The Splendid and the Vile

Lesson 1. Churchill’s first year in power and his eccentric work ethic.

At the outbreak of the darkest period in Britain’s history, Winston Churchill became the Prime Minister, replacing Neville Chamberlain. On his first day as Prime Minister, the Nazis invaded Holland and Belgium, forecasting an imminent war on the continent. Churchill was thrilled to command Britain at this pivotal hour. But he was faced by a mammoth challenge of paving the destiny of British democracy which was on the edge of collapse.

Churchill’s rise to power brought about the renaissance of the British government. On May 13, he gave his first speech before the House of Commons. The newly appointed Prime Minister declared that “I have nothing to offer but blood, toil, tears, and sweat”. He offered an overview of his bold plans for British resistance. He immediately leaped into action. Instead of just fending off the German attack, he wanted Britain to attack the Nazis. He mapped a comprehensive strategy and adhered to it amidst the turmoil.

A notable feature in Churchill's administration was his rare work ethic. Churchill enjoyed his work. He was strong willed and determined to dive into the depth of affairs, exploring the intricacies of governance. He left no stones unturned to reinvigorate the British democracy that was at its lowest. He worked day and night, taking everything in his stride. Churchill would send off these memoranda or minutes to his ministers directly, without any mediator. Churchill’s diligence produced prodigious outputs. Fueled by brandy and cigars, he would work through nights. His eccentric drinking and smoking habits were said to be a catalyst to his productivity. Given the kind of man that Churchill was, the political turmoil of 1940-1941 triggered his nerves. He was always ready on-time. He had a uniform customized for him during the war so that he didn't have to waste time looking at what he was going to wear.

Lesson 2. The Allied defeat and the fear of British Invasion.

France acted as the barrier between the British and the Germans. The powerful invasion of France by the Germans on May 14 sent shockwaves across England. From the beginning of his incumbency, Churchill committed himself to the cause of the nation. His motive was to combat the Nazis until victory was achieved. He knew that the United States would prove to be a key partner in his endeavour. The German forces broke through on May 16. The French headquarters were not attacked. The Nazi troops advanced westwards in the manner of a cavalry raid.

Things didn't go well for