Did Poland Attack Nazi Germany First: Separating Fact from Fiction

In the context of World War II, a popular myth suggests that Poland was the one to initiate hostilities against Nazi Germany. This article aims to dispel this misconception and provide an accurate understanding of the events that led to the start of the conflict.

The Background of Tensions

Before the events of September 1, 1939, which marks the beginning of World War II, Poland faced significant pressure from Nazi Germany. Post-World War I, Germany had lost substantial territories, and Adolf Hitler sought to regain them. This aggressive expansionist policy culminated in the occupation of the Polish Corridor and the division of the Free City of Danzig. The Polish state, in response to these escalating tensions, did not initiate hostilities but rather maintained a defensive position to repel any anticipated invasion.

The Invasion of Poland

On September 1, 1939, at 4:45 AM, the German air force (Luftwaffe) launched an indiscriminate bombing campaign against Polish targets. Following this air assault, the German ground forces began their offensive an hour later. It is important to note that the attack on the Polish military base by the cruiser Schleswig-Holstein occurred minutes after the Luftwaffe commenced its bombing, marking the beginning of the ground campaign.

Nazi Propaganda and the Concentration Camp Incident

It is a well-known fact that the Nazis utilized and fabricated propaganda to justify their actions. One such example is the claim that concentration camp prisoners were murdered to make it appear as though the Poles had attacked the Germans first. This deceitful narrative was used to slander Poland and justify the invasion. However, the historical evidence clearly shows that Poland was neither the aggressor nor the instigator of the conflict.

Poland's Defensive Posture

Poland did not initiate hostilities but instead responded defensively to the German invasion. The Poles aimed to repel the German forces and protect their nation. The Polish government and military recognized the imminent threat and worked to marshal their resources for defense, although they were vastly outgunned and outnumbered by the highly trained and organized German military.

The Involvement of Allied Powers

France and Britain were supportive of Poland and had signed mutual defense treaties. When Germany invaded Poland, these nations declared war on Germany, marking their entry into the conflict. However, their military support to Poland was limited, and they did not provide sufficient aid to prevent the rapid partitioning of Poland by Germany, Slovakia, and the Soviet Union. This ineffectiveness, combined with the harsh conditions imposed by the Treaty of Versailles on Germany, created the perfect conditions for the outbreak of World War II.

The Myth and Reality of Poland’s First Strike

The suggestion that Poland attacked Nazi Germany is not only a fiction but also used as propaganda by those who seek to justify the invasion. The idea that Poland started the war is a tool employed by Nazi propagandists to justify their actions. In the post-war era, similar tactics have been used to deny historical facts and blame victims for their own perceived wrongs.

History has shown that the aggressor in this conflict was Nazi Germany, which initiated the war through a series of aggressive and expansionist policies. It is essential to study and understand history accurately to avoid repeating past mistakes and fostering hatred and misunderstandings.

While it is important to address the contentious issues in history with the utmost respect and accuracy, it is also crucial to promote unity and understanding among nations. This understanding is vital for fostering peaceful coexistence and preventing similar conflicts in the future.