#World War II History

[deadpresidents]

Vice President Harry S. Truman playing the piano as 20-year-old actress Lauren Bacall looks on at the National Press Club in Washington, D.C., on February 10, 1945. Later in life, Truman would tell a biographer that: "My choice early in life was either to be a piano player in a whorehouse or a politician -- and, to tell the truth, there's hardly a difference."

At roughly the exact same time, approximately 5,259 miles away from Washington, D.C., the big three Allied leaders of World War II -- British Prime Minister Winston Churchill, Soviet leader Joseph Stalin, and President Franklin D. Roosevelt (whose health was rapidly failing) -- were wrapping up their monumental summit at the Yalta Conference in Crimea to discuss plans for the post-war division and occupation of a defeated Nazi Germany.

Two months later, on April 12, 1945, President Roosevelt was dead and Truman succeeded to the Presidency after his brief Vice Presidency. Before April was over, Benito Mussolini and Adolf Hitler were also dead, the United Nations had been officially established, Allied troops began finding and liberating concentration camps, and the war in Europe ended with the unconditional surrender of Germany in early May. All of these remarkable historic events occurred within a matter of weeks, and sometimes just a few days or even a few hours apart.

[menandwomanofhistory]

Gen. George S. Patton

[eliotqueliot]

Ted Coldwater's airplanes

This might not matter to anyone but me (art purposes), but I'm identifying some of Quentin's father's model planes. The one in the foreground left here is a P-47 Thunderbolt, one of the workhorses of World War II, flown by the U.S. Army Air Forces. This one flew with the 56th Fighter Group, 61st Fighter Squadron, 8th Air Force (stationed at the RAF air bases in this order: RAF Kings Cliffe, then moved to RAF Horsham St Faith, then RAF Halesworth, and finally RAF Boxted--most likely flying out of Boxted). I can't see the serial number on the tail, so I can't be certain, but one of the most popular model planes of this type is the P-47D (serial number 42-26418) flown by Lt. Col. Francis "Gabby" Gabreski out of Boxted. If you have more info, please let me know.

By the way--Quentin's mom was wrong on so many levels. So many. Including the fact that these planes aren't a worthless waste of time, or something to quickly dispose of--not just for sentimental reasons. Q's dad's collection would indeed have been worth quite a lot. Most of all I wish Q had been able to keep at least one plane to remember his dad--no matter how much catharsis Jennifer helped him achieve that day.

[kanadabiscuits]

Anyone who knows me, knows that MASH is not one of my fandoms, it is simply baked into the very core of me. I grew up with it, sobbed through the finale, took it with me on vhs tapes to my first apartment, and when I think back, the characters may as well have been neighbours and friends for the place they nestle in in my heart and memories. This article just gave me a little more to love, a little more nuance. I love the quote from Alan regarding the soldiers in support roles "It takes an army to get an army to war".

Well worth a read.

[marinesfromaroundtheworld]

[k-i-l-l-e-r-b-e-e-6-9]

ℌ𝔞𝔦𝔩 𝔬𝔣 𝔅𝔲𝔩𝔩𝔢𝔱𝔰 - ℜ𝔢𝔡 𝔚𝔬𝔩𝔳𝔢𝔰 𝔒𝔣 𝔖𝔱𝔞𝔩𝔦𝔫

[fandomdancer]

Remembering those that died at Pearl Harbor today.

Many people know the beginning or abbreviated version of Roosevelt's speech delivered to Congress on December 8, 1941. Have you ever heard or seen the whole speech?

Transcript: https://time.com/4593483/pearl-harbor-franklin-roosevelt-infamy-speech-attack/

Recording:

https://youtu.be/YhtuMrMVJDk?si=4ioNrT-9Ufv9DzrD

[wkaustubh]

Singapore's History and Heritage: A Walk Through Time

Nestled at the crossroads of Southeast Asia, Singapore is a city-state with a rich tapestry of history and cultural heritage that dates back centuries. From its humble beginnings as a fishing village to becoming a global economic powerhouse, Singapore has undergone a remarkable transformation. Today, the city-state stands as a testament to the harmonious coexistence of tradition and modernity. While exploring the key milestones that have shaped Singapore's history and heritage, visitors can also indulge in various things to do in Pai and experience the vibrant scene of shopping in Thailand.

Early Days: A Fishing Village to a Trading Hub

Singapore's story begins in the 14th century when it was a mere fishing village known as Temasek. It wasn't until the arrival of Sang Nila Utama, a Sumatran prince, in the 13th century that the island gained prominence. The prince renamed the island "Singapura," which means "Lion City" in Sanskrit after he allegedly spotted a lion on its shores. Although lions never roamed the island, the name stuck, symbolizing strength and courage.

