παγκοσμιοι πολεμοι History Timeline and Biographies

1914

Outbreak of World War I

World War I, also known as the First World War, began in July 1914 following the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand of Austria. The conflict quickly expanded as alliances triggered widespread participation, leading to a global war.

1917

United States Enters World War I

In April 1917, the United States declared war on Germany, joining the Allies. This marked a significant turning point in the conflict, providing the Allies with additional resources and manpower.

1918

End of World War I

World War I ended on November 11, 1918, with the signing of the Armistice. The war resulted in significant geopolitical changes and set the stage for future conflicts.

1919

Treaty of Versailles

The Treaty of Versailles was signed in June 1919, officially ending World War I. The treaty imposed heavy reparations and territorial losses on Germany, contributing to future economic and political instability.

1939

Outbreak of World War II

World War II began on September 1, 1939, when Germany invaded Poland. This invasion prompted Britain and France to declare war on Germany, leading to a global conflict.

1941

Pearl Harbor Attack

On December 7, 1941, Japan attacked the United States naval base at Pearl Harbor, Hawaii. This event led to the United States entering World War II, significantly altering the course of the war.

1942

Battle of Stalingrad

The Battle of Stalingrad, fought between August 1942 and February 1943, was one of the deadliest battles in World War II. The Soviet Union's victory marked a turning point in the war against Germany.

1944

D-Day Invasion

On June 6, 1944, Allied forces launched the D-Day invasion of Normandy, France. This operation was crucial in liberating Western Europe from Nazi occupation.

1945

End of World War II in Europe

World War II in Europe ended on May 8, 1945, with the unconditional surrender of Germany. This day is celebrated as Victory in Europe (VE) Day.

1945

Atomic Bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki

In August 1945, the United States dropped atomic bombs on the Japanese cities of Hiroshima and Nagasaki. These bombings led to Japan's surrender and the end of World War II.

1945

End of World War II

World War II officially ended on September 2, 1945, when Japan formally surrendered aboard the USS Missouri. The war had profound global impacts and led to the establishment of the United Nations.

1947

Marshall Plan

The Marshall Plan was initiated in 1947 to aid in the economic recovery of European countries after World War II. It provided significant financial assistance to rebuild war-torn regions.

1949

Formation of NATO

The North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) was established in 1949 as a collective defense alliance to counter the threat of Soviet expansion in Europe following World War II.

1951

Treaty of Paris

The Treaty of Paris was signed in 1951, creating the European Coal and Steel Community. This treaty aimed to foster economic cooperation and prevent future conflicts in Europe.

1961

Berlin Wall Construction

In 1961, the Berlin Wall was constructed by East Germany to prevent East Berliners from fleeing to West Berlin. This wall became a symbol of the Cold War division between East and West.