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Blitzkrieg
Lightning warfare, as it were, was a popular method of battle in WW2. It was characterized as fast, disorienting and overwhelming. While mostly used by Nazi Germany, it was also effective before this particular war, being conceptualized in Prussia. It usually means a swift and assertive invasion for takeover. Focused fire and barrage was also a defining feature.
It being a popular method by Germany would allow them an edge in many conflicts during the war, resulting in victories and motivation. -
Genocide
The term Genocide refers to the complete massacre of an race as a whole or systematically. A famous example of genocide during WWII being most of Hitler's plan and basis for his rule, as well as the holocaust. Another example is the Rape of Nanking, where many Chinese were killed for being Chinese. Genocide stemmed from the growing tensions and conflict present during the war.
Genocide would characterize the war with its grim and horrific nature, it being a prevalent method of destruction. -
Italy Invades Abyssinia
A dictator rose to power in Italy, Benito Mussolini. Determined to reinstitute the glory of the Roman Empire, he set out to conquer. With this invasion, Abyssinia did not come quietly, however, they would eventually succumb to the sheer difference in power. The League of Nations would try to correct this violence, but decided to back away from using force.
The lack of repercussions and the gained land would only encourage the continued conquering of new territory and spur even more tension. -
Rape of Nanking
During the Second-Sino Japanese war, an event took place, one of malice. Known as the Rape of Nanking, this was the pillage of the capital at the time. The troops were ordered to destroy the city, butchering 200,000 male civilians, and violating 20,000 women and girls of any age. This destruction was ordered by Japanese General Matsui Iwane.
This invasion and pillage is important to the war as it would grow great disdain for the Japanese in China, and other countries would sympathize with them. -
Munich Conference/Crisis
The Munich Conference was a deal negotiated in Munich, Germany. This deal was created to appease Germany by providing the Sudetenland. This deal being proposed and signed by the British Prime Minister, Neville Chamberlain. At first, this would keep peace however by the end of 1939, the small piece given to Germany grew into the whole country, and more.
This shapes the war as it is the little push needed to spur tension and conflict in Germany, as Hitler continued to expand, regardless of treaty. -
Invasion of Poland
Started by Germany after agreeing with the Soviets to not quarrel with one another in exchange for the split of Poland. Germany faked a Polish invasion on themselves to give cause. Then they invaded Poland. Poland had been in an safety agreement with France and Britain, these two powers would attempt to back Poland up, but their lack of preparation would allow Poland to be taken.
This is the very starting point of WWII, as France and Britain declared war on Germany in response to the invasion. -
Operation Barbarossa
The operation that would initiate the invasion of Russia "Operation Barbarossa." The sheer firepower and numbers would mark it as one of the strongest invasion powers in history. They and ended up capturing millions of Soviets, who mostly ended up dead. This operation would meet an abrupt end and failure at the Battle of Stalingrad.
This operation led to many won conflicts during the invasion of Russia, But failing at one of the most important battles, shifting the hands in which power was held. -
Pearl Harbor
In response to the United States cutting off Japan's oil supply, Japan decided to retaliate against the US, they wished to gain control of the oil in Indonesia, but they would first need to cripple the US's navy. This plan came in the form of an air raid. The planes attacked and destroyed 18 ships, 347 American aircraft, and 3,471 American military troops.
This event would be prevalent as it would mark America's introduction into the war as they would declare war shortly after, on December 8th. -
Battle of Midway
Japan, seeking to cripple the US navy, set out for another attack. They began attacking Midway island in an attempt to draw the US fleet. However, with critical intelligence gained from breaking Japanese naval codes, the US was able to turn this attack around in their favor, crippling the Japanese air force instead.
This event is crucial as it is a turning point in the war. Being a major victory for the US, it would discourage the Japanese from coming into anymore major conflict with the US. -
Battle of Stalingrad
In the fall-winter months, Germany made their advances into Russia, Specifically after the industrial superpower of Stalingrad. Stalin, in response, called for every able Russian to hold their ground at this city. Even with the city in near ruins, the Russians still held the city. As the harsh winter began to set in, Germany would begin losing the upper hand, consequently losing the battle.
This would be the first major loss for Nazi Germany, and a turning point, giving advantage to the Allies. -
Tunisia Campaign
This was an attempt by US and the British to trap what was left of the Africans with the help of the Free French. However, Germany sent forces that would get rid of the French, occupying Tunisia shortly after. Conflict then became a stalemate not long after on January 1st. Though America suffered tactical defeats, the Axis powers would soon be forced into surrender.
This loss accompanied with the later failure at Stalingrad would push Germany away from offensive and push them to the defensive. -
Decision-Day
A critical turning point in the war, the start date known as D-Day, was the invasion and recapture of Western Europe from Nazi control. A great number of paratroopers were joined by troops coming in via the Normandy shores. By June 11th, the beaches were taken over by the allied powers. At the end of August, Paris was retaken, thus ending the invasion.
The victory would do great damage to Germany's moral, and turn power to the Allies hands, and this would ultimately lead to Germany's surrender. -
Battle of the Bulge
Also recounted as the Battle of Ardennes, this would be the last big offensive mounted by Nazi Germany. During the harsh winter months, this six week battle would include the Allied powers against Germany. It would prove to be the most detrimental loss for the US during the war, with an estimated 100,000 casualties.
However, this battle is important as it was the straw that broke the camel's back in Germany's case, crippling them beyond repair. Since the allies won this battle, the war was won.