As part of our WW2 topic work, we have been listening to the speeches given by Chamberlain and by King George VI on 3rd September 1939. You can hear these by clicking on the photographs of Chamberlain and of King George VI. We imagined what it would have been like to hear those speeches over the wireless. We wrote our own short speeches thinking about the importance of giving some information and reassuring the population about the war.
Here are some examples of our writing:
“I am talking to you to tell you that war has been declared between Britain and Germany. Due to the failure of Hitler to get his troops out of Poland, we declared war on 3rd September 1939. I understand that this is hard for you all, but England will fight and stand proud. We will win and the war will soon be in the past.” (P.R.)
“I am sorry to have to say this but despite our best efforts, Hitler has declined our peace. So I am sorry to say that this but I will, that the British people are officially at war with Germany.
We are at war with Germany because Hitler is not moving out of Poland. Please can you stay inside at all times. While you prepare, just stay calm and stay strong. Hitler will not beat us. We won the past war.
I want people to stay calm and not go outside until we are fully prepared. Stay in your air raid shelter.” (J.L.)
“People of Britain, I am sorry to inform you we are once again at war with Germany. Despite our best efforts, Hitler will not bring his troops out of Poland. I understand that this may frighten some people but there is nothing more we can do. I want the people of Britain to stay calm and prepare for another war. To get the war over quickly we need to follow instructions. Also we need strong troops. America have already agreed to help us in the war; twice the people, twice the power.” (D.B.)
“Despite our best efforts, Hitler has refused to sign a peace paper. I am now sorry to tell you that we are at war with the Germans. I know some of will have gone through this already in the previous war. Me and the King have discussed and are very worried that another big war will start. As prime minister of Great Britain, I will ask you all to stay calm and don’t worry. Just be aware of anything suspicious. Listen carefully to any radio announcement, as it will be extremely important.” (M.C.)