The Phoney War

The period from September 1939 to April 1940 became known as the 'Phoney War' because little military activity appeared to take place in Western Europe. With the exception of the Polish Campaign, the opposing powers were largely concerned with continuing their military preparations for future engagement. In Britain, the expected air attacks had not materialised but wartime regulations such as the blackout were maintained, adding to the sense of uncertainty. This is apparent in Eric's diary entries from this period in which he continues his museum work as normal but also records how wartime developments are impacting on daily life.