Today in World War II History—Oct. 24, 1940 & 1945

Philippe Pétain and Adolf Hitler at Montoire, 24 October 1940 (German Federal Archive, Bild 183-H25217)
80 Years Ago—Oct. 24, 1940: Hitler meets with Marshal Philippe Pétain, Head of the French State, in Montoire, and Pétain agrees to Vichy French collaboration with Germany.
RAF night raids on Berlin and Hamburg inflict serious civilian casualties for the first time.
British Summer Time is extended year-round.

Poster commemorating the United Nations Charter
75 Years Ago—Oct. 24, 1945: United Nations officially comes into existence.
Norwegian Nazi collaborator Vidkun Quisling is executed.