This conversation explores the experiences of the Channel Islands during the German occupation in World War II, focusing on the third anniversary of the occupation, the struggles faced by the local population, health crises, rumours of deportations, social policies, and acts of resistance. Through diary entries and reflections, the speakers discuss the profound impact of the occupation on daily life, health, and social structures, emphasising the importance of remembering and documenting these experiences. The third anniversary of German occupation was marked by reflections on hardship and hope for liberation.Diaries reveal the struggles of daily life under occupation, including food shortages and loss of privacy.Health issues, particularly tuberculosis, were exacerbated by rationing and poor living conditions.Rumors of deportations created anxiety among the local population, despite reassurances from German officials.Social policies, such as family allowances, were debated amidst concerns about post-war recovery.Acts of resistance included stockpiling weapons and subtle forms of defiance against German authority.The Germans implemented strict regulations to suppress social gatherings and dissent.The local population faced harsh penalties for minor infractions, reflecting the oppressive atmosphere of occupation.The impact of the occupation on health and social structures was profound and long-lasting.The conversation highlights the importance of remembering and documenting the experiences of those who lived through the occupation.Send us a textFollow us on Twitter here or Facebook here.If you want to email in a question send it to
[email protected]. You can find out more about the occupation on Nick’s website Island Fortress here. Thanks to Gnet Radio for recording the podcast and thanks to Jim Delbridge for the use of his song ‘5 to 7’ as our theme.
Ireland