This book is the first major study of the blackout in the Second World War. Developing a
comparative history of this system of civil defense in Britain and Germany it begins by
exploring how the blackout was planned for in both countries and how the threat of aerial
bombing framed its development. It then examines how well the blackout was adhered to paying
particular regard to the tension between its military value and the difficulties it caused
civilians. The book then moves on to discuss how the blackout undermined the perception of
security on the home front especially for women. The final chapter examines the impact of the
blackout on industry and transport. Arguing that the blackout formed an integral part in
mobilising and legitimating British and German wartime discourses of community fairness and
morality the book explores its profound impact on both countries.
