Sections:

The Road to War, Page 9

Military Strategy

With the invasion of Poland by the German military, there was virtually no stopping the dictator. His soldiers employed a new tactic, known as blitzkrieg, or “lightning war.” The plan consisted of tanks, artillery, and soldiers being moved with great speed and force.  It was a style of attack that included a violent surprise offensive of mechanized troops, including tanks, artillery and soldiers moving by trucks as opposed to by foot. The Germans were able to attack their victims before they even knew what hit them, ensuring the Germans a greater level of success.

Panzer Infantry
Panzer infantry.

The Germans were not the only ones who held an interest in Poland, however. In September 1939, Joseph Stalin, who was the premier leader of the Soviet Union, conquered Eastern Poland. His conquest was based on the declaration between the Soviet Union and Germany.

Stalin
Joseph Stalin

On April 9, 1940, Hitler continued his campaign and went after the countries of Denmark, Norway, and Belgium, once again implementing his blitzkrieg tactic.

The Germans seemed unstoppable, especially when they launched an attack on France in June of that same year. This time the French were forced to surrender. With most of Western Europe under German control, the British now stood alone in fighting this war.

Norway, Denmark, and Belgium
Map and location of Russia.