Scope

This timeline covers the Second World War from the opening campaigns through Allied victory and the initial architecture of the postwar settlement.

Inclusion rule

Include events that materially changed military momentum, state capacity, genocidal violence, alliance structure, or the postwar global balance of power.

Why this timeline exists

World War II is one of the main dividing lines of modern history. It reordered empire, ideology, technology, and great-power hierarchy in ways that shaped the second half of the 20th century.

Key phases

  • Axis expansion
  • Globalization of the war
  • Total mobilization and mass violence
  • Allied reversal and victory
  • Postwar settlement foundations

Anchor events