Chronology of World War II
French counterattack cut short 
Sunday, May 19, 1940 www.onwar.com

French armor roles forward under attackOn the Western Front... Most of the German panzer forces halt in positions between Peronne and St. Quentin to regroup but some of Guderian's troops are still pushing forward. Rommel's 7th Panzer Division also makes a small advance in the direction of Arras. De Gaulle's 4th Armored Division again attacks north from around Laon. It makes very good progress against gradually stiffening resistance but is ordered to retire before any real gains can be achieved. The possibility that it will be necessary to evacuate the BEF is raised for the first time in telephone conversations between London and the commanders in the field. The government are still optimistic at this stage. The main British forces are now in positions along the Scheldt.


This chronological study of the Second World War provides a comprehensive day-by-day account of WWII. While focused on the military history of the war, with an emphasis on the battles and campaigns fought, the timeline includes social and political history as well. Some Holocaust related events are already recorded and additional updates are pending. In so far as possible, the images included in this presentation are pictures from the given days. Additional information and images are welcome through the feedback form found on the index.