The Sinking of HMS Hood by the Bismarck
In a significant naval confrontation during World War II, the German battleship Bismarck sank Britain’s HMS Hood on May 24, 1941. The battle occurred in the North Atlantic, where the Hood, one of the pride ships of the Royal Navy, was struck and sunk within minutes, resulting in the loss of all but three of […]
Croatia Declares Independence
In 1941, Croatia declares independence, marking a pivotal moment in the nation’s history as it seeks autonomy from Yugoslavia amid the tumult of World War II. This declaration sets the stage for Croatia’s subsequent struggle for sovereignty and its eventual emergence as an independent nation-state, shaping the course of Balkan politics and identity in the […]
Yugoslavia Joins the Axis Powers
Yugoslavia joins the Axis Powers, aligning with Nazi Germany and Fascist Italy under pressure from Adolf Hitler. This decision triggers internal turmoil and resistance within Yugoslavia and contributes to the escalating tensions that would erupt into World War II in the Balkans.
Franklin D. Roosevelt Delivers his “Four Freedoms” Speech
On this day in 1941, President Franklin D. Roosevelt delivered his famous “Four Freedoms” speech during his State of the Union address. The speech outlined the essential freedoms people everywhere should enjoy.
Winston Churchill Addresses the U.S. Congress
On this day in 1941, British Prime Minister Winston Churchill addressed a joint session of the U.S. Congress, urging support for the Allied cause during World War II. His powerful speech coined the phrase “the great arsenal of democracy.”
Germany and Italy Declare War on the United States
Following the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor, Germany and Italy declared war on the United States on December 11th, 1941, marking a turning point in World War II.
The United States Enters World War II
Following the attack on Pearl Harbor, the United States officially entered World War II on December 8th, 1941, by declaring war on Japan. This marked a pivotal moment in global history.
The Attack on Pearl Harbor
December 7th, 1941, is a date that lives in infamy, as the Imperial Japanese Navy launched a surprise attack on the U.S. naval base at Pearl Harbor, Hawaii. This event propelled the United States into World War II.
Babi Yar Massacre
On this day in 1941, the Babi Yar massacre began in Kiev, Ukraine, as Nazi forces executed thousands of Jewish residents, marking one of the most horrifying atrocities of the Holocaust.