John C. McManus, a Professor of US Military History and author of 'Alamo in the Ardennes', shares fascinating insights into the Battle of the Bulge. He discusses the desperate German offensive in winter 1944 and the bravery of American troops that turned the tide of the war. The conversation highlights the human cost, intelligence failures, and strategic dynamics at play. McManus recounts gripping tales from the beleaguered town of Bastogne, showcasing the iconic 'Nuts!' response and the resilience that ultimately sealed Nazi Germany's fate.
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insights INSIGHT
Allied Logistical Problems
The Allies faced logistical challenges in late 1944, hindering their advance.
Supplying the front line became difficult due to damaged infrastructure and distant ports.
insights INSIGHT
Hitler's Gamble
Hitler considered three options: surrender, defensive war, or attack.
He chose to attack the thinly spread Allied lines in the Ardennes, hoping to recapture Antwerp.
question_answer ANECDOTE
Ardennes Precedent
German forces pushed through the Ardennes in 1940, surprising the French.
Hitler aimed to replicate this success in 1944, underestimating the American forces.
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Alamo In The Ardennes The Untold Story Of The American Soldiers Who Made The Defense Of Bastogne Possible
John C. McManus
This book provides a compelling, day-by-day account of the pivotal moments in the Battle of the Bulge, focusing on the bloody delaying action fought by the 28th Infantry Division, elements of the 9th and 10th Armored Divisions, and other smaller units. These soldiers, outnumbered and outgunned, made significant sacrifices that allowed the 101st Airborne to reach and occupy Bastogne, preparing for the subsequent ferocious attack. The narrative includes detailed accounts from individual soldiers, artillery, and tankers, as well as higher-level commanders, and features helpful maps and a list of key soldiers, civilians, and German commanders involved in the battle.
In the dead of winter, 1944, the frozen forest of Ardennes erupted in chaos. In a desperate, last-ditch attempt to turn the tide of the war, Hitler threw his armoured divisions at the thinly spread Allied frontline. The battle that followed was the bloodiest fought by the Americans in the war, and their determined defence helped to seal the fate of Nazi Germany.
For the latest instalment in our 'D-Day to Berlin' series, Dan is joined by Professor John C. McManus, author of 'Alamo in the Ardennes'. They delve into this fierce German winter offensive in terms of its strategic significance, and the tenacity of the American soldiers that thwarted Hitler's plans.
Written by Dan Snow, produced by James Hickmann and edited by Dougal Patmore.
To hear more of our 'D-Day to Berlin' series, you could check out:
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