddle in internal Reich affairs but this was waived off by Rippenrop as inconscequential.

Yet another attempt to see the world's reaction by the Germans. Indeed, an attempt at peace was tried with Herr Hitler, but to no avail. Germany's definition of of meddling was simply the question of what further aggression was to be expected by the Fascists? Is that meddling? Hardly. What were we there to discuss exactly if it wasn't for the current state of affairs. Germany was fully aware of France's concerns and elected to hold the meeting as a front to project the image of wanting peace. In reality, it was nothing more than a show.

Second Sino-Japanese War: November 30th, 1938 -

France, still upset by the Chinese previous reactions, couldn't stand to see Japan's aggression towards a former ally, and outweighing the former elected to help. 3 Mechanized and 1 Infantry Division was sent as a relief force to assist in hopes of bringing back the Chinese to the side of hope and light. It was welcomed with open arms by the Chinese.

On March 8th, undersecretary of the interior in Germany, von Stupel, was uncovered as a spy for the French by the SS. He was executed in Berlin. Germany publically denounced the French and their historically dishonorable tactics. France denied all responsibility. Germany offered to hold another peace summit to which the French but Laval, ever the warmonger, refused. As if to reinforce the French taste for dishonorable actions, they once again attempt to assasinate Franco, this time with an exploding cigar, on March 26th. Franco expressed complete shock considering the recent thawing of French-Spanish relations.

Once again, Fascist lies! Von Stupel was a man who came to his senses late in the game. Realizing that Germany was on a crash course for war, and ahnilation, he opened up secret diplomatic channels to not only France, but the rest of the civilized world. (This excluded Italy as they are by no means civilized)

For his actions, he was murdered by the SS and pinned with the French label. Not a bad label to be pinned with if one truly thinks about it, but France was obviously singled out. This was discussed with the abinet members and measures were taken to once again increase military spending even further. The cold war continued with full force.

The Spanish situation was conducted by someone other than the French. It is unknown at this time who would have tried such a dastardly deed. France wasn't overly concerned as more pressing matters required her attention.

Political Crisis over Czechoslavakia

The Soviets condemned German aggression and the French called up their reserves. Italy told France to mind its own business and Germany declared any assistance to Czechoslavakia would be interpretted as a declaration of war. On March 24h, Pope Pius XII called for a world peace summit at the Vatican. France declined. The Pope announced amnesty to all French Catholics and Italy announced open immigration to French ex-patriots. Revealing their true nature, the Bolsheviks granted refuge to Slovakian raiders within the USSR. The Kriegsmarine sailed to the Sund and announced the Baltic was closed to all shipping. On April 1st, desiring increased security, Lativa joined the Axis.

In the aftermath of the Czechslovakian Crisis, France increased the Maginot Line. The Wermacht's elite Gerigsjager Korps was moved to the Ziegfried Line to counter this.

A grave situation for France wouldn't one think? Certainly the mobilization of reserves was called for in the face of this cold aggression. The Italians demands confirmed to the allies that the aforementioned breakup of the axis was cosmetic only. The true dragon was beginning to show.

The peace summit was as usual, an Axis farce. France was not going to attend what was considered a mockery.

In the closing of the Czech crisis, the situation was actually reversed. There is concrete evidence of a communique from Germany stating they were moving the Gerigsjager Korps to Saarbrucken for "exercises". This increased the German Divisions on France's borders from 27 to 36. A very substantial increase. The German's move was countered with 6 Divisions of the Reserves being placed in the Maginot in the South. Once again, the "German Perspective" of who acted first is simply a "pure lie".

On June 8th, Swedish intelligence operative reported that French spies were instigating the Norwegian government to supress Socialist political groups in Oslo. All German diplomatic envoys were turned away. It was decided that "occupied Scandanavia" needed to be liberated.

Norway, what was next? This question was posed to the International community and met with no responses. Something must be done.

The U.S. was not going to provide any troops. They were too busy worrying with flying bombs and the like as the water boiled in Europe. Intelligence reports their current military strength at less than a combined 10 Land Divisions.

The good friends of the U.K. had already landed several divisons in France for "training".

A diplomatic channel with the Soviets was opened. It was determined that if any aggressions Westward that threatened France, an alliance would be formed to deter Germany and Italy from making any forceful moves into France's homeland. This alliance was welcomed considering the position of the U.S. While the U.S. supplied Military Supplies in exchange for Steel, that wasn't going to stop an act of aggression.

