1938 Wars & Armed Conflicts Events — Verified Historical Highlights
1938 Wars & Armed Conflicts Events — Verified Historical Highlights | TakeMeBack.to
- 10 Jan Japanese Capture of Qingdao: On January 10, 1938, during the Second Sino-Japanese War, Japanese forces captured the Chinese city of Qingdao. source: en.wikipedia.org
- 28 Jan Hitler restructures German military command: Adolf Hitler announced a significant restructuring of the German military command, consolidating power and enhancing his control over the armed forces. This move was part of his broader strategy leading up to World War II. source: britannica.com
- 01 Feb Shanghai Expeditionary Army disbanded: On February 1, 1938, during the Second Sino-Japanese War, the Imperial Japanese Army's Shanghai Expeditionary Army was officially disbanded, marking a strategic reorganization of Japanese military forces in the Shanghai region. source: en.wikipedia.org
- 05 Feb Final Hitler cabinet meeting: On February 5, 1938, Adolf Hitler held his final cabinet meeting before the outbreak of World War II, during which he discussed military and political strategies with his ministers. source: en.wikipedia.org
- 20 Feb Anthony Eden resigns as UK Foreign Secretary: On February 20, 1938, Anthony Eden resigned from his position as British Foreign Secretary due to disagreements with Prime Minister Neville Chamberlain over the government's approach to Fascist Italy. Eden opposed Chamberlain's policy of appeasement and felt that Mussolini should first demonstrate good faith before further negotiations. This resignation highlighted the growing rift within the British government regarding foreign policy towards Italy. source: britannica.com
- 22 Feb Battle of Teruel: Nationalist victory in Spanish Civil War: On February 22, 1938, Nationalist forces captured the city of Teruel, marking a significant victory in the Spanish Civil War. The Republican defenders, who had initially taken the city in January, were overwhelmed by the Nationalist siege and subsequent assault, leading to the loss of thousands of Republican soldiers. source: en.wikipedia.org
- 25 Feb Lord Halifax appointed as British Foreign Secretary: On February 25, 1938, Edward Frederick Lindley Wood, 1st Earl of Halifax, was appointed as the British Foreign Secretary, succeeding Anthony Eden. Halifax's tenure was marked by his association with the policy of appeasement towards Nazi Germany. source: britannica.com
- 13 Mar Anschluss: Austria unified with Nazi Germany: On March 13, 1938, Austria was officially unified with Nazi Germany following the German invasion on March 12. The annexation, known as the Anschluss, was proclaimed the following day, ending Austria's independence. source: history.com
- 14 Mar Nazi annexation of Austria: On March 14, 1938, Austria was officially annexed into Nazi Germany following the German invasion on March 12. The annexation, known as the Anschluss, was proclaimed the following day, ending Austria's independence. source: history.com
- 17 Mar Italian Air Force Bombs Barcelona: During the Spanish Civil War, the Italian Air Force, supporting Francisco Franco's Nationalist forces, conducts a bombing raid on Barcelona, escalating the conflict's international dimensions.
- 20 Mar Czechoslovakia prepares for potential German invasion: In March 1938, Czechoslovakia faced escalating tensions with Nazi Germany, leading to military mobilization and diplomatic efforts to secure support from France and Britain. source: history.com
- 23 Mar Chamberlain seeks union support for war preparation: British Prime Minister Neville Chamberlain sought support from trade unions to prepare for potential war, emphasizing the need for national unity. source: historyplace.com
- 01 Apr Battle of Gandesa Begins: The Battle of Gandesa commenced during the Spanish Civil War, marking a significant military engagement between Republican and Nationalist forces in the Aragon region.
- 03 Apr Battle of Gandesa during Spanish Civil War: The Battle of Gandesa occurred from April 1 to April 3, 1938, during the Spanish Civil War. Nationalist forces captured the town of Gandesa in Catalonia, leading to the capture of approximately 140 members of the International Brigades, primarily British and American fighters. This victory was part of the Nationalists' broader offensive in Catalonia. source: en.wikipedia.org
- 08 Apr French Government Transition: On April 8, 1938, France experienced a significant political transition with the resignation of Prime Minister Édouard Daladier. This marked a shift in the French government during a tumultuous period leading up to World War II. source: britannica.com
- 10 Apr Édouard Daladier Becomes Prime Minister of France: Édouard Daladier assumes the role of Prime Minister of France, taking leadership during a critical period of rising tensions in Europe prior to World War II.
