WWII stands for World War II, which was a global conflict that occurred between 1939 and 1945. It involved many nations from around the world and is often considered the deadliest and most widespread war in human history. WWII arose primarily due to tensions and unresolved issues from the aftermath of World War I, such as territorial disputes, economic imbalances, and political ideologies.
The war began with the invasion of Poland by Germany in September 1939 and quickly escalated as several countries chose sides and formed alliances. The two major opposing alliances were the Allies, composed of countries such as the United States, the Soviet Union, and the United Kingdom, and the Axis powers, which included Germany, Italy, and Japan. The conflict encompassed major battles and campaigns fought across multiple continents, including Europe, Africa, Asia, and the Pacific.
WWII witnessed various forms of warfare, including land, sea, and air battles, as well as genocide and the use of atomic bombs. It resulted in millions of fatalities, with estimations ranging from 70 to 85 million people. The war finally concluded in 1945 with the unconditional surrender of Germany and Japan, leading to significant geopolitical changes, the rise of the United States and the Soviet Union as superpowers, and the establishment of the United Nations. The war's impact on global politics, economy, and social structures is profound, making it a critical period in history that serves as a reference point for understanding the 20th century.
