In Chapter IV of Frank Capra’s Why We Fight series, “The Battle of Britain,” the focus shifts to Hitler’s campaign against the British Isles following his conquest of Western Europe. With control firmly established over parts of France and Norway closest to Britain, the Nazis launch a massive air assault. The Royal Air Force (RAF), though outnumbered six to one, defends British skies with remarkable determination for nearly four months.

Capra emphasizes British successes with dramatic flair, claiming, for instance, that the RAF engaged in 200 dogfights within the first 30 minutes of the battle and destroyed 900 German planes by the end of the first month. In reality, the number was closer to 260. Despite such embellishments, the film highlights the resilience and strategic effectiveness of British defenses, which ultimately forced Germany to shift tactics. Abandoning daytime raids, the Luftwaffe resorted to terrifying nighttime bombings that brought destruction to London and other cities.

The film credits British resolve with turning the tide, asserting that German losses exceeded 2,700 aircraft—though historical estimates place the figure closer to 1,600. The RAF’s losses were approximately half that of the Luftwaffe, reflecting both the high stakes and the skill of the British pilots. This chapter captures the spirit of defiance that defined the Battle of Britain, presenting it as a key turning point in the war and a testament to the strength of Allied determination.