BBC History of World War II

War Of The Century: When Hitler Fought Stalin - High Hopes (1x14)

Air date: Oct 05, 1999

Details Hitler's invasion of Russia and also Stalin's initial dismissal of agents reports that Hitler was planning to invade and also gives evidence confirming Stalin's attempts to seek a negotiated peace with the Germans when they did invade. Considers the morale and state of the Red Army, often low and ill-equipped or led, and the blitzkrieg tactics used by the Germans - with first hand accounts from ex-SS and Red Army men. Uses eye- witness accounts and new film footage and information available since the opening up of East European archives and society in former Communist countries.