Major world wars History Timeline and Biographies

Outbreak of World War I

World War I began on July 28, 1914, when Austria-Hungary declared war on Serbia. This conflict quickly escalated due to a complex web of alliances, drawing in numerous countries from around the globe, making it one of the first Major world wars.

The Battle of the Somme

Fought from July 1 to November 18, 1916, the Battle of the Somme was one of the largest battles in World War I, marking a significant event in Major world wars history, with over one million casualties.

End of World War I

World War I officially ended on November 11, 1918, with the signing of the Armistice. The war resulted in the collapse of empires and reconfiguration of national boundaries, significantly influencing future Major world wars.

Treaty of Versailles

In June 1919, the Treaty of Versailles was signed, formally ending World War I. It imposed heavy reparations on Germany and is often cited as a contributing factor to World War II, highlighting the interconnection of Major world wars.

Outbreak of World War II

World War II began on September 1, 1939, when Germany invaded Poland. This invasion marked the start of a more widespread conflict that evolved into one of the deadliest Major world wars in history.

Pearl Harbor Attack

On December 7, 1941, Japan launched a surprise attack on Pearl Harbor, leading the United States to enter World War II. This pivotal event expanded the scope of the conflict, reinforcing its status as a Major world war.

D-Day Invasion

On June 6, 1944, Allied forces launched the D-Day invasion at Normandy, France, marking a turning point in World War II. This operation exemplified the cooperation among nations involved in Major world wars.

End of World War II

World War II concluded on September 2, 1945, when Japan formally surrendered, bringing an end to the deadliest conflict in human history. This established the need for international peacekeeping efforts to prevent future Major world wars.

Establishment of the United Nations

In October 1945, the United Nations was formed to promote international cooperation and prevent future Major world wars, signaling a shift in global diplomatic relations following World War II.

Korean War Begins

The Korean War broke out in 1950, marking the first major armed conflict of the Cold War era and illustrating the ongoing tensions stemming from the Major world wars of the first half of the century.

Cuban Missile Crisis

In October 1961, the Cuban Missile Crisis brought the United States and the Soviet Union to the brink of nuclear conflict, showcasing the lasting impact of the Major world wars on global politics.

Fall of the Berlin Wall

The fall of the Berlin Wall in 1989 symbolized the end of the Cold War divisions and was influenced by the ideological battles that emerged from the Major world wars.

Impact of 9/11 on Global Conflict

The terror attacks on September 11, 2001, had repercussions on military strategy and international relations, echoing the lessons from the Major world wars about the need for global security cooperation.

Commemoration of World Wars' Legacy

As of 2024, nations continue to commemorate the legacies of World War I and II, emphasizing the importance of learning from the past to prevent future Major world wars and promote sustained peace.