Home
Membership
Why did Hitler believe D-Day was a trick?

Why did Hitler believe D-Day was a trick?

Explore the key events of D-Day, with historian and broadcaster Taylor Downing – from Eisenhower’s risky decision to Hitler’s delayed reaction…

Published: June 5, 2026 at 10:25 AM

Save

D-Day, 6 June 1944 saw the launch of the Allied invasion of Nazi-occupied Europe. Delayed by stormy weather, the high-stakes decision by General Eisenhower to go ahead in a fleeting 36-hour weather window marked one of WW2's most important turning points. His now-famous words – "Let's go" – set in motion the largest amphibious invasion in history.

Join historian and broadcaster Taylor Downing as he explains the landings across the five Normandy beaches: Utah, Omaha, Gold, Juno, and Sword.

Find out how, from the German perspective, poor weather forecasts, disrupted communications, and Hitler's late awakening caused paralysis and confusion. By the time reinforcements were mobilised, the Allies had already secured strong positions.

Discover rare insights into Allied heroism, German mistakes, and the true cost of the longest day, in Downing’s expert analysis for this D-Day HistoryExtra Academy series.