Arnhem 1944: Another Look at Operation Market Garden
If you are interested in World War II, there is a book series you should not miss. Christer Bergstrom, a recognized expert on World War II, has written a two-volume series on Operation Market Garden. This article is about the first part: “Arnhem 1944, a historic battle reviewed, Part 1: tanks and paratroopers.”
Who is Christer Bergström?
Born in 1958, Christer Bergström is known as one of the top experts when it comes to World War II. With numerous books to his name, he has already done a lot of research on various events of the war. He has brought new insights on well-known events such as the Ardennes Offensive, the Battle of Britain and the fighting on the Eastern Front. Now he turns his attention to Operation Market Garden.
The Approach
In this first part, you get a picture of the run-up to Operation Market Garden. The Germans were under pressure and the Allies were making good progress. There was a moment, known as “Dolle Tuesday,” when many thought the war would soon be over.
The Events
Between Sept. 17 and 19, 1944, the operation began. The Allies landed in the Netherlands, aiming to capture important bridges. The Germans responded quickly, but also made some mistakes. The book goes deep into the fighting, including around the city of Nijmegen.
Photo credits See page for author, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Strategic Actions
Remarkably, the Americans captured the bridge at Nijmegen twice, but also lost it twice again. Only after a third attempt, during which they had to cross a river, did they succeed in capturing the bridge once and for all.
Why Read This Book?
- New Perspective: This book offers a fresh look at a well-known historical event.
- Detailed Information: You get a clear picture of the operation, from major strategies to individual actions.
- Illustrations: The book includes historical photographs and maps, which helps to get a better idea of the situation at the time.
Conclusion
“Arnhem 1944, a historical battle revisited, Part 1: tanks and paratroopers” is a must-read for anyone interested in World War II. And once you’ve started, you’ll definitely want to read the second part as well, “Part 2: The Lost Victory,” which delves deeper into the end of the battle and subsequent fighting in Overloon. Don’t miss this opportunity to deepen your knowledge of this crucial period in history.
Photo credits cover photo: Corporal Andy Reddy RLC via Wikimedia Commons, commemorating 70 years of Market Garden.
