World War II

World War II began with Germany invading Poland on September 1, 1939, and ended with Japan surrendering on September 2, 1945. This war was the most extensive and destructive conflict in history.

The war caused the deaths of 70 million people worldwide and fundamentally changed the economic and political order on a global scale.

Causes of World War II

The main causes of World War II were the political and economic problems created by the Treaty of Versailles implemented after World War I, the rise of the Nazi Party in Germany, Hitler’s expansionist policies, and a new international tension shaped by the influence of nationalist movements. In addition, the balance of power in Europe was disrupted and the effects of the war was felt in countries outside Europe.

Germany’s invasion of Poland was the most important trigger for the outbreak of the war. Britain and France then declared war on Germany. However, the war quickly spread worldwide and became a global conflict between the major powers.

Alliances and Fronts

During WWII, two main blocs were formed: the Allied Powers (Britain, France, the Soviet Union, the United States, and China) and the Axis Powers (Germany, Italy, Japan). The war saw intense fighting on major fronts in Europe, North Africa, the Pacific, and Asia. Germany attempted to invade the Soviet Union, while Japan made major territorial gains in the Pacific.

The war quickly became global with the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor in 1941. The entry of the Soviet Union and the United States into the war caused the Axis Powers to strategically withdraw.

Consequences of the War

WW II ended with the surrender of Japan on September 2, 1945. Following the war, the Nazi rule in Germany ended. Japan was subjected to nuclear attacks by the US. This war laid the foundations for the Cold War and the new international order.

The war resulted in the deaths of approximately 70 million people, the displacement of millions, and great economic devastation. In addition, crimes against humanity such as the Holocaust occurred, and great political and social change took place around the world. Following the war, the United Nations was established, and the world evolved towards a new international order.

World War II was not just a military conflict, but a decisive turning point in the formation of the modern world order.