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This invasion marked the start of World War 2 in Europe. It triggered declarations of war by France and the United Kingdom, initiating the European conflict.
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The rapid defeat of France by German forces was a major turning point in the war. It left Great Britain isolated and under threat of invasion, while Germany gained control of much of Western Europe. (May 10th-June 25th)
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This operation involved the evacuation of Allied soldiers from the beaches and harbor of Dunkirk, France. Despite the loss of equipment, the successful evacuation of over 300,000 troops was a major morale boost for the Allies. (May 26th- June 4th)
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This was a period of intense bombing of London and other British cities by the German Luftwaffe. The Blitz aimed to break British morale, but instead, it strengthened British resolve and resistance. (Sept 7, 1940- May 11, 1941)
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This battle was a major turning point on the Eastern Front. The Soviet victory halted the German advance into the Soviet Union and marked the beginning of the Soviet push westward. (Aug 23, 1942- Feb 2, 1943)
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The Allied invasion of Italy aimed to knock Italy out of the war and open a new front against Germany. The Campaign was long and arduous, but it tied down significant German Forces. (1943-1945)
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This was the largest seaborne invasion in History. The Allied landings in Normandy marked the beginning of the liberation of Western Europe from Nazi Occupation.
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This was an Allied military operation fought in the Netherlands and Germany. The operation's failure to secure key bridges across the Rhine River prolonged the war. (Sept 17-25th)
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This was Germany's last major offensive on the Western Front. The Allied victory secured their position and paved the way for the final push into Germany. (Dec 16, 1944- Jan 25, 1945)
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This marked the end of World War 2 in Europe. Germany's unconditional surrender brought to a close nearly 6 years of conflict on the continent.