We delved into the Echo archives to find 17 images of Wearside going on with daily life despite the ever-present threat of German bombs.
They cleaned up after air raids, built air raid shelters, learned how to use gas masks, went about their daily lives and smiled through adversity.
Take a look at 17 reminders of Sunderland and County Durham in 1940.
13. Collecting the fares
A bus conductress helps to keep Sunderland moving as she collects fares in 1940. Photo: Sunderland Echo
14. Helping to keep the spirits up
The Duke of Kent raised spirits during a 1942 visit to the North East shipyards. And the public was delighted to welcome him. Photo: Sunderland Echo
15. Carrying on in the face of adversity
Work goes on at an Easington Lane Smithy in 1940. Photo: Sunderland Echo
16. Getting in some practice
Signallers of the Jack Crawford Sea Cadet Corps are pictured at practice near their Sunderland headquarters in 1939. Photo: SE