<p>World War II was the biggest and deadliest war in history, involving more than 30 countries. Sparked by the 1939 Nazi invasion of Poland, the war dragged on for six bloody years until the Allies defeated the Axis powers of Nazi Germany, Japan and Italy in 1945. Explore the battles, leaders and atrocities from the war and its impact on geopolitics and humankind.</p>


World War II

World War II was fought from 1939 to 1945. Learn more about World War II combatants, battles and generals, and what caused World War II.

World War II: Causes and Timeline | HISTORY

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<div class="p-rich_text_section">African Americans have played a central role in shaping U.S. history. From slavery and its abolition to the Great Migration, the civil rights movement and military, scientific, cultural and political achievements, explore key moments, milestones and figures in Black History.</div>
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World War II ‑ Videos

More To History: Atlantic Charter

More To History: Felix Longoria’s Sacrifice Fuels a Movement

Who Were the Tuskegee Airmen?

The Grueling Fight for Control of Guadalcanal

The Manhattan Project

Could Pearl Harbor Have Been Prevented?

D‑Day Stories: Waverly Woodson, Jr., the Wounded Medic

D‑Day Stories: Charles Norman Shay, Combat Medic

D‑Day Stories: Guy Whidden, Paratrooper

The Attack on Pearl Harbor: Civilian Reaction

The Attack on Pearl Harbor: Anger with the Enemy

The Attack on Pearl Harbor: Battleship Row