The Blackout in Britain and Germany, 1939–1945

Description

This book is the first major study of the blackout in the Second World War. Developing a comparative history of this system of civil defense in Britain and Germany, it begins by exploring how the blackout was planned for in both countries, and how the threat of aerial bombing framed its development. It then examines how well the blackout was adhered to, paying particular regard to the tension between its military value and the difficulties it caused civilians. The book then moves on to discuss how the blackout undermined the perception of security on the home front, especially for women. The final chapter examines the impact of the blackout on industry and transport. Arguing that the blackout formed an integral part in mobilising and legitimating British and German wartime discourses of community, fairness and morality, the book explores its profound impact on both countries. Front Matter ....Pages i-xiii Introduction (Marc Wiggam)....Pages 1-10 Context and Planning (Marc Wiggam)....Pages 11-38 Adherence (Marc Wiggam)....Pages 39-64 Fear and Transgression (Marc Wiggam)....Pages 65-84 Working in the Blackout (Marc Wiggam)....Pages 85-111 Conclusion (Marc Wiggam)....Pages 113-117 Back Matter ....Pages 119-131