Invasion of Germany

Since 1940, prior to the United States entering the war, Great Britain was conducting bombing missions over Germany. America simply joined its ally to launch strategic bombing runs over Germany from those same British bases.

Source: Bombardier ung Berlins

The plan was to weaken Germany's ability to make war by bombing steel factories, airports, bridges and roads, and military depots. In addition, the bombing campaign demoralized the German people. Look at the chart below to see how much damage the Allies did.

Note: All cities had populations over 500,000

The stage was then set for the Allies to begin the ground invasion of Germany.

The final push into Germany began in January 1945. The Russians were closing in on Berlin from the East, American ground forces were invading from the West, and the British-led invasion came from Italy. One by one, the major cities outlying the country began to fall to the allies and by April, the Russians had reached Berlin. With little hope left, Adolf Hitler committed suicide on April 30, 1945. Seven days later Germany officially surrendered, and the following day, May 8, 1945, became known as V-E Day (Victory in Europe).

Source: Newspaper-Nottingham Evening Post, 247080883, Flickr

Activity: Just because the war is over in Europe does not mean World War II is finished. Remember, the United States was also fighting the Japanese in the Pacific Ocean region. Great Britain had been lending some support to America in the Pacific, but the Soviet Union had yet to engage the Japanese. They agreed to help the United States 3 months after the end of the war in Europe.

Answer these questions in your notes.

• Why do you think the Russians wanted to wait 3 months?
• Did they have a reason to delay?