This timeline provides a comprehensive overview of the major events and milestones of World War II, spanning from its inception to its conclusion.
Germany Invades Poland
September 1, 1939
World War II begins in Europe as Germany, under Adolf Hitler, invades Poland, prompting the United Kingdom and France to declare war on Germany two days later.
UK and France Declare War on Germany
September 3, 1939
The United Kingdom and France declare war on Germany in response to the invasion of Poland.
Germany Invades Western Europe
May 10, 1940
Germany launches a surprise attack on Belgium, France, Luxembourg, and the Netherlands, marking the beginning of the Battle of France.
Operation Barbarossa
June 22, 1941
Germany launches a massive invasion of the Soviet Union, known as Operation Barbarossa, opening the Eastern Front.
Pearl Harbor Attack
December 7, 1941
Japan launches a surprise attack on the U.S. naval base at Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, drawing the United States into the war.
D-Day Invasion of Normandy
June 6, 1944
Allied forces launch a massive invasion of Nazi-occupied France, known as D-Day, marking a significant turning point in the war.
Hitler's Death
April 30, 1945
Adolf Hitler commits suicide in his bunker in Berlin as Allied forces close in on the city.
Germany Surrenders
May 7, 1945
Germany surrenders unconditionally, marking the end of the war in Europe.
Atomic Bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki
August 6 and 9, 1945
The United States drops atomic bombs on the Japanese cities of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, leading to Japan's surrender.
Japan Surrenders
September 2, 1945
Japan formally surrenders, marking the end of World War II.
