5.1.4
V1 & V2 Attacks
The V1 & V2 Attacks
The V1 & V2 Attacks
From June 1944 - March 1945. These were Hitler’s ‘retribution weapons’ (Vergeltungswaffen), seeking revenge for Britain’s attack at D-Day.
V1
V1
- V1 - known as ‘Doodle Bugs’.
- These pilotless planes made a buzzing noise that stopped just before they detonated.
V2
V2
- V2 - these ballistic missiles launched upwards and travelled through upper atmospheres before coming down onto their target, making it almost impossible to shoot down.
Impact of the V1 and V2 attacks
Impact of the V1 and V2 attacks
- Civilian morale was affected in the summer of 1944.
- Absenteeism amongst factory workers was higher than at any time during the first Blitz.
Evacuation
Evacuation
- A new wave of evacuation began.
- In July 1944, 559,000 people were evacuated from London.
- More people slept in the Underground again.
- 81,240 per night in July 1944.
Destruction and casualties
Destruction and casualties
- Over 30,000 houses were destroyed and 1.3 million houses were damaged.
- The combined V1 and V2 attacks killed or seriously injured 28, 891 people.
Government popularity
Government popularity
- The government’s popularity fell because of their delay in officially admitting to the V2 attacks as well as their inability to protect London when the war seemed almost won.
1Medieval Warfare c.1250-1500
2Early Modern Warfare c.1500-1700
3Industrial Warfare c.1700-1900
4Modern Warfare c.1900-present
5The Historic Environment
5.1London & the Second World War, 1939-45
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1Medieval Warfare c.1250-1500
2Early Modern Warfare c.1500-1700
3Industrial Warfare c.1700-1900
4Modern Warfare c.1900-present
5The Historic Environment
5.1London & the Second World War, 1939-45
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