LEZING MOBILISATIE

In the summer of 1939, war in Europe seems inevitable. The neutral Netherlands is also mobilizing its army to protect borders. All leave is withdrawn, strategic locations are secured and vehicles, supplies and buildings are requisitioned.

The army grew rapidly to a strength of almost 300,000 men when all conscripts from the batches 1924 to 1938 were called up. Employees, entrepreneurs, fathers, brothers and sons suddenly become soldiers.

The port city of Rotterdam is turning into a military logistics center. Ultimately, the city houses more than 7,000 soldiers. Soldiers can be seen everywhere, the Maas city has become a garrison city. This is how the entire society changes in just a few days.

Former soldier and military historian Wouter Hagemeijer from Battle for the Maas Bridges talks during a lecture about the mobilization period before the Second World War during which the army was prepared for the impending war.

Register via reservation@museumrotterdam.nl .

activity duration: 2 hours