Battle of Britain (July 10 -- October 31, 1940)
The Beginnings of the Battle
Once France had surrendered in June of 1940, Hitler then turned to Britain. The British people were aware of what they were about to face, and began to prepare for Germany's onslaught. Germany was preparing for their aerial attack with the Luftwaffe which included fighter planes such as the Messerschmitt Bf 109 and the Messerschmitt Bf 110, as well as several bomber planes. It seemed as though Germany was at an advantage to Britain in terms of their air force; however, they were both evenly matched. The Royal Air Force was highly skilled and more than ready to take on Germany's brutal attack. Also, the RAF also had one major advantage over the Germans: radar.
During the Battle
Originally, the battle was meant to target English shipping, though it soon turned to the complete destruction of the Royal Air Force. After the British seemed to keep coming at the Germans, tactics were switched again to eradicating major cities such as the U.K.'s own London. However, the British fought back bravely and relentlessly on a day known as "Battle of Britain Day" when the RAF destroyed several Luftwaffe formations.
Churchill's Speech
On June 4, 1940, Churchill delivered a speech to Parliament. This passionate speech stated that the British would not surrender and helped to rally the British people. It also alerted Americans to Britain's struggle, and provided a reason for the U.S. to become involved in the war effort to protect their friend country.
Sources
Brinkley. "A World in Flames." The American Vision. 2010. Print.
http://www.raf.mod.uk/bob1940/gallery.html
http://www.bbc.co.uk/history/battle_of_britain
http://www.aviartnutkins.com/battle_of_britain/BB9.php
Videos from Youtube.com
http://www.raf.mod.uk/bob1940/gallery.html
http://www.bbc.co.uk/history/battle_of_britain
http://www.aviartnutkins.com/battle_of_britain/BB9.php
Videos from Youtube.com