Gibraltar's strategic importance remained clear in the Second World War. Hitler tried repeatedly to secure Spanish permission to move German troops through Spain for an attack on the fortress. Franco refused despite German pressure and inducements. Wilhelm Canaris's advice to Franco is identified as an important influence, although this brief discussion does not reconstruct the full diplomatic episode.
Notable Point · 28:26-28:48
Why Hitler could not attack Gibraltar through Spain
A Second World War comparison links Gibraltar's value to Hitler's failed efforts to obtain Franco's permission for a German attack through Spain.