- 12 May Japanese capture of Amoy: On May 12, 1938, Japanese forces captured Amoy (now Xiamen), China, marking their first significant advance into southern China during the Second Sino-Japanese War. The Japanese 5th Fleet, under Vice Admiral Koichi Shiozawa, conducted a naval bombardment followed by an amphibious assault, leading to the withdrawal of Chinese defenders to the mainland. The occupation aimed to establish a blockade and prevent Chinese access to international support. source: digital.bentley.umich.edu
- 13 May US Naval Expansion Bill passed: On May 13, 1938, the United States Congress passed a Naval Expansion Bill, authorizing the construction of new warships. This legislation aimed to strengthen the U.S. Navy in response to growing international tensions and the rise of aggressive powers in Europe and Asia. source: en.wikipedia.org
- 14 May Chile withdraws from League of Nations: On May 14, 1938, Chile withdrew from the League of Nations. This decision was part of a broader trend of Latin American countries distancing themselves from European-dominated international organizations during the prelude to World War II. source: en.wikipedia.org
- 16 May Vatican establishes diplomatic relations with Francoist Spain: On May 16, 1938, the Vatican established diplomatic relations with Francoist Spain. This move was significant as it marked the Vatican's recognition of Francisco Franco's regime following the Spanish Civil War. source: en.wikipedia.org
- 21 May Tsuyama Massacre in Japan: The Tsuyama Massacre occurred when a former soldier, Masaru Saito, killed 30 people in Tsuyama, Japan. This tragic event highlighted issues of mental health and societal pressures in pre-war Japan. source: britannica.com
- 22 May British diplomatic stance on Czechoslovakia: On May 22, 1938, Britain reaffirmed its support for Czechoslovakia amid rising tensions in Europe. This stance was part of the broader context of appeasement policies leading up to World War II. source: britannica.com
- 23 May Hitler's diplomatic deception in Sudetenland crisis: On May 23, 1938, Adolf Hitler engaged in diplomatic maneuvers regarding the Sudetenland, attempting to mislead European powers about Germany's intentions. This was a key moment leading up to World War II. source: britannica.com
- 25 May Bombing of Alicante during Spanish Civil War: On May 25, 1938, during the Spanish Civil War, the Aviazione Legionaria conducted a bombing raid on the city of Alicante. source: en.wikipedia.org
- 28 May Bombing of British steamer in Spanish Civil War: On May 28, 1938, during the Spanish Civil War, Nationalist warplanes bombed and sank the 1,495-ton British steamer Greatend at the dock of Valencia. The attack resulted in 10 fatalities and 18 injuries in the city. Additionally, the English merchant ship Cabin was struck in the port, leading to seven sailor deaths and eight injuries. The freighter Pinzon was also hit, but the bomb failed to explode, causing no injuries. source: en.wikipedia.org
- 29 May Balaguer Offensive fails during Spanish Civil War: On May 29, 1938, the Balaguer Offensive, a Republican military operation during the Spanish Civil War, ended in failure. The offensive aimed to break through Nationalist lines but was unsuccessful, leading to significant Republican casualties and a strategic setback. source: en.wikipedia.org
- 05 Jun Catastrophic Yellow River flood during Second Sino-Japanese War: On June 5, 1938, during the Second Sino-Japanese War, Chinese forces opened the dikes of the Yellow River, causing a catastrophic flood. The flood resulted in the deaths of an estimated 500,000 people and displaced millions, aiming to slow the Japanese advance. source: en.wikipedia.org
- 07 Jun Catastrophic Yellow River flood during Second Sino-Japanese War: In June 1938, during the Second Sino-Japanese War, the Chinese Nationalist government opened the dikes of the Yellow River near Huayuankou, Henan Province, to halt the advancing Japanese forces. This deliberate flooding resulted in one of the deadliest natural disasters in history, with estimates of up to 900,000 people killed and millions displaced. The flood also caused widespread destruction of infrastructure and farmland, significantly impacting the war's course. source: Wikipedia (day-month pages)
- 08 Jun Japanese bombing of Canton: On June 8, 1938, during the Second Sino-Japanese War, Japanese forces conducted a bombing raid on Canton (now Guangzhou), China. The attack targeted military installations and infrastructure, resulting in significant civilian casualties and damage. This bombing was part of a broader strategy by Japan to weaken Chinese resistance and gain control over key regions.
