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Nazi Invasion of Poland
Germany invades Poland, marking the beginning of the war in Europe. The attack would eventually lead to the dividing and annexing of all of Poland. -
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World War II
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Battle of the Atlantic
The longest campaign of World War II, lasting from September 3, 1939 to May 8, 1945. A series of naval battles eventually led to an Allied victory. This victory meant that goods could still be transported and the supplies needed for D - Day would continue to come. -
German - Soviet Agreement
An agreement settling border and commercial trade disputes between Soviet Russia and Nazi Germany. The agreement did not last long because six months after it was signed Germany invaded the Soviet Union. -
Attack on Pearl Harbor
The American naval base Pearl Harbor was suprise attacked by 353 Japanese fighters. 2,402 American men were killed. This attack led directly to the United States joining the war. -
The Battle of Stalingrad
A major battle fought between Nazi Germany and the Soviet Union. It is one of the bloodiest battles in the history of warfare. This is due, in part, to the disregard for civilian casualties. The battle would result in a Soviet victory. -
D - Day
The largest amphibious invasion in world history. The assault began with the airborne landing of 24,000 men. The attack continued with men arriving on the beaches that stretched about 50 miles. The battle ended in Allied victory. -
The Battle of Leyte Gulf
The United States invaded the island of Leyte. The fight consisted of four naval battles. It also marked the first time Japanese aircraft used organized kamikaze attacks. The image shows planes intentionally crashing into American vessels causing severe damage to the ships hull. -
Battle of Berlin
The Soviet Army marched to Berlin. Two forces attacked from the east and south while a third group invaded from the north. The battle ended in Soviet victory and the dissolution of Nazi Germany. -
German Surrender
The date is known in the west as Victory in Europe Day. This marked the end of World War II in Europe. -
The First Atomic Bomb Dropped on Japan
President Harry S. Truman executed the order to drop the nuclear bomb known as the "Little Boy" on the Japanese city of Hiroshima. The bomb is estimated to have killed between 90,000 - 166,000 people on initial drop. Many more were killed by radiation in the following months.
