The Beginning of World War 2
The Second World War was one of the deadliest conflicts in human history, with over 60 million people losing their lives. The war began on September 1, 1939, when Germany, led by Adolf Hitler, invaded Poland. This led to Britain and France declaring war on Germany, and soon, many other countries were drawn into the conflict.
The Major Players
The Second World War was fought between two major alliances: the Axis powers and the Allied powers. The Axis powers were led by Germany, Japan, and Italy, while the Allied powers were led by the United States, Britain, and the Soviet Union. Many other countries also joined the war effort on both sides.
Question: Which countries were part of the Axis powers?
Answer: The Axis powers were led by Germany, Japan, and Italy. Other countries that joined the Axis powers included Hungary, Romania, Bulgaria, and Croatia.
Question: Which countries were part of the Allied powers?
Answer: The Allied powers were led by the United States, Britain, and the Soviet Union. Other countries that joined the Allied powers included Canada, Australia, New Zealand, China, and France.
The War in Europe
During the early years of the war, Germany quickly conquered much of Europe, including France, Belgium, and the Netherlands. However, Hitler’s plan to invade Britain was unsuccessful, and the Germans were eventually pushed back by the Allied forces in the east.
The War in Asia and the Pacific
While the war raged on in Europe, Japan was expanding its empire in Asia and the Pacific. Japan invaded and occupied many countries, including China, Korea, the Philippines, and parts of Southeast Asia. The United States eventually entered the war after Japan attacked the US naval base at Pearl Harbor in Hawaii.
The Turning Point
The tide of the war began to turn in favor of the Allies after several major battles, including the Battle of Stalingrad and the Battle of Midway. The Allies pushed the Axis powers back on both fronts, and eventually, Germany and Japan were forced to surrender.
The Aftermath
The Second World War had a profound impact on the world, leading to the creation of the United Nations and the beginning of the Cold War. It also saw the rise of the United States and the Soviet Union as superpowers, and the beginning of the end of European colonialism.
Question: What impact did the Second World War have on the world?
Answer: The Second World War led to the creation of the United Nations, the rise of the United States and the Soviet Union as superpowers, and the beginning of the end of European colonialism. It also had a profound impact on the world that is still felt today.
Conclusion
The Second World War was a devastating conflict that changed the course of human history. By understanding the world map during WW2 and the major players involved, we can gain a better understanding of the causes and consequences of this catastrophic event.