Our Finest Hour: Canada Fights the Second World War

by David J. Bercuson

First published in 1995 as Maple Leaf Against the Axis, Our Finest Hour has been completely revised and updated, with new chapters that reflect the latest research about Canada's home front in the war and the formulation and execution of Canadian war strategy at the highest levels. Although Canada was not ready for war in 1939, the people of Canada and their armed forces eventually overcame major challenges―from the building of tanks, planes, ships and trucks and the production of huge amounts of grain, meat and vegetables to the creation of the only full Canadian field army in history and a navy and air force crucial to Allied victory. From Hong Kong to the Rhine River Crossing, Our Finest Hour delves incisively into the pivotal battles of the Second World War and the roles of the Canadian army, navy and air force. Bestselling author David Bercuson probes the war on the ground, on the seas and in the air―from the bomber offensive over Germany to the Typhoon fighter squadrons with the Second Tactical Air Force in Europe. With an unfliching eye, he provides insight into the successes and failures, triumphs and shortcomings of the Canadian military. Our Finest Hour is at once a masterpiece of historical narrative and a celebration of a growing country's contribution during the Second World War.

Genres: History, Nonfiction, Canada, World War II, War

528 pages, Hardcover

First published October 20, 2015

Reviews

[Steven Nowak · Rating 5 out of 5]

As a proud Canadian I found this book very emotional. I love that the writer doesnt just give us facts and numbers but also adds in a personal touch. Many historical books are too cold and just pump out fact after fact, but here the writer tells us about his family and talks a lot about how Canadians were feeling during WW2 . My family is from Poland so I greatly related to the starting of the book where Bercuson talks about his European relatives. I got more out of this book than I have out of any other WW2 book. It really made me proud to be Canadian and to appreciate just how much we sacrificed during the war.

[Don Annand · Rating 2 out of 5]

Although factual and a good overview of the role and issues related to Canada’s armed forces during WW II, I would have liked to see more personal stories and opinions from the individual’s involved.

[Robert · Rating 3 out of 5]

All over the place

[ainsley · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.00.

Read for HIST.

[Tim Armstrong · Rating 3 out of 5]

Really good account of Canada's contribution to World War II. The author can be quite critical at times, so much so that at times it was a bit off putting but I came in wanting to learn more about Canada's role in the war and I feel like I've satisfied that goal.