ww2 german victory History Timeline and Biographies

1939

Invasion of Poland

On September 1, 1939, Germany invaded Poland, marking the beginning of World War II. This swift and brutal attack utilized Blitzkrieg tactics, leading to a quick German victory and the division of Poland between Germany and the Soviet Union. This event established Germany's military prowess and set the stage for further expansion in Europe.

1940

Fall of France

In May 1940, Germany launched its invasion of France and the Low Countries. By June 22, 1940, France surrendered, marking a significant German victory in WW2. The rapid defeat of French forces showcased the effectiveness of German military strategies and solidified Germany's control over Western Europe.

1940

Battle of Britain

The Battle of Britain began in July 1940 as Germany aimed to gain air superiority over Britain. Although ultimately unsuccessful, the German efforts marked a significant phase in the war, demonstrating the resilience of British forces and foiling German plans for an invasion.

1941

Operation Barbarossa

On June 22, 1941, Germany launched Operation Barbarossa, the invasion of the Soviet Union. This operation was initially successful, leading to significant territorial gains and German victories in the East, but ultimately stretched German resources too thin and contributed to their eventual defeat.

1941

Siege of Leningrad Begins

The Siege of Leningrad began in September 1941 and lasted until January 1944. This prolonged military blockade by German forces was a significant attempt to secure a victory in the East, leading to severe hardships for the Soviet population and military.

1942

Battle of Stalingrad

The Battle of Stalingrad, which began in August 1942, was a turning point in WW2. Despite initial German victories, the Soviet counteroffensive in early 1943 encircled and defeated the German Sixth Army, marking the beginning of a decline in German fortunes in the war.

1942

Battle of El Alamein

The Second Battle of El Alamein in October 1942 marked a significant defeat for German forces in North Africa. This battle was pivotal in halting the Axis advance and represented a turning point in the North African Campaign, showcasing the limits of German military power.

1943

German Retreat from Stalingrad

In February 1943, the German Army retreated from Stalingrad after months of intense fighting. This defeat was one of the most significant losses for Germany in WW2, leading to a series of Soviet offensives that would push German forces back throughout the Eastern Front.

1943

German Defeat at Kursk

The Battle of Kursk in July 1943 was the largest tank battle in history and resulted in a decisive Soviet victory. This defeat marked the last major offensive by Germany in the East and began a series of Soviet advances that would ultimately lead to the fall of Berlin.

1944

D-Day and the Liberation of France

On June 6, 1944, Allied forces launched D-Day, the invasion of Normandy. This operation marked the beginning of the liberation of Western Europe from German occupation, leading to a series of defeats for German forces and a significant shift in the war's momentum.

1944

Battle of the Bulge

In December 1944, Germany launched a surprise counteroffensive in the Ardennes, known as the Battle of the Bulge. This was Germany's last major offensive in WW2, attempting to split Allied forces but ultimately failing, leading to further losses for Germany.

1945

Fall of Berlin

The Battle of Berlin, which took place from April to May 1945, culminated in the fall of the German capital to Soviet forces. This event marked the definitive end of Nazi Germany and the collapse of German ambitions for victory in WW2.

1945

German Surrender

On May 7, 1945, Germany officially surrendered to the Allied forces, marking the end of World War II in Europe. This surrender was the culmination of a series of defeats for Germany following their initial victories in the early years of the war.

1945

Aftermath of WW2 German Victory Attempts

The aftermath of WW2 saw the division of Germany and the establishment of the Allied occupation. The consequences of Germany's initial victories were profound, leading to significant geopolitical changes in Europe and the onset of the Cold War.