Unveil the essence of World War II--a saga not just of battles, but of breakthroughs that reshaped our world. This course isn't just a dive into history; it's an expedition into the heart of a defining epoch. With riveting narratives and untold stories, you'll traverse the rise and fall of empires, the courage of ordinary heroes, and the profound changes that reverberated across continents. Imagine understanding strategies that echoed in the hallowed halls of power and on the battle-scarred fields. This journey deepens your grasp of global dynamics, arming you with insights that inspire and influence. Seize this transformative learning experience that melds history's pulse with today's relevance. Dive in and redefine your worldview.
Lesson 1. Insights into World War II Through Its Terminology
The Marshall Plan and the Munich Pact exemplify pivotal post-war and pre-war diplomatic efforts that shaped Europe's political landscape. These initiatives demonstrate the lasting implications of wartime decisions and the endeavors to build a more peaceful future.
Lesson 1-
Lesson 1 Exam: Terminology, Part I+
Lesson 1 Exam: Terminology, Part I
Assignment 1: What to gain?+
Assignment 1: What to gain?
Auschwitz+
Auschwitz
Lesson 2. Decoding WWII: Phrases and Frameworks
World War II reshaped global politics and societies, with critical terminology like 'Nazis' and 'Neutrality Acts' framing the ideological and strategic dimensions of the conflict. Understanding these terms enhances our grasp of the war's complexities, from the Holocaust atrocities to American isolationism shifts.
Lesson 2-
Lesson 2 Exam: Terminology, Part II and Course Structure+
Lesson 2 Exam: Terminology, Part II and Course Structure
Lesson 2 Review Exam+
Lesson 2 Review Exam
Assignment 2: Personal Interests+
Assignment 2: Personal Interests
Lesson 3. Weimar's Fall, Hitler's Rise
Amid economic despair and political dysfunction in post-WWI Germany, the Weimar Republic struggled under punitive treaties and social upheaval. Hitler, leveraging public discontent and political missteps, manipulated a fractured system to expedite the Nazi Party's rise and the Republic's demise.
Lesson 3-
Lesson 3 Exam: Setting the Stage: The Fall of the Weimar Republic+
Lesson 3 Exam: Setting the Stage: The Fall of the Weimar Republic
Lesson 3 Review Exam+
Lesson 3 Review Exam
Assignment 3: Nazi Party Rise+
Assignment 3: Nazi Party Rise
Lesson 4. The Fall of the Weimar Republic: Prelude to Global Conflict
Key individuals such as Hindenburg and von Papen played crucial roles in the Weimar Republic's downfall by underestimating Hitler and facilitating his ascent. Hitler's charismatic leadership and manipulation of public sentiment were vital in transforming Germany into a totalitarian state.
Lesson 4-
Lesson 4 Review Exam+
Lesson 4 Review Exam
Lesson 5. Understanding Hitler's Impact on 20th Century History
Hitler's early rejection by art institutions and his hardships in Vienna sparked the anti-Semitic and nationalist ideas that would define his political career. His leadership of the Nazi Party mobilized a fractured Germany under his radical agenda, benefiting from the economic turmoil of the Weimar Republic.
Lesson 5-
Lesson 4 Exam: Adolph Hitler's Life & Career+
Lesson 4 Exam: Adolph Hitler's Life & Career
Lesson 5 Review Exam+
Lesson 5 Review Exam
Assignment 4: Who was Hitler?+
Assignment 4: Who was Hitler?
Lesson 6. Forgotten Partners of the Axis: Italy and Japan in WWII
Hirohito's divine status, linked to Japanese nationalism and militarism, facilitated Japan's imperial campaigns and cultivated a culture of loyalty over personal sacrifice, evident in World War II's kamikaze attacks. Despite Japan's defeat, Hirohito's wartime responsibility remains debated, ultimately altering Japan's post-war political landscape.
Lesson 6-
Lesson 5 Exam: The Other Axis Powers: Italy and Japan+
Lesson 5 Exam: The Other Axis Powers: Italy and Japan
Lesson 6 Review Exam+
Lesson 6 Review Exam
Assignment 5: Key Axis People+
Assignment 5: Key Axis People
Lesson 7. Axis Partners: Italy, Japan, and Their Role in WWII
Fascism, beyond Germany and Italy, influenced Spain, Portugal, and parts of Eastern Europe, driven by economic turmoil and fear of communism. Promising national pride and stability, fascism resonated globally but contributed to authoritarian regimes and conflicts.
