Chronology of World War II

October 1939

Friday, October 27th


Battle of the Atlantic

U-34 badly damages the British steamer Bronte (5317t) from convoy OB-25 west of Ireland. Bronte is taken in tow by the tug Englishman, but 2 days later the British destroyer Esk scuttles her.

[larr2larr | rarrrarr2]

Diplomatic Relations

  • Belgium proclaims neutrality.
  • From the Vatican, Pope Pius the XII condemns violence, racism, dictators and treaty violations.
[larr2larr | rarrrarr2]

United States, Policy

-
After more than a month of fierce debate, the U.S. Senate voted for the repeal of the embargo on war materials that formed a part of America's Neutrality Law. This meant that belligerent countries could purchase war materials from America only if they paid for them in cash and carried them in their own ships. Above, President Roosevelt is seen urging repeal of the embargo in a message to a joint session of the Congress. The effect of repeal was to place American war production at the disposal of the Allies; the blockade precluded Germany from buying in America.

U.S. Senate Repeals Embargo

Dimaggio
[larr | rarrrarr2]

[ Oct 26th - Oct 28th]