The Second World War

What was Germany's role in the Second World War?

Germany is often thought to be the main cause of the Second World War, which lasted from 1939 to 1945. It was fought over 6 continents and more than 50 million people were killed.

When did Germany invade Poland in the Second World War?

Germany invaded Poland on 1st September, 1939.

When did Germany invade the Soviet Union in the Second World War?

Germany invaded the Soviet Union in Operation Barbarossa on 22nd June, 1941.

What impact did the Second World War have on the people of Germany?

The Second World War affected the lives of everyone who lived in Germany, with 3 main changes:

• ❖ Women returned to work, men were conscripted into the armed forces and children acted as a home guard.
• ❖ Work schemes changed to focus on greater production of weapons and increased conscription.
• ❖ Working hours often increased.

How did the Second World War end for Germany?

There were 7 main events that led to Germany's surrender:

• ❖ The German Army was pushed back out of the USSR by the end of 1944.
• ❖ The USSR continued its offensive against Germany and pushed the Germans out of the countries they had occupied in eastern Europe.
• ❖ The Allies pushed into Germany from the west by March 1945.
• ❖ Berlin was surrounded by Soviet troops by 24th April, 1945.
• ❖ Hitler committed suicide in his bunker on 30th April.
• ❖ Goebbels committed suicide on 1st May.
• ❖ Germany surrendered on 7th May, 1945.