Hitler's last great offensive in the Ardennes failed. With British and American armies poised to cross the Rhine in the west, and Soviet forces advancing towards the River Oder in the east, there was only one offer on the table for Germany - unconditional surrender. The Allies would not negotiate with a country that had plunged Europe into war twice in 30 years. A new world order would have to emerge, one based on democracy and freedom. But for Goebbels unconditional surrender was a propaganda gift - evidence that the last battle must be fought for the survival of the German 'folk'. And the Allies seemed to be prepared to go to any lengths to secure their victory.