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Battle of Britain
Hitler thought that Germany would need air control in Britain if they were to have a successful invasion. The Luftwaffe began bombing British air and naval bases, harbors, communication centers, and war industries. Later on, the Luftwaffe began bombing British cities. Britain retaliated and caused a massive loss for the Germans. -
Battle for Crete
Germany wished to gain control of Crete after they occupied Greece. The Allies attempted to defend against their massive airborne assault, and they failed. -
Invasion of the Soviet Union
Adolf Hitler thought that Britain would leave the war if he could eliminate the Soviet Union. German troops were able to capture 2 million Russian soldiers. By November, German troops were able to sweep through Ukraine. Troops were stationed near Moscow, and another army attacked Leningrad. The German advance was halted by the Soviet resistance and the early winter. -
Battle of Pearl Harbor
Japan bombed Pearl Harbor in Hawaii to prevent the U.S. from interfering in plans they had against Southeast Asia. They destroyed aircrafts, ships, and killed 3,500 Americans. The U.S. decided to join the war after this battle. -
Battle of Stalingrad
Hitler thought that Stalingrad should be taken because it was a major industrial center. The Soviets were able to stop German troops, and they forced them to surrender. The entire German Sixth Army ended up being lost. -
Battle of Anzio
Allied forces wanted to draw German forces away from the Gustav Line. They lured them close to Anzio. There were heavy casualties on both sides, but the Allied forces won.
