Hidden Histories of WWII — Season 1, Episode 1: Tiger vs Sherman: Tank Action at Rauray
60 min • 1 season, 4 episodes
Episode synopsis
Rauray, Normandy, 1944: the commander of the British Sherwood Rangers Yeomanry, John Semken, was turning his Sherman tank into Rue Mathieu, just as a German Tiger tank turned the corner at the far end. Only 110 metres separated them. Incredibly, the monstrous Tiger was knocked out by John Semken’s Sherman. James Holland and his expert companion, Stephen Prince, reveal why this was not just an extraordinary encounter between competing armour, but provided clues as to why the Allies were winning. In comparing Tigers vs Shermans, we are vastly restricting our ability to analyse the events that took place – and their wider meaning. The pair also seek local insight from historian and battlefield guide, Paul Woodadge.
About Hidden Histories of WWII
Renowned historian and acclaimed broadcaster, James Holland, takes a deep dive into key events from the Second World War, bringing incredible stories to life for a new generation, and offering new research and analysis to enhance our understanding of the most consequential war of the 20th Century. In each episode, Holland teams up with an expert companion to explore iconic battlegrounds and machinery, reawakening history's echoes. Witness Jean Moulin's collapse in Lyon's shadows; feel the ground shake in Rauray's epic tank clash; trace the gruelling road to Rome via Monte Cassino's monumental battle; and chase the legendary P-51 Mustang, paired with an astounding 30-1 combat saga. On location, we gain insight into the unfolding of each narrative as Holland analyses each event alongside his partner, illustrated with archive and documents.