As Europe stood on the brink of war, August 27, 1939, was marked by frantic diplomacy, symbolic victories, and preparations for an impending conflict. The events of this day offered a glimpse into the last moments of hope for peace amidst rising tensions.
Berlin, Germany: Hitler’s Agitation and Frantic Diplomacy
In the early hours of the morning, Adolf Hitler met with Swedish intermediary Birger Dahlerus and Hermann Göring at his Berlin residence. Dahlerus later described Hitler as glassy-eyed and agitated, consumed by an intense obsession with Germany’s military buildup. Hitler’s outburst—repeating “U-boats, U-boats, U-boats” and “airplanes, airplanes, airplanes”—reflected his belief in Germany’s ability to secure a swift military victory.
After calming down, Hitler presented Dahlerus with proposals intended for Britain. These included the annexation of Danzig and the Polish Corridor, which he framed as Germany’s “final” territorial demands in Europe. Later that day, Dahlerus flew to London to deliver these terms to British officials. Prime Minister Neville Chamberlain and Foreign Secretary Lord Halifax received the proposals with skepticism, wary of Hitler’s promises but eager to avoid war. By evening, Dahlerus had returned to Germany with Britain’s response, continuing the desperate diplomatic exchanges that characterized the days leading up to the outbreak of hostilities.
Warsaw, Poland: The Last Game
Amid the growing specter of war, Poland’s national football team played a historic match against Hungary in Warsaw. Dubbed The Last Game, the match was a rare moment of joy for the Polish people. Facing one of Europe’s strongest teams, Poland achieved a stunning 4-2 victory. The triumph electrified the nation, fostering a sense of pride and unity during a time of escalating uncertainty.
For many, the victory became a poignant symbol of resilience, a brief but unforgettable celebration of national spirit before the impending devastation.
London, United Kingdom: Preparing for Evacuation
Across the English Channel, the British government intensified preparations for civilian protection. Officials finalized plans for the evacuation of children and vulnerable populations from major cities, anticipating the aerial bombardments that would likely accompany a European war. Local authorities worked tirelessly to organize routes and secure housing for evacuees, emphasizing Britain’s recognition of the looming threat.
Paris, France: Strengthening the Maginot Line
In France, military readiness was the order of the day. Troops were reinforced along the Maginot Line, the country’s heavily fortified border with Germany. French leaders were resolute in their commitment to support Poland, reaffirming their alliance and bracing for a potential German assault.
Kiel, Germany: Expanding the U-Boat Fleet
Germany continued its preparations for war at sea with the commissioning of U-45, a Type VII U-boat, into the Kriegsmarine. Designed for long patrols and armed with torpedoes and a deck gun, U-45 reflected Germany’s emphasis on submarine warfare as a key strategy to disrupt Allied shipping lines. The expansion of the U-boat fleet demonstrated the Nazi regime’s focus on dominating the Atlantic.
Berlin, Germany: Rationing and Domestic Control
The Nazi government extended rationing measures, adding meat, dairy, and other staples to the growing list of regulated items. Citizens were now required to use ration cards for essential goods, signaling the government’s expectation of prolonged hardship and scarcity. These measures fundamentally altered daily life in Germany as the nation braced for war.
Rome, Italy: Mussolini’s Reservations
In Rome, Benito Mussolini continued to voice doubts about Italy’s readiness for war. While he affirmed his alliance with Germany, Mussolini reiterated that Italy’s support would depend on the conflict remaining localized. Unwilling to provoke Britain and France, Mussolini’s cautious stance underscored the strategic limits of the Axis alliance and Italy’s lack of preparedness.
Danzig: A Powder Keg
In the Free City of Danzig, tensions reached a boiling point. Pro-German factions, emboldened by Hitler’s demands, rallied for unification with Germany. Polish authorities, determined to maintain order, worked to suppress unrest in the contested city. Danzig had become the focal point of escalating hostilities, its fate poised to ignite the broader conflict.
A Day of Last-Minute Hopes and Unspoken Fears
August 27, 1939, captured the duality of those final days before World War II—moments of unity and resilience interwoven with the frantic preparations for a conflict that seemed inevitable. From diplomatic overtures in Berlin and London to symbolic victories on the football field in Warsaw, this day reflected the last glimmers of peace before the storm engulfed Europe.