In the 19th century, Singapore's strategic location at the crossroads of major shipping routes attracted the attention of European powers. Sir Stamford Raffles, the founder of modern Singapore, established a British trading post in 1819. This marked the beginning of Singapore's rapid ascent as a crucial trading hub in the region.

Colonial Era and World War II:

Under British colonial rule, Singapore flourished economically, becoming a melting pot of cultures due to its strategic location and open trade policies. However, the prosperity was interrupted during World War II when the Japanese occupied Singapore from 1942 to 1945. The war left an indelible mark on the island, with the Battle of Singapore being a pivotal moment in its history. After the war, Singapore went through a period of recovery and reconstruction.

Independence and Nation-Building:

The desire for self-governance gained momentum in the post-war era, leading to the formation of the People's Action Party (PAP) in 1954. Led by Lee Kuan Yew, the PAP advocated for independence from British rule and social reforms. Singapore achieved self-governance in 1959 and joined the Federation of Malaysia in 1963. However, the union was short-lived, and Singapore gained full independence on August 9, 1965, due to political differences with Malaysia.

Lee Kuan Yew became the first Prime Minister of Singapore and embarked on a nation-building journey characterized by economic development, social cohesion, and multiracial harmony. The transformation was remarkable, turning Singapore from a developing nation into a first-world city-state within a single generation.

Cultural Diversity: Harmony in Diversity

One of the defining features of Singapore is its multicultural society. The island is a mosaic of different ethnicities, including Chinese, Malay, Indian, and various other communities. This diversity is not only evident in the population but also in the architecture, cuisine, and traditions that permeate the city.

Chinatown, Little India, and Kampong Glam are iconic districts that showcase the cultural richness of their respective communities. Visitors can explore the vibrant markets, temples, mosques, and churches, experiencing firsthand the harmonious coexistence of different faiths and traditions. The annual celebrations of festivals such as Chinese New Year, Deepavali, Hari Raya Puasa, and Christmas further highlight the multicultural tapestry of Singapore.

Preserving Heritage: Museums and Historic Sites

To truly understand Singapore's history and heritage, a visit to its museums and historic sites is essential. The National Museum of Singapore provides a comprehensive overview of the island's past through interactive exhibits and artifacts. Fort Canning Park, with its archaeological sites and lush greenery, offers a glimpse into Singapore's colonial history.

Changi Chapel and Museum pay homage to the prisoners of war during World War II, while the Peranakan Museum celebrates the unique Peranakan culture, born from the intermingling of Chinese and Malay influences. These sites not only preserve the historical significance but also serve as educational platforms for future generations.

Modern Singapore: A Global City-State

In the latter half of the 20th century, Singapore transitioned from a trading post to a global economic powerhouse. Its commitment to education, innovation, and infrastructure development propelled the nation into the ranks of the world's most developed countries. The skyline of Singapore reflects its modernity, with iconic structures like the Marina Bay Sands and Gardens by the Bay becoming symbols of the city-state's progress.

Conclusion:

Singapore's history and heritage are intertwined with resilience, diversity, and a forward-looking spirit. As visitors traverse the city-state, they embark on a journey through time, witnessing the transformation from a humble fishing village to a global metropolis. Singapore's ability to preserve its cultural roots while embracing progress serves as an inspiration for nations worldwide. A walk through the Lion City is not just a stroll through its bustling streets but a fascinating exploration of a nation's evolution, where history and heritage seamlessly coalesce.

[wordcubed]

something incredibly American about an Allied trooper yelling brand names at Soviets until they recognize him as an ally.

[bongreviewbd]

হিটলারের মৃত্যুর পর তাঁর দেহের পরিণতি: মিথ, সত্য এবং ষড়যন্ত্র

আডলফ হিটলারকে নিয়ে কৌতূহল আর ষড়যন্ত্রের শেষ নেই। দ্বিতীয় বিশ্বযুদ্ধের সমাপ্তির প্রাক্কালে, হিটলার তার জীবনের শেষ দিনগুলো বার্লিনের এক গোপন বাঙ্কারে কাটান। সোভিয়েত বাহিনীর আগ্রাসনের মুখে, ৩০ এপ্রিল ১৯৪৫ তারিখে তিনি ও তার স্ত্রী ইভা ব্রাউন আত্মহত্যা করেন। তবে, ইতিহাসবিদদের ধারণা অনুযায়ী হিটলারের মৃত্যুর সঙ্গে সঙ্গে তাঁর দেহের ওপর ঘটে যাওয়া ঘটনা নিয়ে নানা মিথ এবং ষড়যন্ত্র তত্ত্ব ছড়িয়ে পড়েছিল।