- 11 Jun Yellow River Flood Strategic Destruction: On June 11, 1938, during the Second Sino-Japanese War, Chinese Nationalist forces intentionally breached the levees of the Yellow River near Huayuankou, Henan Province, to halt the advance of Japanese troops. This action led to widespread flooding, causing significant destruction and loss of life. source: britannica.com
- 12 Jun Japanese capture of Ankang: On June 12, 1938, during the Second Sino-Japanese War, Japanese forces captured the city of Ankang in Shaanxi Province, China. This strategic move was part of Japan's broader campaign to secure key locations in China. source: en.wikipedia.org
- 17 Jun Second Sino-Japanese War begins: On June 17, 1938, the Second Sino-Japanese War commenced, marking a significant escalation in the conflict between China and Japan. This war would become a major theater in the Pacific during World War II.
- 20 Jun Nazi espionage ring indicted in US military secrets theft conspiracy: A group was indicted for allegedly stealing military secrets for Nazi Germany, highlighting the growing tensions and espionage activities leading up to World War II. This case underscored the threat posed by foreign espionage to national security. source: archives.gov
- 21 Jun International agreement on Spanish Civil War volunteers: An international agreement was reached regarding the volunteers who fought in the Spanish Civil War, reflecting the global political climate and the involvement of various nations in the conflict. source: britannica.com
- 22 Jun Germany initiates civil defense measures: Germany began implementing civil defense measures in response to the growing threat of war in Europe. These measures were part of the government's preparations for potential conflict. source: britannica.com
- 26 Jun Spanish government proposes peace conditions during Civil War: On June 26, 1938, the Spanish government proposed peace conditions during the Spanish Civil War. These conditions aimed to negotiate an end to the conflict, though they were met with skepticism by opposing factions. source: history.com
- 05 Jul Non-Intervention Committee Agreement on Spanish Civil War Volunteers: On July 5, 1938, the International Committee for the Application of the Agreement Regarding Non-Intervention in Spain adopted a resolution to extend the Non-Intervention Agreement. This included provisions for the withdrawal of foreign volunteers from Spain, granting belligerent rights to the two Spanish parties under certain conditions, and observing Spanish frontiers by land and sea. source: openlibrary.org
- 06 Jul German Annexation of Austria (Anschluss): On July 6, 1938, Nazi Germany annexed Austria, a move known as the Anschluss. This event marked a significant expansion of Nazi influence in Europe and was a precursor to further aggressive actions leading up to World War II.
- 22 Jul Britain and France reject German proposal on Sudetenland: On July 22, 1938, Britain and France rejected a German proposal regarding the Sudetenland, a region in Czechoslovakia. This decision was part of the escalating tensions leading up to World War II. source: britannica.com
- 25 Jul Spanish Civil War: Ebro Offensive: The Ebro Offensive, launched on July 25, 1938, was a significant military campaign during the Spanish Civil War. It marked a turning point in the conflict, with the Republican forces attempting to regain control against Franco's Nationalists. source: britannica.com
- 26 Jul Spanish Civil War: Loyalist Counteroffensive at Ebro River: On July 26, 1938, during the Spanish Civil War, Republican forces launched a counteroffensive across the Ebro River, aiming to recapture territory from Nationalist forces. source: en.wikipedia.org
- 30 Jul Chiang Kai-shek retreats to Chungking: In late July 1938, Chinese Nationalist leader Chiang Kai-shek retreated to the city of Chungking (Chongqing) following the Japanese invasion of China. This move marked a strategic shift in the Chinese government's operations during the Second Sino-Japanese War.
- 26 Aug Germany demands Sudetenland autonomy: On August 26, 1938, Germany, under Adolf Hitler, demanded autonomy for the Sudetenland region of Czechoslovakia, escalating tensions in Europe. This demand was part of a broader strategy to annex territories with ethnic German populations, contributing to the lead-up to World War II. source: britannica.com
- 27 Aug Churchill warns of German threat: On August 27, 1938, Winston Churchill delivered a speech warning about the growing threat posed by Nazi Germany. His remarks emphasized the need for Britain to prepare for potential conflict as tensions in Europe escalated. source: britannica.com
- 28 Aug British diplomatic efforts to prevent war with Nazi Germany: On August 28, 1938, British officials intensified diplomatic efforts to prevent war with Nazi Germany, focusing on negotiations regarding the Sudetenland crisis. These efforts were part of a broader strategy to maintain peace in Europe amid rising tensions. source: britannica.com
- 07 Sep The Times calls for Sudetenland concession: On September 7, 1938, The Times published an article advocating for concessions to the Sudeten Germans, reflecting the growing pressure on the British government to address the crisis in Czechoslovakia. This marked a significant moment in the lead-up to World War II. source: britannica.com
- 17 Sep Chamberlain's Misguided Optimism about Hitler: On September 17, 1938, British Prime Minister Neville Chamberlain expressed optimism regarding Adolf Hitler's intentions, believing that the Munich Agreement would prevent further aggression. This belief was later criticized as overly optimistic, as the agreement failed to prevent World War II. source: washingtonpost.com
- 18 Sep Munich Crisis Diplomatic Negotiations: On September 18, 1938, diplomatic negotiations took place in Munich involving Britain, France, Germany, and Italy, aiming to resolve the Sudetenland crisis and prevent war. source: washingtonpost.com
- 21 Sep Churchill warns against appeasement: On September 21, 1938, Winston Churchill criticized the British government's policy of appeasement towards Nazi Germany, emphasizing the threat to democracy posed by such concessions. source: time.com
- 23 Sep Soviet Union warns Poland about Czech frontier: On September 23, 1938, the Soviet Union issued a warning to Poland regarding the Czechoslovakian frontier, amid rising tensions in Europe. source: en.wikipedia.org
- 27 Sep Chamberlain's pre-war radio address to the British public: On September 27, 1938, British Prime Minister Neville Chamberlain addressed the nation via radio, discussing the Munich Agreement and the steps taken to avoid war. This address aimed to reassure the public and explain the government's actions. source: history.com
- 28 Sep Dutch Premier's Peace Message: Dutch Premier Hendrik Colijn broadcasts a radio message asserting that war is not imminent, attempting to calm public tensions during the escalating European crisis.
