eastern front

ww2 timeline quiz p3 2/16/23

What was operation Barbarossa?

Germany invaded the Soviet Union. 3 million German troops were aided by Italian, Hungarian, Romanian and Finnish allies.

Did the Soviets retreat?

Yes, they were forced.

Which tactics did the German’s use to invade the USSR?

The Germans used Blitzkrieg tactics and the Soviets suffered 150,000 casualties.

When did the Germans reach Moscow during the invasion of the USSR?

The Germans reached the outskirts of Moscow by December.

How was the Soviet Union’s resistance?

Aided by the harsh winter, the Soviet army holds the Germans at bay. However, Germany then plans another sudden attack that catches the Soviet Union by surprise. Although the Soviet Union had the largest army, they were unprepared.

What did the German forces put under siege?

German forces put Leningrad under siege. 

Did the Soviet Union surrender during the invasion?

Hitler was planning to starve the city out by dropping bombs on food sources, but the city ate everything (even things inedible) and refused to surrender. 

How did the Soviet Union hold onto Stalingrad?

The Red Army holds on in Stalingrad until the Russian winter arrives.

Why was the battle of Stalingrad so important?

It is one of the bloodiest battles in history with almost 2 million military and civilian deaths/wounded.

How long did the fighting drag on to?

House-to-house fighting dragged on until February 2, 1943.

Did Germany surrender after the Red Army held their ground on Stalingrad?

The German commander Friedrich Paulus surrenders, which began the long push west towards Berlin.