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It triggered World War II, forcing Britain and France to declare war on Germany, ending appeasement, showcasing the devastating "blitzkrieg" tactic, and initiating the brutal Nazi occupation and persecution that would escalate into the Holocaust. -
Officially marked the beginning of World War II in Europe, transforming a regional conflict into a global struggle. -
It swiftly eliminated Allied presence in Western Europe in just six weeks. -
Preserved Britain's ability to continue fighting, boosted Allied morale, and fostered the "Dunkirk spirit" of resilience. -
It stopped Germany from achieving air superiority, forcing Hitler to abandon plans to invade Britain. -
It established the first peacetime draft in U.S. history, allowing for the rapid, organized mobilization of over 10 million men. -
Allowing the U.S. to supply vital military equipment and food to Allied nations—primarily Britain and the Soviet Union—without immediate payment, effectively bypassing neutrality laws. -
It instantly ended U.S. isolationism, uniting the country to enter the global conflict. -
It shifted the balance of power, providing immense industrial capacity and manpower to the Allies.