The Day the War Ended by Martin Gilbert

Description

The Day the War Ended: May 8, 1945 – Victory in Europe is a book by Martin Gilbert about the events of May 8, 1945, when the war in Europe officially ended. The book tells the story of the day from the perspectives of people all over the world, from Allied soldiers and civilians to German prisoners of war and concentration camp survivors.

Gilbert begins the book by describing the preparations for the surrender of the German forces. In Berlin, the German High Command is in chaos, as the leaders try to decide what to do. In London, the British government is also preparing for the end of the war, and Prime Minister Winston Churchill is drafting a victory speech.

At 23:00 hours on May 7, 1945, the German High Command signs the Instrument of Surrender, officially ending the war in Europe. The news of the surrender spreads quickly, and soon people all over the world are celebrating. In London, Churchill delivers his victory speech to a cheering crowd in Parliament Square.

The Day the War Ended is a powerful and moving account of a day that changed the world. Gilbert’s book captures the joy, relief, and hope that people felt on VE-Day, as well as the sadness and grief for those who had lost their lives in the war.

The book is also a reminder of the importance of remembrance. Gilbert writes that “the day the war ended was a day of celebration, but it was also a day of remembrance. We must never forget the sacrifices that were made, and the lessons that we learned, in order to build a better future.”

The Day the War Ended is a valuable addition to any library. It is a well-researched and well-written book that provides a unique perspective on one of the most important days in history.