Lesson 7-
Lesson 7 Review Exam+
Lesson 7 Review Exam
Lesson 8. The Fuse is Lit: Germany's Aggressive Prelude to World War II
Germany's aggressive expansion under Hitler sparked the inevitable onset of World War II, as territories were reclaimed and German-speaking peoples were unified under one Reich. Diplomatic efforts faltered, leading to the annexation of Austria, occupation of the Sudetenland, and invasion of Poland, reshaping Europe dramatically.
Lesson 8-
Lesson 6 Exam: Opening Salvos -- Germany Starts the War+
Lesson 6 Exam: Opening Salvos -- Germany Starts the War
Lesson 8 Review Exam+
Lesson 8 Review Exam
Assignment 6: The Maginot Line+
Assignment 6: The Maginot Line
The Maginot Line as a Metaphor+
The Maginot Line as a Metaphor
Lesson 9. The Lightning Strikes: Germany's Invasion of France and the Battle of Britain
The Wehrmacht's blitzkrieg efficiently conquered the Low Countries and France, but the strategic brilliance faltered at Britain, transitioning the war's momentum. The Battles of France and Britain highlighted Germany's initial dominance and the Allies' resilient spirit, setting the stage for a prolonged struggle in WWII.
Lesson 9-
Lesson 8 Exam: The Battles of France and Britain+
Lesson 8 Exam: The Battles of France and Britain
Lesson 9 Review Exam+
Lesson 9 Review Exam
Assignment 8: Time Line+
Assignment 8: Time Line
The Battle of Britain+
The Battle of Britain
Lesson 10. The Phoney War
During the Phoney War, France's only offensive, the Saar Offensive, fell flat due to a lack of resistance from Germany, as they were occupied in Poland, resulting in a retreat to the Maginot Line. This missed chance allowed Germany to regroup, thereby cementing their advantage and setting the stage for future confrontations.
Lesson 10-
Lesson 10 Review Exam+
Lesson 10 Review Exam
Assignment 7: The Phoney War+
Assignment 7: The Phoney War
Stopping the Phoney War?+
Stopping the Phoney War?
Lesson 11. The German-Soviet Struggle: From Blitzkrieg to Stalingrad
The German Blitzkrieg initially devastated Soviet defenses, exploiting Stalin's unpreparedness and rigid military tactics. However, by diverting focus away from Moscow and neglecting winter preparations, Hitler crippled his campaign, allowing Soviet forces time to regroup and launch effective counterattacks.
Lesson 11-
Lesson 10: The Eastern Front+
Lesson 10: The Eastern Front
Lesson 11 Review Exam+
Lesson 11 Review Exam
Assignment 10: Stalin and Cold Weather+
Assignment 10: Stalin and Cold Weather
Hitler's Blunder -- A two front War!+
Hitler's Blunder -- A two front War!
Lesson 12. France's Fall, Britain's Stand
The rapid fall of France due to Germany's surprise blitzkrieg strategies showcased the vulnerability of traditional military defenses. Meanwhile, the indomitable British spirit in the Battle of Britain illustrated how resolve and innovation can counter overwhelming odds.
Lesson 12-
Lesson 12 Review Exam+
Lesson 12 Review Exam
Lesson 13. Desert Warfare and the Turning Tide of World War II
Rommel, known as 'The Desert Fox,' was admired for his tactical genius and moral conduct, often at odds with Nazi policies, yet he couldn't sustain his early successes. Montgomery's meticulous strategies and resource-focused warfare eventually outmatched Axis forces, emphasizing the importance of leadership and logistics.
Lesson 13-
Lesson 9: The North African Campaign+
Lesson 9: The North African Campaign
Lesson 13 Review Exam+
Lesson 13 Review Exam
Assignment 9: Why Africa?+
Assignment 9: Why Africa?
Lesson 14. Midway: The Game-Changing Battle
Facing resource shortages, Japan pursued aggressive conquests in Asia to secure essential supplies, unchecked until punitive sanctions catalyzed their attack on Pearl Harbor. The ensuing war united Allied powers, who, through strategic victories like Midway, reversed Japan's territorial gains.
