Fleet of German Commercial Barges; Second World War, c. 1940
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Fleet of German Commercial Barges; Second World War, c. 1940
Photograph showing a fleet of German commercial river barges anchored in the Ruhr area, c.1940. These barges were usually used for the transport of goods along Germanys rivers and canals, but in 1940 these were the sort of boat that might have been adapted for Operation Sealion - the German invasion of Great Britain
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Media ID 4392477
© Mary Evans Picture Library 2015 - https://copyrighthub.org/s0/hub1/creation/maryevans/MaryEvansPictureID/10220060
Adapted Anchored Area Barges C1940 Canals Commercial Germanys Goods Invasion Operation Rivers Ruhr Sort Fleet
EDITORS COMMENTS
This photograph captures a fleet of German commercial river barges anchored in the Ruhr area during the Second World War, circa 1940. These sturdy vessels were typically used for transporting goods along Germany's extensive network of rivers and canals. However, in this particular moment in history, these barges took on a new significance as potential instruments of war.
In 1940, amidst the chaos and uncertainty of wartime Europe, these very boats could have been adapted for Operation Sealion - the ambitious German invasion plan aimed at conquering Great Britain. The sight of these imposing vessels lined up along the river serves as a stark reminder of the strategic importance placed on maritime transport during times of conflict.
The historical significance of this image is palpable; it offers a glimpse into a pivotal moment when ordinary commercial barges were repurposed for extraordinary purposes. As we reflect on this snapshot from December 1940, we are reminded not only of the ingenuity and adaptability displayed by those involved in military operations but also of the immense impact that such events had on shaping the course of world history.
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