- 30 Sep Japanese Imperial Army Advances in Canton: In October, the Japanese Imperial Army largely overran Canton (Guangzhou), continuing its aggressive military campaign in China during the Second Sino-Japanese War.
- 01 Oct Battle of Wanjialing Begins: The Battle of Wanjialing commences, likely part of the ongoing Second Sino-Japanese War, representing another front of conflict during this tumultuous period in global history.
- 11 Oct Chinese forces achieve victory at Battle of Wanjialing: On October 11, 1938, during the Second Sino-Japanese War, Chinese forces achieved a significant victory over Japanese troops at the Battle of Wanjialing. This battle was part of China's efforts to halt the Japanese advance and marked a turning point in the conflict. source: britannica.com
- 19 Oct Lindbergh receives Nazi award: Charles Lindbergh was presented with the Service Cross of the Order of the German Eagle by Hermann Göring in Berlin. This award, granted at Hitler's behest, became controversial in the United States. source: pbs.org
- 21 Oct Japanese Capture of Canton: Japanese military forces successfully capture Canton (Guangzhou), a strategically important southern port city in China, further expanding their territorial control during the Second Sino-Japanese War.
- 23 Oct British ambassador's report on French war sentiment: On this date, the British ambassador reported on the growing war sentiment in France, highlighting concerns over the rising threat from Nazi Germany. This report underscored the anxiety in Europe as nations prepared for potential conflict. source: theguardian.com
- 24 Oct Nazi Germany pressures Poland over Danzig: On this date, Nazi Germany intensified its pressure on Poland regarding the Free City of Danzig. This situation contributed to the escalating tensions that would lead to World War II. source: britannica.com
- 25 Oct Japanese military occupation of Hankou and Wuhan: On October 25, 1938, Japanese forces occupied the Chinese cities of Hankou and Wuhan during the Second Sino-Japanese War. This occupation marked a significant escalation in the conflict and had lasting impacts on the region. source: britannica.com
- 28 Oct International Brigades farewell parade: On October 28, 1938, a farewell parade was held for the International Brigades in Spain, marking the end of foreign volunteer involvement in the Spanish Civil War. This event symbolized the waning support for the Republican cause as the war turned against them. source: bbc.co.uk
- 02 Nov SS Cantabria sunk during Spanish Civil War: On November 2, 1938, during the Spanish Civil War, the Spanish Nationalist auxiliary cruiser Nadir sank the Republican cargo ship SS Cantabria off the coast of Norfolk, England. The attack resulted in the loss of at least one crew member, and the incident drew attention in the UK Parliament. source: en.wikipedia.org
- 05 Nov Hungarian territorial expansion: On November 5, 1938, Hungary began occupying territories ceded by Czechoslovakia under the First Vienna Award, which had been signed on November 2, 1938. This agreement returned 11,927 square kilometers of primarily Hungarian-inhabited territory in southern Slovakia and Subcarpathia to Hungary. source: theorangefiles.hu
- 23 Dec Nationalists' Catalonia Offensive: On December 23, 1938, Nationalist forces launched the Catalonia Offensive during the Spanish Civil War, aiming to capture Republican-held Catalonia. The offensive led to the rapid conquest of the region, culminating in the fall of Barcelona on January 26, 1939. source: en.wikipedia.org
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