Outbreak of World War I
On July 28, 1914, Austria-Hungary declared war on Serbia, igniting the conflict that would escalate into World War I, involving major powers across Europe and beyond.
The Gallipoli Campaign
In 1915, Allied forces launched the Gallipoli Campaign to secure a sea route to Russia, ultimately resulting in heavy losses and a failed attempt to capture the Dardanelles.
The United States Enters World War I
In April 1917, the United States declared war on Germany, joining the Allies and providing fresh troops and resources that significantly influenced the war's outcome.
End of World War I
World War I officially ended on November 11, 1918, with the signing of the Armistice, leading to the Treaty of Versailles in 1919, which imposed harsh penalties on Germany.
The Great Depression Begins
The stock market crash of 1929 led to the Great Depression, creating economic turmoil that contributed to the rise of extremist political movements in Europe, setting the stage for World War II.
Hitler Becomes Chancellor of Germany
In January 1933, Adolf Hitler was appointed Chancellor, marking the beginning of the Nazi regime and aggressive expansionist policies that would lead to World War II.
Outbreak of World War II
World War II began on September 1, 1939, when Germany invaded Poland, prompting Britain and France to declare war on Germany shortly thereafter.
Fall of France
In June 1940, France fell to German forces after a rapid invasion, leading to the establishment of the Vichy regime and the occupation of much of the country during World War II.
Operation Barbarossa
On June 22, 1941, Nazi Germany launched Operation Barbarossa, invading the Soviet Union and marking a crucial turning point in World War II as the Eastern Front opened.
Attack on Pearl Harbor
On December 7, 1941, Japan attacked Pearl Harbor, leading the United States to formally enter World War II, significantly altering the balance of power in the conflict.
D-Day: The Normandy Invasion
On June 6, 1944, Allied forces launched D-Day, the largest amphibious invasion in history, marking the beginning of the liberation of Western Europe from Nazi control during World War II.
End of World War II in Europe
World War II in Europe concluded on May 8, 1945, with the unconditional surrender of Germany, known as V-E Day, following the fall of Berlin.
Atomic Bombs Dropped on Hiroshima and Nagasaki
In August 1945, the United States dropped atomic bombs on the Japanese cities of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, leading to Japan's surrender and the end of World War II on September 2, 1945.
Formation of the United Nations
In October 1945, the United Nations was established in an effort to prevent future global conflicts like World War I and II, promoting international cooperation and peace.
