World War II begins
1939 — Hitler demands that Gda_sk (Danzig) be united with Germany, but Poland refuses to give up the city. Germany annexes the Memel Territory and without warning invades Poland, bringing about the start of World War II between the Allies and the Axis powers. German Blitzkrieg (lightning war), using surprise air and tank attacks, crushes Polish defenses. Britain and France declare war on Germany and set up a blockade.

Also that year:

• Victor Fleming directs the film Gone With the Wind, starring Vivien Leigh, Clark Gable, Leslie Howard, Olivia de Havilland and Hattie McDaniel, who becomes the first African-American to win a major Academy Award.
• Chamberlain appoints Sir Winston Churchill First Lord of the Admiralty.
• Color television is demonstrated.
• Nylon stockings are sold for the first time.