Lesson 14-
Lesson 12: The Pacific Theatre+
Lesson 12: The Pacific Theatre
Lesson 14 Review Exam+
Lesson 14 Review Exam
Assignment 12: United States Involvement+
Assignment 12: United States Involvement
Lend Lease Act+
Lend Lease Act
Lesson 15. Operation Overlord and Beyond: Triumphs on the Path to Peace
Operation Overlord marked the beginning of the end for Nazi Germany, with the Allies executing one of history's largest amphibious assaults on the beaches of Normandy, France. The intense planning and bravery displayed during D-Day led to the liberation of Western Europe and weakened Hitler's regime significantly.
Lesson 15-
Lesson 13: The End of the War: Victories in Europe and Japan+
Lesson 13: The End of the War: Victories in Europe and Japan
Lesson 15 Review Exam+
Lesson 15 Review Exam
Assignment 13: War Ends+
Assignment 13: War Ends
Why didn't the U.S. drop an Atomic Bomb on Germany?+
Why didn't the U.S. drop an Atomic Bomb on Germany?
Lesson 16. Operation Barbarossa: The Massive Nazi Offensive Against Soviet Russia
Suddenly encased in one of history's largest conflicts, Nazi Germany's invasion of the Soviet Union turned from swift success to a prolonged struggle. The fierce Soviet defense, aided by the vicious winter, culminated in critical German defeats, most notably the decisive Battle of Stalingrad.
Lesson 16-
Lesson 16 Review Exam+
Lesson 16 Review Exam
Lesson 17. Monte Cassino: The Impregnable Fortress Unveiled
Mussolini's overthrow and the Allied advance into mainland Italy initiated a fierce counter-defense by German forces. Strategic defensive lines like the Winter Line stalled the Allies, making each advancement hard-won.
Lesson 17-
Lesson 11: The Italian Campaign+
Lesson 11: The Italian Campaign
Lesson 17 Review Exam+
Lesson 17 Review Exam
Assignment 11: Italian Campaign Timeline+
Assignment 11: Italian Campaign Timeline
Lesson 18. Strategic Shifts in the Pacific: From Japanese Expansion to Allied Ascendancy
The Pacific War saw Japan seeking vital resources through invasions, causing global tensions that boiled over with the surprise attack on Pearl Harbor. Subsequent battles, notably Midway and Leyte Gulf, swung momentum toward the Allies, culminating in island battles like Iwo Jima and Okinawa before Japan's surrender.
Lesson 18-
Lesson 18 Review Exam+
Lesson 18 Review Exam
Lesson 19. The End of World War II: A New Era Begins
Facing the prospect of a prolonged and bloody conflict, President Truman chose to deploy atomic bombs on Hiroshima and Nagasaki, bringing Japan to its knees and ending World War II. While the decision was controversial, it averted an anticipated million-casualty invasion and prompted Japan's surrender, inaugurating a new era of peace.
Lesson 19-
Lesson 19 Review Exam+
Lesson 19 Review Exam
Lesson 20. The Holocaust: The Systematic Eradication of Innocence
The Holocaust marked the most horrific instance of Nazi inhumanity, with systematic genocide carried out in ghettos and death camps like Auschwitz. Millions, predominantly Jews, faced industrial-scale extermination, underpinning the monstrous efficiency of the Nazi death apparatus.
Lesson 20-
Lesson 14 Exam: The Horrors of the Third Reich+
Lesson 14 Exam: The Horrors of the Third Reich
Lesson 20 Review Exam+
Lesson 20 Review Exam
Assignment 14: The Holocaust+
Assignment 14: The Holocaust
Lesson 21. Rise of Superpowers: Cold War's Beginnings
The Marshall Plan was pivotal in reconstruction efforts across Europe, preventing Communist expansion by stabilizing economies through substantial financial aid. The resultant economic boom in Western Europe contrasted sharply with the stagnation in Communist states that avoided Western assistance.
Lesson 21-
Lesson 15 Exam: The Aftermath of World War II+
Lesson 15 Exam: The Aftermath of World War II
Lesson 21 Review Exam+
Lesson 21 Review Exam
Assignment 15: Israel+
Assignment 15: Israel
The Marshall Plan: Preventative Maintenance?+
The Marshall Plan: Preventative Maintenance?
