World War II
The deadliest conflict in human history — 70-85 million killed as the world fights fascism, endures the Holocaust, and enters the nuclear age.
Germany Invades Poland
Hitler's invasion of Poland triggers declarations of war from Britain and France — World War II begins.
Fall of France
Germany's blitzkrieg conquers France in six weeks — Britain stands alone against Nazi-dominated Europe.
Battle of Britain
The RAF defeats the Luftwaffe in history's first major air campaign — Churchill declares it the 'finest hour.'
Germany Invades the Soviet Union
Operation Barbarossa — the largest military operation in history — opens the Eastern Front that will ultimately destroy Nazi Germany.
Japan Attacks Pearl Harbor
Japan's surprise attack on the US Pacific Fleet brings America into the war — Roosevelt calls it 'a date which will live in infamy.'
Wannsee Conference Plans the 'Final Solution'
Nazi leaders coordinate the systematic deportation and murder of Europe's Jews — industrialized genocide on an unprecedented scale.
Battle of Midway
The US Navy destroys four Japanese aircraft carriers, turning the tide in the Pacific War.
Battle of Stalingrad
The bloodiest battle in history — an estimated 2 million casualties — ends with German surrender, marking the turning point of the European war.
D-Day: Allied Invasion of Normandy
The largest amphibious invasion in history lands 156,000 troops on the beaches of Normandy, opening the Western Front.
Liberation of Auschwitz
Soviet troops liberate the largest Nazi death camp — the world confronts the full horror of the Holocaust.
V-E Day: Germany Surrenders
Nazi Germany surrenders unconditionally — the war in Europe is over after nearly six years and tens of millions of deaths.
Atomic Bomb Dropped on Hiroshima
The first nuclear weapon used in war destroys an entire city, killing an estimated 80,000 instantly and inaugurating the atomic age.
Japan Surrenders — World War II Ends
Emperor Hirohito announces Japan's surrender. The deadliest conflict in history is over — 70-85 million people have perished.