বাঙ্কারে মৃত্যুর পরের ঘটনা

হিটলারের মৃত্যু হওয়ার পর তাঁর দেহের কোনো সমাধি হয়নি, আর এটাই তার দেহকে ঘিরে নানা ধরণের গুজব আর ষড়যন্ত্রের জন্ম দিয়েছে। সোভিয়েত বাহিনী বার্লিন দখল করার পর হিটলারের বাঙ্কার থেকে উদ্ধার করা দেহগুলি পুড়িয়ে ফেলে, যাতে কোনো নাৎসি নেতাকে কবর দেওয়ার সুযোগ না থাকে।

এ ঘটনায় তখন থেকেই প্রশ্ন ওঠে, হিটলারের মৃত্যুর ব্যাপারে কী সত্য আর কী মিথ। সোভিয়েত বাহিনী এই ঘটনাটি এতটাই গোপন রেখেছিল যে এমনকি সোভিয়েত নেতা জোসেফ স্টালিনও প্রথমে বিশ্বাস করতে চাননি যে হিটলার সত্যিই মারা গিয়েছেন। তিনি তদন্তের নির্দেশ দেন, এবং তখনই নিশ্চিত করা হয় যে হিটলার আসলে মৃত।

ষড়যন্ত্র তত্ত্বের উত্থান

যদিও সোভিয়েত বাহিনী হিটলারের দেহ পুড়িয়ে ফেলার দাবি করেছিল, তারপরও ষড়যন্ত্র তত্ত্বগুলি দমেনি। অনেকেই বিশ্বাস করেন, হিটলার হয়তো জীবিত থেকে পালিয়ে গিয়েছেন। কিছু তত্ত্বে বলা হয়, তিনি দক্ষিণ আমেরিকায় পালিয়ে গিয়ে নাম বদলিয়ে বেঁচে ছিলেন। এই তত্ত্বগুলো এতটাই জনপ্রিয় হয়ে ওঠে যে, এ নিয়ে টিভি সিরিজও তৈরি করা হয়েছে।

একটি পরিচিত ষড়যন্ত্র তত্ত্ব বলে যে হিটলার তার অনুগামী নাৎসিদের মতো গা ঢাকা দিয়েছিলেন এবং হয়তো আর্জেন্টিনা বা ব্রাজিলের মতো দেশে নিজের নাম বদলে বেঁচে ছিলেন। এমনকি ১৯৪৫ সালে সোভিয়েতদের হাতে বার্লিনের পতনের পরেও অনেকে এই ধারণা লালন করেছেন।

সত্যের অনুসন্ধান: তদন্ত ও নথিপত্র

সোভিয়েত এবং পশ্চিমা মিত্র শক্তির মধ্যে হিটলারের মৃত্যুর বিষয়ে দীর্ঘদিন মতবিরোধ ছিল। পশ্চিম জার্মানি ১৯৫৬ সালে হিটলারের আনুষ্ঠানিক মৃত্যুসনদ ইস্যু করে, যখন তদন্তের মাধ্যমে এটি নিশ্চিত করা হয় যে তার বেঁচে থাকার কোনো প্রমাণ নেই।

সোভিয়েত ইউনিয়নের কেজিবি (KGB) হিটলারের দেহাবশেষ নিয়ে গবেষণা করে এবং তাঁর দেহাংশের কিছু অংশ মস্কোতে সংরক্ষণ করে। ১৯৯০-এর দশকে সোভিয়েত এবং রাশিয়ার নথিপত্রে প্রমাণ পাওয়া যায় যে হিটলারের দেহাবশেষ পুড়িয়ে ফেলা হয়েছিল এবং অবশেষে ১৯৭০ সালে তার দেহাবশেষ ধ্বংস করা হয়।

ষড়যন্ত্র তত্ত্বের প্রসার এবং জনপ্রিয়তা

ষড়যন্ত্র তত্ত্ব এখনও অনেক মানুষের মনে জায়গা করে রেখেছে। যারা ষড়যন্ত্র তত্ত্বে বিশ্বাস করেন, তাদের ধারণা হিটলার হয়তো অন্য কোনোভাবে পালিয়ে গিয়েছিলেন। এ নিয়ে অনেক গবেষক এবং লেখকও বিভিন্ন রকমের মতামত প্রদান করেছেন। কিন্তু ঐতিহাসিকভাবে দেখা যায়, হিটলার আত্মহত্যা করেছিলেন এবং তার দেহ পুড়িয়ে ফেলা হয়েছিল।

উপসংহার

হিটলারের মৃত্যুর পর তার দেহের উপর হওয়া ঘটনা এবং এর পরিণতি নিয়ে যেসব মিথ ও ষড়যন্ত্র তত্ত্ব ছড়িয়েছে, তা আজও মানুষের মনে নানা প্রশ্নের জন্ম দেয়। যদিও তদন্ত ও প্রমাণের ভিত্তিতে এটি নিশ্চিত করা হয়েছে যে হিটলার আত্মহত্যা করেছিলেন এবং তার দেহ পুড়িয়ে ফেলা হয়েছিল, কিন্তু ষড়যন্ত্র তত্ত্বের প্রভাব আজও বিদ্যমান।