Netherlands Conflict: August 1st - August 13th

This event nearly triggered the start of a French military action into Germany. However, the cabinet in high level meetings was able to stave off many hotheads and the cooler heads prevailed. An emergency message was sent to Stalin: The trigger for a French-Soviet Alliance was hinged on Luxembourg or Belgiums annexation or attack by Germany. This should prove enough time to mobilize fully and hopefully make the Axis think twice of an attack.

On September 10th, after a 5 day conference in Echternach, Luxemborg offered and was accepted into Greater Germany. The French went beserk. The Allies shrugged that Luxembourg was German soil after all.

On September 11th France withdrew from the Allies and massed troops on the German border. French fighters began buzzing German positions on the Maginot Line. The French fleet put to sea. Soviet armies in the East began to engage in maneuvers. It became appatent that a double-cross was in the works. With no other recourse, the Germans declared war.

The switch had been flipped. It was apparent that Germany was after French resources and Industry to expand it's evil empire. Immediately upon this action, the French withdrew from the Allied Alliance and requested to be brought into the Soviet Alliance. It was not to be.

(Out of Context) For some reason, I was unable to join the Soviet alliance. Whether I requested to join or the Soviets asked me, the game would automatically answer that the request was denied, even though Mr. Bigglesworth and I never got the option to choose. Germany was able to attack while I was part of no alliance. This is my fault and a grave error as we will later see as I should have paused the game to get it sorted out. For the purposes of the rest of this AAR, we will assume the Alliance was actually formed.

WORLD WAR II: WESTERN FRONT

Swedish Kommandos informed the German High Command that the bulk of French forces were massed on their northern border in anticipation of a Wermacht offensive thru Belgium. Belgium, a neutral state, was assured by Germany that its territorial intergrity would be honored. Operation Panzermaus was launched on April 12th. Elements of the Jagdverband with their bf109's quickly gained air superioty over the Alsace-Lorraine theatre over the out-dated French airforce. The luffewaffe then pounded the Maginot Line at Metz. The Karl railguns were brought up and began shelling the Maginot Line at Metz with their 60 cm cannon. On September 14th, Army Group Center spearheaded by Rommel's Totenkopf Panzer Korps attacked thru the breach in the Maginot Line. On the 15th, Army Group Center exploited the "Metz Gap" and overran Nancy. French Legion North attempted to move south to close the gap but were pinned down by the Luffewaffe. By Septemer 18th, Rommel was seiging Paris. By the 20th, the Wermacht had reached the Atlantic at Brest and split France in two. Germany offered peace on September 22nd, in exchange for Alsace-Lorraine but Laval spit in Rippentrop's face and stormed out of the ceasefire talks screaming "Vive La France!". Attempting to exploit the ceasefire, the French launched a counter attack with 19 mechanized divisions against 6 German mechanized divisions in Nancy. The French were soundly routed once the Luffewaffe stukes pounded the French and turned them back. Paris fell on the 22nd. The French goverment was evacuated to the Riveria.

Indeed, the French were caught somewhat off guard in the South. After intense studying, the high level ranking war officials determined that the German advance would be through Belgium toward the North part of the Maginot. This was a grave tactical error and Laval should have listened to the young Major who had requested repeatedly that the South be reinforced at least by 4-6 more divisions. What did a Major know? Obviously, in hindsight, he knew a lot.

France's airforce fought valiantly in the face of superior forces. However, the old, outdated crates were no match for the Luftwaffe. Once Germany had established total air superiority, they pounded the Maginot at Metz. Even with the heavily 4 Squadrons of AA in the province. The effect on the troops was huge and the Land Fortifications began to crumble. It was at this crucial point, as France was busily shifting forces from the North to the South that the German pigs struck. No less than 20 Armored Divisions pierced through the Metz sector. With the disorganized state, it was no contest.

The Fascist dog was loose! Many attempts to close the gaps proved fruitless. The ground troops were being hammered from the air, and they never arrived in quite the same state as they set off to push back the Germans. The Germans were pushing through France unabated in several areas as pockets formed.

15 Armored Divisons assaulted Paris. They defenders held out as long as possible, but to no avail. On the 22nd, Paris fell. The Colmar pocked with 15 Divisions formed.

In light of this aggression, the Soviets, keeping true to their word, declared war on Germany and invaded from the East. Hopefully they can push Germany to a situation that will allow the French to reclaim their homeland!

