World War II

Hitler Named Chancellor of Germany

Jan 30, 1933

Following several backroom negotiations which included industrialists, Hindenburg's son, the former chancellor Franz von Papen, and Hitler. Hindenburg retired, and on 30 January 1933, he formally appointed Adolf Hitler as Germany's new chancellor.

Germany Invades Poland

Aug 25, 1939

Germany invades Poland, initiating World War II in Europe. German forces broke through Polish defenses along the border and quickly advanced on Warsaw, the Polish capital.

France and England Declare War on Germany

Sep 3, 1939

The United Kingdom declared war on Germany on Sunday 3 September 1939, two days after Germany invaded Poland. France also declared war on Germany later the same day.

Pearl Harbor Attack

Dec 7, 1941

The Japanese military launched a surprise attack on the United States Naval Base at Pearl Harbor, Hawaii.