This is a dramatically told history of the German defeat of the allies in 1940. This authoritative examination of the crushing German victory over the Western allies in May and June 1940 in the early days of World War II raises and answers important and intriguing questions, such as: Did Hitler allow the British to escape at Dunkirk? Why was France defeated in only six weeks? Why was Hitler's victory in the west destined to be his last? This is the first book to cover the campaign as a whole, examining the issues from all sides - French, British, German, and other involved nations. Based on extensive archival research and incorporating materials not available to previous historians of the campaign, it focuses on those who fought the conflict - from politicians and generals to foot soldiers, sailors, and airmen - and the dramatic events they shaped and witnessed. Ronald E. Powaski (Cleveland, OH) is Professor of History at Cleveland State University. He has written six books, including "Return to Armageddon: The United States and the Nuclear Arms Race, 1939-1987".