Political talks were all of a sudden established. Hitler demanded the Alsace-Lorraine region and wanted peace with the Soviets granting peace with France in return. After conferring with Frances newest ally, it was decided that France would fight on, buying time for the Soviets.

In further unchecked aggression, Italy began attacking French positions in North Africa. The plot was uncovered and as mentioned earlier, the breakup of the alliance was purely for show.

Evacuation! Several divisions have been evacuated to the English mainland, and the hopes of several more are in doubt. The situation stands as so: Frane is divided down the middle with a Northern and Southern pocket. There is no hope of a French victory, but Laval is making plans to move to the English coast with as many troops and materiel' as possible along with the French Navy. Only the future knows what will be brought to France.

(Out of Context) Since I was unable to join the Comintern for some strange reason, I had to re-ally with the Allies. Unfortunately for Mr. Bigglesworth, he had to DOW on his own and took a big dissent hit. This will hopefully not play a role later on. Again, my fault for not pausing at the time of the problem.

 

[Mr.Bigglesworth]

Soviet Perspective​

The terms of the Molotov-Ribbentrop Pact can be read in earlier posts. At no time had the Soviet Union broken any part of the pact until they invaded Estonia. At that point, war made it a necessity. However, the Germans blatently disregarded the pact in allowing Italy to take Bulgaria. The point of the German betrayal was hammered home when Italy rejoined the axis shortly after the outbreak of war. The breaking of the treaty was obviously a casus belli.

Several years earlier, the French and Soviets signed a secret pact of mutual protection. The German declaration of war triggered the defense treaty. The USSR had no choice but to declare war on Germany.

Western Front: Soviets initially advanced quickly, meeting little resistance​

OOC: Sometimes I don't understand this game. Every single game I play seems to be screwed up by game mechanics. Last game, I had 60 divisions poised to attack, but they all went into the forcepool when I made peace with another country. This game, even though I did it countless times before, I couldn't ally with France.

 

[Diefledermas]

History of the World: September 27th, 1939 - December 13th, 1939

Germanic Perspective

United Kingdom: Fort
France: GI Tom
United State: Darthmaur
Italy: Patton (October 13th - December 13th)
Germany: DieFledermas
Japan: Mithrilmight
USSR: Mr. Bigglesworth
Nationalist China: Poki-Mo

1939 (continued)

To recount, the Red Army was advancing with all speed towards the German heartland, France was in flames, and half of China was under Imperial control. The Allies were pouring supplies and men into the conflict in both theatres and their inevitable entrance into World War II was only a matter of time.

EUROPE

EASTERN FRONT

With the bulk of the Wermacht fighting in the hedge rows and fields of France, the defenders of the Eastern Front fought a fighting retreat and by early October the whole of the General Government was under Bolshevik control. All that remained was the Lublin Pocket under von Brock. The city of Lublin fell on September 27th and the Sixth army, surrounded and out of supply, surrender in Poznan on September 30th. von Brock escaped vowing to liberate his men.

The Battle of Pommerian Bay occured on September 28th between the Kriegsmarine and the Soviet Baltic Fleet. The Koln and the bulk of the German transport fleet was sent to the bottom. The Battlecruiser Nuremburg ran aground off the coast of Malmo to prevent sinking. By the dawn of the 29th, the Kriegsmarine had won the day but both fleets were decimated to the point of being combat ineffective.

Army Group North (Soviets) attacked Stettin on October 1st and overran the Lithuanian expeditionary force there. Danzig was cut off from Germany proper. The Red Army besieged the city which finally fell on the 2nd. German Falschirm launched a raid on Danzig and liberated the city on October 7th. Army Group North attacked the city with 20 divisions. On October 9th, with defeat inevitable, Zhukov sent a commique to the German commander Reinhart for his surrender. Reinhart replied, "Nuts". The Germans were anihillated on the 10th.

