The German occupation of the Channel Islands lasted for most of the Second World War, from the 30th of June 1940 until their liberation on the 9thof May 1945. The Channel Islands were the only part of the British Isles to be occupied by the German armed forces during the war.
The German Occupation of Jersey began one week after the British government had demilitarized the island fearing for the safety of civilians should there be any conflict. On the 28thof June, The German air force, not knowing of the demilitarization, bomb and machine gun multiple sites on the island. The Channel Islands served no purpose to the Germans other than the propaganda value of having occupied British territory.
During that time, the Channel Islanders had to live under and obey the laws of Nazi Germany and work with their occupiers in order to survive and reduce the impact of occupation. Since they were not given guidance on how to behave by the British government, there were individuals who got close to the enemy and a few who undertook resistance activities. Most had no choice but to accept the changes and the depredations to their lives.
On arrival in the islands, the Germans imposed new laws on the resident islanders. As time went on, more laws restricting rights were posted and had to be obeyed. Some restrictions include: fishing, exporting goods and freedom of speech.
Many lost their jobs when businesses closed down and it was difficult to find work with non German employers. As the war progressed, life became harsher, especially when radios were confiscated and then when deportations took place in September 1942. Food, fuel and medicines became scarce and crime increased. The hardest times for the civilians was the winter of 1944-45 since it was very cold and many were suffering from hunger. However, most of the population was saved from starvation by the arrival of Red Cross parcels.
The Channel Islands were liberated after the German surrender. On the 8thof May at 10:00 the islanders were informed by the German authorities that the war was over. Churchill made a radio broadcast and announced that “our dear Channel Islands are also to be freed today”.