-
Germany invaded Poland, using a military strategy called blitzkrieg, or "lightning war." This surprise attack led Britain and France to declare war on Germany, officially starting WWII.
The invasion marked the beginning of World War II and showed the aggressive intentions of Nazi Germany. -
After Japan attacked Pearl Harbor, President Roosevelt addressed Congress, calling the attack "a date which will live in infamy." The U.S. declared war on Japan that same day.
This brought the U.S. into the war, boosting Allied strength and shifting the momentum of the conflict. -
The U.S. government forced Japanese Americans into internment camps after the Pearl Harbor attack, fearing they might aid the enemy, despite having no proof.
This event showed how fear and prejudice affected civil rights during wartime, especially for minority groups. -
Over 150,000 Allied troops landed on the beaches of Normandy, France. It was the largest seaborne invasion in history and a significant step toward defeating Nazi Germany.
This invasion was a turning point that led to the liberation of Western Europe from Nazi occupation. -
The U.S. dropped the first atomic bomb on Hiroshima, instantly killing tens of thousands. Japan surrendered days later, ending WWII.
The bombing ended the war in the Pacific but began the nuclear age, raising ethical and political questions worldwide.