World War II began in 1939 with Adolf Hitler, the German dictator, invading Czechoslovakia.  France and Britain joined forces and declared war on Germany.  Russia joined the war in support of Germany and Russia began invading neighboring countries.  The invasions continued with the German occupation of France, Holland, Denmark, and Belgium. 

During the European invasions, Japan decided to begin invading countries in Asia.  The United States had remained neutral during the battles and invasion going on in Europe, but on December 7, 1941, the Japanese bombed Pearl Harbor, Hawaii.  This marked the American’s entrance into the war. 

The war in Europe ended May 8, 1945 and was followed by Japan’s surrender on August 14, 1945.  World War II was one of the most historical events of our time. It lasted seven years, and was the only war to ever use nuclear weapons. Millions died in the furious battles.