Adolf Hitler’s aggressive expansionist policies during the late 1930s and early 1940s resulted in the invasion and occupation of several countries throughout Europe. Let’s take a closer look at the countries that fell victim to Hitler’s invasive conquests:

1. Poland

On September 1, 1939, Hitler’s forces launched an invasion of Poland, marking the beginning of World War II. This invasion was swift and brutal, as Poland lacked the military strength to defend itself against Germany’s advanced war machinery. Within weeks, Poland succumbed to German occupation.

2. France

Following the defeat of Poland, Hitler set his sights on France. In May 1940, German forces launched a lightning-fast campaign, bypassing the heavily fortified Maginot Line. Despite the valiant efforts of the French Resistance, France surrendered to German forces, leading to the establishment of the Vichy regime collaborationist government.

3. Netherlands

The Netherlands suffered a similar fate to France. In May 1940, German forces launched an airborne invasion and swiftly overran the country. Despite the Dutch resistance, the occupation lasted for five years until Allied forces liberated the Netherlands in 1945.

4. Denmark

In April 1940, Hitler’s forces invaded Denmark, seeking to secure strategic control of Danish territory. The invasion lasted only a few hours, with Denmark’s military putting up minimal resistance. The Danish government cooperated with the German occupiers throughout the war.

5. Norway

Hitler’s invasion of Norway in April 1940 aimed to secure vital iron ore supplies and establish submarine bases in the North Atlantic. Despite initial Norwegian resistance, German forces quickly overpowered the country. However, Norway remained a hotbed of resistance throughout the war.

6. Belgium

In May 1940, Germany launched a devastating offensive against Belgium. Despite putting up fierce resistance, Belgian forces were overwhelmed. By the end of May, Belgium had fallen, and German occupation lasted until 1944 when Allied forces liberated the country.

7. Greece

While Greece was not a primary target for Hitler, Mussolini’s failed invasion of Greece in 1940 prompted German intervention. In April 1941, German forces launched a massive assault on Greece, leading to its occupation until 1944.

8. Yugoslavia

Hitler’s forces invaded Yugoslavia in April 1941 in response to a coup that ousted the pro-Axis government. Germany swiftly overran Yugoslavia, dividing the country between Nazi Germany, Italy, Bulgaria, and Hungary.

Adolf Hitler’s invasive conquests inflicted immense suffering on the countries unfortunate enough to fall under Nazi occupation. The scars left by these invasions lasted long after the end of World War II, but ultimately, thanks to the bravery and resilience of those who resisted, freedom was restored.

  • Poland
  • France
  • Netherlands
  • Denmark
  • Norway
  • Belgium
  • Greece
  • Yugoslavia

These countries will forever be remembered for the sacrifices made during this dark chapter in history.

Quest'articolo è stato scritto a titolo esclusivamente informativo e di divulgazione. Per esso non è possibile garantire che sia esente da errori o inesattezze, per cui l’amministratore di questo Sito non assume alcuna responsabilità come indicato nelle note legali pubblicate in Termini e Condizioni
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