World War II was a global war that lasted from 1939 to 1945. It involved the majority of the world's nations, including all of the great powers, organized into two opposing military alliances: the Allies and the Axis. The war was the most widespread and deadliest conflict in human history, with over 100 million people serving in military units and an estimated 50 to 85 million fatalities worldwide.The war began with the invasion of Poland by Germany on September 1, 1939, and quickly spread as Germany conquered much of Europe. The Allies, led by the United States, Great Britain, and the Soviet Union, fought against the Axis powers, led by Germany, Japan, and Italy.The war saw major battles and campaigns fought across Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Pacific. Some of the most significant events of the war include the Battle of Stalingrad, the D-Day invasion of Normandy, the Holocaust, the dropping of atomic bombs on Hiroshima and Nagasaki, and the surrender of Germany and Japan.World War II led to significant changes in the global political and social landscape, including the formation of the United Nations, the establishment of Israel, the beginning of the Cold War, and the start of decolonization movements around the world.
Measures 32 x 24.