National Geographic Documentaries Season 2012 Episode 29 Hitler's Secret Attack on America

Hitler's Secret Attack on America is the gripping 29th episode of National Geographic Documentaries season 2012. This powerful documentary offers viewers a startling look into one of the most little-known stories of World War II; the Nazi's schemes to attack America's East Coast. The episode, which is expertly narrated and well-researched, takes us back to a time when Hitler nearly succeeded in bringing his war machine to the shores of the United States.

The episode starts by shedding light on the events that led to Hitler's brazen plan. We learn how the Nazi war machine had by 1942 conquered much of Europe and was starting to turn its attention towards North America. To counter this potential threat, the US Government embarked on a massive defense build-up that included the establishment of military bases along the East Coast.

However, Hitler's plan to launch an attack on America was not deterred; in fact, it was only emboldened by this build-up. We see how the plan was clandestinely orchestrated through a network of spies and sympathizers in the US. The Nazis relied on the spy ring operated by the German military intelligence (Abwehr) in the US, which was led by a man called Duquesne – a fascinating character whose story is expertly told in this documentary.

As the plot was hatched, Hitler began to build a fleet of submarines with the specific purpose of launching a series of attacks on vital American ports. The episode provides a vivid description of how this submarine offensive was carried out and the repercussions it would have had if it had gone beyond its testing phase.

The documentary also provides us with fascinating insight into the events surrounding the discovery and eventual foiling of Hitler's plans. We learn how the US intelligence services relentlessly pursued the investigators, and how they were ultimately able to unravel the web of spies and saboteurs that were recruited by the Nazis.

Throughout the episode, we see compelling archival footage that places the viewer right in the middle of the story. We watch heart-stopping clips of Nazi submarines surfacing in American waters, menacing clips of spies evading the authorities, and awe-inspiring footage of the US military build-up.

One of the most interesting elements of this documentary is the way it entwines personal stories with the political context of the time. By examining the individuals involved in the spy ring, the documentary draws attention to the complex motivations that drove these characters to participate in such a dangerous plot. We see the intense loyalty and patriotism that drove the Americans who helped the Nazis, as well as the desperation and fear that drove the German saboteurs in the US.

In sum, Hitler's Secret Attack on America is a fascinating and compelling documentary that shines a light on an under-examined aspect of the war. It leaves viewers with a new appreciation for the courage and skill of the US intelligence services, as well as the very real threat that Hitler's regime posed to American security. This documentary is a must-watch for anyone interested in the history of World War II and the intriguing stories that surround it.