-
Germany invades Poland
This invasion marked the official start of WWII. -
Britain and France declare war on Germany
The violation of The Treaty of Versailles, led both countries to defend Poland after the invasion. -
Italy declares war on France and Britain
Benito Mussolini, in control of Italy at the time, saw an opportunity to gain more territory by joining Germany in the Axis Powers and therefore declared war. -
President Roosevelt signs the Lend-Lease Act
The Lend-Lease Act was an act that provided military and economic aid to the Allied Powers. -
Pearl Harbor Attack
Japan attacks the U.S. naval base at Pearl Harbor, Hawaii resulting in the death of 2,403 Americans. 68 civilians were killed and 1,178 others were wounded. -
U.S. declares war on Japan. Germany and Italy declare war on the U.S.
The attack at Pearl Harbor influenced the United States to join in the fight against the Allied Powers. President Roosevelt Declares War -
D-Day
The Allied Forces launch the invasion of Normandy, France. Although it was a costly operation, it was a turning point in the war because it opened a second front in Europe and put lots on pressure on the German military. D-Day Normandy Landings -
Germany surrenders
Following Adolf Hitler's death, the German troops surrendered unconditionally. This ended the war in Europe. -
Hiroshima Bombing
The United States dropped an atomic bomb on the Japanese cities Hiroshima and later Nagasaki. The bombing had a significant impact, instantly killing an estimate of 70,000 people and leaving the city in ruins. -
Japan surrenders
The formal surrender of Japan marked the end of World War II.