The flames of war engulfed entire cities. Throughout 1940 and 1941, Nazi bombs rained down relentlessly on London during the dark nights. Over 40,000 civilians perished as the city was reduced to ashes—yet its spirit remained unbroken. These bombings sought not only to destroy homes, workplaces, and factories, but to crush the resolve of the British people.

Across the distant ocean, Chongqing faced an even harsher ordeal. Between 1938 and 1943, Japanese forces launched more than 200 air raids on the wartime capital. With 11,500 bombs raining down, hospitals, schools, and entire neighborhoods were consumed by flames. Around 32,000 people were killed or injured, and 17,000 buildings were obliterated. This mountainous city was left scarred by relentless shelling. 

London held its ground, and Chongqing never yielded. Two cities, separated by vast distances, were bound by the same crucible of war. The bombings brought endless devastation, yet from the ruins rose an unquenchable resilience and hope.