The first part of our study brought us to London with its myriad museums, memorials, and other historical sites to study Britain’s history as it relates to World War II. But more than just their history, we also had the unique opportunity to understand the war from their perspective and how it is taught to the public today. One fascinating example came to mind while I was touring the Imperial War Museum exhibit about the defeat of France. I characterized Britain’s predicament as one of solitude and loneliness as they fought against the German army alone. But the British people were never alone. The museum showcased Indian, African, Canadian, and other colonial militaries that illustrate the Empire’s reach and diversity. The museum also showcased different recruitment posters from around the empire, which attempted to convey a sense of responsibility and duty towards the Commonwealth. Other views of the people, such as their “business as usual” attitude, came through as well. Part of an exhibit showcased quotes from civilians who lived through the Blitz, and it conveyed well their ability to keep moving under the pressures of war, although the disparaging quotes and some of the people’s unease towards the war was informative too and provided a counterargument to my views, a vocal human one no less.
Another enlightening aspect of the British museums, and almost an antithesis to American storytelling, was the focus on the populace and their struggle as an entire nation. The British portrayal throughout all of the historical sites was one of unity as every citizen played their part in the war. There was, of course, the military personnel who played their vital roles, but monuments like the Bomber Command memorial showcase the airmen’s sacrifice as a duty towards the country, not as a military conquest of an enemy. In the same vein, Bletchley Park’s 9,500 inhabitants worked around the clock crammed into huts to decode thousands of messages a day for the war effort. The Cabinet War Rooms also showcased this solidarity. Staff would evacuate underground in the war room to continue guiding the country and the war effort in the same devoted fashion as those in Bletchley Park. The “Peoples War” in Britain was alive and well in every facet of society, and the historical sites in London give me an unparalleled window into the hearts and minds of the British people as they look back on their country’s history.