Allies of World War II

Allies of World War II

The Allies of World War II were a group of countries that opposed the Axis powers during the Second World War. The principal Allies were the United Kingdom, the Soviet Union, and the United States, with significant contributions from China, France, and a host of other nations. This alliance was instrumental in defeating the Axis powers, leading to the end of World War II in 1945.

Formation and Membership

The Allies of World War II formed over time, starting with the anti-fascist coalition of the United Kingdom and France, who declared war on Germany in 1939 following its invasion of Poland. The Soviet Union, initially in a non-aggression pact with Germany, joined the Allies in 1941 after being invaded by Germany. The United States, while initially maintaining a policy of neutrality, entered the war in December 1941 after the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor.

Major Campaigns and Battles

The Allies fought the Axis powers across multiple theaters of war, including Europe, Africa, Asia, and the Pacific. Key campaigns included the Battle of Stalingrad, the D-Day invasion of Normandy, and the Battle of the Pacific. These operations were crucial in turning the tide of the war in favor of the Allies.

Impact and Legacy

The victory of the Allies in World War II had a profound impact on the global political landscape. It led to the emergence of the United States and the Soviet Union as superpowers and the onset of the Cold War. The war also saw the establishment of the United Nations, aimed at preventing future global conflicts.

See Also

• Axis powers
• World War II casualties
• United Nations