World War II

World War II was a global conflict that lasted from 1939 to 1945, involving most of the world’s nations. It was primarily fought between two major alliances: the Allies, including the United States, the Soviet Union, the United Kingdom, and China, and the Axis powers, led by Germany, Italy, and Japan. The war began with the invasion of Poland by Germany in September 1939 and subsequently expanded as countries entered the conflict due to alliances, territorial disputes, and ideological differences.

World War II was marked by significant events including the Holocaust, the use of atomic bombs on Hiroshima and Nagasaki, and widespread warfare across Europe, Asia, and Africa. It resulted in immense loss of life, with civilian casualties and military deaths numbering in the millions. The conflict also led to major political changes, including the establishment of the United Nations and the division of Europe during the Cold War.

The war ended with the unconditional surrender of the Axis powers; Germany surrendered in May 1945, followed by Japan in September 1945. World War II fundamentally reshaped international relations and had lasting effects on global politics, economies, and societies. It is considered one of the deadliest and most influential conflicts in history.