World War II Timeline

  • German Invasion of Poland

    German Invasion of Poland
    Germany went against the agreements it had established with other European nations by invading Poland with tanks, artillery, and air power. This invasion was part of the Nazi goal to unify all German speaking people under German rule and marked the start of World War II as it triggered Great Britain and France to declare war on Germany.
  • Blitzkrieg

    Blitzkrieg
    Germany's "lightning war" strategy, which combined rapid air and ground attacks, led to the invasion of Belgium, the Netherlands, and France. This strategy was effective due to its speed and surprise and marked a significant shift in military tactics.
  • The Battle of Britain

    The Battle of Britain
    The Royal Air Force successfully defended the United Kingdom against the German Air Force's relentless attacks, preventing a German Invasion and marking the first major defeat for Nazi Germany. This battle boosted British morale and demonstrated that Hitler's military forces could be stopped, shifting the course of the war.