1939: Countdown to War

In a dramatic approach, Richard Overy recounts the key political events that preceded the outbreak of World War II in September 1939. In an objective yet insightful account, the author asserts that, contrary to popular belief, the outbreak of war was not inevitable: the Allies hoped Hitler would change his mind and not invade Poland—which could have prevented the outbreak of global conflict—and Hitler, in turn, was convinced the Allies would retreat and not attempt to stop him. 1939 brings to life the most decisive moment of the bloody 20th century.