Lesson 22. Leaders of Destruction: Axis Figures in WWII
World War II's Axis leaders left infamous legacies, with figures like Hitler and Himmler orchestrating immense suffering and terror through their ideologies. Their aggressive expansions and atrocities shaped history and highlighted the extreme dangers of totalitarian power.
Lesson 22-
Lesson 16 Exam: Prominent Figures of World War II: The Axis+
Lesson 16 Exam: Prominent Figures of World War II: The Axis
Lesson 22 Review Exam+
Lesson 22 Review Exam
Assignment 16: Hollywood+
Assignment 16: Hollywood
Lesson 23. WWII Allied Leaders
General Dwight D. Eisenhower's orchestration of D-Day was pivotal in the liberation push through Europe, managing powerful allies and leading to Nazi Germany's defeat. Post-war, he emerged as NATO's first Supreme Commander and shaped U.S. policy as President during early Cold War years.
Lesson 23-
Lesson 17 Exam: Prominent Figures of World War II: The Allies+
Lesson 17 Exam: Prominent Figures of World War II: The Allies
Lesson 23 Review Exam+
Lesson 23 Review Exam
Assignment 17: American Involvement+
Assignment 17: American Involvement
In This Course
16 Hours average completion time
1.6 CEUs
23 Lessons
63 Exams & Assignments
77 Discussions
41 Videos
24 Reference Files
33 Articles
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Last Updated February 2024
Description
World War II: A Profound Exploration of the Conflict that Redefined Humanity
World War II was not merely a chapter in history; it was an era that redefined geopolitical landscapes, human rights ideologies, and the limits of human resilience. While the First World War had indeed set precedents in terms of scale and devastation, World War II transcended those boundaries. With a participation of over 100 countries, and directly involving more than 100 million personnel, it was, and remains, the most extensive war in history.
Advancements in technology during this period were staggering. We moved from horses and bayonets to tanks and jet fighters, from rudimentary grenades to nuclear weapons. The sheer firepower available meant not only larger battlefields but also deadlier consequences.
The juxtaposition of good versus evil, as portrayed by the Allies against the Axis Powers, had an almost cinematic feel. Germany, Japan, and Italy, with their aggressive ideologies and expansionist agendas, posed a tangible threat to the world's equilibrium. And resisting them was no small feat. The Allies, which included major powers like the USA, USSR, and the UK, were pushed to the brink of their resources and resolve.
Why did this war erupt, though? The signing of the Treaty of Versailles, post World War I, aimed to bring about long-standing peace. However, its reparations and territorial changes brewed resentment in Germany. Coupled with the global repercussions of the Great Depression, particularly its severe ramifications in Germany, the situation was ripe for extremist ideologies to take root. This provided fertile ground for Adolf Hitler's rise, subsequently leading to the formation of the Axis.
Germany's blitzkrieg tactics saw them annex significant portions of Europe, catching many nations off guard. Concurrently, Italy made moves in North Africa, and Japan was annexing islands in the Pacific, seeking to establish its dominance.
Yet, the significance of World War II extends beyond the battles and treaties. The war's aftermath brought about tectonic shifts in global politics and strategies:
Nuclear Age: The bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki ushered the world into the atomic age, highlighting the potential of human-led devastation.
Israel's Birth: The post-war scenario facilitated the establishment of Israel, a pivotal moment in Middle Eastern politics.
Communism's Spread: Many regions in Asia and Europe witnessed the rapid proliferation of communist ideologies.
Germany's Division: Post-war Germany was split, symbolizing the broader Cold War tensions.
America's Ascendancy: The US, having played a crucial role in the war, emerged as a dominant global power.
Our course offers an in-depth analysis of these events and more. A breakdown of our curriculum:
Lessons 1 & 2: Introduce key terminologies and course structures, setting the foundation for upcoming modules.
Lesson 3 to 5: Delve into the root causes, tracing back to the fall of the Weimar Republic and discussing the major Axis powers.
Lessons 6 to 13: An exhaustive study of the major battles, from the opening salvos, through Europe, North Africa, and the Pacific, to the ultimate victories.
Lesson 14: Unmask the harrowing truths of the Third Reich's horrors.
Lesson 15: Investigate the profound global implications post World War II.
Lessons 16 & 17: Learn about the pivotal figures on both sides of the war, understanding their motivations, strategies, and legacies.
