The World Edges Closer to War
As the countdown to war continued, August 28, 1939, saw acts of sabotage, diplomatic exchanges, and the final stages of military preparation across Europe. From bombings in Poland to last-ditch efforts for peace, the events of this day underscored the precarious state of global affairs.
Tarnów, Poland: A Deadly Act of Sabotage
In the early hours of the morning, a devastating bomb attack shook the rail station in Tarnów, southern Poland. A time bomb planted by a German agent detonated in a crowded section of the station, killing 20 people and wounding 35. The attack caused chaos and panic, leaving the local population in shock and further inflaming fears of German aggression.
Polish authorities condemned the bombing as an act of German sabotage, part of a calculated campaign to destabilize Poland and justify an invasion. The Tarnów bombing was among the first covert operations in Germany’s plan to portray Poland as the aggressor. For Poland, it served as a grim warning of the violence to come.
London, United Kingdom: Britain Holds Firm
British Prime Minister Neville Chamberlain and Foreign Secretary Lord Halifax met Swedish mediator Birger Dahlerus, who relayed Hitler’s latest proposals. The demands, which included the annexation of Danzig and the Polish Corridor, were presented alongside assurances of no further territorial claims.
Chamberlain sent a carefully worded response to Hitler through Dahlerus. While signaling a willingness to negotiate, Britain reaffirmed its commitment to Poland’s sovereignty and warned of the dire consequences of war. British Ambassador Sir Nevile Henderson returned to Berlin carrying this response, urging Germany to seek direct talks with Poland. The message left no doubt: Britain was prepared to honor its obligations to Poland, even at the cost of war.
Warsaw, Poland: A Nation Prepares
In Warsaw, Polish leaders intensified preparations for a potential German invasion. Troops were reinforced along key border areas, and government advisories instructed civilians on air raid protocols. Tensions were particularly high in Danzig and along the western frontier, where German forces continued to amass.
Across Poland, civic organizations mobilized to support soldiers and civilians. Volunteers prepared emergency shelters and supply caches, while the Polish Red Cross coordinated efforts to aid displaced persons. These efforts reflected a nation bracing for the worst but determined to stand united.
Danzig: A Powder Keg Ignites
In the Free City of Danzig, pro-German demonstrations escalated as Nazi loyalists rallied for unification with Germany. Polish officials closely monitored the unrest but were limited in their ability to respond, given Danzig’s unique status under the League of Nations. The city remained a focal point of Hitler’s demands and a flashpoint for conflict.
Berlin, Germany: Mobilization and Propaganda
The Nazi regime officially announced the mobilization of its armed forces, calling up reserves and positioning additional troops along the Polish border. Propaganda broadcasts painted Poland as a hostile and unreasonable neighbor, justifying Germany’s territorial demands.
Meanwhile, the German population faced tightened restrictions as rationing expanded to include shoes, clothing, and other consumer goods. These measures reflected Germany’s transition to a wartime economy and its anticipation of a protracted conflict.
Rome, Italy: Mussolini’s Calculated Caution
In Rome, Benito Mussolini continued discussions with his advisors, reiterating Italy’s cautious stance. While pledging political support to Germany, Mussolini emphasized that Italy would only enter the war if it remained localized. His hesitation highlighted cracks within the Axis alliance and Italy’s strategic balancing act.
Paris, France: Military Readiness Intensifies
France reinforced its military posture, with President Albert Lebrun meeting defense officials to review plans. French troops along the Maginot Line were placed on high alert, while reserves were mobilized in preparation for conflict. Air raid drills in major cities underscored France’s readiness to support Poland and its commitment to the Franco-British alliance.
Germany-France Border: A Line Divided
The border between Germany and France was officially closed, severing one of Europe’s key connections. The move disrupted cross-border communities and commerce, while also signaling the breakdown of diplomatic relations. For both nations, the closure marked a final step toward war, with Germany fortifying its position and France reinforcing its defenses along the Maginot Line.
The Brink of War
August 28, 1939, was a day defined by growing tensions and shrinking hopes for peace. From the bombing in Tarnów to diplomatic exchanges between London and Berlin, the events of this day revealed a world teetering on the edge of conflict. As the gears of war turned, the question was no longer if but when the storm would break.