World War II 1940: One Hour WW II History

World War II: 1940 (One Hour WW II History Books Book 2)

by Charles River Editors

4.8 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	2185 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	64 pages
Lending	:	Enabled
X-Ray for textbooks	:	Enabled

FREE

The year 1940 marked a pivotal turning point in World War II. It witnessed the Nazi Blitzkrieg, the Battle of Britain, and the fall of France, events that reshaped the course of the war and left an enduring mark on history. This article delves into the key events of 1940, providing a concise and engaging overview of this transformative year.

The Nazi Blitzkrieg

In April 1940, Nazi Germany launched a swift and devastating invasion of Western Europe, employing a revolutionary military strategy known as Blitzkrieg. This lightning-fast attack utilized combined arms tactics, including panzer divisions, infantry, and air support. By May, the Netherlands, Belgium, and Luxembourg had fallen under German control.

The Fall of France

The German advance continued into France, where the French Army and British Expeditionary Force were overwhelmed by the Blitzkrieg. By June 14th, Paris had fallen to the Nazis, and France was forced to surrender. This dramatic defeat marked a major setback for the Allied Powers and left Britain as the sole remaining major power standing against Germany.

The Battle of Britain

Following the fall of France, Adolf Hitler turned his attention to Britain. In July 1940, the Luftwaffe launched a sustained aerial bombardment of British cities and military targets in an attempt to gain air superiority. However, the Royal Air Force (RAF) mounted a heroic defense, and the Battle of Britain became one of the iconic battles of the war.

Despite the intense bombing, the RAF held firm, aided by the development of radar and the use of Hurricanes and Spitfires. By October, Hitler was forced to postpone his plans to invade Britain, and the Battle of Britain ended in a significant victory for the Allies.

The Turning Tide

The events of 1940 had a profound impact on the course of World War II. The Nazi Blitzkrieg and the fall of France demonstrated the power and ruthlessness of the German military. However, the Battle of Britain showed that even in the face of adversity, the Allies could resist and prevail.

From this point forward, the war began to turn in favor of the Allies. The United States entered the conflict in December 1941, and the Soviet Union joined the Allies in June 1941. The combined strength of these three major powers eventually overwhelmed the Axis forces, leading to the Allied victory in 1945.

The year 1940 was a year of dramatic and transformative events in World War II. The Nazi Blitzkrieg, the fall of France, and the Battle of Britain shaped the course of the war and left a lasting legacy. By exploring these key events, we gain a deeper understanding of this pivotal year and its lasting impact on world history.

World War II: 1940 (One Hour WW II History Books Book 2)

by Charles River Editors

4.8 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	2185 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	64 pages
Lending	:	Enabled
X-Ray for textbooks	:	Enabled

FREE