বিশ্বের ইতিহাসে হিটলারের মতো নিষ্ঠুর ব্যক্তিত্বের মৃত্যু এবং তাঁর দেহের গোপনীয়তা নিয়ে মানুষের আগ্রহ অব্যাহত থাকবে। তবে ইতিহাসের নথিপত্র ও গবেষণা থেকে পাওয়া তথ্য অনুযায়ী, হিটলারের মৃত্যু এবং তার দেহের পরিণতি নিয়ে কোনো রহস্য নেই, যদিও ষড়যন্ত্র তত্ত্বগুলি এখনও মানুষের মনে রয়ে গেছে।

এই ধরনের বিষয়ের উপর আরো তথ্য পেতে আমাদের ব্লগের সাথে থাকুন।

আরও দেখুনঃ সমুদ্র আসলে কতটা গভীর?

[whereserpentswalk]

The nazis that you see in movies are as much a historical fantasy as vikings with horned helmets and samurai cutting people in half.

The nazis were not some vague evil that wanted to hurt people for the sake of hurting them. They had specific goals which furthered a far right agenda, and they wanted to do harm to very specific groups, (largely slavs, jews, Romani, queer people, communists/leftists, and disabled people.)

The nazis didn't use soldiers in creepy gas masks as their main imagery that they sold to the german people, they used blond haired blue eyed families. Nor did they stand up on podiums saying that would wage an endless and brutal war, they gave speeches about protecting white Christian society from degenerates just like how conservatives do today.

Nazis weren't atheists or pagans. They were deeply Christian and Christianity was part of their ideology just like it is for modern conservatives. They spoke at lengths about defending their Christian nation from godless leftism. The ones who hated the catholic church hated it for protestant reasons. Nazi occultism was fringe within the party and never expected to become mainstream, and those occultists were still Christian, none of them ever claimed to be Satanists or Asatru.

Nazis were also not queer or disabled. They killed those groups, before they had a chance to kill almost anyone else actually. Despite the amount of disabled nazis or queer/queer coded nazis you'll see in movies and on TV, in reality they were very cishet and very able bodied. There was one high ranking nazi early on who was gay and the other nazis killed him for that. Saying the nazis were gay or disabled makes about as much sense as saying they were Jewish.

The nazis weren't mentally ill. As previously mentioned they hated disabled people, and this unquestionably included anyone neurodivergent. When the surviving nazi war criminals were given psychological tests after the war, they were shown to be some of the most neurotypical people out there.

The nazis weren't socialists. Full stop. They hated socialists. They got elected on hating socialists. They killed socialists. Hating all forms of lefitsm was a big part of their ideology, and especially a big part of how they sold themselves.

The nazis were not the supervillians you see on screen, not because they didn't do horrible things in real life, they most certainly did, but because they weren't that vague apolitical evil that exists for white American action heros to fight. They did horrible things because they had a right wing authoritarian political ideology, an ideology that is fundamentally the same as what most of the modern right wing believes.

[gpstudios]

National V-J Day: Commemorating the End of World War II and the Triumph of Peace

Celebrate National V-J Day on August 14th, commemorating the end of World War II and the triumph of peace. Honor the sacrifices of those who served, reflect on the lessons of history, and embrace the legacy of the Greatest Generation. #VJDay #WWIIHistory

[silhouettesofficial]

Happy D-Day eightieth anniversary! Have the broadcast that Tessa and Edith listen to in, as scripted, season 4.

[pitch-and-moan]

Letters to Iwo Jima

An AI-penned script that's supposed to be a remake of the Clint Eastwood 2006 film Letters from Iwo Jima, but because they already did the letters of Japanese soldiers that never made it out, this film focuses on the letters that never made it to the Japanese soldiers. Except they can't secure the rights to reproduce or use any actual letters sent but not delivered to Japanese soldiers, so instead they mock up a bunch of fake Japanese junk mail that wouldn't have reached the soldiers anyway. And without actors to read the letters, the film is just three hours of Japanese product recall notices and the 1940s Japanese equivalent for fliers about tree trimming services and window replacements.

[prokopetz]

The trouble with self-consciously edgy urban fantasy RPGs which are explicitly set in the real world is that they always get fixated on the Second World War, and there's literally no good way to speculate about whether Hitler was a vampire or whatever – not only is it tasteless, it's done. It was cliché even in the 1990s, and it hasn't become any less cliché since. Like, at least switch up the war – I want to see an edgy urban fantasy RPG whose Secret History™ revolves around the proposition that Archduke Franz Ferdinand was from space.

[marinesfromaroundtheworld]

Cartoon about the Marines fighting on Wake Island in 1941.