Neville Chamberlain's "Peace For Our Time" Speech

Background

• Date: September 30, 1938
• Context: After the Munich Conference, where leaders, including Chamberlain, negotiated with Adolf Hitler regarding the Sudetenland crisis.
• Significance: Chamberlain's speech symbolized his belief in having secured peace in Europe.

Key Points of the Speech

Statement from Munich

• Participants:
  • Neville Chamberlain, British Prime Minister
  • Adolf Hitler, German Führer and Chancellor
• Main Agreement:
  • Emphasis on the importance of Anglo-German relations for their countries and Europe.
  • Agreement seen as symbolic to prevent future war between Britain and Germany.
  • Adoption of consultation as a method for resolving future issues.
  • Commitment to removing sources of conflict to ensure European peace.
• Other Agreements:
  • Reference to the Anglo-German Naval Agreement.

Chamberlain's Public Address

• Location: 10 Downing Street
• Key Statements:
  • Described the agreement as bringing "peace with honour."
  • Expressed belief that this was "peace for our time."
  • Urged the public to "go home and get a nice quiet sleep," reflecting his confidence in the resolution.

Historical Impact

• Immediate: Provided a temporary sense of relief and hope for peace.
• Long-term: Often criticized as an example of appeasement, leading up to World War II.

References

• Creator of Document Summary: Richard Hacken, European Studies Librarian, Harold B. Lee Library, Brigham Young University.
• Contact: Hacken @ byu.edu

Further Reading and Source Document_