August 29th, 1939 (TUESDAY)
UNITED KINGDOM:
In the commons Chamberlain makes a firm uncompromising speech.
'The catastrophe is not yet upon us, but I cannot say that the danger of it has in any way
receded.' He warns the press to exercise restraint, and apologises for not being able to
give more than an outline of his communications with Hitler. Chamberlain goes on to
describe the national mood as one of calm, united confidence with preparations already in
hand; air defence in a state of instant readiness, key points protected, the fleet ready
to take up war positions, the merchant fleet under Admiralty control and Civil Defence
regional organisation on a war footing. Evacuation plans for schoolchildren, mothers with
young children, expectant mothers and the blind were prepared and had been
practiced.
Hospitals were ready to receive casualties.
UNITED KINGDOM: NORTHERN IRELAND: Recruiting opens in Belfast for the
200th General Purpose National Defence Company, the first of several home service units
destined to be incorporated during the first years of war within the three Ulster infantry
regiments.
GERMANY:
Ambassador Attolico suggests to Ribbentrop that a peace conference should be held.
Ribbentrop rejects the idea. Hitler grudgingly accepts direct negotiations with Poland,
but demand that a Polish plenipotentiary must arrive in Berlin by the end of the following
day.
German troops enter Slovakia on Poland's southern frontier.
POLAND:
Ambassadors Kennard and Nokl persuade Colonel Beck to postpone any further mobilisation.