-
Germany Invades Poland
Germany's invasion of Poland on September 1, 1939, marked the start of World War II. This act of aggression led Britain and France to declare war on Germany, initiating a global conflict. -
Battle of Britain
The Battle of Britain was Germany's attempt to destroy the Royal Air Force and invade Britain. The British, however, used radar technology and strong resistance to protect their country, forcing Hitler to abandon his plans. -
Pearl Harbor Attack
On December 7, 1941, Japan launched a surprise attack on the U.S. naval base at Pearl Harbor, Hawaii. This event brought the United States into World War II the next day, as they declared war on Japan. -
Battle of Stalingrad
The Battle of Stalingrad was a brutal fight between Nazi Germany and the Soviet Union for control of the city. The Soviet victory marked a turning point in the war, as Germany began to lose its hold in the East. -
D-Day Invasion
On June 6, 1944, Allied forces launched a massive invasion of Nazi-occupied France, landing on the beaches of Normandy. This operation, known as D-Day, was a crucial step toward liberating Europe from German control. -
Liberation of Concentration Camps
As Allied forces advanced, they discovered and liberated Nazi concentration camps. These camps revealed the horrors of the Holocaust, where millions of Jews and other groups were systematically killed. -
Hiroshima and Nagasaki Bombings
In August 1945, the U.S. dropped atomic bombs on the Japanese cities of Hiroshima and Nagasaki. These bombings led to Japan's surrender, effectively ending World War II. -
Yalta Conference
In February 1945, Allied leaders—Roosevelt, Churchill, and Stalin—met to discuss post-war plans. They agreed on dividing Germany into zones and setting the stage for rebuilding Europe. -
Yalta Conference
In February 1945, Allied leaders—Roosevelt, Churchill, and Stalin—met to discuss post-war plans. They agreed on dividing Germany into zones and setting the stage for rebuilding Europe. -
V-E Day
On May 8, 1945, Victory in Europe Day was celebrated as Germany officially surrendered. This marked the end of World War II in Europe. -
United Nations Founded
After the war ended, the United Nations was established to promote peace and prevent future conflicts. It replaced the League of Nations and continues to play a significant role in global diplomacy.