Title: Dunkirchen 1940: The German View of Dunkirk
Author: Robert Kershaw
ISBN: 978-1-4728-5437-7
Publisher: Osprey
Year: 2022
Hardcover
Pages: 352
"Dunkirk 1940: The German View of Dunkirk" by
Robert Kershaw offers a unique and invaluable perspective on one of the most
pivotal events of World War II. While Dunkirk is often associated with the
heroic evacuation of British and Allied forces from the beaches of France,
Kershaw's book delves into the German viewpoint, shedding light on their
strategies, motivations, and perceptions of the Dunkirk evacuation.
Kershaw, a respected military historian, has meticulously
researched primary sources, including German military records, letters,
diaries, and memoirs, to construct a comprehensive and engaging narrative. By
focusing on the German perspective, he enriches our understanding of this
historical moment, offering readers a well-rounded view of the Dunkirk evacuation.
The book starts by providing a background of the early
stages of World War II, setting the stage for the events that would unfold at
Dunkirk. Kershaw explores the German military's rapid advance through France,
capturing the essence of their Blitzkrieg strategy. Readers gain insight into
the motivations and attitudes of the German soldiers, including their beliefs
in their own invincibility and the perceived weakness of the Allied forces.
One of the book's strengths is its vivid portrayal of the
chaotic and fluid situation on the ground. Kershaw skillfully describes the
German troops' experiences as they faced a rapid and unexpected halt in their
advance, while also having to deal with logistics and supply issues. These
accounts offer a humanizing perspective on the German soldiers who often
endured hardship and uncertainty.
Kershaw's narrative also delves into the German command
structure and its challenges during the Dunkirk campaign. The disagreements and
rivalries within the German High Command are highlighted, providing a fresh
perspective on the internal dynamics that influenced the decision-making
process.
A significant portion of the book is dedicated to the German
perception of the Dunkirk evacuation. Kershaw explores the initial disbelief
among German commanders as they witnessed the Allied retreat. The idea that the
enemy could escape, let alone fight back, was shocking to many. Kershaw
presents a detailed analysis of the German response, including the decision to
halt the attack and the subsequent encirclement of Dunkirk.
The author's analysis of Adolf Hitler's role in the Dunkirk
campaign is particularly intriguing. Kershaw delves into Hitler's personality
and decision-making process, shedding light on his erratic behavior and the factors
that influenced his orders. The conflicting advice given to Hitler by his
generals, along with his own doubts and fears, are explored in depth. This
humanizing portrayal of Hitler adds complexity to the narrative and dispels the
notion of a unified and all-powerful Nazi regime. Additionally, Kershaw
addresses perhaps one of the most controversial elements of the Dunkirk battle –
the infamous stop/close-up order given to the German forces on 24 May. Popular
opinion puts the blame on Hitler for issuing this order when in fact it was Generaloberst
Von Rundstedt, Commander of Army Group A, who issued the order; Hitler
confirmed it after being briefed by the General.
Throughout the book, Kershaw incorporates personal stories
and anecdotes from German soldiers and commanders. These accounts provide a
more intimate view of the events, allowing readers to empathize with the
individuals involved and their struggles.
The author also examines the impact of Dunkirk on the German
military and the Allied forces. He highlights how the German army's failure to
decisively defeat the Allies at Dunkirk would have far-reaching consequences
for the rest of the war. Kershaw convincingly argues that Dunkirk sowed the
seeds of future German defeats and the eventual turning of the tide in favor of
the Allies.
In conclusion, "Dunkirk 1940: The German View of
Dunkirk" by Robert Kershaw is a compelling and well-researched account of
a pivotal moment in World War II. By providing the German perspective, Kershaw
adds depth and nuance to our understanding of the Dunkirk evacuation. This book
is a must-read for history enthusiasts, military historians, and anyone
interested in gaining a more comprehensive view of one of the most significant
events of the 20th century. Kershaw's meticulous research and insightful analysis
make this book an invaluable addition to the literature on World War II.
No comments:
Post a Comment