Battle of Breslau October 2nd - October 13th

On October 2nd, the Battle of Breslau began. What would become the largest tank battle in the history of man started with humble beginning between the Waffen-SS III Korps and elements of Army Group Center. Breslau fell to the Soviets at 6 AM on October 3rd. The victory was short lived when Rommel's armored spearhead led by the famed Totenkopf Korps hit the Russians with 4 Panzer divisions. The Wermacht retook the province by nightfall but during a daring midnight attack, Zhukov and the Ninth Soviet Tank army crossed the Elbe and pushed Totenkopf back. By daybreak on the 5th, the bulk of the German armored and mechanized divisions reached Breslau. The Red Army poured all available units into the battle. By October 7th, both sides had a comdined 6 army groups in the exchange (60+ divisions). But the battle on the ground wasn't the whole story. By October 6th, the entire Jagdverband was engaged over the skies of Breslau with the Red Army Air Corps in an attempt to get air superiority for the Luffewaffe's Sturmjagers. Unable to wait, the Stukas and Do-17s launched strike after strike suffering horrendous losses. The German Ace, Erich Hartmann racked up 45 confirmed kills between October 6th and 11th until finally being shot down by Ivan Kozhedub. He was 21. On October 11th, Elements of Army Group Center crossed the Elbe and besieged Dresden cutting off the Wermacht's supply lines to Breslau. IX Korps pushed the Russians back but the damage was done. Outnumbered 3 to 1, Rommel fought a fighting retreat into the Alps. Army Group Center moved the bulk of its forces into Dresden on the 13th and was poised to break out into the German heartland.

WESTERN FRONT

The Bulk of the French army had been evacuated from Cherbourg to England by October 1st. The Colmar Pocket of the Maginot Line was still in French hands but they were surrounded and cut of by the Wermacht. Aside from the eastern Riveria, all of France was under German control. 3rd Panzer Korps under Mannheim attacked Marseilles on October 5th. The city fell by the 7th. In a daring attack, LeClerc and the Divisionne Liberate crossed the Rhone and began a march towards the Pirennes. Elements of 3rd Korps broke off from Marseilles attack and anihillated LeClerc's forces on the 7th. On October 5th, the French attempted a counter-attack from the Colmar pocket into Nancy. The battle raged between XXII Mechanized under von Rundstedt and DeGaulle's 2nd Army until the end of hostilities.

BALKAN THEATRE

Romania, supported by Soviet T-26 light tanks, defeated the Italians on September 29th at Craiova. On October 2nd, the Red Army besieged Belgorad and took the city. Both sides settled into trench warfare and probing attacks. Italian cavalry outflanked the Romanian defenders on October 11th by going thru Bulgaria and were advancing on the capital. The outcome will remain a debate for historians since hostilities ceased before the battle was joined.

ALLIES ENTER THE WAR

On October 7th, 1939 the Allies declared war on the Axis after a heartfelt speech by Laval in London.

BATTLE OF THE ATLANTIC

From October 7th when hostilities between the Allies and the Axis began and October 23rd, the U-boats of Germany's wolfpacks sunk a total of 54 U.S. flagged cargo vessels. Taskforce Ranger made contact with the bulk of the German submarine fleet off of the Atlantic Seaboard on October 20th and hunted them down mercilessly. By October 23rd, U-436 radiod to Fleet Command that she was the last remaining boat and then all contact was lost. It is believed Enigma is still secure.

NORTH AFRICAN THEATRE

The French Navy defeated the Italian Navy at the Straits of Sicily on October 1st cutting off the Italian convoys to Libya. On October 8th, the French garrision from Morocco advanced on Italian positions and took Tunis. On the 10th, the French caught an Italian amphibious force in the Golf de Tunis attempting to retake the province and sent it to the bottom. On October 11th, the United Kingdom, now officially in the war defeated the Italians at Bardiyah.

MILITARY COUP IN GERMANY

On October 12th, it became apparent to Rommel, Guderian, Mannstein, and Kietal that the war with the Russians would inevitably be lost. Hitler and his lapdogs Himmler and Goering devised a plan to retreat to the Maginot Line and set up a goverment in exhile in Paris. von Rippentrop was sent by Hitler to Rome to coordinate this strategy. At midnight on the 12th, Guderians "Das Reich" Panzer Korps surrounded the Reichstag and the former Foreign Minister Constantin von Neurath was installed as the Chancellor of Germany. Hitler was allowed to remain the Fuerher but was now little more than a figure head. Goering and Himmler were arrested while von Rippentrop fled to Argentina. A peace envoy was sent to Laval in London. Germany offered to pull all forces out of France and concede all claims on the General Government. In exchange, a ceasefire would be agreed upon in until a final peace could be negotiated. Peace was declared on the 13th. The Germans attempted to gain the freedom of their Baltic allies but Stalin refused. As of September 13th at one minute to midnight, all hostilities ceased between the Axis and the Commintern. France, while still a member of the Allies, declared a seperate peace with the Axis. Churchill proclaimed Laval a traitor to democracy and Stalin a coward and vowed to fight on.

