Inside the Nazi War Machine

In 1940, as Hitler plotted to conquer Europe, only one nation posed a serious threat to the Third Reich's domination: France. The German command was wary of taking on the most powerful armed force on the continent. But three low-ranking generals-Eric von Manstein, Heinz Guderian, and Erwin Rommel-were about to change the face of modern warfare.

By grouping tanks into juggernauts to slam through enemy lines, the blitzkrieg was born. With this aggressive, single-minded plan, the Nazis bypassed the supposedly impenetrable Maginot Line, charged into the heart of France, and alerted the world that the deadly might of Germany could no longer be ignored.





ISBN-13: 9780451232656
Author : Bevin Alexander
Publisher: Penguin Group (USA)
Publication date: 09/06/2011

Editorial Reviews - Publishers Weekly

Expert military strategist Alexander examines the battles that left the armies of Holland, France, Great Britain, and Belgium in ruins, revealing the methods Nazi Germany used in a six-week period in 1940 that ultimately led to the surrender of France. Maneuver warfare, or blitzkrieg, is a very quick and concentrated attack using groups of tanks supported by aircraft that aims to leave a gaping hole in the enemy's front. Alexander attributes the German success to the individual leadership the Germans granted subordinate commanders and, in turn, the army's flexibility.

Generals Erwin Rommel, Erich von Manstein, and Heinz Guderian are credited with developing this excellent strategy, yet despite its efficacy, Hitler's stubborn vision of conquering the Soviet Union and exterminating Europe's Jewish population ultimately cost Germany the war. With a presentation of his extensive knowledge using both maps and the reconstruction of battles, Alexander's military expertise prevails best when he highlights the costly mistakes made by the German army during the war.

Meet the Author

Bevin Alexander is the author of ten books on military history, including How Wars Are Won and How Hitler Could Have Won World War II. He is an adjunct professor at Longwood University in Virginia.