"The Few", 20 Aug 1940
Scope and Contents
Notes for WSC's speech covering subjects including: reflections on the differences between the present war and the First World War including weapons, casualty numbers and the increased importance of science and strategy; Britain's aptitude for the new forms of warfare; the decision to enforce a strict blockade on Germany, Italy and France and food supplies and distribution in Europe; review of the war situation; air warfare and the Battle of Britain including the threat of German bombing, the strength of civil defence, speedy salvage and repair of damaged aircraft and increased aircraft production and gratitude for the achievements of British airmen "Never in the field of human conflict was so much owed by so many to so few"; the diminishing threat of invasion; the impact of the collapse of France on British strategy in the Middle East and admiration for the position of General [Charles] de Gaulle and "his gallant band"; and the lease of bases to the United States. He ends by likening the inevitable mingling of Unites States and British interests to the inexorable rolling of the Mississippi river.Top copy of typescript speaking notes laid out in psalm style. Annotated with changes in black ink by WSC, and with Roman numerals indicating sections in red ink by WSC.
Dates
- Creation: 20 Aug 1940
Conditions Governing Access
Open
Conditions Governing Use
Copyright: WSC and Crown
Extent
32 folio(s)
Language of Materials
English
External Documents
Bibliography
Repository Details
Part of the Churchill Archives Centre Repository
Churchill Archives Centre
Churchill College
Cambridge Cambridgeshire CB3 0DS United Kingdom
+44 (0)1223 336087
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