BALTIC THEATRE

The 3rd Fusiliers under Montgomery landed in Wilhelmshafen on October 14th. By the 17th, Montgomery had liberated Arnhem and taken the entire German North Sea coast. IV Panzer Korps under Guderian liberated Wilhemshafen on the 23rd. Arnhem was retaken by the 30th. The Fusiliers were evacuated with the bulk of their forces back to Dover.

NORTH AFRICAN THEATRE (CONTINUED)

The Royal Navy engaged what remained of the Italian Navy off the coast of Egypt on October 14th sent the last of the Italian surface fleet to the sea floor. The United Kingdom took Bir El Hakim on the 17th and destroyed what was left of the Italian legions in North Africa. The Tripoli garrison surrendered on Novermber 6th. The Bulgarians attempted to relieve the Italians in North Africa in a daring dash across the Eastern Mediterranean but were caught by the Royal Navy on the 9th and decimated. A long ardious advance across the Libyan coast had the entire Mediterranean in British hands by December 8th.

AFRICAN THEATRE

On December 10th, South African forces liberated Addis Abeba. By December 12th, the last of the Italian East African Legion was fighting for its life in Asmara.

ASIA

CHINA

On September 29th, the Guomintang liberated Kowloon and began to push the Japanese out of Southeastern China. Japan continued to solidify its hold on Northern China meeting little resistance. On October 5th, Chang Kai-shek sent a comminque to the British governor in Hong Kong indicating his desire to return to the Alliance. The Allies welcomed the Chinese back into the Alliance with open arms and began pouring expeditionary forces and supplies into Kowloon. On October 8th, the Chinese liberated Beijing refusinig to take prisoners. Enraged, the Japanese sacked Nanking on the 9th. In a bloody ferver, the Imperial Army committed autrocities not seen since the Mongols. Women, children, the old, the sick... this writer does not wish to recount the horrors of the Nanking Massacre. "The Rape of Nanking" was on the front page of all US newpapers. Even the German ambassador to Tokyo was forced to send a stern letter of reprimand. On October 13th, Japanese forces were pulled out of Indochina after the French-German peace accords and a Soviet emmisary reaffirmed the Russo-Japanese Non-agression Pact. The Guomintang attempted to retake Nanking on the 25th but were routed. The November offensive by the Japanese saw Nanchang fall on the 5th quickly followed by Ningbo and Handan on the 6th and finally Xuzhou on the 8th. An intense battle raged for a week in Xinxiang between November 13-19th until the Chinese were finally forced to retreat failing to stop the Japanese advance. Shanghai fell on the 7th but was quickly liberated by British marines the following day. As of December 13th the Japanese control all territory north of the Hwag Ho River and all land east of Yagtse Kinaing River minus the Qingdan Pocket. The Japanese have lost all of their Siamese holdings except for a garrison in Trang.

PACIFIC

On October 20th, in a deja vue from the first Asian War, the Japanese taskforce flagged by the Yamoto met the Australian navy and defeated it in the Battle of the Singapore Sea sending the Australian carrier to the bottom. With the Australian Navy running for home, the Japanese landed in the Caroline Islands and defeated the ANZAC defenders on the 29th of October. Unconfirmed reports of a "death march" of survivors in unsubstantiated at this time. In a daring raid, the Japanese attempted to land an assualt force in Seattle but before the troops could be disembarked was intercepted by the US 3rd Fleet supported by the Canadian Coast Guard. The US chased the the Japanese fleet inflicted heavy damage to the Kaga and the Shinano in the Battle of the Alutean Sea on December 5th.

Tibet has held intense diplomatic talks with both the Chinese and Japanese but at this time remains neutral. Sinkaing, while officially part of the Commintern has expressed extreme interest in the Japanese not controlling China. What this means for Stalin's relationship with the Sinkaingese remains uncertain. Finland, Denmark, and Belgium all neutral parties surrounded by war have expressed a desire to remain out of the war. Finland has walked a tightrope between the 3 alliances entertaining envoys from all sides. Greece has expressed its willingness for closer ties with both France and England although recent talks with Hungary may indicate a shift.

As approach the final days of 1939, both the Germans and the Soviets are realling from loosing over a million men each, China is posed to fall and battle for Africa is all but over. The War rages betwee the Axis and the Allies but the Soviet and French positions remains a mystery.