Manchester, like many other British cities, celebrated the victory over Nazi Germany with incredible relief and joy. The end of World War II in Europe, known as VE Day, was announced on May 8, 1945, following the unconditional surrender of Nazi Germany. Manchester celebrated that day with various events. Learn more at manchesteryes.com.
The end of the Second World War
The end of the Second World War was a turning point in history. The Allies got a decisive victory over the Axis Powers, culminating in the undisputed surrender of Nazi Germany on May 8, 1945. This date is also known throughout the world as VE Day.
People around the world were filled with emotions. On the one hand, they were happy about the long-awaited end of the conflict, and on the other hand, they were mourning for the fallen soldiers. The end of World War II also marked the beginning of a new era of geopolitical tension. Although the defeat of Nazi Germany was the most important achievement of the time, it also marked the beginning of a new global and protracted conflict, the Cold War between the USA and the USSR.
The end of the Second World War was a complex and multifaceted event that felt like both triumph and tragedy, hope and uncertainty. It changed the world order and left an unforgettable mark on the lives of future generations. How did Manchester meet the news of victory over Nazi Germany?
The streets of Manchester filled with joy
The city of Manchester suffered a lot in the Second World War. In particular, many streets, important historical buildings and industrial facilities were destroyed during the German bombing in 1940. Raids on the city didn’t stop until the end of the military conflict. In addition, hundreds of innocent residents died as a result of the city shelling. Therefore, the news about the victory over Nazi Germany was a real joy for the residents of Manchester. It meant that they would finally be able to rebuild the city, launch factories and plants again and return to their normal, quiet and peaceful lives.
On May 8, 1945, the streets of Manchester got crowded with people. It seemed that the whole city had gathered to celebrate this important event.
The city also held a parade with the horse-drawn carriage running from Alberta Square to Platt Fields. The horses were incredibly majestic. They were decorated with bright feathers, which symbolised strength, resilience and unity, the main qualities that characterised Manchester and its inhabitants during those difficult wartimes.
Huge crowds of people lined the streets of the city. Almost everyone held a flag in their hands. This celebration marked not only the end of the war but also the announcement of the long-awaited freedom. VE Day united all Manchester residents like never before.
Various parades and processions of marching orchestras, military units, veterans and civilians took place on the streets of Manchester. In addition, city parks and squares were crowded with people. They came there to celebrate the significant day. Manchester residents simply sang, danced and rejoiced at the end of the protracted conflict in the parks.
Church service
An equally important event on May 8, 1945, was the church service. It was held in the main cathedral and other churches throughout the city.
In particular, the city churches organised special thanksgiving and memorial services to celebrate VE Day. It allowed the people of Manchester to honour the memory of all the victims who gave their lives for peace during the Second World War. A prayer for peace and reconciliation was read during the services.
Afterward, the residents of Manchester went to the city parade.
Yard parties
People were so glad of the long-awaited victory that they continued to celebrate it in their own yards. They decorated the streets with flags and portraits of British Prime Minister Winston Churchill. One of the streets, Rosamund Street, is shown in the photo.
Manchester residents also placed long tables outside and had lunch right in the middle of the street or park. The streets were filled with people of all ages, both young and old. Absolutely everyone rejoiced at the long-awaited end of the Second World War. The photo shows Manchester residents in Heaton Park. It also conveys the prevailing spirit and mood of that day.
Winston Churchill’s address
Perhaps, the highlight of the day was when the entire city stood still while listening to a celebratory address by the British Prime Minister.
It began at 3:00 p.m. on May 8, 1945. Prime Minister Winston Churchill’s radio address was broadcast over a loudspeaker at Albert Square, where all of Manchester had gathered. Then Churchill addressed the entire nation and acknowledged that this day was a good reason for rejoicing and that people should be ready to rebuild the cities.
After Churchill’s speech, the Lord Mayor and Alderman W. P. Jackson spoke at the main square of Manchester too. They also hoisted the flags of all the allied countries. It became a symbol of unity and collective victory over the enemy, the Nazis.
