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Ribbentrop/ Molotov Pact
The German-Soviet Nonaggression Pact was an agreement proposed by German in 1931, that stated that neither country should take military action against the other for 10 years. Germany wanted to ensure they would not fight a war with Russia and Britain and France at the same time. This allowed Germany to invade Poland, knowing they would not have to fight Russia. -
Attack on Pearl Harbor
Japan sent hundreds of fighter planes over Pearl Harbor. They dropped bombs and shot bullets. The attack destroyed about 20 ships and 300 airplanes; it killed about 2400 soldiers. The Japanese wanted to convince the US to lift sanctions, but instead caused them to declare war. -
The Wannsee Conference
Nazi officials met to answer the Jewish question. They wanted to develop the final solution. This led to the implementation of the final solution, the mass extermination of Jews in Europe. -
D-Day
About 156,000 American, British, and Canadian soldiers stormed the beaches at Normandy, France. The objective was to liberate western Europe from Nazi German control. They were successful. -
Liberation of Concentration Camps
Allied troops began freeing those trapped in concentration camps, in order to try to save them. About half died within a few days of being released. Some of those released were able to return to their lives. -
Battle of the Bulge
Hitler was attempting to split the Allied armies by thrusting through the Ardennes. Hitler was unsuccessful, but the US lost 100,000 troops in this battle alone. -
Battle of Iwo Jima
US marines attacked the island in order to control a base near Japan, where planes could land. The US was successful, but 5,900 soldiers died and 17,400 were wounded. -
V-E Day
Victory in Europe day marks the victory of the Allies over Nazi Germany in Europe following Germany's unconditional surrender. -
Dropping of the Atomic Bombs
In order to quickly end the war and prevent American casualties, the US dropped an atomic bomb on Hiroshima, and three days later on Nagasaki. Japan surrendered shortly. This ended WWII, and laid the groundwork for the Cold War. -
VJ Day
Victory over Japan Day was the day that Japan surrendered. It followed shortly after the dropping of atomic bombs on Hiroshima and Nagasaki. This ended WWII.
