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Liberation of Paris
Allied troops successfully liberated Paris from German occupation, boosting morale and signaling a turning point in the war in Western Europe. -
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Battle of the Bulge
The last major German offensive on the Western Front was launched in the Ardennes, but Allied forces ultimately repelled the attack, hastening the collapse of Nazi Germany. -
D-Day
Allied forces launched a massive invasion of Nazi-occupied France on the beaches of Normandy, marking the beginning of the liberation of Western Europe. -
Yalta Conference
Allied leaders met to discuss post-war plans and the reorganization of Europe, shaping the political landscape of the continent after the conflict. -
Firebombing of Dresden
Allied forces conducted a controversial bombing campaign on the German city of Dresden, causing extensive destruction and civilian casualties, which raised ethical questions about wartime tactics. -
Soviet Invasion of Berlin
Soviet troops launched a final offensive against Berlin, leading to intense urban warfare and the eventual fall of the German capital. -
Hitler’s Suicide
Adolf Hitler took his own life in his bunker as Soviet forces closed in on Berlin, signaling the imminent defeat of Nazi Germany. -
Germany’s Surrender
Germany officially surrendered to the Allies, marking the end of the war in Europe and leading to celebrations of Victory in Europe Day.