The Second World War brought big changes to Southampton and its docks. As a centre for shipping, it was very vulnerable to attacks from German planes - the docks were actually closed for several years. The port was able to play its part in the D-Day landings in northern France - temporary harbours were constructed here for use in the liberation. Many small boats from Southampton were requisitioned during the war and brought troops home from France. At the end of the conflict, the port emerged to a new reality - there were to be changes ahead.

1939	Britain and France declare war on Germany. Three days later, the first air-raid falls on Britain Start of evacuation of women and children from London
1940	The first successful helicopter flight The first damage of the war is caused by a daylight raid Imperial Airways becomes part of the British Overseas Airways Corporation (BOAC) Germany launches the bombing blitz on Britain Southampton docks are closed to non-essential shipping BOAC move their flying boat operations to Poole (Dorset) for the duration of the war
1941	Britain introduces severe rationing
1942	Southampton Docks are reopened to non-essential shipping Southampton becomes the headquarters of the US Army 14th Major Port
1944	Mulberry harbours are constructed in the town`s docks for use during the D-Day landings in Normandy The first V1 flying bombs hit London
1945	The Second World War ends in Western Europe on May 8 - VE day

Before 1830 | 1830 - 1850 | 1850 - 1880 | 1880 - 1900 | 1900 - 1920 | 1920 - 1939 | 1939 - 1945 | 1945 - 1960 | After 1960

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