Duan Zhenhua: The Nature of World War II; When Did the War Turn To World Anti-Fascist War?

Turning Points of World War II

Duan Zhenhua

2024-01-22

The turning point of World War II is a focus of historical and military research worldwide. These turning points include strategic and operational levels, such as the formation of the International Anti-Fascist Alliance, the entry of the United States into the war, the Battle of Sicily, and the Battle of Stalingrad. These events have changed the course of the war, reflected changes in the balance of states and forces, and revealed the application of strategy and tactics. The lessons and revelations of history are still of great significance to today’s world.

There are 2 main views on the starting event of the World War II which is also known as the “World Anti-Fascist War”.  

One view argues that the start date is 1939, because Europe was the main battlefield for the great powers at that time, the start of the war between the three European powers was chosen as the node. That is, Germany attacked Poland on September 1, 1939, and Britain and France declared war on Germany two days later, which is the start event of the World Anti-Fascist War.

The second view argues that the starting event of the the World War II is the September 18, 1931, Japan’s invasion of Northeast China. Most researchers agree that World Anti-Fascist War had ended on September 2, 1945 when Japan’s Fascist government officially surrendered.

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