World War II: Countdown to Victory
Tracking the main events of World War II is a truly fascinating experience, and with the help of remarkable archive footage you can literally see for yourself exactly what happened, and when. From the early battles right through to the complexities of the endgame, this extensive series of 24 programmes will help shine a spotlight on a period of history that should never be forgotten. Each episode spans a few months of the conflict, giving the viewer an incredible level of detail into each and every event. From Adolf Hitler marching his troops into Poland on the 1st of September 1939 to the freezing attacks along the Eastern Front; The sweeping Pacific Naval clashes to that fateful day on the 2nd of September 1945 when World War II was brought to a swift end with the nuclear bombing of Hiroshima and Nagasaki.
Cast: Liam Dale
Season 1
24 episodes
1. The Road to WarWhen Adolf Hitler's troops invaded Poland in September 1939, war in Europe looked unavoidable. The start of a fascinating 24-part series charting key events of WWII.PGCC56minJan 1, 2009
2. Battle Lines DrawnEverything you wanted to know about WWII. In early 1940, Britain faced up to the prospect of rationing and Hitler prepared for full-scale invasion of Scandinavia.PGCC56minJan 1, 2009
3. First BloodBlood, toil, tears and sweat: the story of WWII. Winston Churchill's first task as incoming Prime Minister in May 1940 was the evacuation of Allied soldiers from Dunkirk.PGCC56minJan 1, 2009
4. Britain Under AttackA thorough guide to the deadliest conflict in history. With much of Europe under his power, Hitler's advance continued west - resulting in the Battle of Britain.PGCC56minJan 1, 2009
5. Fighting Further AfieldAn in-depth guide to WWII. As 1940 drew to a close, Japan signed the Tripartite Pact with Italy and Germany. Nightly bombing raids decimated British cities.PGCC56minJan 1, 2009
6. On Land, in the Air and All at SeaThis captivating WWII retrospective focuses on early 1941, as the Luftwaffe continued to bomb Britain and the Afrika Korps blossomed under Rommel.PGCC56minJan 1, 2009
7. The Blitz, the Bismarck and BarbarossaAfter failing to conquer Britain by 1941, Hitler switched his focus to Russia. Incredible archive footage brings the realities of war to life.PGCC56minJan 1, 2009
8. Russian RouletteThe Siege of Leningrad began in September 1941, but the Red Army refused to give in easily. Find out how they used the bleak Soviet winter to their advantage.PGCC56minJan 1, 2009
9. America at WarThis epic account of WWII is a must-see for history buffs. As Germany fought Russia in the east, Japan's attack on Pearl Harbor crucially brought the US into the war.PGCC56minJan 1, 2009
10. The Fall of SingaporeAs the US Army arrived in Britain in 1942, Japan strengthened their position in the Pacific with the capture of Singapore. An epic, blow-by-blow guide to WWII.PGCC56minJan 1, 2009
11. The Battle of Midway and BeyondVivid memories of WWII. The US struck key victories over Japan in two naval battles. Britain came under heavy fire once again in the Baedeker Raids.PGCC56minJan 1, 2009
12. El Alamein to StalingradThe turbulent story of WWII. Hear how the arrival of top general Bernard Montgomery in mid-1942 marked a change of fortunes for the Allies in North Africa.PGCC56minJan 1, 2009
13. The Tide Begins to TurnThe definitive guide to WWII. As 1942 drew to a close, the Allies were making real headway: the British on top in North Africa and the US dominating Japan.PGCC56minJan 1, 2009
14. Facing the MusicExperience the heroism and horror of war in this compelling series. The 6th Army surrender at Stalingrad in early 1943 and the RAF target German cities from the sky.PGCC56minJan 1, 2009
15. Resistance is Never FutileIn May 1943, the RAF carried out the renowned Dambusters raid, which disrupted water and electricity supplies in a key area for the manufacture of Germany's munitions.PGCC56minJan 1, 2009
16. Tentative StepsDiscover the triumph and tragedy of World War II. After their success in North Africa, the Allies returned to action in occupied Europe and began the fight for Italy.PGCC56minJan 1, 2009
17. New ChallengesEpic history series. With the Axis under the cosh by late 1943, the Big Three - Stalin, Roosevelt and Churchill - met at the Tehran Conference to plan their next move.PGCC56minJan 1, 2009
18. Blueprint for VictoryReflections on when the world went to war. In early 1944, the Allies prepared for the invasion of German-occupied Europe under US general Dwight D Eisenhower.PGCC56minJan 1, 2009
19. D-Day at LastThe D-Day landings of 1944 resulted in a huge victory for the Allies, with their sheer numbers and element of surprise catching Germany on the hop. Watch to learn more.PGCC56minJan 1, 2009
20. Liberty, Equality and FraternityThe ultimate guide to WWII. As a jubilant France was liberated by the Allies, German officer Claus von Stauffenberg made an attempt on Hitler's life.PGCC56minJan 1, 2009
21. Onwards, Ever OnwardsThe complete guide to WWII. Hear how the Nazis managed to inflict heavy US casualties at the Battle of the Bulge in late 1944, despite their terrible position.PGCC56minJan 1, 2009
22. The Race for BerlinThe key events of the most destructive war in history. Hear how the endgame was in sight by early 1945, with Allied forces advancing on Germany from both sides.PGCC56minJan 1, 2009
23. Churchill's Finest HourRelive the pivotal moments of WWII. The war in Europe finally climaxes as the Allies enter Berlin and Hitler commits suicide, sparking VE Day celebrations.PGCC56minJan 1, 2009
24. Brave New WorldIn August 1945, President Truman decided to end the war swiftly and take the controversial step of dropping two atomic bombs on Japan. Relive the shocking resolution.PGCC56minJan 1, 2009
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World War II: Countdown to Victory
Tracking the main events of World War II is a truly fascinating experience, and with the help of remarkable archive footage you can literally see for yourself exactly what happened, and when. From the early battles right through to the complexities of the endgame, this extensive series of 24 programmes will help shine a spotlight on a period of history that should never be forgotten. Each episode spans a few months of the conflict, giving the viewer an incredible level of detail into each and every event. From Adolf Hitler marching his troops into Poland on the 1st of September 1939 to the freezing attacks along the Eastern Front; The sweeping Pacific Naval clashes to that fateful day on the 2nd of September 1945 when World War II was brought to a swift end with the nuclear bombing of Hiroshima and Nagasaki.
Maturity rating
PGCheck the rating before watching with younger viewers.
Audio languages
English
Where to watch
Not currently listed on any streaming, rental or purchase service.
