Ep 17. Nazi Mega Weapons: Atlantic Wall
- July 17, 2013
In season 3, episode 17 of PBS Specials, viewers are taken on a historical journey exploring the construction of the Nazi's Atlantic Wall, one of the most ambitious military fortifications in history.
The episode dives into the intense planning and construction of the Atlantic Wall, which spanned over 1,500 miles of Europe's coastline, from Norway to France. It was designed to repel an Allied invasion, and was a massive undertaking, requiring millions of tons of concrete, steel, and labor to build.
The Atlantic Wall was more than just a wall, it was a complex web of fortresses, tunnels, bunkers, and obstacles that the Nazis believed would protect them from invasion. Through expert interviews, archival footage, and on-site visits, viewers are given a firsthand look at the Wall's construction, and the staggering level of detail and planning that went into it.
The episode also explores the impact of the Atlantic Wall on both sides of the conflict. For the Nazis, it was a point of pride and symbol of their military might. For the Allies, it represented a formidable obstacle to overcome in their quest to liberate Europe from Nazi control. The episode takes a comprehensive look at how the Allies planned and executed their invasion, and how they ultimately overcame the Wall's defenses.
In addition to the military tactics and technology used to construct and defeat the Wall, the episode also delves into the human toll of this massive undertaking. Forced labor was used extensively in the Wall's construction, and the episode explores the stories of those who were pressed into service and forced to work in horrific conditions. The episode also examines the lives of those who lived in the shadow of the Wall, documenting the daily hardships and dangers they faced.
Overall, the Atlantic Wall was one of the most significant military fortifications in history, and this episode of PBS Specials provides a detailed and nuanced look at its construction, its impact on the war, and the human stories behind it all. Viewers are sure to leave with a newfound appreciation for the complexities and challenges of this incredible undertaking.