World War II wasn't just a conflict; it was a transformative period that has shaped the contours of our contemporary world. Dive deep into the intricate web of events, decisions, and consequences with our comprehensive course, understanding the human stories interwoven with grand global narratives.
Skills You'll Develop
Evaluating leadership styles and their wartime impacts
Gaining insights into post-war global political transformations
Understanding global ideological shifts during wartime
Developing contextual understanding of global power dynamics
Assessing the humanitarian impact of global conflicts
Critical thinking about historical geopolitical conflicts
Exploring ethical dilemmas in war and peace processes
Interpreting the evolution of technological warfare
Recognizing patterns in historical and modern conflicts
Analyzing strategic military decisions and outcomes
Skills You'll Develop
Evaluating leadership styles and their wartime impacts
Gaining insights into post-war global political transformations
Understanding global ideological shifts during wartime
Developing contextual understanding of global power dynamics
Assessing the humanitarian impact of global conflicts
Critical thinking about historical geopolitical conflicts
Exploring ethical dilemmas in war and peace processes
Interpreting the evolution of technological warfare
Recognizing patterns in historical and modern conflicts
Analyzing strategic military decisions and outcomes
Nuclear Age: Entered Post-War: Delve into the birth of atomic power.
WWII Battles: Strategic Mastery: Examine pivotal military strategies.
Geopolitical Landscapes: Redefined by WWII: Learn how WWII altered global boundaries.
Human Rights Ideologies: WWII's Impact: Study the war's influence on human rights.
America's Ascendancy: WWII and Beyond: Trace the rise of a superpower.
Allies vs. Axis Powers: Good vs. Evil: Analyze the iconic battle of ideologies.
World War II: Understand a Transformative Period: Explore a conflict that shaped modern history.
Technological Advancements: Born from WWII: Discover innovations from the war era.
Israel's Birth: Post-War Impact: Understand the founding of Israel.
What You'll Achieve
Define key World War II terms such as 'Axis Powers,' 'Allied Powers,' and 'Blitzkrieg' to demonstrate foundational understanding of the conflict's terminology.
Recognize the significance of the Afrika Korps and their impact on North African military strategies by summarizing their operations and strategic role in WWII.
Identify key terms and concepts from World War II, including their origins and significance, to explain their impact on the war's progression and outcome.
Describe the ideological and military strategies used during World War II through the examination of terminologies like Nazism, Neutrality Acts, and Operation Overlord.
Define the key economic and political factors that contributed to the fall of the Weimar Republic and the rise of Adolf Hitler by examining historical events and conditions from 1919 to 1933.
Analyze the role of individual leaders, including Paul von Hindenburg and Adolf Hitler, in the transition from the Weimar Republic to Nazi control, highlighting specific decisions and their impacts on Germany's political landscape.
Define the key factors contributing to the collapse of the Weimar Republic, including economic instability, flawed institutions, and individual actions.
Analyze the impact of the Treaty of Versailles on Germany's economy and society, and its role in facilitating the rise of extremist parties during the Weimar Republic.
Demonstrate an understanding of the key events in Adolf Hitler's rise to power and their impact on Nazi Germany's formation.
Analyze Hitler's ideologies and their role in the instigation of World War II and the Holocaust.
Recognize the expansionist ambitions and fascist ideologies of Italy under Mussolini and Japan under Hirohito during World War II.
Describe the military and ideological contributions of Italy and Japan to the Axis Powers' efforts in World War II, highlighting key campaigns and alliances.
Define the expansionist ambitions of Italy and Japan during World War II, including key military campaigns and their outcomes.
The range of topics discussed in this course was very helpful in understanding the 3 main theaters of World War II.
CM
"Extraordinarily Helpful"
★★★★★
I was blown away by the amount of information given in 17 lessons! I would love to take a class just on the Holocaust. Thank you for putting this together. Very well done ! :).
NP
"Extraordinarily Helpful"
★★★★★
I have loved this course. Mac is so helpful and fun to learn from. He has made learning history fun for the first time in my life. He gives great feedback to my assignments which I haven't really experienced on here before. By far the best teacher in the forum! Thanks so much!
LT
"Extraordinarily Helpful"
★★★★★
This class was extremely educational, organized and very detailed. The assignments were thorough and thought-provoking, and encouraged critical thinking.
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