A master historian explores the pivotal battle in the skies of England and its lasting significance. June 1940: With France conquered and British forces depleted, Hitler's plan was to establish German control of the skies over southern England, thereby forcing Britain to the peace table or preparing the way for Operation Sealion, the invasion of England. Waged through the summer and fall of 1940, the Battle of Britain was a deadly war of attrition fought at 30,000 feet. It culminated in the Blitz, the day and night bombing of British cities, especially London, when the enduring morale of the populace and the effective response of Fighter Command convinced the German leadership that there would be no knockout blow. In his brilliant, concise account, Richard Overy shrewdly analyzes every element of the battle on both sides, from the men and machines who fought and the tactics they employed to the leaders and their strategies. With great insight he clarifies the significance of this pivotal moment for Britain and the world.