DO-NOW: Why would Germany be so successful in the early part of the war? What challenges do the Allies have to overcome?

blitzkrieg: “Lightning War” – method of fast-moving, air-and-land warfare…WWII tactic of choice as opposed to WWI’s trench warfare Battle of Britain: battle fought in the skies over Britain only using air forces. Germany failed to destroy the British Air Force, making an invasion of Britain impossible. Battle of Stalingrad: battle lasting from August 1942 to February Soviets defeat the Germans and turn the tide in the East D-Day: Allied invasion of France on June 6, This opened a 2-front war for Germany, and let the US, British, and French forces begin attacks in Europe.

“Lightning War” – method of fast-moving, air-and-land warfare WWII tactic of choice as opposed to WWI’s trench warfare 1) Aircraft bombers to soften up target 2) Armor vehicles (tanks) on ground to penetrate enemy lines 3) Rapid troop movement Goal: KEEP WAR IN CONSTANT MOTION AS TO AVOID ANOTHER WWI BECAUSE TRENCH WARFARE FAILED How successful? Poland fell in 4 weeks! France fell in 6 weeks!

Read War Begins in Europe, France Falls, Battle of Britain, and The Eastern Front While reading, underline/highlight any important information Answer questions 1 – 3

Together, we will read The Tide Turns Against Germany and Victory in Europe While reading, underline/highlight any important information Answer Questions # 4 – 5 Map of Europe during World War II

How did WWII unfold in Europe?