In the Summer of 1944, the western Allies had a big problem. Having broken out from Normandy, Allied Supreme Commander General Eisenhower wanted to advance on Germany on a broad front. But logistical issues meant that the Allies couldn't supply multiple army Groups with the fuel, food and ammunition they needed simultaneously. However, one British general thought that he had the solution.
Field Marshal Montgomery believed that the Allies should employ one bold stroke to shorten the war. His plan, Operation Market Garden, would put the Allies across the Rhine on Germany's frontier in a few days and possibly end the war by Christmas 1944.
The battle would become one of the most controversial episodes of the Second World War, featuring daring assaults, strategic blunders and heroic defences. A battle which would come so close to success, before falling at the final hurdle. In this episode of IWM Stories, curator Sean Rehling examines Operation Market Garden.
Tactics of the Normandy Campaign: https://www.iwm.org.uk/history/tactics-and-the-cost-of-victory-in-normandy
The story of Operation Market Garden in photos: https://www.iwm.org.uk/history/the-story-of-operation-market-garden-in-photos
See inside Field Marshall Montgomery caravans: https://www.iwm.org.uk/history/montys-caravans-a-field-marshals-home-from-home
Licence the clips used in this film: https://film.iwmcollections.org.uk/mycollections/index/_Vma2J84Q
For information about licensing HD clips please email [email protected]
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