Overview and main events
World War II, also known as the Second World War, was a global conflict that lasted from September 1, 1939, to September 2, 1945. It was fought between two major coalitions: the Allies, which included the United States, the United Kingdom, France, and the Soviet Union, among others; and the Axis powers, primarily consisting of Germany, Italy, and Japan. This war was the deadliest conflict in human history, involving more than 30 countries and resulting in an estimated 50-70 million fatalities. Here is a timeline of some of the most significant events and milestones of World War II.
September 1, 1939
Germany Invades Poland
World War II began on September 1, 1939, when Germany, under the leadership of Adolf Hitler, invaded Poland. This act of aggression prompted the United Kingdom and France to declare war on Germany on September 3, 1939, marking the start of the conflict in Europe.
September 17, 1939
Soviet Union Invades Poland
In accordance with the Molotov-Ribbentrop Pact, the Soviet Union invaded Poland from the east, further dividing Polish territory between Germany and the Soviet Union. This dual invasion led to the rapid collapse of Polish defenses and the eventual surrender of Warsaw on September 27, 1939.
May 10, 1940
Germany Invades Belgium, Netherlands, and France
Germany launched a surprise attack on Belgium, the Netherlands, and France, known as the Blitzkrieg. This campaign led to the quick capture of these countries and the eventual fall of Paris on June 14, 1940. Winston Churchill became the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom on the same day, replacing Neville Chamberlain.
May 26 - June 4, 1940
The Miracle of Dunkirk
As German forces advanced through France, the British Expeditionary Force (BEF) and other Allied troops were trapped in Dunkirk. In a massive evacuation effort known as Operation Dynamo, nearly 340,000 soldiers were rescued from the beaches of Dunkirk, allowing them to continue fighting another day.
December 7, 1941
Japan Attacks Pearl Harbor
Japan launched a surprise attack on the United States naval base at Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, drawing the United States into World War II. This attack led to a formal declaration of war by the United States against Japan, and subsequently against Germany and Italy after they declared war on the U.S.
June 22, 1941
Operation Barbarossa
Germany launched Operation Barbarossa, a massive invasion of the Soviet Union. This campaign marked the beginning of the Eastern Front, one of the bloodiest theaters of the war, and ultimately proved to be a costly and decisive mistake for Germany
June 6, 1944
D-Day Invasion of Normandy
The Allies launched the largest amphibious invasion in history, known as D-Day, on the beaches of Normandy, France. This operation marked a significant turning point in the war, as it opened a new front against Germany and paved the way for the liberation of Western Europe.
April 30, 1945
Hitler's Death and Soviet Advance on Berlin
As Soviet forces closed in on Berlin, Adolf Hitler committed suicide in his bunker. The Soviet Union continued its advance, capturing Berlin and setting the stage for Germany's unconditional surrender. The fall of Berlin was a crucial milestone in the final stages of the war in Europe.
May 8, 1945
V-E Day (Victory in Europe Day)
Germany signed an unconditional surrender at the headquarters of U.S. General Dwight D. Eisenhower, marking the end of World War II in Europe. This day is celebrated as V-E Day and marked the formal end of the war in the European theater.
August 6 and 9, 1945
Atomic Bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki
The United States dropped atomic bombs on the Japanese cities of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, leading to widespread destruction and a significant increase in casualties. These bombings played a crucial role in Japan's decision to surrender, ending the war in the Pacific.
September 2, 1945
Japanese Formal Surrender
Japan formally surrendered to the Allied Powers on board the USS Missouri in Tokyo Bay, Japan. This ceremony marked the official end of World War II, bringing an end to six years of global conflict and ushering in a new era of international relations.
