Overview

The Second World War was the most devastating conflict in human history. Fueled by unresolved tensions from World War I, the aggression of fascist states, and the failure of diplomacy, it reshaped Europe politically, economically, and socially. The postwar period brought reconstruction, division, and eventually, integration and reform.

Key Themes and Developments

• Causes and Course of WWII:
  • German invasion of Poland (1939) followed years of expansionism and appeasement.
  • Axis powers (Germany, Italy, Japan) sought to remake global order; Allies (UK, USSR, USA, France) opposed them.
  • Major battles: Battle of Britain, Stalingrad, D-Day, Battle of the Bulge.
• Holocaust:
  • Nazi genocide led to the murder of six million Jews and millions of other victims.
  • Exposed the dangers of totalitarianism, racism, and propaganda.
• Postwar Europe:
  • Germany divided; Eastern Europe fell under Soviet influence; Cold War began.
  • Marshall Plan and NATO promoted Western recovery and defense.
  • European integration began with the European Coal and Steel Community, leading to the EU.
• Contemporary Developments:
  • Decolonization accelerated as empires withdrew from Africa and Asia.
  • Fall of communism in Eastern Europe (1989) and USSR (1991) ended the Cold War.
  • Ongoing challenges: economic integration, immigration, populism, and global crises.

Quick Tip

WWII defined the modern world—and its aftermath built today’s Europe. Know the causes, consequences, and transformation that followed, from the Cold War to the European Union.